The Indianapolis Colts are facing a quiet but growing problem. While Indiana will always be known as a basketball state, the Colts have long held their place at the center of the state’s sports identity. That grip is starting to slip. If Indianapolis fails to win and reach the playoffs in 2026, the franchise could fall even further behind other Indiana sports teams in relevance, momentum, and fan energy. This offseason and next season may define the Colts’ standing in the state for years to come.