The run game, Jacoby Brissett's poise, a bend-but-don't-break defense - all of these things have been contributors to the Colts' solid 2-1 start, but the most unheralded aspect of their opening month success? Lack of penalties.
The Colts enter the final week of September as the least-penalized team in the NFL:
The Colts' eighteen total penalties in three games this season is just one more that the Falcons committed in just one afternoon at Lucas Oil Stadium (17). Atlanta's mistakes cost them 128 yards and undoubtedly had a huge impact on the close, 27-24 result.
The IndyStar's Joel Erickson outlined Reich's focus on limiting penalties this offseason and in team meetings, and it appears that's certainly helped matters. Some of the penalties they have committed have been questionable - the league admitted Brissett's "clapping" false start flags were erroneous and both of Quincy Wilson's DPI flags have been iffy.
If this trend of lack of penalties and turnovers continues, the Colts will be in good shape to continue their pursuit of a playoff berth.