New York Giants: Week 7 Storylines vs. Los Angeles Rams
How Will We Feel About Odell Beckham in London?
Whether you like it or not, this will become a weekly question. Will Beckham’s performance quell the talk about his emotional baggage?
Beckham will come into this game with hip and or abdominal discomfort. According to ESPN’s Jordan Raanan, he missed Wednesday’s practice:
My understanding early in week is that Odell Beckham injury not serious. Good chance he plays Sunday. Maybe more abdominal pain than hip
— Jordan Raanan (@JordanRaanan) October 19, 2016
The Giants wide receiver missed a few snaps against the Ravens due to the minor injury. Nonetheless, all signs point toward Beckham suiting up on Sunday.
On the field, he’ll likely see a lot of Rams cornerback Trumaine Johnson, who the team kept over Janoris Jenkins. With all eyes on Beckham as the most recognizable player on both teams, yes over Eli Manning, Shepard could post impressive numbers.
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Similar to Beckham, Shepard can take advantage on short slant routes. He can turn a simple first down catch into a 50-yard catch-and-run play to the end zone.
As long as Beckham doesn’t bring the kicking net on the plane with him to London, he’s not likely to become a major distraction. He’ll enjoy the atmosphere and have fun with the game but also post decent numbers or attract enough coverage to free Shepard or Victor Cruz.
Giants players should deflect any questions discussing Beckham’s demeanor during postgame interviews.