Colts RB Gore likely to take on larger role with Andrew Luck out

As the Colts prepare for a long stretch without star quarterback Andrew Luck, running back Frank Gore figures to take on larger role in the Indianapolis offense.

Luck is out for 2-6 weeks with a lacerated kidney suffered in the Nov. 8 win over the Denver Broncos, with 40-year-old Matt Hasselbeck set to start

In two wins without Luck earlier this season, Indianapolis ran a combined 54 times for 170 yards.

Gore, who is in his first season with Colts, said he's ready to help out as the team tries to hold on to first place in the AFC South.

“We’re here to help take some of the load off of the quarterback no matter who is back there taking the snaps,” Gore said, per ESPN.

Against Denver - the first game under new offensive coordinator Rob Chudzinski - the Colts had more rushing attempts than passing attempts for the first time all season, and that was with Luck under center. Now, without Luck, expect the running game to continue to play a large role down the stretch.

"Running the football takes some heat off of any quarterback - doesn’t matter who it is,” head coach Chuck Pagano said.

The Colts take on the Atlanta Falcons on Sunday.