The Texans won 16-13 and still fans have to be talked in off the ledge. The way the blogosphere, talk radio, newspaper comments and fans are jabbering, you get the feeling fans would have preferred the Texans to lose. Or have Texans fans just turned into the biggest whinniest fans south of Dallas? Is Houston the new Dallas? All this noise about Denver South should be called Dallas South?
Bad win, good loss, moral victory. Three concepts that belong in the category of Santa, the Easter Bunny and an honest politician. They don't exist. A win is still a win, a loss is still a loss and a moral victory is for pussies and losers.
I'll be the first to admit the Texans looked like crap. Again. But the bottom line is when the game clock read 00:00 the scoreboard showed Texans 16 Rams 13. All you crybabies go cheer for the Cowboys.
Fumblitis is Contagious?
The Rams had to cancel practice due to the swine flu. Can the Texans cancel the run game due to fumblitis? What the hell is wrong with the backs? Steve Slaton was the chief offender. Chris Brown the fumbler at critical times. Ryan Moats didn't want to be left out against Seattle and now Arian Foster put the ball on the carpet. I don't even have any comments about the issue.
Simply the Best in the Universe?
''He can do it all,'' Rams cornerback Ron Bartell said about Andre Johnson. ''He's got the size, speed, run after the catch, blocking, everything. There's nobody in this league that compares to him.''
That's a hell of a compliment from Bartell. He faces Larry Fitzgerald twice year...the only other receiver that I consider All-Universe caliber.
The Other Brown
Again, Kris Brown missed a field goal. Crucial? Maybe. Who was once Mr. Reliable has become a giant question mark. He just isn't consistent. At this point I don't think anything is physically wrong with him. I think it's all mental. A friend of mine who is a Steeler fan hates Brown. He claims that Brown had the Texans fooled for the last seven season. I don't agree. The overall body of work as a Texan kicker proves Brown was reliable. With the exception of this season, he's been money for the Texans. I can't say that someone can be that consistent for seven years and pulled the wool over the eyes of coaches and management.
Brown missed two field goals that would have sent games into overtime. If the Texans are to contend for a playoff spot next year then this has to improve. In a tight race field goals can mean the difference between playing or staying home. The Texans can't allow this to linger as they've let it this year. They can't be fickle out of a misplaced sense of loyalty to Brown. He either improves over the summer or they find someone who can put the ball through the uprights.
I have some more thoughts later tomorrow after work. Tired and need some sleet.
Wednesday, December 23, 2009
Thursday, December 17, 2009
Week 15 - Sleepiness With Seattle
Note: I wrote a week 14 edition but evidently I never posted it.
It was going to be one of those games. What games you ask? Well for starters, which Texans team is going to show up? Will they show up in the first half and go home? Or get to the game late and play the second half? Will they build a big lead and blow it? Or did they stop caring in Jacksonville last week?
Friends, Romans, Countrymen
Well something to that effect. Gary Kubiak made an impassioned speech Saturday night before the game and fired up the team to victory.
So that begs me to ask...Where the f**k was that passion, oh, about the time of the NY Jets game? Or even a week ago at Jacksonville? Or the Monday Nighter against the Titans? Or both Colts games? Or or or...you get the picture.
Why do they wait until they are pretty much out of playoff contention to get fired up? That fire should have been in the belly from game one.
Back to the Game
Outstanding opening play. Obviously. The Texans went to a quick count and caught the Seattle defense napping. Matt Schaub hit Andre Johnson down the sideline for a long TD pass on the first play from scrimmage.
The offense played a near flawless first half. Not much to nit pick at. I could rant and rave about a run game but that's beating my head against a dead horse.
The Run Game
Okay, I'll touch on something quickly about the running attack. Besides that it still sucks.
For crying out loud just freakin' hold onto the damn ball. Ryan Moats coughed it up (you know the savior of the run game after the Bills win).
The bright side is Arian Foster didn't fumble. And he had a nice day catching the ball to boot. I'd give him a game ball for not fumbling but with my luck he'd fumble the game ball.
F for Effort
Was anyone really trying for the Seahawks? Matt Hasselbeck appeared to me as the only player on offense making any effort.
Despite the long TD to start off with, I thought Marcus Trufant played a decent game too. Where the f**k was Aaron Curry? I think I heard his name called once. Or did he even play? I'm not sure anymore.
Unless Mike Holmgren is the new GM in Seattle, Jim Mora is probably out as head coach.
A for Effort
The Seattle fans behind me sure gave all they got cheering for their team. It might have been a game if the players put that much effort into the game.
It was three ladies, probably around 50-ish, cheering for the 'hawks. One of them went missing before kick off. She made it back right before the end of the 1st quarter.
One asked,"Where have you been?"
She replied,"Looking for the right beer and it took me five tries.
The other lady said,"Five?"
"Yup, this is my fifth one. And it's good."
Yeah lady, five beers in a quarter and I'm pretty sure it would taste good to me too. It's the only way I survived the 2-14 season.
Finally Analysis
No new of fresh insight for me to add this late in the week and on the verge of week 16. In a nut shell, the teams boasted a similar record going in but Texans were the superior team. Seattle players looked like they pretty much quit on Mora. The Texans don't appear to have quit on Kubiak. Yet.
Kris Brown has probably brought on some serious contenders next year for the Texans. Clutch field goal misses on top of others he doesn't miss were costly. If the Texans try to up grade on of the Last Original Texans then should expect more of the same. His track record in Pittsburgh speaks the same.
It's a quiet possibility that old Bill Shakespeare makes another appearance this year.
Finally it looks like DGDB&D went dark again. So long guys all though Big Fat Drunk has taken his act over to the Battle Red Blog.
It was going to be one of those games. What games you ask? Well for starters, which Texans team is going to show up? Will they show up in the first half and go home? Or get to the game late and play the second half? Will they build a big lead and blow it? Or did they stop caring in Jacksonville last week?
Friends, Romans, Countrymen
Well something to that effect. Gary Kubiak made an impassioned speech Saturday night before the game and fired up the team to victory.
So that begs me to ask...Where the f**k was that passion, oh, about the time of the NY Jets game? Or even a week ago at Jacksonville? Or the Monday Nighter against the Titans? Or both Colts games? Or or or...you get the picture.
Why do they wait until they are pretty much out of playoff contention to get fired up? That fire should have been in the belly from game one.
Back to the Game
Outstanding opening play. Obviously. The Texans went to a quick count and caught the Seattle defense napping. Matt Schaub hit Andre Johnson down the sideline for a long TD pass on the first play from scrimmage.
The offense played a near flawless first half. Not much to nit pick at. I could rant and rave about a run game but that's beating my head against a dead horse.
The Run Game
Okay, I'll touch on something quickly about the running attack. Besides that it still sucks.
For crying out loud just freakin' hold onto the damn ball. Ryan Moats coughed it up (you know the savior of the run game after the Bills win).
The bright side is Arian Foster didn't fumble. And he had a nice day catching the ball to boot. I'd give him a game ball for not fumbling but with my luck he'd fumble the game ball.
F for Effort
Was anyone really trying for the Seahawks? Matt Hasselbeck appeared to me as the only player on offense making any effort.
Despite the long TD to start off with, I thought Marcus Trufant played a decent game too. Where the f**k was Aaron Curry? I think I heard his name called once. Or did he even play? I'm not sure anymore.
Unless Mike Holmgren is the new GM in Seattle, Jim Mora is probably out as head coach.
A for Effort
The Seattle fans behind me sure gave all they got cheering for their team. It might have been a game if the players put that much effort into the game.
It was three ladies, probably around 50-ish, cheering for the 'hawks. One of them went missing before kick off. She made it back right before the end of the 1st quarter.
One asked,"Where have you been?"
She replied,"Looking for the right beer and it took me five tries.
The other lady said,"Five?"
"Yup, this is my fifth one. And it's good."
Yeah lady, five beers in a quarter and I'm pretty sure it would taste good to me too. It's the only way I survived the 2-14 season.
Finally Analysis
No new of fresh insight for me to add this late in the week and on the verge of week 16. In a nut shell, the teams boasted a similar record going in but Texans were the superior team. Seattle players looked like they pretty much quit on Mora. The Texans don't appear to have quit on Kubiak. Yet.
Kris Brown has probably brought on some serious contenders next year for the Texans. Clutch field goal misses on top of others he doesn't miss were costly. If the Texans try to up grade on of the Last Original Texans then should expect more of the same. His track record in Pittsburgh speaks the same.
It's a quiet possibility that old Bill Shakespeare makes another appearance this year.
Finally it looks like DGDB&D went dark again. So long guys all though Big Fat Drunk has taken his act over to the Battle Red Blog.
Wednesday, December 9, 2009
Week 13 - Jack Del Rio Pwned Gary Kubiak
Remember last year I harked and barked about the only thing keep Jack Del Rio from earning the name of Worst Head Coach in the NFL was Herm Edwards. Upon the firing of Edwards, Del Rio assumed the mantle.
And that Gary Kubiak is bad news for you. The Texans used to own the Jacksonville Jaguars. They were at least good for a season split. Not this year. In the last four meetings with the Hags, Kubiak is now 1-3. The only win was last year's Monday Night game.
So congrats are in order to Gary Kubiak. You are currently Del Rio's bitch and that doesn't bode well for your Houston coaching future.
I'll be honest. I worked the graveyard shift the night before the game. I normally make it to the opening kick off and through the game. Given the playoffs slipping away I decided to try and get some sleep.
So when I did wake up the Texans were in the hole and the Sex Cannon was in. Uh oh is all I thought. Of course, Steve Tasker and Gus Johnson are no help. They rambled on endlessly about a back up quarterback's daily routine. No wonder Texans fans hate their coverage.
Fortunately Schaub came back and almost lead the Texans back to victory. He immediately lead Texans to a TD on his first possession back. The game seemed to finally be turning.
It's not like they had their chances. The defense came up big and made a goal line stop early in the game. They dropped Jags quarterback David Garrard for a safety and the special teams recovered a muff punt. In the end though the offense wasn't able to capitalize on those errors. I can't recall the details, not that I want to at this point, but the offense either got two field goals or one field goal off the possession after the safety and recovered punt.
Remarkably the team was still within striking distance.
Then the brain farts start. The Texans were starting to game some momentum even though trailing 23-12. Schaub hit Angry 'dre Johnson on a 53 yard play to the Texans in scoring position. A few players later the Texans have 1st and goal. In one of the worst calls and poorly executed plays in Texans history, RB Chris Brown looked for TE Joel Dreesen in the end zone. Under heavy pressure Brown heaved the ball and it was caught...by a guy in the wrong uniform. No points! At least a field goal gets them within a TD and 2-point conversion of a tie.
The blame game is the favorite game for the media and fans to play. Ultimately Gary Kubiak is to blame. Kyle Shanahan calls the offense but Kubiak can change the play or veto the selection.
Many last week were saying the Colts game probably cost Kubes his job. At the point I disagreed. I figured it didn't help his cause and it was something to put on the list when evaluation time comes along at season end.
While I don't think it's the final nail in the coffin but several fans and media are saying the Chris Brown halfback option pass will be the one that cost him his job.
I don't always see eye to eye on Jerome Solomon's Houston Chronicle column and blog but he makes a case on why that specific play won't end the Kubiak regime and it is a whole slew of things that will in the columnKubiak's pink slip merited by more than just one call
The Seattle Seahawks come to Reliant for the last home game of 2009. Fans are eager to put this year behind, fire Kubiak, bring in Bill Cowher and make the playoffs.
I'm not eager to put the year behind yet because I want every Sunday to be football Sunday forever. Kubiak may or may not get fired. Bill Cowher isn't coming to Houston and if he does then a rebuilding process is under way which means the playoffs are at least another two or three seasons away. Plus the worst kept secret in football is Cowher wants the Carolina job.
And that Gary Kubiak is bad news for you. The Texans used to own the Jacksonville Jaguars. They were at least good for a season split. Not this year. In the last four meetings with the Hags, Kubiak is now 1-3. The only win was last year's Monday Night game.
