Another big season for Colts, Manning ends with thud

"We've just got to continue to grow and get better, and eventually we'll get to the point where we beat those guys," coach Tony Dungy said Monday.

For Manning and the Colts, it was another bitter playoff exit and a painful reminder of what they must still overcome to reach their first Super Bowl since moving to Indianapolis in 1984.

The Patriots have been the biggest obstacle. In the past two years, the Colts (13-5) have lost just 10 games, but four, including two in the playoffs, have come to the Patriots.

What must the Colts do now? Perhaps spend some money on defense.

"Well, the teams that seem to play better defense do seem to win championships," tight end Marcus Pollard said.

Changes, as always in the salary cap era, are expected.

The Colts have a long list of potential free agents which includes six starters: James, offensive linemen Ryan Diem and Rick DeMulling, linebacker Rob Morris, cornerback Nick Harper and safety Idrees Bashir.

Although the Colts have room to sign most of the players, it's doubtful all will return.

Plus the Colts face some potentially tough choices with Pollard and kicker Mike Vanderjagt, who may have to redo their contracts to stay in Indianapolis.

Team owner Jim Irsay already has said he is prepared to put the franchise tag on James, keeping one key player in place. The Colts have already agreed to deals with Harrison and Stokley, which will keep the receiving corps together.

And, of course, the expectations will only increase for Manning, who has six years remaining on a $98 million contract that he signed in March.

So Dungy isn't contemplating an overhaul.

"Most of the time, taking the next step is just doing what you do a little bit better," Dungy said.

In the Colts' case, that means they must figure out a way to contend with New England.

On Sunday, the Patriots rushed for 210 yards and used three time-consuming drives to limit the Colts offense to just 57 plays.

When Manning was in the game, the Patriots defense made sure he wasn't himself. His 69.3 rating was his second lowest of the season and he failed to throw a touchdown.

It was not the ending Manning or the Colts envisioned.

"It was an excellent run," Manning said. "It was a fun run, but you know obviously when you finish with a loss in the playoffs, it is disappointing. Hopefully, we will be back next year."