Colts' NFL Power Rankings Week 8, Rising Star

The Indianapolis Colts endured a controversial, heartbreaking loss to the Cleveland Browns on Sunday. They fell 39-38 on a Kareem Hunt touchdown in the final seconds.

Heading into the game, the narrative was all about the Browns defense playing at a historical level. With backup quarterback Gardner Minshew at the helm, the Colts shredded the Browns defense for 38 points and over 450 yards of offense.

ESPN took notice of the Colts' strong showing in a controversial loss and didn't punish Indianapolis in their weekly power rankings.

What happens next for the Colts? Don't miss out on any news and analysis! Take a second and sign up for our free newsletter and get breaking Colts news delivered to your inbox daily!

The Colts held steady at No. 22 in the ESPN Week 8 NFL Power Rankings. The Browns remained at No. 8 with no movement as well.

Each week ESPN picks a theme to go along with their weekly poll. This week it was to name a young-rising player for each team.

Rookie wide receiver Josh Downs made it easy for ESPN this week with a five-catch, 125-yard, and one touchdown performance. However, Downs's rise hasn't only been a week in the making.

"Third-round pick Downs, 22, has been consistently impressive this season, ranking third among rookie receivers in receptions (33) and receiving yards (401)," wrote Colts beat writer Stephen Holder on ESPN. "He's also showing his elusiveness as he now is fourth among rookies in yards after the catch (184). Notably, more than half of Downs's production -- 209 yards on 10 receptions -- has come on third downs, where he is showing himself to be particularly dependable. Only four receivers in the NFL -- not just rookies -- have more yardage on third downs."

The Colts have invested in the wide receiver room in the last two drafts with Downs this year and Alec Pierce in the second-round last season. They're proving gems at wide receiver can be found on day two of the draft, like Michael Pittman.

The Colts host the Saints this week. New Orleans checks in at No. 20 after their home loss on Thursday night to the Jacksonville Jaguars. They're 3-4 on the season with wins against the Tennessee Titans, Carolina Panthers, and New England Patriots.

Their offense found a rhythm with new quarterback Derek Carr in the second half of the loss to the Jaguars. ESPN Gamecast says the Colts are one-point favorites but gives the Saints a 54.4% chance of winning.

Follow Horseshoe Huddle on Twitter, Facebook, and YouTube