Jimmy Smith, the Jaguars' all-time leading receiver, needs three catches to reach 700 for his career, a milestone only 15 players in NFL history have accomplished. The Bucs' Tim Wansley, a second-year pro who took over at left corner when Brian Kelly was lost for the season, will make his sixth career start.
Not only is this a mismatch in experience, but also size. Wansley gives up five inches and 27 pounds to the physical, 6-foot-1, 213-pound receiver.
This will not be Wansley's first run-in with a player on the 700-list: The Colts' Marvin Harrison burned Wansley for two big plays late in the Bucs' 38-35 overtime loss on Oct.6. But Wansley, who had two interceptions against the Panthers on Nov.9, is improving.
"I think his play has been consistent," defensive backs coach Mike Tomlin said.
"Football, like a lot of things in life, you learn by doing and with every snap he takes he gains life experience and he's able to recall that when he gets in certain situations and it's showing up for him."
