Spencer Shrader was becoming a bit of a hero for the Indianapolis Colts. It didn’t take long either. After a penalty gave the Colts new life against the Broncos, Shrader kicked the game winner as time expired. That moved the Colts to an unexpected 2-0 and let the good times roll. Those good times came to a screeching halt, however, when a Las Vegas Raider ran into his knee and knocked him out for the rest of the year. Unfortunately, that’s how sports goes, and it has led to one of the more intriguing battles in camp.
Michael Badgley was actually the second choice for the Colts, but his inability to hit extra points nearly cost the Colts wins and ultimately his job. Eyes turned to Blake Grupe. He didn’t disappoint. He was so good that he was actually perfect: 10-10 on field goals and nailing all 11 extra points. He even set the franchise record for longest made field goal. Grupe has carried that success into the offseason and appears to have the edge.
So, how is there a battle? The Colts have a kicker, in-house, that was perfect last year and has been solid in camp. Practice is great, but when it comes to game-day kicks, Shrader has shone. His biggest knock was leg strength. That kick against Denver, yeah, it had to be re-kicked because his first attempt fell short. In two preseason games, though, Shrader has hit from 53 and 61 yards out, going a perfect 4-4. Meanwhile, Grupe has been the opposite of perfect, missing from beyond 60 and botching a 36-yarder. That can’t happen.
Sports is all about doors. Doors shut. Doors open. When Spencer Shrader went down Week 5, it created an opportunity for Blake Grupe to eventually take over. Now that Grupe has struggled in game action, that same door Shrader opened is now allowing him back in. Grupe still appears to have the edge, but this is definitely a battle to watch as the preseason continues.
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