St. Louis Rams to give Chris Givens more targets than Tavon Austin?

December 2, 2012; St. Louis, MO, USA; St. Louis Rams wide receiver Chris Givens (13) carries the ball against the San Francisco 49ers during the first half at the Edward Jones Dome. St. Louis defeated San Francisco 16-13 in overtime. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Curry-USA TODAY Sports /

St. Louis Rams rookie wide receiver Tavon Austin is the favorite of many to win the NFL’s Offensive Rookie of the Year award this season, but if he’s going to come home with the crown, he’s going to have to do so on reduced targets.

According to the St. Louis Post-Dispatch, the Rams are expected to spread the ball around this season and it’s the Dispatch’s belief that Givens will see more targets than Austin:

"Q: Jim, Who’s going to have a better year, fantasy wise, Chris Givens or Tavon Austin? If you don’t play fantasy football, I guess I’m simply asking: Who is getting the most balls thrown their way?A: I’d say Givens."

While many expect big things out of Austin (and rightfully so), Givens is the more reliable receiver between the two right now.

It should also be noted that quarterback Sam Bradford and tight end Jared Cook have reportedly been ‘explosive’ (in a good way) during practice and training camp and Cook could end up being a reliable weapon in the offense as well.

Austin should have a fine season, but expectations might need to be tempered a bit when it comes to just how many targets and receptions he’ll be receiving.

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