The Indianapolis Colts are in a funk that has cast uncertainty over their playoff aspirations.

It was magnified by Monday night’s 31-21 loss to unbeaten Tennessee in Nashville’s LP Field, which dropped Indy to 3-4 and virtually out of the AFC South title chase.

And it can last only until Wednesday. That’s when the players, who have today off, must reload and begin preparing for Sunday night’s prime-time clash with arch-rival New England.

"You change the mood by winning, and in order to do that you just really have to avoid beating yourself and be able to play sharp,’’ coach Tony Dungy said this afternoon. "This will be a tough day for our team, but (Wednesday) at 9 o’clock when they come in I think they’ll be ready.

"They know the challenge we have with New England, another national TV game, a name that we really need to win.’’

The Colts might be closer to full strength when they face the Patriots (5-2) at Lucas Oil Stadium.

Dungy is optimistic safety Bob Sanders (knee/ankle), cornerback Kelvin Hayden (knee) and running back Joseph Addai (hamstring) all will be available.