2017 Raiders One on One: CB David Amerson vs. Odell Beckham, Jr.
Sooner or later, the much-maligned Raiders secondary will need to step up and play a signature game. Four quarters of football that combine technique, pursuit and football intellect is a need. Now, looking at their schedule, Oakland can should the entire league each week. Yet, one game jumps immediately to mind. In Week 13, the Raiders welcome the New York Giants to presumably warm Oakland. The matchup in this game that jumps out involves Giants receiver Odell Beckham, Jr. and Raiders corner David Amerson. Here’s what Beckham brings to the table and what Amerson can do to stop him.
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Route Tree: Like most lead receivers, the playbook remains wide open all game. Beckham is no different. Regardless of field position and down/distance, everything thing is available to him. With most receivers having a favorite route, Beckham continues that thought. In fact, he obliterates the competition with the quick slant. Beckham’s ability to cut helps him immediately gain separation. If safety help arrives late, good luck catching him. Amerson needs to lay hands on Beckham early. A jam will disrupt timing. As a result, the pass rush could get home a bit quicker with the delay.
Speed: Granted, Beckham will share his share of targets. How he uses them needs to be controlled by the secondary. In a moment, Beckham goes from catch to open field. As mentioned, field position does not figure into this. He can torch defenses from either 20 or 75. Beckham gets to top speed faster than most receivers. Under those circumstances, Amerson must brutalize Beckham within those first five yards. If that does not work, Joseph and Nelson need to provide quick, over-the-top help.
Behavior: First thing to remember about Beckham is that he’s a stereotypical wideout. In his mind, fans pay big money to see him on Sunday. While he makes a great point, his attitude can benefit the Raiders. Beckham does not like mind games or feeling uncomfortable. In effect, he plays better when lined up against average receivers. However, that does not diminish his skills or accomplishments. Anyone testing him will provoke a response. For example:
In reality, David Amerson presents the best chance for the Raiders to stop Beckham. Conley is a rookie and Sean Smith’s lack of explosion present a nightmare scenario. Amerson is just fast enough to stay with Beckham. If Amerson can make a few plays early, this could drive Beckham to throw a tantrum. RaiderNation wants to see Beckham out of his game.
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