So congrats are in order to Gary Kubiak. You are currently Del Rio's bitch and that doesn't bode well for your Houston coaching future.
The Game
I'll be honest. I worked the graveyard shift the night before the game. I normally make it to the opening kick off and through the game. Given the playoffs slipping away I decided to try and get some sleep.
So when I did wake up the Texans were in the hole and the Sex Cannon was in. Uh oh is all I thought. Of course, Steve Tasker and Gus Johnson are no help. They rambled on endlessly about a back up quarterback's daily routine. No wonder Texans fans hate their coverage.
Fortunately Schaub came back and almost lead the Texans back to victory. He immediately lead Texans to a TD on his first possession back. The game seemed to finally be turning.
It's not like they had their chances. The defense came up big and made a goal line stop early in the game. They dropped Jags quarterback David Garrard for a safety and the special teams recovered a muff punt. In the end though the offense wasn't able to capitalize on those errors. I can't recall the details, not that I want to at this point, but the offense either got two field goals or one field goal off the possession after the safety and recovered punt.
Remarkably the team was still within striking distance.
The Half Back Option Heard 'round the Houston Metro Area
Then the brain farts start. The Texans were starting to game some momentum even though trailing 23-12. Schaub hit Angry 'dre Johnson on a 53 yard play to the Texans in scoring position. A few players later the Texans have 1st and goal. In one of the worst calls and poorly executed plays in Texans history, RB Chris Brown looked for TE Joel Dreesen in the end zone. Under heavy pressure Brown heaved the ball and it was caught...by a guy in the wrong uniform. No points! At least a field goal gets them within a TD and 2-point conversion of a tie.
Who to Blame?
The blame game is the favorite game for the media and fans to play. Ultimately Gary Kubiak is to blame. Kyle Shanahan calls the offense but Kubiak can change the play or veto the selection.
Many last week were saying the Colts game probably cost Kubes his job. At the point I disagreed. I figured it didn't help his cause and it was something to put on the list when evaluation time comes along at season end.
While I don't think it's the final nail in the coffin but several fans and media are saying the Chris Brown halfback option pass will be the one that cost him his job.
I don't always see eye to eye on Jerome Solomon's Houston Chronicle column and blog but he makes a case on why that specific play won't end the Kubiak regime and it is a whole slew of things that will in the columnKubiak's pink slip merited by more than just one call
Final Thoughts
The Seattle Seahawks come to Reliant for the last home game of 2009. Fans are eager to put this year behind, fire Kubiak, bring in Bill Cowher and make the playoffs.
I'm not eager to put the year behind yet because I want every Sunday to be football Sunday forever. Kubiak may or may not get fired. Bill Cowher isn't coming to Houston and if he does then a rebuilding process is under way which means the playoffs are at least another two or three seasons away. Plus the worst kept secret in football is Cowher wants the Carolina job.
Week 12 - What a Dick Tease!
Still pissed off with the utter failure against the Tennessee Titans, I had low expectations for Sunday's encounter with Pisarcik Manning and the Indy Colts. I would have preferred a blowout to the steaming pile of donkey turd they left on the field Sunday.
Really what reason or hope did the Texans have of winning the game? Manning and Colts own the Texans along the lines 100-1 won loss record. Sure half the Colts defense was missing including Dwight Freeney.
Spare me the cliche's of "If only the Texans could play an entire game..." or "They've been so close to winning games..." or "If it wasn't for this or that..." It's all a pile of bullshit. The bottom line is that the Texans are still a bad football team. Talent alone doesn't define a team. Results on the field define a team. And on the field the Texans have lost more games than they have won. That folks is a bad team.
So where does the blame sit? Top to bottom...coaches and players.
Dunta "Pay Me" Robinson has been scorched all season. He wants to be paid like a shut down, franchise cornerback. Guess what? He doesn't play like one and right now he's at best the third best corner on the team. Frenchy and the rookie Quin have outplayed him big time. Third year corner Fred Bennett has been buried deep under the bench and limited to dime and special teams. Robinson needs to sit next to him as the nickel.
You know you have no confidence in the team when they are up 17-0 and thinking that's not gonna hold up for the game. They need at least 30 if not more.
I was impressed with the game plan to open the game. Texans were successful with the run and some play action. The defense had Manning on his heels with a sack and two interceptions. It didn't last.
The Turning Point?
I had this debate with one of the posters at IntheBullseye.com. At the end of the first half, the Texans ran the clock down to the 2:00 minute warning instead of running one more play. The poster said that the Texans should have run one more play. I completely disagree. It was third down. No need to run a play. Run the time off and use the clock as your friend in keeping Manning off the field. By running a play you give the Colts a free stoppage at the warning. Running it down the Texans run a play. If they fail to convert the third down, at least they kick the field goal and run more time off the clock or it forces the Colts to burn a time out if they want to try and run their offense.
What happened next pretty much sums up the Texans season in a nutshell. Instead of trying to run it and get the clock going the Texans opted to pass. I don't really fault the play call but when has it really worked? It was the same exact play the Texans tried in the closing minutes of the Arizona game and Matt Schaub over threw Joel Dreesen. What happened this time? You guessed it. Schaub wasn't on target. Again. The ended up settling for the field goal and giving Manning the ball back. Fortunately Quin intercepted the ball to end the Colts drive.
Who are These Guys?
I have two theories of what happened next.
Theory one: Those weren't the Texans playing in the first half. Some aliens who knew football took over and played the first half.
Theory two: After the half, the Texans went into the locker room, showered, jumped in their vehicles and went home.
Whatever the case, those were two different teams in each half.
The Buck Stops Where?
Owner Bob McNair has a big decision to make on the future of the team. This franchise is teetering on the brink of being good or falling into a Oakland Raider type abyss. The talent is there.
By most accounts, McNair and general manager Rick Smith were pretty upset after the game. While McNair denies it and claims he will evaluate the coaching staff at season end, I believe Gary Kubiak and the staff are auditioning for next year and I don't think it looks good for them.
I'm not an advocate of changing coaches often. Look at Oakland, Dallas and
Washington. They change coaches like Aggie women change tampons...once every two or three years. What have they achieved? Oakland and Washington are stuck in reverse. Dallas is stuck in mediocrity.
Do I think the Texans need to make a change? If the season keeps spiralling out of control then yes. What if Kubiak rallies the troops and put a win streak together? Maybe. If they put a streak together, McNair needs to think long and hard about it. The key question he needs to ask is "Why did they wait until late in the season, again, for another push?" Is it because Kubiak can't handle the early pressure and loosens up when nothing is less to play for? If a changes is made, what are the options out there?
I'm going to stop now because this blog is now in the to long to read category. I'm cutting it up and addressing the possible coaching changes and replacements and also the advantages and perils of it.
This is why I like working the night shift. I can get all my ramblings out of the way without the yappy yippy sawed off runt barking at me.
Really what reason or hope did the Texans have of winning the game? Manning and Colts own the Texans along the lines 100-1 won loss record. Sure half the Colts defense was missing including Dwight Freeney.
Spare me the cliche's of "If only the Texans could play an entire game..." or "They've been so close to winning games..." or "If it wasn't for this or that..." It's all a pile of bullshit. The bottom line is that the Texans are still a bad football team. Talent alone doesn't define a team. Results on the field define a team. And on the field the Texans have lost more games than they have won. That folks is a bad team.
So where does the blame sit? Top to bottom...coaches and players.
Dunta "Pay Me" Robinson has been scorched all season. He wants to be paid like a shut down, franchise cornerback. Guess what? He doesn't play like one and right now he's at best the third best corner on the team. Frenchy and the rookie Quin have outplayed him big time. Third year corner Fred Bennett has been buried deep under the bench and limited to dime and special teams. Robinson needs to sit next to him as the nickel.
You know you have no confidence in the team when they are up 17-0 and thinking that's not gonna hold up for the game. They need at least 30 if not more.
I was impressed with the game plan to open the game. Texans were successful with the run and some play action. The defense had Manning on his heels with a sack and two interceptions. It didn't last.
The Turning Point?
I had this debate with one of the posters at IntheBullseye.com. At the end of the first half, the Texans ran the clock down to the 2:00 minute warning instead of running one more play. The poster said that the Texans should have run one more play. I completely disagree. It was third down. No need to run a play. Run the time off and use the clock as your friend in keeping Manning off the field. By running a play you give the Colts a free stoppage at the warning. Running it down the Texans run a play. If they fail to convert the third down, at least they kick the field goal and run more time off the clock or it forces the Colts to burn a time out if they want to try and run their offense.
What happened next pretty much sums up the Texans season in a nutshell. Instead of trying to run it and get the clock going the Texans opted to pass. I don't really fault the play call but when has it really worked? It was the same exact play the Texans tried in the closing minutes of the Arizona game and Matt Schaub over threw Joel Dreesen. What happened this time? You guessed it. Schaub wasn't on target. Again. The ended up settling for the field goal and giving Manning the ball back. Fortunately Quin intercepted the ball to end the Colts drive.
Who are These Guys?
I have two theories of what happened next.
Theory one: Those weren't the Texans playing in the first half. Some aliens who knew football took over and played the first half.
Theory two: After the half, the Texans went into the locker room, showered, jumped in their vehicles and went home.
Whatever the case, those were two different teams in each half.
The Buck Stops Where?
Owner Bob McNair has a big decision to make on the future of the team. This franchise is teetering on the brink of being good or falling into a Oakland Raider type abyss. The talent is there.
By most accounts, McNair and general manager Rick Smith were pretty upset after the game. While McNair denies it and claims he will evaluate the coaching staff at season end, I believe Gary Kubiak and the staff are auditioning for next year and I don't think it looks good for them.
I'm not an advocate of changing coaches often. Look at Oakland, Dallas and
Washington. They change coaches like Aggie women change tampons...once every two or three years. What have they achieved? Oakland and Washington are stuck in reverse. Dallas is stuck in mediocrity.
Do I think the Texans need to make a change? If the season keeps spiralling out of control then yes. What if Kubiak rallies the troops and put a win streak together? Maybe. If they put a streak together, McNair needs to think long and hard about it. The key question he needs to ask is "Why did they wait until late in the season, again, for another push?" Is it because Kubiak can't handle the early pressure and loosens up when nothing is less to play for? If a changes is made, what are the options out there?
I'm going to stop now because this blog is now in the to long to read category. I'm cutting it up and addressing the possible coaching changes and replacements and also the advantages and perils of it.
This is why I like working the night shift. I can get all my ramblings out of the way without the yappy yippy sawed off runt barking at me.
Saturday, November 28, 2009
Houston Texans - Week 11 Monday Night Fail!
Monday Night Meltdown
It's not often you can say the Texans choked. They choke on national TV on Monday Night Football.
This city has a love/hate relationship with Vince Young. The locals either love him, hate him or love to hate him. It makes the Texans-Titans game that much more volatile.
Personally I don't care one way or the other. What I care about are the results on the field and the final score. Unfortunately the Texans came up short...Again.
This time you couldn't blame it on the slow start. They managed to put up 17 first half points. They finished slow instead by managing only three second half points.
The Obvious
Young is going to run if you give him room. The Texans aren't familiar with the concept. Young repeatedly ran for first downs on third down conversions. The defense didn't do anything to attempt to slow him down until late in the game. Nobody stayed home to try and contain. As the pocket collapsed around Young, the field opened up and off he went. First down. It's not like anyone hasn't seen that happen before. Basically it was pretty disgusting to see it happen so often in a game.
The Offense
This is just a lost season for the running game. Nothing this year, with the notable exception of the Bills, will improve the run game this year. Anything else I write about the run game will be bitching. Why bother anymore?
The loss of Owen Daniels took a big dimension away from the offense. Why the team doesn't try to incorporate rookie James Casey stumps me. He might not be Daniels but you have to continue to try and run your playbook and offense. By all reports, Casey catches everything thrown his way. Time for him to prove it on game day.
