USC 2012 Evaluations: WR Robert Woods

Oct 4, 2012; Salt Lake City, UT, USA; Southern California Trojans receiver Robert Woods (2) catches a 6-yard touchdown pass in the second quarter as Utah Utes cornerback Ryan Lacy (26) defends at Rice-Eccles Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee/Image of Sport-USA TODAY Sports

Stats:13 games played, 76 receptions for 846 yards, 11.13 yards/reception avg., 17 punt returns for 64 yards, 1 rush for 76 yards, 11 touchdowns

What Stood Out: In 2012, Robert Woods saw his role as Matt Barkley’s go-to guy change a little bit, and he shouldered the change with grace and poise. Now as the No. 2 receiver, Woods still made the big-time catches and impressed with his quick bursts of speed that enabled him to shake off defenders and find open space. His best performance came against Colorado, where he ate up 132 yards off eight receptions and found the endzone four times. And since Coach Kiffin just loved to use him on bubble screens, we saw his blocking abilities improve as well. He’s a dynamic wide receiver, and his talents will serve him well in the NFL.

What Needed Work:As productive as he was in 2012, Woods has yet to return to his freshman year form in 2009, before a nagging ankle injury became is Achilles’ heel. He has struggled to stay healthy ever since and his numbers have suffered accordingly. He also had a few more drops this year than in previous years, but the biggest hindrance to his likelihood of doing well at the next level will be his ability to stay healthy.

Final Word:Woods gave an incredible three years to USC, and the Trojans will want to get to work replacing him as soon as spring ball kicks off. In his career, he has 252 receptions for 2930 yards, 32 touchdowns, and a couple of USC and Pac-12 records to add to his list of accomplishments. His jaw-dropping plays, abilities to snag balls out of the air and then break off a huge run while eluding opposing players will not be forgotten anytime soon. Declaring for the draft was a smart move for Woods, especially as he saw his role continue to devolve with Kiffin calling the plays, but he surely has a bright future ahead of him in the NFL.

How Would You Grade Robert Woods In 2012?

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