When the Minnesota Vikings took on the Altlanta Falcons on Sunday, we knew that wide reciever Julio Jones would present a unique challenge to the team’s injury depleted secondary. Thankfully, starting cornerback Xavier Rhodes was up to the challenge.
After struggling with penalties through much of the season, even wearing boxing gloves during practice at some points to avoid holding, Rhodes was able to shadow the dynamic pass catcher, allowing only 5 catches on 7 targets for 56 yards. Statistically, Rhodes’ numbers won’t stand out, as he ended with two tackles and one pass defended, but sometimes good coverage and smart play is better than an impressive stat line for a cornerback.