Jonathan Taylor’s Historic Performance Fuels MVP Hype as Colts Edge Falcons in Berlin
Indianapolis Colts running back Jonathan Taylor delivered a performance for the ages on Sunday, leading his team to a thrilling 31-25 overtime victory over the Atlanta Falcons in Berlin, Germany. Taylor’s dominant display, which included 244 rushing yards, 42 receiving yards, and three touchdowns, has catapulted him into the forefront of the NFL MVP conversation.
The game, played at Olympic Stadium, marked the NFL’s first regular-season contest in Germany’s capital and provided a global stage for Taylor’s brilliance. The Colts, now 8-2 on the season, bounced back from a loss to the Pittsburgh Steelers and showcased their resilience with a clutch performance from their star running back.
Taylor’s most memorable moment came in the fourth quarter when he broke off an 83-yard touchdown run—the longest rush in the NFL for 2025. The electrifying play not only set a new franchise record for the Colts but also pushed Taylor past Hall of Fame running back Edgerrin James for the most career touchdowns in team history with 65. Taylor’s game-winning score in overtime sealed the victory and capped off a historic day.
“This is a historic place, and you look back at the history, the guys who’ve achieved amazing feats here [are] no slouch,” Taylor said after the game. “So, to kind of be a part of that makes me feel like a part of that lineage. And I’m so appreciative. I’m humbled to have just a small piece of history.”
Taylor’s performance was not just a statistical marvel; it was a statement. He has now rushed for 1,139 yards and 17 total touchdowns this season, with 15 of those coming on the ground. His ability to consistently deliver in high-pressure moments has drawn comparisons to some of the greatest running backs in NFL history, including Adrian Peterson, Jim Brown, and Derrick Henry.
Colts fans and NFL analysts alike have been quick to praise Taylor’s efforts. Social media erupted with admiration for the Wisconsin native, with many calling for him to be recognized as the league’s most valuable player. Taylor’s 244 rushing yards were the most by any player in a single game this season, and his four three-touchdown games in 2025 are tied for the second-most in NFL history.
The Falcons, on the other hand, dropped their fourth consecutive game and now sit at 3-6 on the season. Despite a valiant effort, their defense was unable to contain Taylor, who proved to be the difference-maker in a tightly contested matchup.
As the NFL season progresses, Taylor’s MVP case continues to grow stronger. His combination of power, speed, and consistency has made him a force to be reckoned with, and his historic performance in Berlin will undoubtedly be remembered as one of the defining moments of the 2025 campaign.
With the Colts now firmly in playoff contention and Taylor leading the charge, the rest of the league will be watching closely to see if he can maintain his incredible pace and potentially bring home the league’s highest individual honor.