Reggie vs Reggie

Reggie vs. Reggie

Often times there are pairs of players that stand to define a game. In the 1970s it was Bradshaw and the Steelers versus Staubach and the Cowboys; for much of the last decade the AFC playoff race has been between Peyton Manning and the Colts versus Tom Brady and the Patriots.

The obvious match up for Super Bowl XLIV would be the gun slinging quarterbacks, Peyton Manning and Drew Brees. However, the more pivotal match up may very well be two guys named Reggie instead.

Reggie Wayne is the marquee receiver, play maker and go to guy for Peyton Manning and the Indianapolis Colts. His contribution to the team’s success over the last few years is unquestionable. While many thought the Colts would suffer a letdown when Marvin Harrison was injured, but Wayne more than stepped up to fill the role as #1 receiver. In his first season as the main man he responded by catching 104 balls for more than 1500 yards and ten touchdowns. This season he turned in another 100 catch performance for more than 1200 yards and ten touchdowns

Perhaps his greatest contribution is not in the actual stats, but in the stats of those around him. He requires so much attention from defenders that the other Colt receivers often have to only deal with single coverage. Austin Collie and Pierre Garcon received significant playing time this year when Anthony Gonzalez went down and responded with 676 and 765 yards respectively.

Reggie Bush is one of the most exciting and electrifying players in the NFL today. Every since entering the NFL in 2006 Bush has been a threat to take the ball to the end zone every time he touches the ball. Defenses have to be aware of where he is on the field at every moment, failure to do so often lead to a quick touchdown for the Saints.

However, even with all the playmaking ability that Bush has, those talents have yet to translate into big time statistics in the NFL. In his four years in the NFL he has yet to rush for more than 600 yards gaining only 390 on the ground this past season. He is a dual threat as a receiver, but ever since his rookie year when he caught 88 balls for over 700 yards he has been closer to 400 yards gaining only 335 in 2009 off of 47 catches. While he shined returning kicks at USC, this past season he only gained 130 yards off of 27 returns.

Both players are pivotal to their team’s success. However, between the two Reggie’s it would have to be Reggie Wayne of the Indianapolis Colts. Not only does Wayne get it done on the field himself, but he makes it easier for every other player on the high powered Colt offense to shine as well. While Bush is an ever present threat whenever he is on the field, that ability has yet to translate into consistent production on the field.

When it comes down to it, promise is one thing, but it’s the end results that matter.

Article written by Travis Pulver

Tags: Reggie Bush, Reggie Wayne