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We draw another step closer towards the top moment of the 2009 season. On to the next one.

4. Colts pull plug on undefeated regular season; Jets win Painter Bowl I.

Entering their Week 16 battle against the New York Jets, the Colts had a decision to make. Try for an undefeated season or rest key players?

Team president Bill Polian and head coach Jim Caldwell decided the team was better off resting its starters instead of trying to undefeated.

Once Indy jumped to a 15-10 lead in the third quarter, Polian and Caldwell’s plan became painfully clear to Colts fans. Enter Curtis Painter.

Indianapolis’ backup quarterback turned a five-point lead into a 14 point loss, that helped propel the Jets into the postseason via the 29-15 loss. Painter finished 4 of 11 for 44 yards and an interception. He also lost a fumble that New York recovered for a touchdown.

The decision to pull their starters had long-term ramifications for both the Jets and Colts. Indianapolis was ridiculed locally for making such a choice. Meanwhile, the Jets landed into the playoffs and knocked off Cincinnati and San Diego on the road.

Luckily for Indy, they would have a chance to pay back Rex Ryan’s gang in the AFC Championship game.