Can the Rams go to Tavon Austin when they need a big play, a 1st down to extend a drive?
Sometimes, yes. But he's no Larry Fitzgerald. He can't dominate people physically. But he has to be accounted for on every play that he's in. He definitely occupies some of the defenses resources and makes plays more possible for other players. When he goes off, it's a big play that helps the Rams win whether it's a crucial 3rd down situation or not.Can they go to him in the redzone to beat his man and catch a big TD pass? The end arounds in the redzone is played.
One of the examples I gave he did. Is he going to win jump balls in the endzone? Ehh, we both know the answer to that. But that's not his game, so I wouldn't fail him on that. His game is speed and elusiveness in the open field, not muscling people in the endzone. Still, 10 TD's.Austin had opportunities because of Gurley in the backfield. Actually Gurley was also a decoy for Austin.
Yes. They complement each other. I don't think any TA defender has claimed otherwise.Austin is a complimentary player. He needs to be set-up by other players.
I don't think he "needs" that, or that it specifically applies to him. Every team needs multiple weapons to be successful.I personally do not place a HIGH premium on that type of player.
IF I had Gurley in the backfield, and Sammy Watkins out wide, and a stud at QB, then Austins value increases for me.
That's not Austin's fault. And as you know, I wanted Watkins, too.In the present set-up...I'm not seeing the value because the league has gotten a good look at the fake dive end around stuff.
They're gonna have to reach deep in the playbook to design different plays for Austin.
Agree that you can't go the same well too often. It's up to the Rams, as you say, to find ways to use him. They've been saying it.IF I gotta design gimmicky plays specifically for you, I ain't placing prodigious value on your services.
If just anyone could turn those "gimmicky" plays into touchdowns, I'd agree with you, but he's different. But prodigious value? How about pretty good value?Would I like him back? Sure, but not at $12M per. But that's ME.
I don't claim to know what the exact right figure is for TA. But there's a context to this. Until and unless the Rams have other threats, they're in no position to let Austin go. Gurley would be every defense's sole focus.
I just don't agree that he can be easily replaced. Seahawks once again struck gold in the 3rd with Lockett (grrr), but that doesn't mean there's a bunch of Locketts out there just waiting to be drafted in round 3.
I'll keep him for now, and enjoy the show.