Indianapolis Colts: Team has learned worth of reliable back-up QB

An NFL team investing in a dependable backup quarterback is akin to preparing for a rainy day.

With Peyton Manning forced to look on all of last season because of his neck issues, the Indianapolis Colts were unprepared for the resulting tsunami that left them awash in ineffective play at the position, and the resulting losses.

Kerry Collins wasn't the answer. Neither was backup Curtis Painter. Dan Orlovsky halted the Colts' 13-game losing streak to open the season by leading them to consecutive wins. But it was too little, too late.

"That was unfortunate," coach Chuck Pagano said. "That's why we made the decision after looking at free agency and who was available to make the trade and get Drew (Stanton) in here."

Possessing an elite starting quarterback who's able to avoid injury and start every game doesn't guarantee a playoff berth, but enhances the odds. In 2011, eight of the 14 quarterbacks who started all 16 games got their teams into the postseason.

http://www.indystar.com/article/20120809/SPORTS03/208100314/Colts-learned-worth-reliable-back-up-QB?odyssey=tab|topnews|text|Indianapolis