New Colts offensive coordinator Pep Hamilton’s already talked to his current and former pupil, and both are excited about making some changes to the Colts offense.
Hamilton said Saturday he had already talked to quarterback Andrew Luck, discussing some of the changes he’ll make, which should look familiar to him.
“I spoke with him this morning and he’s excited,’’ Hamilton said, via Mike Chappell of the Indianapolis Star . “Of course I’m very excited to have an opportunity to work with Andrew again. We can’t wait to get started.’’
Hamilton said he did plan to change the offense from what former coordinator and now-Cardinals head coach Bruce Arians installed, leaning toward more West Coast principles and away from the deep passing game Arians preferred. It’ll come with more of an emphasis on running the ball as well.
Part of the problem the Colts had last year was struggling to protect Luck long enough to move the ball down field. But if they don’t invest heavily in offensive linemen, they’re not going to be able to run the ball the way Hamilton’s used to at Stanford.
“It’ll be a variation of the West Coast [with] West Coast principles,’’ Hamilton said. “The short, efficient passing game, a high completion rate.
“But I enjoy watching our guys just come off the ball, the guys up front, and trying to knock the opponent back. I’m a big believer of the power-running game and, . . . I think that ultimately opens up your passing game, the play-action passes.’’
Having former Stanford stars Luck and tight end Coby Fleener on board should help ease the transition, but the Colts are going to have to upgrade their personnel if they’re going to make it work.