The Indianapolis Colts and Washington Commanders meet in London for a Week 4 matchup, with both teams looking to build on their first wins of the season. The international setting adds another layer to a meeting between two teams familiar with playing outside the U.S.

Both sides also have different concerns heading into Sunday. Indianapolis will look for more from its running game, while Washington will have to manage another international outing without its starting quarterback.

Here are the key events and storylines to know ahead of the Indianapolis Colts vs. Washington Commanders NFL international game in London for Week 4.

1. Jonathan Taylor Chasing Another Big International Performance

Jonathan Taylor has not produced his usual numbers during the opening three weeks. The Colts running back has 66 carries but is averaging fewer than four yards per attempt and has not reached 100 rushing yards in a game.

According to NFL.com, Washington has been difficult to run against, allowing only 246 rushing yards through three games at 3.8 yards per carry. That makes Taylor's performance particularly important for Indianapolis.

Taylor, however, already knows what it takes to produce overseas. He rushed for 244 yards against the Atlanta Falcons in Berlin last season, setting international records for rushing yards and yards from scrimmage.

2. Marcus Mariota Starts Again for Washington

Jayden Daniels has been ruled out for Sunday's game because of his left elbow injury, meaning Marcus Mariota will start at quarterback for Washington.

Mariota enters the game after a strong Week 3 performance against the Seattle Seahawks. He threw three touchdown passes without an interception and posted a passer rating above 110 in the Commanders' win.

Now, he faces an Indianapolis defense that has allowed 417.3 total yards per game, although the Colts showed improvement by holding Houston to a low-scoring performance last week.

3. Passing Attacks Could Find Openings

Both teams have areas to target in the secondary, which could make the passing game important in London.

Josh Downs has taken on a bigger role for Indianapolis with Alec Pierce dealing with injury concerns. He could see another heavy workload, while Keenan Allen and tight end Tyler Warren could also become important options.

Washington has its own favorable matchup to target. Colts defensive back Justin Walley has allowed 213 receiving yards on 13 receptions in slot coverage this season. That could create opportunities for Terry McLaurin, Antonio Williams and Stefon Diggs.

4. Washington Seeks Its First International Win

Washington has yet to win an international game after going 0-2-1 in its three previous appearances. The Commanders also played in Madrid last season but lost to the Miami Dolphins.

Another overseas defeat would extend an unwanted record, while a victory would give Washington its first international win and a chance to follow its Week 3 success with another important result.

5. Indianapolis Looks for Back-to-Back Wins

The Colts finally got their first victory of the season by beating the Houston Texans in Week 3. They now enter London at 1-2 and have an opportunity to move back to .500.

A win would give Indianapolis two straight wins and build momentum early in the season. The Colts will need to handle Washington's strong run defense while making the most of their opportunities through the air.

With both teams coming off wins, Taylor’s form, Mariota’s play, and the battle between the two secondaries could decide who wins in London.

Written by

Divyanshi Raj