Colts expect challenge from 49ers' defense

INDIANAPOLIS (WISH) - The Colts' run through the NFC West has been like a knife through butter. St. Louis, Seattle and Arizona have gone down by an average score of 36-11 to the Horseshoes. Being an unfamiliar foe has become an advantage for the Colts.

"It's no mistake why we've won more games than most teams have won in the last years, we're a different team and you've got to prepare for us," said team sack-leader Dwight Freeney.

Linebacker Gary Brackett added, "I think we're a team that prides itself on being consistent, no matter what the scheme is. Our rules can take care of everything, no matter if it's an AFC team or an NFC team, we treat their run formations like run formations."

Peyton Manning, who's torched the Ram, Seahawks and Cardinals, said the 49ers defense should be formidable.

"Coach (Mike) Singletary is a new head coach but the defensive coordinator has been there, the system is in place, they're familiar with it and they play their schemes well,” Manning said

Manning may not be playing with a healthy offense against the Niners. Pro Bowl wide receiver Reggie Wayne is day-to-day with a groin injury and running back Donald Brown watched practice after spraining his shoulder. So, if number Brown can't go, Head Coach Jim Caldwell said Addai will continue to get the majority of the carries but he'll also split time with Chad Simpson.

"Yes and yes. It would probably be Joseph carrying the load a little bit more, you certainly would see Chad as well because he's certainly capable," said Coach Jim Caldwell.

Next man up has worked wonders all season.