National Football League

Colts Clark, Wayne having off years

Published Nov. 3, 2011 6:22 a.m. ET

foxsports

Reggie Wayne and Dallas Clark aren't putting up the big numbers they did when Peyton Manning was throwing them the ball.

In fact, the only Colts receiver whose production has gone up with Manning on the mend from neck surgery is Pierre Garcon. He leads the team with 37 catches for 569 yards.

Quarterback Curtis Painter has been solid in relief, but he has been under pressure all season behind a makeshift offensive line decimated by injuries. He said the receivers have played well, but circumstances beyond their control have limited their opportunities.

''They're doing a great job, and will continue to do that,'' Painter said. ''It's just a matter of getting the ball in their hands and letting them work like they've always done.''

Clark and Wayne have been two of the most prolific offensive weapons in the NFL for years. But halfway through this season, Clark has 26 catches for 266 yards. In 2009, his last full healthy season, he caught 100 passes.

''You'd definitely like to be more productive, but given the situation, it's kind of easy to realize that it's not going to be like the past years,'' Clark said. ''You realize that real quick, and you move on.''

The Colts are more concerned about getting their first victory. Indy (0-8) hosts Atlanta (4-3) on Sunday.

''Now, the focus is on getting a win, and you could care less how many balls you're getting,'' Clark said.

Colts coach Jim Caldwell says veterans Wayne and Clark have remained focused.

''Those guys work just as hard, and they're just as dedicated in trying to find ways to help this team win,'' Caldwell said. ''They've been tremendous in their leadership and the role they're playing with our young guys. I think they've been exemplary.''

Wayne has 822 catches, 11,235 yards and 70 touchdowns receiving in his career. He is 20th in league history in receptions, but he is on track for his least productive season since 2003. He has caught 100 passes in three of the past five years and totaled more than 1,000 yards seven straight seasons, but has just 35 catches for 487 yards this year.

Austin Collie also has been affected by Manning's absence. He was in and out of the lineup with concussions last season, but when he played, he was among the league's best. In eight games last season, he caught 58 passes for 649 yards and eight touchdowns. This season, he has just 20 catches for 183 yards and hasn't scored.

Collie returned from the concussions and acknowledged that he was a bit concerned early this season.

''Obviously, there's a little doubt in your mind because it is such an unsure injury,'' he said. ''Anything can happen, but so far, so good.''

Despite the struggles, Collie feels the Colts' offense is nearing a breakthrough.

''I just think we've just got to keep on improving at the little things. You've got to nitpick on the details.''

Follow Cliff Brunt on Twitter: www.twitter.com/cliffbruntap