Colts thriving in final quarter

Call it the fatigue factor, the state of weakened physical condition by the fourth quarter that can have as much impact on an NFL game's outcome as any statistic.

In three games, the Indianapolis Colts have the league's highest-scoring offense with 100 points. They have proven with an onslaught of Peyton Manning passes and punishing Edgerrin James runs that they can wear down an opponent. Coach Tony Dungy's team is also best in the league in fourth-quarter point differential at plus-31, scoring 38 points and allowing just seven.

While the Colts rank last in the league in yards allowed at 416.7 per game, defensive linemen say they have an edge late because of a rotation system that keeps the likes of Dwight Freeney, Montae Reagor and Josh Williams rested. The Colts (2-1) put away Tennessee and Green Bay in back-to-back weeks with key turnovers in the final 15 minutes.

Fantasy Football Analysis: Will the Jacksonville Jaguars defense wear down too? We believe the Colts will face their toughest test yet in Week 4.