Matchup #1: James Bradberry (CB) vs DeAndre Hopkins (WR)
Another week, another elite receiver for James Bradberry.
This week doesn’t get any easier for Bradberry after handling D.K. Metcalf last week.
DeAndre Hopkins is arguably the best receiver in the NFL, and one of the premier players in the entire league. He isn’t the fastest or most explosive receiver, but he’s the surest-handed and he makes the most of every opportunity created.
Hopkins should be a better matchup for Bradberry both physically and athletically than Metcalf. Bradberry should be able to come out and impress by mirroring and shadowing Hopkins’ moves and routes. D-Hop is extremely strong at the point of attack and he runs every route as concisely as possible. With the ball in his hands, DeAndre has the innate ability to make guys miss and get extra yards after contact.
Bradberry did an admirable job handling Metcalf last week and he forced an unbelievable fumble on Tyler Lockett even though Seattle recovered and retained possession. Bradberry can make plays seemingly out of nowhere and he has a knack for getting his hands on the football.
Bradberry has faced a high-end receiver nearly every week. He’s now stopped Allen Robinson, Amari Cooper, Terry McLaurin, Mike Evans, and D.K. Metcalf from all having big or impressive games. He will need to rise up to the occasion again this week and give another performance to remind people why he’s vying for an All-Pro spot and a Pro Bowl appearance.