Oct 19, 2025; Inglewood, California, USA; Indianapolis Colts running back Jonathan Taylor (28) runs with the ball in the second half against the Los Angeles Chargers at SoFi Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jayne Kamin-Oncea-Imagn Images
The Indianapolis Colts secured a decisive 38–24 victory over the Los Angeles Chargers on October 22, 2025, solidifying their position as a genuine contender in the AFC with a 6-1 record. This win not only highlighted their capabilities but also emphasized their remarkable consistency across all facets of the game: offense, defense, and special teams. The emergence of the backfield duo of quarterback Daniel Jones and running back Jonathan Taylor has been a cornerstone of this success.
In the recent game, Taylor showcased his exceptional talent with three rushing touchdowns, further establishing himself as one of the league’s top running backs. Meanwhile, Jones played with precision, completing 23 of 34 passes for 288 yards and two touchdowns. This performance has positioned them as one of the most effective quarterback-running back tandems in the NFL.
Building a Powerful Duo
As the season progresses, Taylor and Jones are developing into a formidable partnership. Head coach Shane Steichen has played a pivotal role in this transformation, boosting Jones’ confidence and adapting the offense to leverage Taylor’s explosive skills as both a runner and a receiver. Fans may recall Jones’ earlier days with Saquon Barkley in New York, where glimpses of potential were evident. However, the 2025 Colts benefit from a depth of talent and discipline that those Giants teams lacked.
The historical context of their performance raises intriguing comparisons to legendary quarterback-running back duos. When discussing great tandems, names like Peyton Manning and Edgerrin James, as well as Lamar Jackson and Derrick Henry, come to mind. A particularly interesting parallel is drawn with the 2014 Seattle Seahawks duo of Russell Wilson and Marshawn Lynch. Although their playing styles differ—Taylor’s versatility in the passing game sets him apart from Lynch—the essence of winning football remains a common thread. Wilson and Lynch achieved championship success, and that is the benchmark the Colts aim for.
Looking Ahead
While the Colts are making their mark, they have yet to reach the pinnacle of success. Other current quarterback-running back combinations, such as Jalen Hurts and Barkley, Matthew Stafford and Kyren Williams, and Jordan Love and Josh Jacobs, also stake their claim as contenders for the best in the league.
Jones, while not in the same league as legends like Tom Brady, is demonstrating the qualities of a successful quarterback: managing the game effectively, minimizing errors, and making crucial plays when necessary. Taylor, on the other hand, is on a trajectory that could lead to discussions about him being the greatest running back in Colts history, potentially surpassing the legacy of Edgerrin James.
Together, Jones and Taylor have positioned the Colts as one of the most compelling stories of the 2025 NFL season. Their potential is evident, but the challenge lies in maintaining this level of performance as they navigate the remainder of the season. The path to sustained success will test their mettle as they aspire to join the ranks of the league’s elite.