Kris Brown, Kris Brown, Wherefore Art Thou?
At this point it has to be mental. Two misses at the closing seconds that could have forced overtime.
Someone mentioned to me that maybe Brown is hurt. Huh? No way. Either that or Gary Kubiak is as stupid as some think. I shot down the theory though. Brown still has his distance and placement on kick offs. If he were hurt, more than likely, his kick offs would be terrible too. I'm not buying that theory.
Give The Kid a Shot
I kid...sorta.
Call up University of Houston Cougar redshirt freshman kicker Matt Hogan and make a proposition. "Hey kid, why don't you come kick for us? Look you're a redshirt walk on. Come kick for us and earn a paycheck. Hell if it don't work out we'll pick up the tab for you to finish school. Who knows, maybe a scouting job too if we cut you? What dah yah say?"
It's not often you can say the Texans choked. They choke on national TV on Monday Night Football.
This city has a love/hate relationship with Vince Young. The locals either love him, hate him or love to hate him. It makes the Texans-Titans game that much more volatile.
Personally I don't care one way or the other. What I care about are the results on the field and the final score. Unfortunately the Texans came up short...Again.
This time you couldn't blame it on the slow start. They managed to put up 17 first half points. They finished slow instead by managing only three second half points.
The Obvious
Young is going to run if you give him room. The Texans aren't familiar with the concept. Young repeatedly ran for first downs on third down conversions. The defense didn't do anything to attempt to slow him down until late in the game. Nobody stayed home to try and contain. As the pocket collapsed around Young, the field opened up and off he went. First down. It's not like anyone hasn't seen that happen before. Basically it was pretty disgusting to see it happen so often in a game.
The Offense
This is just a lost season for the running game. Nothing this year, with the notable exception of the Bills, will improve the run game this year. Anything else I write about the run game will be bitching. Why bother anymore?
The loss of Owen Daniels took a big dimension away from the offense. Why the team doesn't try to incorporate rookie James Casey stumps me. He might not be Daniels but you have to continue to try and run your playbook and offense. By all reports, Casey catches everything thrown his way. Time for him to prove it on game day.
Kris Brown, Kris Brown, Wherefore Art Thou?
At this point it has to be mental. Two misses at the closing seconds that could have forced overtime.
Someone mentioned to me that maybe Brown is hurt. Huh? No way. Either that or Gary Kubiak is as stupid as some think. I shot down the theory though. Brown still has his distance and placement on kick offs. If he were hurt, more than likely, his kick offs would be terrible too. I'm not buying that theory.
Give The Kid a Shot
I kid...sorta.
Call up University of Houston Cougar redshirt freshman kicker Matt Hogan and make a proposition. "Hey kid, why don't you come kick for us? Look you're a redshirt walk on. Come kick for us and earn a paycheck. Hell if it don't work out we'll pick up the tab for you to finish school. Who knows, maybe a scouting job too if we cut you? What dah yah say?"
Monday, November 23, 2009
Houston Texans Week Ten – Open Date Edition
Through nine games the Texans are sporting a 5-4 record. The best record they’ve had this late in the season. Better yet, they are still in the hunt for that elusive playoff berth.
I’m not going to review the midseason and cry over what could have been. Fans and media make a big deal that the Texans could be 7-2 or 8-1 if this, that or the other happened. Two things come to mind. Those things didn’t happen. It’s called reality. Why fans and media obsess over the past boggles my mind. Also, fans like to point out the close losses to the Colts, Cardinals and Jaguars as possible victories. I’d like to point out that the Texans could easily be 4-5 if they lose the shoot out with the Titans. The fact remains that they are 5-4 and not crying or wishing about the past is going to change a thing.
Focus, Focus and More Focus
What is needed by the team and coaches is focus. Focus on the upcoming opponents and the remainder of the season. Play each game like it’s the last. It’s that point in the season where games start becoming elimination games for the playoffs.
It is going to be a dog fight down to the line for that last wildcard spot. Right now Denver and Pittsburgh have the lead. Denver needs to correct a sinking ship. Their division is still for them to take but then that leaves San Diego as the other wildcard.
Right behind the 6-3 teams are the Texans and Jaguars at 5-4. And below them waiting for them to stumble are the Ravens, Jets and Dolphins. The Texans don’t play the Ravens this year. They’ve already lost to the Jets giving them the tiebreaker and still face the Dolphins on the road.
The focus this week though should be the resurgent Titans and Vince Young. This next three game stretch will be crucial for the playoff and tiebreakers. The Colts and Jags loom after the Monday nighter against the Titans. The Jags currently have one win in the head to head game. A loss virtually puts the Texans two games behind them in a tie for the wildcard.
One game at a time though. If they remain focused, try to eliminate some of the mental mistakes and slow starts, this January we just might see the first ever Houston Texans playoff game.
I’m not going to review the midseason and cry over what could have been. Fans and media make a big deal that the Texans could be 7-2 or 8-1 if this, that or the other happened. Two things come to mind. Those things didn’t happen. It’s called reality. Why fans and media obsess over the past boggles my mind. Also, fans like to point out the close losses to the Colts, Cardinals and Jaguars as possible victories. I’d like to point out that the Texans could easily be 4-5 if they lose the shoot out with the Titans. The fact remains that they are 5-4 and not crying or wishing about the past is going to change a thing.
Focus, Focus and More Focus
What is needed by the team and coaches is focus. Focus on the upcoming opponents and the remainder of the season. Play each game like it’s the last. It’s that point in the season where games start becoming elimination games for the playoffs.
It is going to be a dog fight down to the line for that last wildcard spot. Right now Denver and Pittsburgh have the lead. Denver needs to correct a sinking ship. Their division is still for them to take but then that leaves San Diego as the other wildcard.
Right behind the 6-3 teams are the Texans and Jaguars at 5-4. And below them waiting for them to stumble are the Ravens, Jets and Dolphins. The Texans don’t play the Ravens this year. They’ve already lost to the Jets giving them the tiebreaker and still face the Dolphins on the road.
The focus this week though should be the resurgent Titans and Vince Young. This next three game stretch will be crucial for the playoff and tiebreakers. The Colts and Jags loom after the Monday nighter against the Titans. The Jags currently have one win in the head to head game. A loss virtually puts the Texans two games behind them in a tie for the wildcard.
One game at a time though. If they remain focused, try to eliminate some of the mental mistakes and slow starts, this January we just might see the first ever Houston Texans playoff game.
Monday, November 2, 2009
Week 8 - Whoaaaa, Not So Fast!
Hey, I was on vacation last week. I turned off all computers, phones and relaxed in the great outdoors for four days. But I'm back to the rat race and my favorite hobby...The Houston Texans.
Week 7 Quick Thoughts
I watched the replay of the 49er game when I got back from vacation. I was there and it was nerve racking. I didn't realize until I read the report that it was TE Vernon Davis that scorched the Texans for the Niner's three TDs. The same play that split the zone seam.
Again it was a tale of two halves. The Texans were on the way to a blowout win leading 21-0 at half time. Yet I had that nervous feeling that something would give.
Mike Singletary pulled starter Shaun Hill and inserted former 1st overall pick Alex Smith. It proved to be a spark for the 49ers and a bane to the Texans. In the end, the Texans survived on a Kris Brown FG.
One quick thought. The players said after the game that they didn't prepare for Smith so that threw them off their game plan. I find that a bit troubling. You prepare to take the field and defend no matter who is at quarterback. You have to. Injury could have forced Smith into the game and you are telling me they weren't prepared for him? Regardless, the coaches could have tried to make some adjustments. It's inexcusable to get beat on the same play three times for TDs. It almost cost the game. It didn't and I enjoyed my vacation.
Now to the headliner.....Week 8
I say not so fast. Ryan Moats ran for 126 yards and three 4th quarter touchdowns to lead the Texans to a 31-10 rout of the Buffalo Bills. He replaced Steve Slaton who once again fumbled. Slaton has lost 5 of 7 fumbles and ominously leads the league in that category.
Slaton supposedly worked all week on learning to secure the ball. On the play, the defender hit Slaton who had the ball exposed. Instead of securing the ball against his body, Slaton held the ball with one hand and exposed. I can't even imagine the thought process. He and Kubiak both claimed he worked on securing the ball all week. Yet he comes out and repeats his mistake again.
Kubiak had no choice but to send Slaton to the pine. The game was early and still very much in doubt. Matt Schaub had already thrown one pick. The team might have been on the verge of imploding...something they've done in the past. The benching for the whole game was the right thing to do. Kubiak tried benching him for a series or two but always let him back in. I thought after his late game fumble against the Niners he should have been bench for the game. He had the short leash this game though.
Now the question is who starts next week against the Indianapolis Colts?
Moats vs. Slaton
In the euphoria of the post game celebrations, everybody I listened to on TV and radio declared Moats the starter next week. The late afternoon radio host on Sports Radio 610, not John Lopez, was the only one I heard put the Moats' game in perspective and was thinking exactly what I was preaching.
Like I stated after the Raider game, this was the freakin' Bills. The Bills boast the worst run defense in the NFL and probably college too. I'm not taking anything away from Moats. He still had to go on the field and earn his yards. Still, it was the Bills. Nothing to get to excited about.
The Case for Ryan Moats
He doesn't fumble. That pretty much sums it up. He runs hard down field. He doesn't jitter bug looking for a hole. He just puts it in gear and goes.
The Case Against Ryan Moats
He doesn't have break away speed. He's not as effective a receiver out of the backfield or on screens. Some talking heads say he isn't an effective on picking up the blitz.
The Case for Steve Slaton
Slaton is pretty much the polar opposite of Moats. He dances looking for a hole and fumbles to much. Wait this supposed to be the case for Slaton.
Slaton can run off a big play anytime he touches the ball. Unfortunately that hasn't been the case on run plays but as a motion player out of the backfield and screen receiver he is lethal. To wit the Bengals game: 102 yards and 2 TDs receiving. He's a play maker. Add in the season ending injury to TE Owen Daniels and the Texans need all the weapons they can muster.
The Case Against Steve Slaton
Fumbles. He regressed to his junior year at West Virginia where he earned the reputation as a fumbler. He fixed it his senior year and his rookie season. Now the fumblitis is back.
Part of this is on the offensive line but also on Slaton, he struggling in the run game. Contrary to popular belief, currently the Texans aren't an exclusive zone blocking team anymore. The season ending injuries to guards Mike Brisel and Chester Pitts forced the Texans to abandon the scheme for now. According to Profootball Weekly, the Texans are using more a straight on scheme with three new line players in Chris White, Kasey Studdard and rookie Antoine Caldwell.
Before the injuries the run game struggled and I was putting it all on the offensive line. Now the scheme has changed and so has personal. Now I'm wondering if Slaton just can't adjust to the straight on scheme and still looks for the one cut back. Maybe the scheme is better suited to Moats style of downhill running.
And The Winner Is?
Despite his big day against the defenseless Bills, Moats will start. My reasoning? It's a big game. It's against a divisional rival who has only lost once to the Texans. Ever. The Texans can ill afford to let Slaton fumble against Payton Manning. That's just giving Manning and Co. free air time.
So what then with Slaton? Time for Gary Kubiak and Kyle Shanahan to drink coffee, stay up into the early morning hours, break out the crayons and get creative with the play book. Utilizes his strength as a receiver off screens and motion.
Hell put him and Moats on the field at the same time. Limit Slaton's touches some to decrease the fumble problem but enough to keep the Colts wary of him. Despite the fumbles, defenses still have to account for his play making ability. If the Texans can establish a run game with Moats and it may open things up for Slaton receiving...and like I said before, someone needs to step up for Daniels.
Final Thoughts
In a way, the running back problem highlights how far the Texans have progressed. This time last year they were 3-5 and not looking like a playoff team. Had Slaton shown his fumble problem at this point last year I doubt he would have been benched as long as he was on Sunday. This year at the halfway point, the team is still in competition for the wild card spot. It's the first time the Texans will try to play meaningful games late into the season. If that means Slaton needs to sit in order to advance then so be it.
