Carlos Rogers does ‘The Cruz'

Carlos Rogers phone blew up with voice mail and texts after his first career game with two interceptions. But the messages werent all congratulatory, specifically the ones from his friends who play for the team the 49ers just beat 27-20.Some of Giants players I know told me, Dont come on our sideline doing his dance, Rogers said flashing a larger-than-life smile.They were talking about the salsa-type moves Rogers busted out after his first pick in the second quarter. He performed the shimmy right in front of the Giants bench, and the New York players recognized the dance immediately.Victor Cruz, every time he scores he does that dance. So, once I got the pick on him I just did it right there. Surprised I didnt get the flag, Rogers said laughing loudly and noting that the Giants players calls were all in good fun.RELATED: NFL leaders -- interceptions
Rogers had reason to smile as he retold the event. The talented young Cruz, the Giants' leading receiver, had the veteran corner running all over Sunday, and Rogers admits, he often got the best of him causing a bit of frustration.That Victor Cruz is real hot right now. Hes an unbelievable player, Rogers said. When you get a quick guy like that in the slot youve got your work cut out for you.But Rogers remained patient and stuck to a philosophy of being aggressive and taking risks.You cant go in afraid to make a mistake. If you make a mistake, the game aint over, Rogers said. Thats my mindset throughout the game.Rogers patience paid off when Eli Manning went after Rogers on back-to-back plays. Cruz was the target both times. Rogers recognized that the receiver ran the same route on both plays, and on the second throw, grabbed his first pick of the game.The play before, I played off and he kind of gave me a move to the inside, and I went for it. Im glad he dropped the pass. The second one I pressed him, Rogers said. Once I seen him go up I was like, Ok, this man has got to be running the corner route. If he ran something else he had me.But Rogers isnt just relying on great guesswork. Head coach Jim Harbaugh praised Rogers instincts, his game preparation and for knowing when to take those risks within the 49ers defensive scheme. Rogers nabbed his second interception in the fourth quarter when he recognized a dig route and jumped Mario Manningham. The takeaway gave the 49ers the ball on the Giants 17 yard line and set them up for what would be the game winning touchdown. But the pick off of Cruz still holds favored status.Especially on him, I had to do it, Rogers said. After that man had caught a couple of passes, to get a pick at that time, going into the half, that was a relief. I was just happy so I had to do his dance.