Colts may regret not turning to C.J. Allen against Derrick Henry

The Indianapolis Colts had few answers for Derrick Henry and the Baltimore Ravens’ rushing attack Sunday, making not playing rookie linebacker C.J. Allen an interesting storyline coming out of their 41-23 season-opening loss.

Allen, the former Georgia standout, entered his rookie season as an intriguing addition to Indianapolis’ linebacker room. At 6-foot and 230 pounds, Allen built his reputation in the SEC with his physicality, instincts and ability to attack ball carriers.

Those qualities appeared particularly useful against Baltimore.

Instead, the Ravens controlled the game offensively, piling up 506 total yards, including 202 on the ground. Henry rushed 24 times for 144 yards and three touchdowns as Indianapolis struggled to slow down Baltimore’s powerful rushing attack.

So why wasn’t Allen given a bigger opportunity?

Colts need changes on defense

There is no indication that an injury prevented him from contributing. Allen wasn’t listed with an injury on Indianapolis’ final Week 1 report. That points toward the decision being connected to the Colts’ defensive rotation, game plan and Allen’s current position on the depth chart.

As a rookie, Allen is still attempting to earn a consistent defensive role. NFL coaches often lean on experienced linebackers early in the season, particularly against an offense as complicated as Baltimore’s.

However, Sunday’s performance could give the Colts something to reconsider.

Henry repeatedly punished Indianapolis between the tackles while Lamar Jackson’s mobility created another problem for the defense. Jackson threw for 324 yards while adding 40 rushing yards as Baltimore consistently created explosive plays.

Allen isn’t going to solve every defensive problem by himself.

But after allowing 41 points and more than 500 yards, Indianapolis should be willing to explore every option.

That could mean giving Allen a larger defensive role moving forward.

The rookie was drafted because of his speed, toughness and tackling ability.

After Baltimore ran through Indianapolis in Week 1, the Colts may soon find out whether Allen can provide some of what their defense was missing.

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