Baltimore Ravens wide receiver Zay Flowers will be challenged by Indianapolis Colts defensive back Sauce Gardner in week 1. Yet, despite the clear size disadvantage, Flowers can rely on niftiness and play design to gain leverage in open space.
Gardner was swiftly traded from the New York Jets to the Colts in the middle of last season on Nov. 4. The acquisition was expected to propel the Colts, but Gardner played only four games as his team slipped out of playoff contention in the latter stages.
Gardner's play style relies on his wingspan and ability to be disruptive at the line of scrimmage. The strategy has allowed him to deter premier NFL wide receivers from getting loose at the snap. However, Flowers' undersize may create a problem for Gardner,
and if Flowers slips through on underneath routes, Gardner may find himself in a footrace.
Flowers finished No. 7 in the entire NFL in receiving yards last season, and his 14.1 yards per reception was even more impressive. This season, Flowers will be accompanied by a list full of competent help, including wide receivers Devontez Walker, rookie Ja'Kobi Lane, and veteran Rashod Bateman, who also has a lot to prove.
Perhaps Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson might defer to other targets if Gardner plays Flowers too tight. However, with Ravens offensive coordinator DeClan Doyle already determined to dictate pace with the rushing attack, Flowers will likely get his opportunities versus Gardner in man coverage. Ultimately, the matchup between the $140 million footwork of Flowers and pass deflection guru Gardner will be one to watch for in Week 1.
This article originally appeared on Ravens Wire: Ravens WR Zay Flowers can use his footwork to finesse Sauce Gardner
