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Fuel has been added to the fire for Sunday's game against Pittsburgh. In a recent interview, Steelers receiver Antonio Brown called Eagles rookie corner Brandon Boykin the "candybar" of the defense. Brown said the Steelers are going to exploit Boykin's as the weakest member of the secondary.
Boykin responded to Brown's snide remark saying, "that's his opinion...that's funny to me... we'll see on Sunday." I commend Boykin for being a mature individual. His play on Sunday will prove if he is a bonafide corner or "candybar". Boykin tried to find a positive aspect in the situation, citing that it is good that receivers are taking notice of his play.
Boykin understands his role as a nickel corner. He has faced some tough receivers in the slot and has showed big play potential at times. Boykin is lucky to be a part of such a star studded secondary. A young player like him can benefit from playing with corners like Rodgers-Cromartie and Asomugha. Both corners have unique playing styles that Boykin can analyze.
Boykin is a well developed corner and shows tremendous potential for a fourth round pick. During his tenure at Georgia, Boykin raked in nine interceptions. He was an explosive kick returner who amassed 2,663 return yards (second in SEC history). Boykin proved to be a versatile athlete with "big play" capabilities.
One should look at Antonio Brown and question his play. He also is a threat at times, but by no means is he physically intimidating to Boykin. He doesn't have game changing speed either. To date, Boykin has covered some of the top receivers in the league. There's a chance that Boykin might not even line up against Brown, but if he does it should not be a problem. Boykin has the intangibles needed to face Brown.
Boykin is still young, however he has been able to adjust to the fast paced speed of the NFL. There were times in the first four games where Boykin looked lost, but he is a rookie at the end of the day. He brings it all on the field, from his special teams play to his slot corner role. He stepped in last week and attempted to cover Victor Cruz. I don't see a receiver of Antonio Brown's caliber being a problem for Boykin. Sunday will be the proving ground for Boykin. Is he a "crunch bar" or crunch time corner?
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