Can't keep a good Manning down

Peyton Manning subscribes to the "don't get mad, get even" philosophy. After being beat around, and then some, by the Washington Redskins in the first half of Sunday's game, Manning came out with vintage precision in the third quarter. He's apparently indestructible, as I wrote in my column today.

Here's how I saw the Colts' overall effort in their 36-22 win over Washington:

Passing game: Not much needs to be said. Manning was on target, throwing for four touchdowns, using a variety of receivers, including tight end Ben Utecht, who returned to the lineup in strong fashion with four catches for 51 yards. Marvin Harrison (7 catches, 73 yards, two touchdowns) and Reggie Wayne (7 for 122, one score) are the best and most reliable receiving duo in the NFL, even if few analysts seem to regularly recognize that. Pass protection wasn't perfect, as evidenced by Manning getting roughed up, but those things happen from time to time.

Running game: A good day was turned in by Joseph Addai (11 carries, 85 yards) on an off-day by Dominic Rhodes (13-26), but Tony Dungy says he'll stick with his rotation. Rhodes has bounced back strong after tough games this season.

Pass defense: The absence of safety Bob Sanders has opposing receivers hearing fewer footsteps these days. When he returns -- and regains his peak form -- this part of the defense will pick up. Dwight Freeney's first sack of the season was wiped out by penalty. Freeney is starving for a sack now, which should translate to some heavy hunting of Denver's Jake Plummer this week.

Run defense: Anthony McFarland gave the team a nice boost, psychologically as much as anything. We won't know how much his addition will help until Montae Reagor returns, hopefully, from the injuries he suffered in his SUV accident Sunday afternoon. But the Colts slowed Clinton Portis much better than most people, including Portis, thought they would.

Special teams: Good to see Adam Vinatieri back. Bad to see Antwaan Randle El exploit deficiencies in coverage once again.

Coaching: Dungy and his staff prepared a solid game plan. The Colts aren't built to deliver surprises. When they execute, particularly on offense, it's a surprise when they're slowed down.

Dungy seemed pleased by the team's play against Washington, and he should be pleased. The Colts took a step forward on both sides of the ball. They'll need near-perfection the next two weeks to stay unbeaten, however, with back-to-back trips to Denver and New England.