I think by year's end Whittington could become a valuable part of the Rams passing attack, more than a backup.
I'd like to see him get snaps enough to prove himself - and if he does, use him on running downs, especially short yardage where he could block or take a quick play-action pass and plow an overmatched corner.
The rest of the time, he splits with ARob and maybe Tutu, or lets Kupp or Puka take a blow on the sidelines. Fresh lungs, fresh legs, lower fatigue and possible reduced injury rate by season's ends for those two key players.
I'd like to see him targeted for digs and drags over the middle - and reduce the wear-and-tear on Kupp and Nakua. Nakua is fast enough to be a downfield threat, especially if the D must reckon with Kupp and Whittington underneath. Let him lay a real whump on DB's, or a targeted DB and wear him down over the course of a game. I'd like to see him rub for Kupp on crossing patterns. Used in that way he'd be a real menace in bunch formations. Lessee... (daydreaming) empty backfield (which Stafford works real well) Whittington, Puka, and DRob bunched right, Kupp at X, you're the DC. Whatta ya gonna do?
I think he might prove more dangerous than Skowronek, who still sticks around as a valuable ST captain and 5 or 6 wide receiver.
Tutu? Today's D's are taking away the "long bomb to little speedster throws" with revamped prevent coverages. To stay ahead of that evolution the Rams are drafting for more physical receivers who can play the middle of the field and the sidelines and pick up those valuable 7-8 to 14-20 range yards. Tutu becomes less valuable the more that trend increases. I admire his grit and he's come a long way, but I simply see his value declining. Meantime, Whittington could be an indicator of McVay's staying ahead of the curve.
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 04/29/2024 01:37PM by mtramfan.