I'm glad I'm not Kubiak.
Week 7 Quick Thoughts
I watched the replay of the 49er game when I got back from vacation. I was there and it was nerve racking. I didn't realize until I read the report that it was TE Vernon Davis that scorched the Texans for the Niner's three TDs. The same play that split the zone seam.
Again it was a tale of two halves. The Texans were on the way to a blowout win leading 21-0 at half time. Yet I had that nervous feeling that something would give.
Mike Singletary pulled starter Shaun Hill and inserted former 1st overall pick Alex Smith. It proved to be a spark for the 49ers and a bane to the Texans. In the end, the Texans survived on a Kris Brown FG.
One quick thought. The players said after the game that they didn't prepare for Smith so that threw them off their game plan. I find that a bit troubling. You prepare to take the field and defend no matter who is at quarterback. You have to. Injury could have forced Smith into the game and you are telling me they weren't prepared for him? Regardless, the coaches could have tried to make some adjustments. It's inexcusable to get beat on the same play three times for TDs. It almost cost the game. It didn't and I enjoyed my vacation.
Now to the headliner.....Week 8
I say not so fast. Ryan Moats ran for 126 yards and three 4th quarter touchdowns to lead the Texans to a 31-10 rout of the Buffalo Bills. He replaced Steve Slaton who once again fumbled. Slaton has lost 5 of 7 fumbles and ominously leads the league in that category.
Slaton supposedly worked all week on learning to secure the ball. On the play, the defender hit Slaton who had the ball exposed. Instead of securing the ball against his body, Slaton held the ball with one hand and exposed. I can't even imagine the thought process. He and Kubiak both claimed he worked on securing the ball all week. Yet he comes out and repeats his mistake again.
Kubiak had no choice but to send Slaton to the pine. The game was early and still very much in doubt. Matt Schaub had already thrown one pick. The team might have been on the verge of imploding...something they've done in the past. The benching for the whole game was the right thing to do. Kubiak tried benching him for a series or two but always let him back in. I thought after his late game fumble against the Niners he should have been bench for the game. He had the short leash this game though.
Now the question is who starts next week against the Indianapolis Colts?
Moats vs. Slaton
In the euphoria of the post game celebrations, everybody I listened to on TV and radio declared Moats the starter next week. The late afternoon radio host on Sports Radio 610, not John Lopez, was the only one I heard put the Moats' game in perspective and was thinking exactly what I was preaching.
Like I stated after the Raider game, this was the freakin' Bills. The Bills boast the worst run defense in the NFL and probably college too. I'm not taking anything away from Moats. He still had to go on the field and earn his yards. Still, it was the Bills. Nothing to get to excited about.
The Case for Ryan Moats
He doesn't fumble. That pretty much sums it up. He runs hard down field. He doesn't jitter bug looking for a hole. He just puts it in gear and goes.
The Case Against Ryan Moats
He doesn't have break away speed. He's not as effective a receiver out of the backfield or on screens. Some talking heads say he isn't an effective on picking up the blitz.
The Case for Steve Slaton
Slaton is pretty much the polar opposite of Moats. He dances looking for a hole and fumbles to much. Wait this supposed to be the case for Slaton.
Slaton can run off a big play anytime he touches the ball. Unfortunately that hasn't been the case on run plays but as a motion player out of the backfield and screen receiver he is lethal. To wit the Bengals game: 102 yards and 2 TDs receiving. He's a play maker. Add in the season ending injury to TE Owen Daniels and the Texans need all the weapons they can muster.
The Case Against Steve Slaton
Fumbles. He regressed to his junior year at West Virginia where he earned the reputation as a fumbler. He fixed it his senior year and his rookie season. Now the fumblitis is back.
Part of this is on the offensive line but also on Slaton, he struggling in the run game. Contrary to popular belief, currently the Texans aren't an exclusive zone blocking team anymore. The season ending injuries to guards Mike Brisel and Chester Pitts forced the Texans to abandon the scheme for now. According to Profootball Weekly, the Texans are using more a straight on scheme with three new line players in Chris White, Kasey Studdard and rookie Antoine Caldwell.
Before the injuries the run game struggled and I was putting it all on the offensive line. Now the scheme has changed and so has personal. Now I'm wondering if Slaton just can't adjust to the straight on scheme and still looks for the one cut back. Maybe the scheme is better suited to Moats style of downhill running.
And The Winner Is?
Despite his big day against the defenseless Bills, Moats will start. My reasoning? It's a big game. It's against a divisional rival who has only lost once to the Texans. Ever. The Texans can ill afford to let Slaton fumble against Payton Manning. That's just giving Manning and Co. free air time.
So what then with Slaton? Time for Gary Kubiak and Kyle Shanahan to drink coffee, stay up into the early morning hours, break out the crayons and get creative with the play book. Utilizes his strength as a receiver off screens and motion.
Hell put him and Moats on the field at the same time. Limit Slaton's touches some to decrease the fumble problem but enough to keep the Colts wary of him. Despite the fumbles, defenses still have to account for his play making ability. If the Texans can establish a run game with Moats and it may open things up for Slaton receiving...and like I said before, someone needs to step up for Daniels.
Final Thoughts
In a way, the running back problem highlights how far the Texans have progressed. This time last year they were 3-5 and not looking like a playoff team. Had Slaton shown his fumble problem at this point last year I doubt he would have been benched as long as he was on Sunday. This year at the halfway point, the team is still in competition for the wild card spot. It's the first time the Texans will try to play meaningful games late into the season. If that means Slaton needs to sit in order to advance then so be it.
I'm glad I'm not Kubiak.
Wednesday, October 21, 2009
Week 6 - Total Football
Ladies and Gentlemen,
The Houston Texans played a total team game on Sunday. The very first offensive play from scrimmage was a sign of things to come. The play that finished that drive is usually a sign of things to come.
What to Like about this game? Just about everything.
The defense held Cedric Benson, the NFL leading rusher going into the game, to 44 yards on 16 carries and one TD. Not bad for a team that gave up 531 rushing yards in its first three games. The Texans held the previous two opponents to similar yardage but those two teams were the Cardinals and Raiders. Two teams not known for their rushing prowess. So holding Benson to low yardage is a big accomplishment for the Texans.
Offensively, they played efficient and killed the clock at the end with first downs.
Matt Schaub now leads the NFL in touchdown passes with 18. He is second only to Fat Ben (no longer called Big Ben by this blog) in passing yardage but still trails by two in the sexual allegations department. Come on, Matt, work on that.
Andre Johnson continues to be Angry 'dre.
The passing game excelled with Angry 'dre (135 yards), Owen Daniels (78, 2TDs) and Steve Slaton using screens (102, 1 TD).
The rushing game was adequate with 87 yards on 31 carries. Slaton and Chris Brown were interchangeable through the game. Slaton ran for 43 yard on 19 attempts while it took less than half as many carries for Brown to exceed Slaton (45 yards on 9 carries).
Miss Leading Stat?
I think Slaton's rushing stats are misleading for a few reasons. First, I don't care how my running back gets his yards as long as he gets them. Slaton is a play maker and he needs to be heavily involved in the game plan. Gary Kubiak and Kyle Shanahan decided to get Slaton involved by throwing the ball to him six times. So while he gained only 43 yards rushing, he gained 102 yards on pass plays including his second receiving touchdown of the year on a screen. Slaton accounted for 31% of the offense's yards and averaged 5.8 yards when he touched the ball. Nothing to sneeze at my friends.
Another reason I think his rushing stats is misleading is penalties. On the second to last drive Slaton had three good runs wiped out by holding penalties. The most costly perhaps was when he ran to the Bengals two and Daniels was called for holding. I didn't add up the lost yardage but it was significant. The other thing to note about those holding calls is they were not on offensive linemen. The offenders were FB Vonta Leach, TE Daniels and WR Kevin Walters.
The Center Doesn't Hold
Fans have been piling scorn on center Chris Meyers this season. I made it a point to watch his play in particular and the line play. I used rewind and slow motion plenty of times in my watching.
This game may have been an anomaly for Meyers (Spaz an anomaly is an unusual occurrence, thought I'd save you a trip to the dictionary). I'll pay more attention in future games. That disclaimer out of the way, he played well on Sunday. I paid particular attention from the middle of the second quarter on. Not once did he get blown up on a play or pushed back. In some plays he was the only lineman down field looking to block on the secondary.
Evidently Lance Zierlien, one of the few analysts I respect, agrees:
The Rest of the Line
I'm concerned with the guard play. Kasey Studdard started at left guard and Chris White started at right. On several plays Studdard was pushed back. When they did get down field they whiffed on blocks on linebackers. Eric Winston at right tackle had his moments to. He had gained a reputation as being a nasty mauler but I don't see it this year. He missed way to many blocks this game.
One thing I like about left tackle Duane Brown is that you are not hearing his name called often. For a lineman that's good. Otherwise it means he is giving up penalties or allowing sacks. Brown gave up one sack in the game. The defender beat him on a stunt and went straight for Schaub. Brown made up for in the next play. On a screen to Slaton, Brown was down field and to the left. He blocked a would be tackler and it sprang Slaton for his TD.
Rookie Antoine Caldwell split time with White at right guard. Like the other two guards, I was less than impressed with his run blocking. I did like his pass protection though. On two plays he just stood up his defender and didn't budge an inch. He's true to the scouting report I read...he's a great blocker but don't ask him to move.
The Beast
It's official. Brian Cushing is a beast. A defense know for Mario Williams, DeMeco Ryans and Dunta Robinson can now add Cushing to the list. He forced two fumbles and made interception at a critical time in the game. An receiver who made a catch like Cushing's interception would be proud.
Others are noticing. He was named AFC Defensive Player of the Week and Pro Football Weekly also picked him as one of their Players of the Week. Cushing also jumped to the top of PFW's Rookie of the Year Meter.
Closing Thoughts
The Texans return to Reliant Stadium next week and they need to defend it. Through three games they've already lost as many they did last year at home. Fortunately they've matched the road victory total of last year so things are even at 3-3.
An even record isn't good enough any more. Fans want wins and playoffs. Coming up short, like at Arizona and with the Jaguars, doesn't cut it.
For now they are still in the thick of the wildcard race. Now is the time to put a win streak together and for once remain competitive well into the season.
The Houston Texans played a total team game on Sunday. The very first offensive play from scrimmage was a sign of things to come. The play that finished that drive is usually a sign of things to come.
What to Like about this game? Just about everything.
The defense held Cedric Benson, the NFL leading rusher going into the game, to 44 yards on 16 carries and one TD. Not bad for a team that gave up 531 rushing yards in its first three games. The Texans held the previous two opponents to similar yardage but those two teams were the Cardinals and Raiders. Two teams not known for their rushing prowess. So holding Benson to low yardage is a big accomplishment for the Texans.
Offensively, they played efficient and killed the clock at the end with first downs.
Matt Schaub now leads the NFL in touchdown passes with 18. He is second only to Fat Ben (no longer called Big Ben by this blog) in passing yardage but still trails by two in the sexual allegations department. Come on, Matt, work on that.
Andre Johnson continues to be Angry 'dre.
The passing game excelled with Angry 'dre (135 yards), Owen Daniels (78, 2TDs) and Steve Slaton using screens (102, 1 TD).
The rushing game was adequate with 87 yards on 31 carries. Slaton and Chris Brown were interchangeable through the game. Slaton ran for 43 yard on 19 attempts while it took less than half as many carries for Brown to exceed Slaton (45 yards on 9 carries).
Miss Leading Stat?
I think Slaton's rushing stats are misleading for a few reasons. First, I don't care how my running back gets his yards as long as he gets them. Slaton is a play maker and he needs to be heavily involved in the game plan. Gary Kubiak and Kyle Shanahan decided to get Slaton involved by throwing the ball to him six times. So while he gained only 43 yards rushing, he gained 102 yards on pass plays including his second receiving touchdown of the year on a screen. Slaton accounted for 31% of the offense's yards and averaged 5.8 yards when he touched the ball. Nothing to sneeze at my friends.
