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Notre Dame's Michael Floyd Vs. USC's Robert Woods: A Receiver Comparison

It is not very common these days for Notre Dame to face a team that boasts a receiver with better numbers than its own Michael Floyd. But is USC sophomore Robert Woods better than Floyd? That remains to be seen. But here is how the two studs stack up and some explanation for why Woods is having a slightly more productive year than Floyd is. 

Robert Woods

Woods, a 6-1 sophomore from California, is smaller and younger than Floyd. But that is not to say he is less dangerous. He has caught 63 passes for an average of 13.1 yards per catch and 6 touchdowns. He has an 82-yard catch on the year and boasts two games with more than ten receptions. Against Minnesota, Woods caught 17 passes and scored three touchdowns. Look for USC quarterback Matt Barkley to look his way early and often against Notre Dame. 

USC's Robert Woods Behind the Head Catch (via GameDayESPN)

 

Michael Floyd

Michael Floyd (6-3, 224 lbs.) returned for his final season at Notre Dame to prove he was the best receiver in the nation. Whether or not he has done that or not is up for debate, but he he has definitely been Notre Dame quarterback Tommy Rees' favorite target. Even if they are not as good as Woods' numbers, Floyd's stats are still plenty impressive. So far, he has 53 catches and four touchdowns. No key drops come to mind at all. Recently, he has even volunteered for punt returning duty, although production there remains to be seen. 

Michael Floyd Circus Catch on First Snap of Notre Dame vs. Pittsburgh (via GameDayESPN)

 

Other Factors

While I have no desire to diminish Woods' talent or achievements, the truth is the Barkley-Woods combination is simply USC's best and main offensive option. Frankly, the duo sort of reminds me of Jimmy Clausen and Golden Tate from two seasons ago. This year's Notre Dame is better at the tight end, running back, and offensive line positions than is USC, so they are not as one-dimensional. Notre Dame's superior depth and balance will be in their favor when these two rival schools match up this Saturday night. Regardless of the outcome, seeing both Woods and Floyd on the field this Saturday promises to be an exciting back-and-forth between two of the best receivers in the country. 

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