Steve Smith: Mr. Third Down Is the Future

Scribe Written on October 14, 2008

OK, let's face it. Amani Toomer can't play forever.

I know. It shocked me too when I came to this realization. So what do we need to do to secure our Wide Receiver situation?

The problem isn't really that big at all. The wide-out that will fill Toomer's shoes will be filling big shoes indeed. He currently leads the Giants in receptions, yards, and TDs for a WR in team history.

The obvious choice would be current third string WR Steve Smith. It's not going to happen though.

Smith has been one of Manning's favorite targets since coming into the league two years ago. Though, Smith isn't exactly qualified to take the spot. Why? Because Smith is a fantastic slot receiver and can run a slant pattern better than anyone. He has easily been Manning's first choice on third downs.

So who takes over for Amani? I think it will be Domenik Hixon. He has the speed and the hands to be a medium-to-deep threat, just like current No. 1, Plaxico Burress. In the week that Hixon got the start when Burress was suspended, Hixon put up tremendous numbers.

A look at the receiving stats for all Giants players makes this a very likely situation when Toomer, in fact, does leave.

Plaxico Burress: 22 receptions, 317 yards, 14.8 ypc, 2 TD [Missed 1 game: Susp.]

Amani Toomer: 17 receptions, 207 yards, 12.2 ypc, 1 TD

Domenik Hixon: 11 receptions, 197 yards, 17.9 ypc, 1 TD [Very limited playing time]

Steve Smith: 22 receptions, 215 yards, 9.8 ypc, 0 TD

As stated, Hixon has received very limited time for the type of receiver he is. He is a deep threat. Smith fits into the slot perfectly; Plax will be our No. 1 til he retires; and, Hixon should fit comfortably into Toomer's role when the time is right.

Our future looks bright indeed G-Men fans.

Written, edited, and developed by Travis Rand: New York Giants and NFL Bleacher Reporter

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