Another reason I think his rushing stats is misleading is penalties. On the second to last drive Slaton had three good runs wiped out by holding penalties. The most costly perhaps was when he ran to the Bengals two and Daniels was called for holding. I didn't add up the lost yardage but it was significant. The other thing to note about those holding calls is they were not on offensive linemen. The offenders were FB Vonta Leach, TE Daniels and WR Kevin Walters.
The Center Doesn't Hold
Fans have been piling scorn on center Chris Meyers this season. I made it a point to watch his play in particular and the line play. I used rewind and slow motion plenty of times in my watching.
This game may have been an anomaly for Meyers (Spaz an anomaly is an unusual occurrence, thought I'd save you a trip to the dictionary). I'll pay more attention in future games. That disclaimer out of the way, he played well on Sunday. I paid particular attention from the middle of the second quarter on. Not once did he get blown up on a play or pushed back. In some plays he was the only lineman down field looking to block on the secondary.
Evidently Lance Zierlien, one of the few analysts I respect, agrees:
Chris Meyers had his best game of the year for the Texans and Studdard and Chris White played better as well.
The Rest of the Line
I'm concerned with the guard play. Kasey Studdard started at left guard and Chris White started at right. On several plays Studdard was pushed back. When they did get down field they whiffed on blocks on linebackers. Eric Winston at right tackle had his moments to. He had gained a reputation as being a nasty mauler but I don't see it this year. He missed way to many blocks this game.
One thing I like about left tackle Duane Brown is that you are not hearing his name called often. For a lineman that's good. Otherwise it means he is giving up penalties or allowing sacks. Brown gave up one sack in the game. The defender beat him on a stunt and went straight for Schaub. Brown made up for in the next play. On a screen to Slaton, Brown was down field and to the left. He blocked a would be tackler and it sprang Slaton for his TD.
Rookie Antoine Caldwell split time with White at right guard. Like the other two guards, I was less than impressed with his run blocking. I did like his pass protection though. On two plays he just stood up his defender and didn't budge an inch. He's true to the scouting report I read...he's a great blocker but don't ask him to move.
The Beast
It's official. Brian Cushing is a beast. A defense know for Mario Williams, DeMeco Ryans and Dunta Robinson can now add Cushing to the list. He forced two fumbles and made interception at a critical time in the game. An receiver who made a catch like Cushing's interception would be proud.
Others are noticing. He was named AFC Defensive Player of the Week and Pro Football Weekly also picked him as one of their Players of the Week. Cushing also jumped to the top of PFW's Rookie of the Year Meter.
Closing Thoughts
The Texans return to Reliant Stadium next week and they need to defend it. Through three games they've already lost as many they did last year at home. Fortunately they've matched the road victory total of last year so things are even at 3-3.
An even record isn't good enough any more. Fans want wins and playoffs. Coming up short, like at Arizona and with the Jaguars, doesn't cut it.
For now they are still in the thick of the wildcard race. Now is the time to put a win streak together and for once remain competitive well into the season.
Tuesday, October 13, 2009
Week 5 - AAAAaaarrgghhhh
The home stand with 3 out of 4 at Reliant didn't go well. A dismal 1-2 record at home.
So the Texans took their Dog & Pony Show on the road where surprisingly they had a 1-0 record (until you consider the Titans are now 0-5).
The Usual Suspects
Once again the Texans came out ill prepared and out of sync. They committed a penalty on the opening kick off and fumbled the opening snap. Three and out.
On defense, Arizona sliced through the Texans and built a 21-0 lead.
The worst part of the deal? Despite playing terrible in the first half it looked like it would only be a 7-0 game at halftime.
Then the wheels came off in the last two minutes. Arizona scored two quick touchdowns and the game took on a different persona. 21-0.
The Other Texans Show Up For a While and Then The Real Ones Came Back
In the second half the defense held Kurt Warner in check and the offense battled back to tie the score. Only they couldn't seal the deal. David RosenSchaub threw a late interception for a TD and then RB Chris Brown again failed to find the endzone.
The Blame Game
There is plenty of blame to go around.
The coaches once again had the team unprepared for what was going to be thrown at them.
The offense was inept in the first half and inept when it counted at the end.
The defense gave up two quick scores to dig a bigger hole in the last two minutes.
The defense failed to harass Kurt Warner much until the second half. Warner was finally frustrated and out of sync when the Texans got pressure on him.
One board poster exclaimed that the only reason the Texans put any second half pressure on Warner was because the Texans started sending LBs Brian Cushing and DeMeco Ryans. He further went on to complain it was because the Cardinals had no run game but if it were any other team they would have run roughshod over the Texans. Here's a clue genius. It's called an in game adjustment. That thing people like you bitch about the Texans don't do. Here is a prime example of a game adjustment and you bitch about it?
Future of Kubiak
I'm not easily frustrated as a fan. After this week I am.
Is it time for Kubiak and staff to go? Really can't make that evaluation until the end of the season. Five games in and some dweebs are calling for their heads already.
I'm sure owner Bob McNair is sick of the mediocrity. Another 8-8 season full of close losses will probably keep Kubiak around for another year. If the season and players get away from Kubiak then he'll be gone.
Final Thoughts
It's very frustrating to watch the Texans lose two games at the one yard line in the closing minutes. I'm tired of it.
On the other hand, if a change is made, McNair must choose wisely. Some folks are pining for Bill Cowher or some other 3-4 coach. That's at least a two year building project. Who are the linebackers? What do you do with Mario Williams? I just don't see something that drastic happening.
See you at the same time, same bad channel.
So the Texans took their Dog & Pony Show on the road where surprisingly they had a 1-0 record (until you consider the Titans are now 0-5).
The Usual Suspects
Once again the Texans came out ill prepared and out of sync. They committed a penalty on the opening kick off and fumbled the opening snap. Three and out.
On defense, Arizona sliced through the Texans and built a 21-0 lead.
The worst part of the deal? Despite playing terrible in the first half it looked like it would only be a 7-0 game at halftime.
Then the wheels came off in the last two minutes. Arizona scored two quick touchdowns and the game took on a different persona. 21-0.
The Other Texans Show Up For a While and Then The Real Ones Came Back
In the second half the defense held Kurt Warner in check and the offense battled back to tie the score. Only they couldn't seal the deal. David RosenSchaub threw a late interception for a TD and then RB Chris Brown again failed to find the endzone.
The Blame Game
There is plenty of blame to go around.
The coaches once again had the team unprepared for what was going to be thrown at them.
The offense was inept in the first half and inept when it counted at the end.
The defense gave up two quick scores to dig a bigger hole in the last two minutes.
The defense failed to harass Kurt Warner much until the second half. Warner was finally frustrated and out of sync when the Texans got pressure on him.
One board poster exclaimed that the only reason the Texans put any second half pressure on Warner was because the Texans started sending LBs Brian Cushing and DeMeco Ryans. He further went on to complain it was because the Cardinals had no run game but if it were any other team they would have run roughshod over the Texans. Here's a clue genius. It's called an in game adjustment. That thing people like you bitch about the Texans don't do. Here is a prime example of a game adjustment and you bitch about it?
Future of Kubiak
I'm not easily frustrated as a fan. After this week I am.
Is it time for Kubiak and staff to go? Really can't make that evaluation until the end of the season. Five games in and some dweebs are calling for their heads already.
I'm sure owner Bob McNair is sick of the mediocrity. Another 8-8 season full of close losses will probably keep Kubiak around for another year. If the season and players get away from Kubiak then he'll be gone.
Final Thoughts
It's very frustrating to watch the Texans lose two games at the one yard line in the closing minutes. I'm tired of it.
On the other hand, if a change is made, McNair must choose wisely. Some folks are pining for Bill Cowher or some other 3-4 coach. That's at least a two year building project. Who are the linebackers? What do you do with Mario Williams? I just don't see something that drastic happening.
See you at the same time, same bad channel.
Wednesday, October 7, 2009
Week 4 - It Was the Freaking Raiders!
I'd be impressed by the win but for one thing. It was the freaking Raiders. The Raiders!!!! The organization that brought us a real life Seinfeld episode. George Costanza (played by Lane Kiffin) keeps showing up for work even though Emperor Palpatine (played by Al Davis) tries to get him to quit by doing everything but barring Costanza from the team facilities.
For one week at least, the Texans stopped the oppositions run game. After being gashed and gored for three games, the defense manned up. But it's the Raiders. One of the things I like watching during the game is how the Texans defense lines up before a play. In the first two home games, one thing that stood out was the misalignment of the deep safety (for lack of a better term since the Texans call them both safeties and don't distinguish between free and strong). The deep safety would move in to support the run. Nice idea if he would stay at home on his assignment. What the Jags did was a thing of beauty. Their line sold the play going to the Texans right, faked an end around to the left that the safety and corner bought and then sprang a counter play to the left. The defense had over pursued to the right and the fake cleared out the corner and safety on the left side leaving a gaping hole for Drew-Jones to dance to the endzone.
Against the Raiders, the Texans made three changes in the secondary. Fred Bennett found a very nice spot on the bench. He receiver was David Garrad's favorite target. This week one of the rookies (Quin or McCain, I'll have to double check) took all the reps in Bennett's place. He did a nice job (against the Raiders). Bennett came on one play that I was told about. I never saw him. He came on in a nickel package and promptly gave up the first down yardage. I did spot him on special teams. The other major change was at safety. Bernard Pollard, the player who ruined Tom Brady last season, started. If nothing else I didn't notice him line up out of position. Which was nice to see.
Offensively the Texans had a very questionable second half. Like John McClain wrote,"...who told the offense they could leave at halftime?"
The plays called were horrible. I'll need to look at a play diagram but it appeared that the Texans decided to abandon the short to medium passes and go deep. I understand trying to go for the jugular. However each time the offense went deep they never connected. I remember one play distinctly the typified the half. Schaub dropped back to pass. He kept looking down field for someone to open up. About 15 yards in the middle Steve Slaton was uncovered with plenty of room to run after the catch. Schaub ended up throwing the ball incomplete.
Gary Kubiak stated in the post game press conference that they ran several run plays just for film study. I can kind of see where he's coming from on this point. They are playing the JV Raiders and needed to work on a few things. So why not take advantage and use a semi-pro team to work rather than going through the motions in practice.
Through four games some disturbing trends are developing.
First is the use of Andre Johnson. There are two All-Universe caliber receivers in the NFL....Johnson and Larry Fitzgerald. He is the Texans deadliest weapon. He makes defensive coordinators cry at night. According to ESPN poll of coordinators, Johnson is one of the few players in the league that defenses must game plan completely around. The trend this year has just been to line Johnson up and WR and run his routes. Last year Kyle Shanahan and Kubiak line Johnson up all over the place...in the slot, out of the backfield, in motion. It worked beautifully. Defenses have to account for him and moving him around puts the defense on their heels. By lining him almost exclusively at WR, the defense can roll the coverage his
direction and account for him almost from the time Schaub goes under center. Shanahan needs to return to last year's strategy.
Second thing that is bothersome is the lack of a running game. I see two things developing in the case. First is the offensive line is getting beat at the point of attack. Most zone blocking scheme are designed to push a defense out of the way in one direction and allow the running back to cut back against the play. This season the offensive line has had problems getting the play flowing in the direction they want. The defenses are either holding the point or pushing the offense back. When Steve Slaton hits the area he's supposed to cut there is no place to go. The defense is there waiting for him for minimal gain or caught behind the line of scrimmage.
The other thing affecting the running game has been Slaton's hesitation. I wonder if he's not seeing the hole to cut back to cause their isn't anywhere to go. On a message board some where, I think it was DGDB&D, said he thinks Slaton has been to impatient to see the flow of the play. Even if the line is getting held at the point, a direction of the play develops. The poster wondered if maybe Slaton was too impatient to let play and flow. There could be some merit to that point.
