I know I'm in the minority, but I think it was the right decision. Look at it this way, Buffalo went 0-2 on 4th downs until that point in the game...if they fail to convert, Colts take over at the 41 and we're looking at a tie, as a best case scenario.
on the other hand, the Colts went 3 and out on 50% of their 2nd half possessions (same as 1st half). Pin them deep and rely on your stronger side of the ball, rather ran a 3rd string QB on 4th and 1. the punt was solid, but if the defense executes and gets off the field with a 3 and out, then we're likely getting the ball back around midfield and only need a field.goal to win.
Playoffs on the line or not, I think McDermott took a timeout to carefully assess this very thing and took a gamble on his defense stopping them as opposed to Joe Webb and the offense converting.
At the end of the day, we were fortunate that the defense did just enough to end the drive and that Joe Webb/DT connected on a highlight feel play. But to act like McDermott was playing not to lose, is absurd.
These are the types of decisions that can make or break a team at this point of the season, give credit to the coaches and team on executing