Key Matchup: Talib vs. Jackson

October 10th, 2009

Gil Brandt of NFL.com believes if Aqib Talib can somehow contain DeSean Jackson, the Bucs may have a prayer.

Former Dallas Cowboys executive and current columnist for NFL.com and host on Sirius NFL Radio, Gil Brandt, believes the Bucs-Eagles game could turn depending on who win the battle between BucsĀ cornerback Aqib Talib and Eagles wide receiver DeSean Jackson.

Talib is coming off a big game against Washington in which he had three interceptions. He limited Santana Moss to two catches. Talib was the highest pick Tampa has ever used on a cornerback (20th overall in ’08). He has good height and is hard to throw over. He has very good ball skills, but he lacks cat-like quickness and that could hurt him in this matchup.

Jackson is on fire — he has 12 catches for 259 yards (21.6-yard average) and two TDs in three games. He also averages 22 yards on punt returns. He runs the 40 in 4.39 seconds and has great explosion, and even greater quickness. He makes some outstanding catches and has excellent vision on punt returns. He might be the most exciting player in the NFL.

Joe doesn’t know if the Bucs can hang with the Eagles. But if Talib can get the job done and with a few turnovers from a rusty Donovan McNabb, who knows?

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