Coming up next is the Arizona Cardinals. Maybe, if I have time, I will try a brief preview and my prediction.
For one week at least, the Texans stopped the oppositions run game. After being gashed and gored for three games, the defense manned up. But it's the Raiders. One of the things I like watching during the game is how the Texans defense lines up before a play. In the first two home games, one thing that stood out was the misalignment of the deep safety (for lack of a better term since the Texans call them both safeties and don't distinguish between free and strong). The deep safety would move in to support the run. Nice idea if he would stay at home on his assignment. What the Jags did was a thing of beauty. Their line sold the play going to the Texans right, faked an end around to the left that the safety and corner bought and then sprang a counter play to the left. The defense had over pursued to the right and the fake cleared out the corner and safety on the left side leaving a gaping hole for Drew-Jones to dance to the endzone.
Against the Raiders, the Texans made three changes in the secondary. Fred Bennett found a very nice spot on the bench. He receiver was David Garrad's favorite target. This week one of the rookies (Quin or McCain, I'll have to double check) took all the reps in Bennett's place. He did a nice job (against the Raiders). Bennett came on one play that I was told about. I never saw him. He came on in a nickel package and promptly gave up the first down yardage. I did spot him on special teams. The other major change was at safety. Bernard Pollard, the player who ruined Tom Brady last season, started. If nothing else I didn't notice him line up out of position. Which was nice to see.
Offensively the Texans had a very questionable second half. Like John McClain wrote,"...who told the offense they could leave at halftime?"
The plays called were horrible. I'll need to look at a play diagram but it appeared that the Texans decided to abandon the short to medium passes and go deep. I understand trying to go for the jugular. However each time the offense went deep they never connected. I remember one play distinctly the typified the half. Schaub dropped back to pass. He kept looking down field for someone to open up. About 15 yards in the middle Steve Slaton was uncovered with plenty of room to run after the catch. Schaub ended up throwing the ball incomplete.
Gary Kubiak stated in the post game press conference that they ran several run plays just for film study. I can kind of see where he's coming from on this point. They are playing the JV Raiders and needed to work on a few things. So why not take advantage and use a semi-pro team to work rather than going through the motions in practice.
Through four games some disturbing trends are developing.
First is the use of Andre Johnson. There are two All-Universe caliber receivers in the NFL....Johnson and Larry Fitzgerald. He is the Texans deadliest weapon. He makes defensive coordinators cry at night. According to ESPN poll of coordinators, Johnson is one of the few players in the league that defenses must game plan completely around. The trend this year has just been to line Johnson up and WR and run his routes. Last year Kyle Shanahan and Kubiak line Johnson up all over the place...in the slot, out of the backfield, in motion. It worked beautifully. Defenses have to account for him and moving him around puts the defense on their heels. By lining him almost exclusively at WR, the defense can roll the coverage his
direction and account for him almost from the time Schaub goes under center. Shanahan needs to return to last year's strategy.
Second thing that is bothersome is the lack of a running game. I see two things developing in the case. First is the offensive line is getting beat at the point of attack. Most zone blocking scheme are designed to push a defense out of the way in one direction and allow the running back to cut back against the play. This season the offensive line has had problems getting the play flowing in the direction they want. The defenses are either holding the point or pushing the offense back. When Steve Slaton hits the area he's supposed to cut there is no place to go. The defense is there waiting for him for minimal gain or caught behind the line of scrimmage.
The other thing affecting the running game has been Slaton's hesitation. I wonder if he's not seeing the hole to cut back to cause their isn't anywhere to go. On a message board some where, I think it was DGDB&D, said he thinks Slaton has been to impatient to see the flow of the play. Even if the line is getting held at the point, a direction of the play develops. The poster wondered if maybe Slaton was too impatient to let play and flow. There could be some merit to that point.
Coming up next is the Arizona Cardinals. Maybe, if I have time, I will try a brief preview and my prediction.
Sunday, October 4, 2009
Dear Oakland Raider Fan
Dear Oakland Raider Fan,
Obviously you don't realize what an embarrassment you actually are. While you walked and strutted around Reliant Stadium everybody was laughing at you.
I'm not talking about the fans that showed up in Raider black to cheer their team. Those fans were pretty cool and I admire anyone who shows up to cheer their favorite team. It's part of the NFL experience.
I'm talking about the Raider fans that strut like they just won the Super Bowl and dress like it's Halloween every Sunday.
For starters, you aren't a street gang. Throwing up signs to each other as you pass other Raider fans is lame.
You are not in the military so why do you salute each other? You can't possibly be imitating the hated Denver Broncos and the Mile High Salute.
You are not on the field so fist bumps aren't necessary when you pass each other in the concourse.
You are not a motorcycle gang so you don't have to WALK two side by side in a line.
When the score is 29-6, you don't have to yell at the Texans fans that "they aren't shit...you're nobody."
When Texans fans reply to your smack talk, replying the following repeatedly isn't considered a witty reply: "I'm getting the last word. I'm getting the last word. I'm getting the last word."
In fact that reply is a two year old's...oh wait I'm talking about Raider fan.
After the game as everyone is headed to the parking lots, every Raider fan that passed another said,"We still got it." If by "still got it" you mean you still suck then congratulations. At least you can acknowledge to each other how bad your team is. If you are referring to the mythical Raider Mystique then I remind you of the the unofficial team motto: Commitment to Excrement.
And to all those pretend Raider fans that try to look tough, old ladies that sit in the Black Hole would kick your ass and make you cry.
Sincerely,
Houston Texans fans...as we point to the scoreboard one last time...29-6
Obviously you don't realize what an embarrassment you actually are. While you walked and strutted around Reliant Stadium everybody was laughing at you.
I'm not talking about the fans that showed up in Raider black to cheer their team. Those fans were pretty cool and I admire anyone who shows up to cheer their favorite team. It's part of the NFL experience.
I'm talking about the Raider fans that strut like they just won the Super Bowl and dress like it's Halloween every Sunday.
For starters, you aren't a street gang. Throwing up signs to each other as you pass other Raider fans is lame.
You are not in the military so why do you salute each other? You can't possibly be imitating the hated Denver Broncos and the Mile High Salute.
You are not on the field so fist bumps aren't necessary when you pass each other in the concourse.
You are not a motorcycle gang so you don't have to WALK two side by side in a line.
When the score is 29-6, you don't have to yell at the Texans fans that "they aren't shit...you're nobody."
When Texans fans reply to your smack talk, replying the following repeatedly isn't considered a witty reply: "I'm getting the last word. I'm getting the last word. I'm getting the last word."
In fact that reply is a two year old's...oh wait I'm talking about Raider fan.
After the game as everyone is headed to the parking lots, every Raider fan that passed another said,"We still got it." If by "still got it" you mean you still suck then congratulations. At least you can acknowledge to each other how bad your team is. If you are referring to the mythical Raider Mystique then I remind you of the the unofficial team motto: Commitment to Excrement.
And to all those pretend Raider fans that try to look tough, old ladies that sit in the Black Hole would kick your ass and make you cry.
Sincerely,
Houston Texans fans...as we point to the scoreboard one last time...29-6
Thursday, October 1, 2009
The Jags? Are You Kidding Me?
After a courageous effort in a come from behind win over the Titans in week two, the Houston Texans returned to the horrid confines of Reliant Stadium.
In the "soft" part of the schedule, the Texans so far are 1-2. They have one more home game before embarking on an extended road trip. The Texans will play four of five games before the open date of November 15th. They failed to hold serve at home and now must try and make up those losses on the road. Given that they've only won three road games in the last two seasons, it's a tall order for these road warriors.
My quick recap and take on the Jaguar game.
The offense pretty much held up its end of the bargain aside from a last minute fumble by RB Chris Brown. Brown was visibly shaken after the game. He barely could keep his composure as he felt the weight of the loss. I feel bad for Brown. Normally I'm not sympathetic to players that make mistakes (like Sage Rosenpenis). The game never should have come down to a late Brown fumble.
The defense was an epic failure. Again. They once again allowed a long gain for a touchdown. They also never put any pressure on David Garrard's fat ass. He had all day to throw. I swear I saw him eating a sandwich and drinking a beer before he threw the ball on one play. The Jags constantly torched the secondary.
Initially the players were excited about no longer playing a read and react defense that former coordinator Richard Smith implemented. Instead new coordinator Frank Bush pledged a more aggressive defense. The defense has been more aggressive but very plain vanilla. They telegraph when and where the blitzes are coming. They line up exactly how they plan on blitzing. They also play a lot of man coverage. If a quarterback, even Garrard, knows the direction of the blitz and the coverage, he will know where to attack. Blockers know where to align themselves before the snap. A little creativity would go a long way in keep offenses guessing some.
How about that run defense? I'm not sure what's going on there. Most the time it seems like blown assignments. In all those long TD runs there is practically no contact at the line. Before the defense even knows what hit them the running back is out racing the defensive backs. In many of those plays the linebacker at the point of attack never sees the run. Is there a fatal flaw that offenses are seeing and the Texans fail to recognize?
Now back to why the game never should have come down to Brown's last minute fumble. Culprit number one: The Defense. Or lack there of. The defense really only needed to make two or three key stops. A few stops would have a.) kept the Jags points off the scoreboard and b.) probably given the offense a few more opportunities to put up points. Very simple. Keep the ball away from opponent and they can't score. Keep the ball and you can score. If the defense had done it's job, the more likely scenario is Chris Brown is running out the clock and not fumbling away the game.
Week 4 and the Raider game is a must win.
In the "soft" part of the schedule, the Texans so far are 1-2. They have one more home game before embarking on an extended road trip. The Texans will play four of five games before the open date of November 15th. They failed to hold serve at home and now must try and make up those losses on the road. Given that they've only won three road games in the last two seasons, it's a tall order for these road warriors.
My quick recap and take on the Jaguar game.
The offense pretty much held up its end of the bargain aside from a last minute fumble by RB Chris Brown. Brown was visibly shaken after the game. He barely could keep his composure as he felt the weight of the loss. I feel bad for Brown. Normally I'm not sympathetic to players that make mistakes (like Sage Rosenpenis). The game never should have come down to a late Brown fumble.
The defense was an epic failure. Again. They once again allowed a long gain for a touchdown. They also never put any pressure on David Garrard's fat ass. He had all day to throw. I swear I saw him eating a sandwich and drinking a beer before he threw the ball on one play. The Jags constantly torched the secondary.
Initially the players were excited about no longer playing a read and react defense that former coordinator Richard Smith implemented. Instead new coordinator Frank Bush pledged a more aggressive defense. The defense has been more aggressive but very plain vanilla. They telegraph when and where the blitzes are coming. They line up exactly how they plan on blitzing. They also play a lot of man coverage. If a quarterback, even Garrard, knows the direction of the blitz and the coverage, he will know where to attack. Blockers know where to align themselves before the snap. A little creativity would go a long way in keep offenses guessing some.
How about that run defense? I'm not sure what's going on there. Most the time it seems like blown assignments. In all those long TD runs there is practically no contact at the line. Before the defense even knows what hit them the running back is out racing the defensive backs. In many of those plays the linebacker at the point of attack never sees the run. Is there a fatal flaw that offenses are seeing and the Texans fail to recognize?
Now back to why the game never should have come down to Brown's last minute fumble. Culprit number one: The Defense. Or lack there of. The defense really only needed to make two or three key stops. A few stops would have a.) kept the Jags points off the scoreboard and b.) probably given the offense a few more opportunities to put up points. Very simple. Keep the ball away from opponent and they can't score. Keep the ball and you can score. If the defense had done it's job, the more likely scenario is Chris Brown is running out the clock and not fumbling away the game.
Week 4 and the Raider game is a must win.
Tuesday, September 15, 2009
Houston Texans Bull Site Week 1 - Disappointment & Embarrassment
Four months to prepare for the season opener. A city enthusiastic about the Texans. Players hyped up about making the playoffs. An owner hoping his investment finally pays off on the field. (Financially the Texans are in top ten in franchise value).
