Rutgers Opponent Player Watch: Simmie Cobbs Jr.

Simmie Cobbs Jr. (Junior, 6’4 220lbs)

Simmie Cobbs Jr. is Indiana Hoosiers’ best weapon on offense. He stands at a solid 6’4 and 220 lbs which can be a matchup nightmare for defensive backs. Cobbs Jr. is an NFL caliber type of wide receiver. He possesses both blazing speed, playmaking abilities, and uses his big frame for leverage against defenders. Cobbs Jr. leads his team in catches with 63 catches and receiving yards at 716 yards with 7 touchdowns. In his first game against Ohio State, Cobbs Jr. accumulated 11 catches, 149 yards and a touchdown. He is a combination of a deep threat and possession receiver, as his versatility will cause problems against any defense. Despite the competition, Simmie Cobbs Jr. is a type of player that will rise to the occasion. The Scarlet Knights must deliver a solid game plan to mitigate Cobbs Jr’s advancement of the ball.

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How to Stop Simmie Cobbs Jr.

Rutgers maybe under .500, but have won 3 out their last 5 games. Though the team lost to Penn State by four touchdowns, they managed to stop Saquon Barkley for only 35 yards, as well as containing Maryland’s duo of Ty Johnson and D.J. Moore the week before. What this indicates is that Rutgers has the ability to mitigate a teams’ best players. The secondary has been depleted with injuries but has succeeded with its bend, but not break philosophy. I expect double teams on Cobbs Jr. due to his deep threat capabilities and playmaking abilities. I also expect Rutgers to play press coverage to keep him from executing his routes. This will be a challenge but Rutgers proved over and over that they can compensate for their lack of depth in the secondary. Rutgers pass rush will also help the secondary in coverage as well. Simmie Cobbs will get his catches, but it’s up to Rutgers to contain his big play ability on the gridiron.

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