How Raiders WR Amari Cooper Matches Up with Darrelle Revis in Week 8

The marquee matchup on Sunday between Oakland Raiders wide receiver Amari Cooper and New York Jets cornerback Darrelle Revis becomes a potential battle in itself.

Theoretically, Jets head coach Todd Bowles may not choose to cover Cooper in a one-on-one scheme. Nonetheless, it couldn't hurt Oakland to challenge one of the best cornerbacks in the league by using film study.

Before delving into Revis’ weaknesses, let’s take a look at the tale of the tape:



*Note: One interception returned for a touchdown.

There are impressive numbers on both sides that jump off the screen.

Many analysts talk about fighting for 50/50 balls in the air. Revis isn’t the biggest cornerback, but he uses field and ball awareness to put himself in position to make big plays. When targeted, he allows less than a 50 percent catch rate, which projects as a staggering number considering his average size (5'11", 198 lbs). 

According to Pro Football Focus, Cooper leads the league in yards after the catch (YAC) and holds a tie for most broken tackles among wide receivers with Steve Smith Sr. of the Baltimore Ravens.

Not only can the rookie turn on a second gear after the catch, but he can make defenders miss, which makes him as dangerous as a running back in the open field. These qualities come in handy when lined up against Revis.

 

Beating Revis in the Slot

There’s no doubt about Revis’ ability to cover wideouts all over the field, but there’s one particular area and attribute that can throw him off balance. 



In the first example, New England Patriots wide receiver Julian Edelman lines up in the slot across from Revis. Edelman takes the route across the formation and uses a slight nudge and acceleration to gain separation.

As a result, Revis cannot keep pace with the Patri...

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