Steelers Burns: You can't run away from the best, right?
Most NFL fans understand the special bond between wide receivers and cornerbacks. The bond is actually more of dislike, and in the case of Josh Norman, an outright hatred. What makes it impossible for these positions to lay low before a big game? At least the Pittsburgh Steelers cornerback Artie Burns didn’t run away from the challenge this week.
Run Away From A Challenge?
According to ESPN on Nov. 28, 2016, Pittsburgh Steelers first-round draft pick Artie Burns likes a challenge. Thankfully for Burns. this week’s challenge comes in the form of Odell Beckham, Jr. Last weekend, OBJ jump started the New York Giants offense and helped the team escape with a victory in Cleveland.
At FirstEnergy Stadium, Beckham had veteran Joe Haden follow him around like a lost puppy. This week, Burns may not have to repeat that game plan though, as Ross Cockrell will get some time with Beckham.
Jan 3, 2016; East Rutherford, NJ, USA; New York Giants wide receiver Odell Beckham (13) carries the ball during the second half against the Philadelphia Eagles at MetLife Stadium. The Eagles won 35-30. Mandatory Credit: Jim O
“You can’t run away from the best, right?” said Burns, who has 37 tackles, two interceptions and nine pass deflections this season. “This is why we’re here, for moments like this.”
At least this guy is aware of his role on the team.
Giants Avalanche of Weapons
“You’ve got to come with everything,” Burns said Monday when asked about playing the Giants. “Every coverage in the book. You’ve got three guys — you can’t just worry about one guy. All three of them at any point in time can make a splash play. We’ve got to be on red alert. They’ve got a couple of tendencies, so we have to be aware. They like quick game and stuff like that.”
As the season progresses, all three starting wide receivers have begun to carve out their own niche. Victor Cruz has been on the outside, stretching the defense. Beckham has taken the underneath routes to a whole new level. And Sterling Shepard uses his elusiveness down the seam or in the slot.
Whoever he is matched against, it will be a challenge for Burns. He has a 70.6 grade from Pro Football Focus, so there is room for improvement.
More from GMEN HQ
This article originally appeared on 
