It’s never easy for cornerbacks when being tasked with lining up across from Chargers wide receiver Keenan Allen.
Allen is arguably one of the league’s most premiere route-runners and it never fails to see him put even the best corners on skates on a weekly basis.
This season is no different as he will draw some tough competition, but Bleacher Report’s Matt Miller particularly notes the Week 11 matchup against the Bills as Allen will be shadowed by CB Tre’Davious White.
White is an underrated superstar with awesome timing, awareness and technique to hang in coverage against wide receivers both big and small, fast and powerful. He has all the footwork and agility you need in an elite cornerback. But stopping Keenan Allen will take all of that and maybe more.
Allen is the best route-runner in the NFL with excellent footwork. His moves should be cut up and put in a training video for young receivers. He’s silky smooth without being overly big or fast, but he always finds himself open while basically playing chess with cornerbacks thanks to his array of moves and his understanding of the game.
Allen vs. White doesn’t have the high-profile athleticism of the other matchups listed before them, but the art of their technique makes this must-watch.
The two have faced off twice in their professional careers.
In 2017, which was White’s rookie campaign, Allen went off for 156 receiving yards and two touchdowns on 12 receptions. The year after in 2018, Allen hauled in six passes for 67 yards.
Even in off coverage, Allen's stutter step is brutal. Leaves rookie cornerback Tre'Davious White stunned.
via: @NFL pic.twitter.com/yQ8JtCI8EE
— Travis Steffen (@SteffenNFL) December 13, 2017
In both contests, Allen managed to have success against White. However, White took a step forward in 2019, slowing some of the league’s best receivers. He was named to the Pro Bowl in which he tied for the league lead in interceptions with six and had a team-high 17 passes defensed.
Last season, Allen continued his dominance, finishing with 104 receptions on 149 targets for 1,199 yards and six touchdowns. He also earned a trip to the Pro Bowl.
It’s uncertain how the quarterback play will shape up with Tyrod Taylor and/or Justin Herbert under center, but one thing is certain and that’s Allen will most likely be open due to his crafty route-running ability.
Allen is set to become a free agent after this season, and with another strong season, he could be looking at cashing a big check.