All the positive attitudes and what does the team do? They lay a stinking, smoldering, steaming pile of dog shit on the field.
The Good
That’s a joke. There was no good. Even the only touchdown of the game was an adventure. Safety John Busing intercepted a Mark Sanchez pass only to fumble it. Dominque Barber picked up the fumble and returned it for the Texans only touchdown.
The Bad
Plenty of bad to go around. The defense allowed the Jets to control the ball for 38 minutes. The defense also allowed the Jets to convert 55% on third down and two for two on fourth down. The Jets run game molested the Texans for 190 yards. The Jets air attack performed prison sex on the defense to the tune of 272 yards. My favorite stat: no sacks.
The Ugly
The high octane low scoring offense was just short circuited by the Rex Ryan defense. Again. See the box score from the Ravens game last year. Different team, same result. Only difference is that Sage Rosenpenis was under center that game and not Matt Schaub. Andre Johnson, Steve Slaton and Schaub were all held in check by the Jets.
The Horrible
The Jets defense outright mauled and destroyed the Texans big uglies. The offensive line opened no holes for the run game and gave Schaub no time to set up in the pocket. Well, you can’t set up in the pocket when there isn’t one to set up in.
The Game Plan
On defense the Texans brought the heat often and early on rookie quarterback Dirty Sanchez. The Jets picked up the blitz all game long. With minimal pressure getting to Sanchez, he tore up the blown coverages of the defensive backfield. The new attacking defense of defensive coordinator was a dismal failure. The best defensive adjustment would have been to call off the dogs and shore up the coverage.
On offense, it appears the game plan fell apart after the first series. I’m still trying to figure out what happened other than the Jets just annihilated the Texans offensive line.
Next up the Texans go on the road against archrival Tennessee Titans. The loss to the Jets may have been demoralizing but a team that has playoff hopes better pull their heads out of their asses. One game does not a season make.
Final Thought
To everyone that wants to run GM Rick Smith, Gary Kubiak and Matt Schaub out of town after one game, go buy you Cowboy jersey now. Bitching, crying and whining after one game are hallmarks of Cowboy football fans. I’m sure they will welcome you with open arms. Bite me!
Monday, September 7, 2009
Houston Texans Bull Site - Week 0 Edition
Houston Texans Bull Site Week 0 Edition
Let the Games Begin
Less than one week remains before the regular season kicks off. Mark Sanchez will make his NFL debut quarterbacking the NY Jets at Reliant Stadium. For the Texans, LB Brian Cushing will make his debut in any kind of NFL action. He missed the preseason with a leg injury.
Many expect that this is the year the Texans will finally make the playoffs. The Texans drafted Cushing and DE Connor Barwin and signed DE Antonio Smith in hopes of bolstering the defensive front seven.
Defense Questions
In order to make the next leap forward, the defense must improve across the board.
How much will Cushing really help the Texans? Some message board posters speculated he will be injury prone due to his massive physic. They make the claim that he carries to much muscle on his frame. To much muscle can lead to injuries as tendons and ligaments can't stand up to the game day pounding while trying to keep the mass together. Cushing is a reputed work out fiend. Hopefully the Texans staff works with him to get him in playing shape and not just one large muscle running amok in the field.
Lance Zeurlin of the Houston Chronicle says that Antonio Smith has a devastating spin move. I hope he's right. Smith is going to have to make a big impact in order to free up Mario Williams. Williams is a beast by himself but imagine the pain he can inflict if his linemates step it up.
The other question is who emerged as the starter on the weak side? Initially the battle was thought to be between Xavier Adibi and Cato June. June allegedly reported to camp out of shape. He then sustained and injury that put an end to the competition. Instead the battle that emerged was between Adibi and Zac Diles. Diles started on the strong side last year and was having a solid year until he suffered a season ending injury on a special teams practice drill.
The versatility at linebacker also provides some depth. It is somewhat reassuring to know that Diles can play both outside spots and Kevin Bentley can back up all three slots. MLB DeMeco Ryans will not come off the field unless he is dragged off.
With Jacques Reeves out, things seemed thin at corner. Dunta Robinson reported to the team on Sunday for his physical and conditioning exam. He'll have his first practice on Tuesday. Robinson should be in shape and ready to go. He will need some study and film time though to get caught up with the new defense.
The current safeties are adequate. Based on preseason tackling needs some work. This is probably one area that the team definitely needs to address next year.
Will someone step up and play defensive tackle? Anyone? Please. Despite what some say, it's to early to label Amobi Okoye a bust. Travis Johnson was dealt for a case of jock straps. Frank Okam is lazy. Shaun Cody? He's getting playing time but isn't impressing anyone much. This may be the undoing of the team.
Offense Questions
The big bold question everyone is asking: Can Matt Schaub stay healthy an entire season? No further discussion needed.
The other questions are can Steve Slaton follow up a great rookie year and not hit the so called sophomore slump? Will left tackle Duane Brown improve or regress in his first year as full time starter? Last year he alternated and came out every third series. Keeping Schaub's blindside clean is key to his survival.
The offense seems to have most pieces in place. I'm not to worried about them yet. If they can match scoring with the yards they put up they will be fine.
Season Outlook
This is just my opinion but I think the Texans are one season away from competing for a playoff spot. If they can make big improvements on defense and the red zone their chances go up exponentially. They need to win within the division more and on the road more.
They are a great home team. In 2007 they lost one home game and in 2008 they lost two. So if they hold serve at home and can pull off three or more road wins they are in the thick of things.
The question begs: is head coach Gary Kubiak and his staff on the hot seat? Barring a Dom Comedy Caper 2-14 meltdown, no they aren't. Owner Bob McNair is trying to model the team on consistency. He knows patience and letting the football people take care of things is the best way to go.
New York Giants, New England, Indianapolis and Pittsburgh are teams McNair strives to copy. Those teams don't just have the same coaches but when a coach leaves there is a plan in place. Bill Cowher won a Super Bowl in Pittsburgh and three seasons later Mike Tomlin does it again. What did Tomlin change? Nothing. He knows the legacy of Steeler football. He didn't change a thing. When Tony Dungy left the Colts, a successor coach was already named well before Dungy retired. Tom Coughlin was on the verge of being shown the door but the owner relented and allowed him one more season. He won the Super Bowl that year. New England is the model franchise of the league.
The goal of those teams isn't to win the Super Bowl. The goal is to win multiple Super Bowls. They don't want to be one and done champs. They want to build a dynasty and lasting legacy. McNair seems to want that to.
Is Kubiak the man for the job? I don't know. I do know that it's wise to play out the season before making any judgments. The shoot from the hip and fair weather fans already have him fired based on preseason.
Be Careful What You Wish For
Sage Rosenpenis, he of helicopter fame, wanted out and wanted a chance to start. He was locked in mortal combat with Tarvaris Jackson for the Minnesota Vikings starting job. Some reports stated that The Penis had a slight advantage. Then Brett Favre the Drama Queen unretired. Again. Peter King masturbated to the thoughts of Favre's return. I digress. So Sage, named after an herb, to quote Nelson from the Simpsons,"Ha! Ha!"
The Return of a Blog
The Brett Favre of Texans blogs is back. After pretending to grow up and have adult things to do, DGDB&D is back.
I'm glad you guys are back. While the other blogs are informative and fun, no one approaches the level you guys entertain and ridicule all things NFL and Texans.
Let the Games Begin
Less than one week remains before the regular season kicks off. Mark Sanchez will make his NFL debut quarterbacking the NY Jets at Reliant Stadium. For the Texans, LB Brian Cushing will make his debut in any kind of NFL action. He missed the preseason with a leg injury.
Many expect that this is the year the Texans will finally make the playoffs. The Texans drafted Cushing and DE Connor Barwin and signed DE Antonio Smith in hopes of bolstering the defensive front seven.
Defense Questions
In order to make the next leap forward, the defense must improve across the board.
How much will Cushing really help the Texans? Some message board posters speculated he will be injury prone due to his massive physic. They make the claim that he carries to much muscle on his frame. To much muscle can lead to injuries as tendons and ligaments can't stand up to the game day pounding while trying to keep the mass together. Cushing is a reputed work out fiend. Hopefully the Texans staff works with him to get him in playing shape and not just one large muscle running amok in the field.
Lance Zeurlin of the Houston Chronicle says that Antonio Smith has a devastating spin move. I hope he's right. Smith is going to have to make a big impact in order to free up Mario Williams. Williams is a beast by himself but imagine the pain he can inflict if his linemates step it up.
The other question is who emerged as the starter on the weak side? Initially the battle was thought to be between Xavier Adibi and Cato June. June allegedly reported to camp out of shape. He then sustained and injury that put an end to the competition. Instead the battle that emerged was between Adibi and Zac Diles. Diles started on the strong side last year and was having a solid year until he suffered a season ending injury on a special teams practice drill.
The versatility at linebacker also provides some depth. It is somewhat reassuring to know that Diles can play both outside spots and Kevin Bentley can back up all three slots. MLB DeMeco Ryans will not come off the field unless he is dragged off.
With Jacques Reeves out, things seemed thin at corner. Dunta Robinson reported to the team on Sunday for his physical and conditioning exam. He'll have his first practice on Tuesday. Robinson should be in shape and ready to go. He will need some study and film time though to get caught up with the new defense.
The current safeties are adequate. Based on preseason tackling needs some work. This is probably one area that the team definitely needs to address next year.
Will someone step up and play defensive tackle? Anyone? Please. Despite what some say, it's to early to label Amobi Okoye a bust. Travis Johnson was dealt for a case of jock straps. Frank Okam is lazy. Shaun Cody? He's getting playing time but isn't impressing anyone much. This may be the undoing of the team.
Offense Questions
The big bold question everyone is asking: Can Matt Schaub stay healthy an entire season? No further discussion needed.
The other questions are can Steve Slaton follow up a great rookie year and not hit the so called sophomore slump? Will left tackle Duane Brown improve or regress in his first year as full time starter? Last year he alternated and came out every third series. Keeping Schaub's blindside clean is key to his survival.
The offense seems to have most pieces in place. I'm not to worried about them yet. If they can match scoring with the yards they put up they will be fine.
Season Outlook
This is just my opinion but I think the Texans are one season away from competing for a playoff spot. If they can make big improvements on defense and the red zone their chances go up exponentially. They need to win within the division more and on the road more.
They are a great home team. In 2007 they lost one home game and in 2008 they lost two. So if they hold serve at home and can pull off three or more road wins they are in the thick of things.
The question begs: is head coach Gary Kubiak and his staff on the hot seat? Barring a Dom Comedy Caper 2-14 meltdown, no they aren't. Owner Bob McNair is trying to model the team on consistency. He knows patience and letting the football people take care of things is the best way to go.
New York Giants, New England, Indianapolis and Pittsburgh are teams McNair strives to copy. Those teams don't just have the same coaches but when a coach leaves there is a plan in place. Bill Cowher won a Super Bowl in Pittsburgh and three seasons later Mike Tomlin does it again. What did Tomlin change? Nothing. He knows the legacy of Steeler football. He didn't change a thing. When Tony Dungy left the Colts, a successor coach was already named well before Dungy retired. Tom Coughlin was on the verge of being shown the door but the owner relented and allowed him one more season. He won the Super Bowl that year. New England is the model franchise of the league.
The goal of those teams isn't to win the Super Bowl. The goal is to win multiple Super Bowls. They don't want to be one and done champs. They want to build a dynasty and lasting legacy. McNair seems to want that to.
Is Kubiak the man for the job? I don't know. I do know that it's wise to play out the season before making any judgments. The shoot from the hip and fair weather fans already have him fired based on preseason.
Be Careful What You Wish For
Sage Rosenpenis, he of helicopter fame, wanted out and wanted a chance to start. He was locked in mortal combat with Tarvaris Jackson for the Minnesota Vikings starting job. Some reports stated that The Penis had a slight advantage. Then Brett Favre the Drama Queen unretired. Again. Peter King masturbated to the thoughts of Favre's return. I digress. So Sage, named after an herb, to quote Nelson from the Simpsons,"Ha! Ha!"
