Jim Caldwell's Questionable Timeout Late In The Fourth Is Making Many Colts Fans Scratch Their Heads

Oct 03 7:47p by Brad Wells

With 36 seconds left in regulation, the Jaguars were backed up to their own 23-yard line and looking to run out the clock and send their game against the Colts into overtime tied 28-28.

However, rather than let the clock run out and take his chances in overtime, Colts coach Jim Caldwell called a timeout. This allowed Jacksonville to regroup its offense, and three plays later Jaguars quarterback David Garrard hit receiver Tiquan Underwood for 22 yards to the Indianapolis 41-yard line.

That play was all the room Jags kicker Josh Scobee needed. The veteran known for making long, last-second, game-winning kicks against the Colts, nailed a 59-yarder with time expiring. Jaguars won the game 31-28.

Caldwell's timeout seemed to give the Jaguars the time they needed to get into field goal range, and it's likely a decision the second-year coach will have to answer for throughout the week. Was he hoping to get the ball back with less than 20 seconds? What does that say about Caldwell's 'faith' in his defense? Based on their performance Sunday (allowing the NFL's 30th ranked offense to hang 31 points on them), perhaps Caldwell's lack of faith in them was justified.

For more fan insight into Caldwell's questionable decision, check out Stampede Blue.