Chuck Pagano: Colts will try to single-cover Julio Jones

By David Kenyon

Defending Julio Jones one-on-one is a tall task, but the Indianapolis Colts are going to find out if their top cornerback is up for the challenge.

Orlando D. Ledbetter of the Atlanta Journal-Constitution notes head coach Chuck Pagano hasn’t seen anyone pass the test but is planning to give Vontae Davis a chance anyway.

Through nine appearances this year, Jones has already amassed the second-most receptions he’s had in a single NFL season. The Alabama product has 80 receptions for 1,029 yards and six touchdowns. Jones ranks No. 2 with 120 targets and has topped the 100-yard mark five times.

Although Jones has torched a handful of mid-level corners, Davis presents a major test of his own. He was arguably one of the toughest to beat last season, though injuries admittedly have affected him in 2015.

Indianapolis isn’t crazy to give Davis a shot at single-covering Jones, but the coaching staff better be ready to provide extra help.

The Falcons' offense has struggled recently, but No. 2 receiver Leonard Hankerson is set to return. Unless Davis single-handedly shuts down Jones, the Colts will have a tough day defending the rest of Atlanta’s weapons while paying extra attention to the star receiver.

More from Sportsnaut: