Secondary Looking Shaky in London
Posted: Tue Sep 24, 2013 8:56 am
Here's a link to an article about the health status of the secondary:
http://www.twincities.com/sports/ci_241 ... aky-london
I understand this coaching staff's philosophy of not putting too much on a rookie's plate at once and letting their first year players focus on excelling at one position but they really need to loosen up when it comes Rhodes. They need the improved coverage he can provide and with players banged up and Robinson clearly struggling, there's just no good reason not to get him out there as much possible.
http://www.twincities.com/sports/ci_241 ... aky-london
Third-string cornerback Marcus Sherels afforded himself nicely in Cook's absence against the Browns, who went after a supposed weak spot. He was targeted 18 times but only allowed nine receptions for 50 yards, with a pass defense, according to Pro Football Focus.Magnetic resonance imaging exams did not reveal serious structural damage to Cook's groin, Jefferson's ankle or Sanford's hamstring. However, coach Leslie Frazier said Tuesday the trio would not practice Wednesday and would be monitored each day to determine their availability.
I thought Sherels was impressive against the Browns but wow, has Josh Robinson been a disappointment. I hope he plays better this week.Besides punt returning, Sherels has proven reliable in spot duty in the secondary. But his diminutive stature (5-feet-10, 175 pounds) does not make him ideal to cover opponents' top outside receivers.
Xavier Rhodes has the size (6-1, 215 pounds) but the Vikings have been reluctant to shift the rookie cornerback from his comfort zone defending the right side of the field. That might change depending on their coverage needs against the Steelers.
Slot corner Josh Robinson allowed eight catches for 104 yards on nine targets against Cleveland. According to Pro Football Focus, Robinson has allowed completions 22 out of 23 times he has been targeted this season.
I understand this coaching staff's philosophy of not putting too much on a rookie's plate at once and letting their first year players focus on excelling at one position but they really need to loosen up when it comes Rhodes. They need the improved coverage he can provide and with players banged up and Robinson clearly struggling, there's just no good reason not to get him out there as much possible.