The Ghost Of Ray Small

Fragile Dazzle

As noted by Keith at Buckeye Commentary and dissected by Pfef at ATO, this past weekend was supposed to be the 2007 debut for WR/KR Ray Small. In fact, Small even worked out in pregame but did not step on the field once the game started. I haven't heard any official word as to why he didn't, but considering his status as a fragile gazelle, I assume the wet turf led to his watching from the sidelines again.

While I dont see Small as an offensive savior, I do think simply having him on the field stretches the D as his speed must be accounted for every play. Even more importantly, Small could give a boost to the punt and kick return games. For my money, a healthy Small should be returning kickoffs with Brandon Saine as opposed to the likes of Mo Wells, Anderson Russell or Malcolm Jenkins. Kickoff return men should be your burners and I can't imagine a faster tandem than those two. I truly believe Small could be a secret weapon this week.