Royal Pain

Posted by Ben Bunce on October 6th, 2008 filed in Features, Opinions
     


The game of football is as much about talent as it is luck.

It’s a statement that you reflect on, especially after injuries. And Eddie Royal on a punt return sustained an ankle injury and will be evaluated today on his status. He says it isn’t going to be too serious, and has ruled out the possibilty of a high ankle sprain. However, whenever a player returns to the sideline on crutches, even if that is pre-cautionary does cause reason for concern. A substantial injury to either Brandon Marshall or Eddie Royal would be huge given the importance of Brandon Stokley playing in the slot, and the health of Darrel Jackson.

Next on tap for Denver is Jacksonville, a team that came into Denver last season and pushed them around. It was a game you remember as a player. So, hopefully a weary Jacksonville team, whom lost to Pittsburgh in a grueling Sunday Night Game, doesn’t have enough energy to come in and do the same this season. One of Jacksonville’s biggest weakness’s consist of their ability to give up big plays. So, if Denver is to win this weekend, they must get big plays from their passing game, and Eddie Royal’s health will play a large role in determining how big of an impact their passing attack will leave on Jacksonville’s defense.


This brings us to a debate:

Should Eddie Royal be returning punts, given his importance on offense?

If you have an opinion on this, please let me know.

Personally, I think Eddie Royal should only be returning punts in important game situations, to reduce the wear on his body and keep him fresh for the game and season. And because Glenn Martinez isn’t a slouch in that role. However, Eddie Royal is one of the top 3 punt returners in the NFL right now, thus the reason for the debate.

Eddie Royal

30 receptions
2 TD receptions, as well as a big 2 point conversion that beat arch rival San Diego
Two one hundred yard games

Brandon Marshall

Team record 18 receptions in a single game.
2 TD receptions
Leads team in receptions
Two one hundred yard games

Whose your pick for Denver WR MVP through five weeks?


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