Before we take a look at what receivers can be counted on as game-changing options in the NFL betting this year, I want to dig even deeper into the WR pool, through the stars and the veterans and land squarely on none other than this year’s rookie crop. Rookies? Playoffs? That’s right, rookies. Because every year there are sleepers that learn their system much faster than that mythical “three year learning curve” and have an immediate impact. One well-placed pass can change a game, hell it can even change a season, and it can definitely affect your spreads and picks on any given week. So don’t disrespect the youngsters. Especially this year’s crop.
And that crop begins and ends with Michael Crabtree. We’ve all seen him play in college, so I’m not going to spend the entire article rehashing all his talents that you already know about. Instead, let’s take a look at a couple areas in which he’ll benefit in the year ahead. First, he won’t be the immediate focal point of the entire offense. Unlike a new, fresh set of running back legs, wideouts can pick and choose (or the coordinators can, at least) when they get some attention. This can allow for a smoother, calmer transition into a new offense. Of course, while Crabtree might not be the focus of the entire offense right away, he will immediately be the No. 1 receiver, with Isaac Bruce helping him out on the other side. Look for Crabtree to start showing up on the highlight reels by mid season. Take a look through the 49ers schedule and you can almost pick out the game right now that he’ll have a game-changing effect on. Frank Gore is now an established star RB in the league. You add Crabtree to the mix, and you’re looking at an almost certain improvement on last year’s 7-9 record. I can see them going 9-7 or better and sneaking into the playoffs. In fact, I’d bet on it.
Another rookie wideout to keep an eye on is Jeremy Maclin out of Missouri. Man am I sad to see this guy go pro being a Mizzou fan, but I think he’ll overcome any size limitations and be a impact guy in the NFL Odds. He was a steal for the Eagles at No. 19, and although the Eagles are in fine position to return to the deep part of the playoffs, having a wild card like Maclin as a wideout or return option (a la Devin Hester) can only be a good thing. Westbrook, McNabb and the boys can use an injection of youthful energy to keep them on their toes, anyhow. Bet on Philly improving their record, and giving the Giants and Bears again something to fear when the snow starts falling.