Looking for a positive?

Generally speaking, I'm optimistic when it comes to the Colts. You cover the team long enough, you see the amazing things Peyton Manning, Marvin Harrison and Reggie Wayne can do and you figure any game is winnable. That glass is half-full mindset is fairly impossible to conjure after the 27-24 loss to the Texans.

The Texans talked after the game about how this was one of the defining wins in franchise history. It might be a defining loss for the Colts' season:

Passing game: Manning was as productive as possible, completing 21 of 27 for 205 yards and three touchdowns. But he can only do so much with limited touches. Harrison (8-112, two TDs) has been on a nice roll.

Running game: Joseph Addai carried 15 times for 100 yards, 6.7 a carry. He is a big-time back, and a legitimate Rookie of the Year candidate. Rhodes' fumble should end his streak of starting games -- it's foolishness giving him the first carries when Addai is playing like this.

Pass defense: It was fine, considering...

Run defense: This is the worst unit in NFL history, if not longer.

Special teams: Terrence Wilkins has been one of the best surprises of the season. See, there's a positive note.

Coaching: Until they find a way to field a professional defense, they deserve any criticism that comes their way.

This season isn't over. The Colts have Miami this Sunday, and probably will find a way to outscore the Dolphins at home. But playoff expectations are, justifiably, the lowest they've been since Jim Mora was screaming "Playoffs?!?"