With The First Pick
Fansided

NFL Rookie Matchup: Xavien Howard and Tyler Boyd

By Jon Dove

Sep 18, 2016; Pittsburgh, PA, USA; Cincinnati Bengals wide receiver Tyler Boyd (83) is tackled by Pittsburgh Steelers safety Sean Davis (28) and safety Mike Mitchell (23) during the second half at Heinz Field. The Steelers won the game, 24-16. Mandatory Credit: Jason Bridge-USA TODAY Sports
Sep 18, 2016; Pittsburgh, PA, USA; Cincinnati Bengals wide receiver Tyler Boyd (83) is tackled by Pittsburgh Steelers safety Sean Davis (28) and safety Mike Mitchell (23) during the second half at Heinz Field. The Steelers won the game, 24-16. Mandatory Credit: Jason Bridge-USA TODAY Sports /
facebooktwitterreddit

When the Cincinnati Bengals take on the Miami Dolphins we should get to see rookies Xavien Howard and Tyler Boyd face off.

The Cincinnati Bengals and Miami Dolphins are both desperate for a win in their Thursday Night matchup. Both teams still have playoff hopes, but another loss would severely hurt their chances.

A key to the game could be the results when Xavien Howard and Tyler Boyd match up. These two rookies have been thrust into major playing time.

Howard has been working opposite Byron Maxwell as one of the Dolphins top cornerbacks. His season is off to a shaky start as is the case with most of the Dolphins secondary. Howard needs to work on being more consistent and playing with better overall technique.

He faces a tough overall test this week where he’ll spend time trying to slow down either A.J. Green or Tyler Boyd. The more likely assignment for Howard would be Boyd rather than going against an elite veteran such as Green.

More from With the First Pick

Boyd is off to a solid start catching 11 passes for 120 yards in three games. His 11 catches rank  him 3rd on the team and 2nd within the wide receiver group.

He figures to become a bigger part of the offense as the season progresses. Boyd’s development is important for the Bengals as it will help draw some attention away from Green.

Cincinnati needs him to start taking advantage of the 1-on-1 opportunities and provide this offense with a spark.

One important note is that it’s highly unlikely that Howard and Boyd will be matched up the entire game. However, those situations where they are could determine the outcome of this game.

Home/NFL News