Audition Week
Willie's run started in audition week
I end up watching a lot of Week 17 DirecTV Shortcuts during the long offseason because it's a chance to see a ton of players that are stuck to the bench all season. This is a young player's chance to leave a lasting impression and possibly get the leg up on a starting job next season.
Willie Parker is the best recent example. He had only 13 carries in his rookie season until Week 17, when he carried the load for a resting Steelers squad. 19 carries, 102 yards, and an improbable victory over the Bills later (knocking them out of the playoffs), FWP had a big future in the NFL. The following season he ran for 1,200 yards and a memorable Super Bowl touchdown.
Today, I'll go through some of the players auditioning for next season in Week 17. Let's start with the Saturday night game.
Giants vs. Patriots
Reuben Droughns, Giants Ahmad Bradshaw is banged up or he would have carried the load. Droughns' time in New York could be done because they are loaded in the backfield, and he'll try to showcase what skills he has left for other teams. I doubt Brandon Jacobs gets more than 10-15 touches.
Steve Smith, Giants - Plaxico Burress and Amani Toomer shouldn't play the whole game. That leaves Smith to attempt to make up for a disappointing rookie season.
Chad Jackson, Patriots - Donte Stallworth is probably a goner in New England. If the Patriots can get ahead early, Jackson can get some tape under his belt. Don't discount his chances of having a big role next year. He will need a big lead
Comments
Ugh, no need to bring up Pittsburgh's win over Buffalo in week 17 that kept us out of the playoffs. That wound is still fresh.
Posted by: Ben | December 28, 2007 04:15 PM