It's the kind of offensive output that tends to result in consecutive losses: A minus-4 turnover margin; 4.1 yards per play; one total touchdown pass.
That's what the Indianapolis Colts produced in their past two games, nothing close to what they were anticipating entering the 2026 season. And, yet, the Colts are 2-0 in their past two games, rebounding from an 0-2 start and positioning themselves to be a factor in the AFC South race in a pivotal season for the franchise.
Sunday's 30-13 win over the Washington Commanders in London was a key victory for the Colts, getting them to .500 for the first time this season. But it also raises some questions about the sustainability of the Colts' offensive performance and that of quarterback Daniel Jones, specifically.
Jones committed a pair of turnovers in the game, continuing what is now a trend. He's credited with five giveaways in the past two games, wins over the Texans and Commanders. His inexplicable fumble on the second play from scrimmage threatened to set a tone for the day, and his interception on an ill-advised throw in the second quarter was not the kind of play you'd expect from an experienced 8-year veteran. Jones also passed for fewer than 200 yards again (143), the second time this season.
It's the kind of thing that got Jones replaced as New York Giants quarterback, and it does not seem to be compatible with the Colts having a winning season.
"Definitely got to play better," Jones said. "Got to clean that up. Can't afford to turn the ball over like that. So, yeah, I think [I've] just got to focus in on the details, understand you can't do it and make better decisions."
Jones' avoidance of such plays is what prompted the Colts to bring him back after 2025, despite his torn Achilles. Indianapolis gambled, signing him to a two-year deal worth at least $88 million in March. But now it's got to pay off.
There are reasons to be dubious as to whether that's happening.
Jones stabilized his play in the second half, playing smarter and avoiding additional turnovers. But the negative aspects of his performance can't be glossed over. Jones finished with his fewest passing yards in a full game since becoming the Colts' starter last season. Similarly, his 4.2 yards per attempt was anemically low and was also the lowest of his Colts tenure.
But the chief concern are the turnovers. Fumbles, in particular, have dogged Jones the past two games. He has lost three over the past two weeks, each coming when he was under duress and should have been more mindful of protecting the ball.
"I think I've to understand when to take a chance, when not to, when to protect the ball, when you have a chance to make a play," Jones said. "And I think all that is something you're always studying and learning."
In fairness, Jones helped get the Colts to .500. His 4-yard touchdown run in the fourth quarter helped give the Colts a two-score lead. He also converted two third downs as a rusher in the second half.
There are also some circumstances to be considered. Chief among them is Jones' injury recovery, as he is still only 10 months post-surgery. Jones hasn't attributed any of his struggles to his health, but his mobility was a major variable in his success last season.
Additionally, the Colts remain without No. 1 receiver Alec Pierce, who is on injured reserve with a heel injury. The lack of a downfield threat has made big plays a rarity as the Colts adjust to playing without the two-time league leader in yards per catch. Relatedly, the Colts have had issues with interior pass protection the past two games, leaving Jones to contend with pressure in his face.
But 2-2 is 2-2 -- no matter what the stat book says.
"It's better than being 0-4," coach Shane Steichen said. "I'll tell you that."
Contributing: Matt Morlidge