by Michael Orr

Created on: January 22, 2009

Jim Caldwell, you're the head coach of the Indianapolis Colts. Now what? Will he be able to lead the Colts to the Super Bowl next year?

Caldwell has been with the team for seven seasons. The first three years were spent as the quarterbacks coach before being named Assistant Head Coach in 2005. The retirement of Tony Dungy, after their first round playoff loss to the San Diego Chargers, opened the way for Caldwell to ascend. Most of the existing coaching staff is staying on, with the exception of Defensive coordinator, Ron Meeks. It seems unlikely that Caldwell will shake things up much in franchise that has won twelve games or more in each of the last six seasons.He's well respected in the locker room and on the field, but will he make the difference next year. Doubtful.

Caldwell has the luxury of having 2008 NFL MVP Peyton Manning at quarterback. Manning is essentially a coach on the field and calls or audibles most of the plays himself. Colts president, Bill Polian will likely have the most impact on next season. He'll need to plug some holes on both sides of the ball if the Colts plan to be in Miami for the 2010 Super Bowl.

First of all, they'll need to make sure they have the depth and talent on the offensive line to protect Peyton. Jeff Saturday, Manning's long time center is solid, but after ten years in the league they need a good backup. Guard Ryan Lija could be back after spending the 2008-09 season on the physically unable to perform list due to a knee injury. Tackles Dan Federkeil and Charlie Johnson both had good years and three rookies saw significant playing time on the O-Line.

The Colts will also need to fortify the wide receiver positions. Marvin Harrison was injured much of this year and is questionable to return next year due to contractual and legal issues. Some of their young receivers played well at times last season, but Polian will need to bring in a legitimate #1 receiver for Manning to rely on when Reggie Wayne is double covered.

The defensive line played well during the second half of the season. Linebacker Clint Sessions and Safety Melvin Bullitt are solid young players. The health of Bob Sanders can make or break the season for the defense.

Head Coach Jim Caldwell will indeed continue he steady and consistent play of his team. But it is likely to be the moves that he and Bill Polian make during the off season that will make the difference. Between the draft and free agency they need to make some moves if they want to have a chance to head for Miami.

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