Manning To Play A Half In First Exhibition Game

Coach Jim Mora said his quarterback rotation against the Seahawks will involve Manning playing the first two quarters and backup Kelly Holcomb stepping in for at least the third quarter. Bill Musgrave and Jim Kubiak will divvy up the playing time in the fourth period.

"We've got to get Peyton as many reps as possible to get him ready for the regular season," Mora said. "But we also have to get our other guys ready."

Manning will run the No. 1 offense while on the field, altnough Mora intends to rotate his running backs. Starting running back Marshall Faulk may play only a quarter.

The anticipated light load for Faulk will allow the team to more fully evaluate a running back mix that includes Lamont Warren, Abu Wilson and Keith Elias.

Glenn, Burris return

The Colts have been hit with injuries throughout training camp, but saw two players return to practice Thursday.

Offensive tackle Tarik Glenn and cornerback Jeff Burris were back on the field after missing two days with bruised left knees. Both are expected to play against the Seahawks.

Glenn's availability is key as he's part of a reworked offensive line.

"All the work those guys get in practice and game-type situations is beneficial," Mora said.

Not expected to play Saturday are linebackers Quentin Coryatt (chest), Sammie Burroughs (shoulder), Scott Von der Ahe (shoulder), Whit Marshall (hamstring) and Wardell Rouse (ankle), tight end Marcus Pollard (shoulder) and offensive lineman Brandon Hayes (leg).

Head for cover

Thursday afternoon's practice was cut short when a bolt of lightning streaked across the sky.

"When I see that lightning," Mora said, "I'll be the first one off the field."

Mora said the Colts had gone through approximately 90 percent of the day's work when the weather turned sour. The team headed into the Anderson University gymnasium to finish up goal-line work in a walk-through format.

Notes

Saturday will only be a preseason game, but the Colts may have a bit of payback on their mind. They met the Seahawks twice a year ago and were outscored 76-6. Seattle routed the Colts 45-3 in a preseason meeting in the Kingdome, then tacked on a 31-3 regular-season blowout in the RCA Dome.