The Return of a Blog
The Brett Favre of Texans blogs is back. After pretending to grow up and have adult things to do, DGDB&D is back.
I'm glad you guys are back. While the other blogs are informative and fun, no one approaches the level you guys entertain and ridicule all things NFL and Texans.
Wednesday, July 29, 2009
Houston Texans Bull Site - August 2009
Training camp opens this week, or is underway, depending on when you read this.
Fans and media expect a playoff run for the Houston Texans this year. I'll get to why I don't think the defense is ready.
Texans Rookie Class
The only unsigned rookie remaining is first round pick Brian Cushing. Second pick Connor Barwin was signed right before camp.
The Texans have pretty much penciled in Cushing as the starting SAM. He'll need all the time he can get learning the defense if he hopes to live up to the hype.
The other picks will contribute mostly as back ups and special teams. Some believe that third round selection Antoine Caldwell will start at some point this season at either guard or center. I think he will be a swing lineman unless injuries or horrible play open up a slot for him. The current starting line played all sixteen games without injury. Offensive line unity counts in the NFL. Sometimes the play of the unity is better than the individual talent. The Texans got a good look at what they have on the line and it wasn't as bad as some might think. I think they keep them together unless someone falls apart or gets injured.
James Casey, the TE/HB out of Rice, will probably contribute right away on special teams. Some fans and media speculate he may be tried out of the "Wildcat" formations or even the long snapper.
Hopefully one or two of the later picks will turn into a gem of a find.
The PUPS
CB Antwaun Molden, DT Travis Johnson and rookies TE Anthony Hill and OL Antoine Caldwell start off on the PUP. My only concern is Hill. He was an injury waiting to happen in college. Now he starts off his pro career hurt. Not a good omen.
I'm not to concerned with Molden. Yet. I'd like to see if he can go this season without missing to much time. The Texans need him for at least depth. CBs Jacques Reeves and Fred Bennett will hold down the starting spots given that Dunta Robinson is holding out.
Contract Squabbles
It's been hashed over and over on the other blogs and media so I won't spend to much time on the subject.
Currently the top of the list for the Texans is to get all the rookies signed and into camp.
Next they must reward the veterans. MLB Demeco Ryans has outplayed his rookie contract. He deserves his payday. He's the on field general of the team. He played hurt last year but he toughed it out. He won Defensive Rookie of the Year in his initial campaign. It's time to lock up Mr. Ryans for the long term.
Owen Daniels has also emerged as a near top flight tight end. He isn't in the top tier yet but he's a vital cog on the offense. A few fans seem to think he's replaceable and that is the reason the Texans selected Casey and TE Anthony Hill in the fourth round. I truly doubt that.
Daniels signed the restricted agent tender and will be in camp. That leads me to believe that negotiations are progressing. I think Ryans gets his contract and Daniels won't be to far behind.
The one who may have overplayed his hand is CB Dunta Robinson. Rumor is the Texans offered Robinson near $23 million per year. It would make him paid like a top tier shutdown corner. Robinson is good but he isn't great. On his best day he's a second tier corner still. He's playing his way back from a serious injury he suffered in 2007.
If he was offered that money there are fools all around. Robinson is a fool for turning it down and thinking he could do better. The Texans are fools for offering to overpay for Robinson when Ryans and Daniels also need to be extended. Ryans definitely should get his before Daniels and Robinson.
Death of a Blog
My favorite Texans blog, DGDB&D shut it down. The two main contributors, Big Fat Drunk and Mike, can no longer keep up with it. They make it sound like they grew up with stuff like jobs, marriage and kids.
I hate that they shut it down but I can understand. I'll miss the blog and it's bathroom humor, fake conversations, Titans bashing and constant ridicule of the Houston Chronicle's Little Dickey Justice.
It was fun guys. Big Fat Drunk will now be an occasional contributor to the Battle Red Blog. I look forward to his unique commentary and hope they don't make him tone it down. So long guys and thanks for making the Texans blogosphere a fun place.
Is This the Year for Defense?
Does the Texans defense make theGreat Leap Forward?
My answer is no. I don't think the defense is ready for prime time. There are just to many questions and not enough answers.
Mario Williams and DeMeco Ryans are proven commodities. Williams is a top five defensive end and Ryans is a top ten linebacker.
But where is the rest of the defense?
Robinson isn't a top tier cornerback but he's not to shabby. Depending on who you read or believe, Frenchy is a good or bad CB. Bennett regressed after having a pretty good rookie year. Molden isn't healthy.
The safties are decent but don't strike fear into the heart of offenses.
At the outside linebackers you have Cushing and Xavier Adibi. Cushing is expected to start at SAM. Adibi is in competition with Cate June for the WILL position. Speculation is that Cushing might come out on passing downs. Not exactly what you want from the #15 pick in the draft. The depth and possible combinations at linebacker are decent. Right now there isn't a playmaker at linebacker who can force turnovers and jar runners to the bone.
The Texans added Antonio via free agency from the Arizona Cardinals. His job will be to add pressure to the opposite side of Mario Williams. Smith will line up primarily at right end and may move inside on passing downs.
The Texans hope second rounder Barwin will have an impact very quickly. I doubt that he will. The learning curve for a DE can be steep. He has the physical skills to do it but he's still raw. He's only played one year at end in college. Big difference. He needs at least one year to be coached up the level needed.
I hope the Texans can take the next step on defense. It will be essential for any playoff aspirations.
Final Thoughts
I have a friend, I've mentioned him before, who thinks Gary Kubiak gets the axe if they don't make the playoffs. I'll let you in on a secret. My friend is an idiot.
Allow me to illustrate my friend's idiocy. I pointed out the fact that Andre Johnson had 76 of his 115 catches at home and 39 on the road. I thought it was an interesting disparity. He says it's because teams double Johnson on the road and don't at Reliant. I asked what the hell is he talking about. He said well a team wants to take away the best player at home. Unbelievable. I told him it's football. You want to take away the best player no matter where the game is played. Does he actually think teams game plane not to play Johnson as tough on the road versus home? I decided not to discuss the topic any further.
He also back pedaled when I reminded him he wanted the Texans to sign Brad Johnson after the Cowboys released him. He posted it on Steph's Chronicle blog. Just scroll down and look for the Brad Johnson post.
That's it for now. Updates as warranted.
Fans and media expect a playoff run for the Houston Texans this year. I'll get to why I don't think the defense is ready.
Texans Rookie Class
The only unsigned rookie remaining is first round pick Brian Cushing. Second pick Connor Barwin was signed right before camp.
The Texans have pretty much penciled in Cushing as the starting SAM. He'll need all the time he can get learning the defense if he hopes to live up to the hype.
The other picks will contribute mostly as back ups and special teams. Some believe that third round selection Antoine Caldwell will start at some point this season at either guard or center. I think he will be a swing lineman unless injuries or horrible play open up a slot for him. The current starting line played all sixteen games without injury. Offensive line unity counts in the NFL. Sometimes the play of the unity is better than the individual talent. The Texans got a good look at what they have on the line and it wasn't as bad as some might think. I think they keep them together unless someone falls apart or gets injured.
James Casey, the TE/HB out of Rice, will probably contribute right away on special teams. Some fans and media speculate he may be tried out of the "Wildcat" formations or even the long snapper.
Hopefully one or two of the later picks will turn into a gem of a find.
The PUPS
CB Antwaun Molden, DT Travis Johnson and rookies TE Anthony Hill and OL Antoine Caldwell start off on the PUP. My only concern is Hill. He was an injury waiting to happen in college. Now he starts off his pro career hurt. Not a good omen.
I'm not to concerned with Molden. Yet. I'd like to see if he can go this season without missing to much time. The Texans need him for at least depth. CBs Jacques Reeves and Fred Bennett will hold down the starting spots given that Dunta Robinson is holding out.
Contract Squabbles
It's been hashed over and over on the other blogs and media so I won't spend to much time on the subject.
Currently the top of the list for the Texans is to get all the rookies signed and into camp.
Next they must reward the veterans. MLB Demeco Ryans has outplayed his rookie contract. He deserves his payday. He's the on field general of the team. He played hurt last year but he toughed it out. He won Defensive Rookie of the Year in his initial campaign. It's time to lock up Mr. Ryans for the long term.
Owen Daniels has also emerged as a near top flight tight end. He isn't in the top tier yet but he's a vital cog on the offense. A few fans seem to think he's replaceable and that is the reason the Texans selected Casey and TE Anthony Hill in the fourth round. I truly doubt that.
Daniels signed the restricted agent tender and will be in camp. That leads me to believe that negotiations are progressing. I think Ryans gets his contract and Daniels won't be to far behind.
The one who may have overplayed his hand is CB Dunta Robinson. Rumor is the Texans offered Robinson near $23 million per year. It would make him paid like a top tier shutdown corner. Robinson is good but he isn't great. On his best day he's a second tier corner still. He's playing his way back from a serious injury he suffered in 2007.
If he was offered that money there are fools all around. Robinson is a fool for turning it down and thinking he could do better. The Texans are fools for offering to overpay for Robinson when Ryans and Daniels also need to be extended. Ryans definitely should get his before Daniels and Robinson.
Death of a Blog
My favorite Texans blog, DGDB&D shut it down. The two main contributors, Big Fat Drunk and Mike, can no longer keep up with it. They make it sound like they grew up with stuff like jobs, marriage and kids.
I hate that they shut it down but I can understand. I'll miss the blog and it's bathroom humor, fake conversations, Titans bashing and constant ridicule of the Houston Chronicle's Little Dickey Justice.
It was fun guys. Big Fat Drunk will now be an occasional contributor to the Battle Red Blog. I look forward to his unique commentary and hope they don't make him tone it down. So long guys and thanks for making the Texans blogosphere a fun place.
Is This the Year for Defense?
Does the Texans defense make theGreat Leap Forward?
My answer is no. I don't think the defense is ready for prime time. There are just to many questions and not enough answers.
Mario Williams and DeMeco Ryans are proven commodities. Williams is a top five defensive end and Ryans is a top ten linebacker.
But where is the rest of the defense?
Robinson isn't a top tier cornerback but he's not to shabby. Depending on who you read or believe, Frenchy is a good or bad CB. Bennett regressed after having a pretty good rookie year. Molden isn't healthy.
The safties are decent but don't strike fear into the heart of offenses.
At the outside linebackers you have Cushing and Xavier Adibi. Cushing is expected to start at SAM. Adibi is in competition with Cate June for the WILL position. Speculation is that Cushing might come out on passing downs. Not exactly what you want from the #15 pick in the draft. The depth and possible combinations at linebacker are decent. Right now there isn't a playmaker at linebacker who can force turnovers and jar runners to the bone.
The Texans added Antonio via free agency from the Arizona Cardinals. His job will be to add pressure to the opposite side of Mario Williams. Smith will line up primarily at right end and may move inside on passing downs.
The Texans hope second rounder Barwin will have an impact very quickly. I doubt that he will. The learning curve for a DE can be steep. He has the physical skills to do it but he's still raw. He's only played one year at end in college. Big difference. He needs at least one year to be coached up the level needed.
I hope the Texans can take the next step on defense. It will be essential for any playoff aspirations.
Final Thoughts
I have a friend, I've mentioned him before, who thinks Gary Kubiak gets the axe if they don't make the playoffs. I'll let you in on a secret. My friend is an idiot.
Allow me to illustrate my friend's idiocy. I pointed out the fact that Andre Johnson had 76 of his 115 catches at home and 39 on the road. I thought it was an interesting disparity. He says it's because teams double Johnson on the road and don't at Reliant. I asked what the hell is he talking about. He said well a team wants to take away the best player at home. Unbelievable. I told him it's football. You want to take away the best player no matter where the game is played. Does he actually think teams game plane not to play Johnson as tough on the road versus home? I decided not to discuss the topic any further.
He also back pedaled when I reminded him he wanted the Texans to sign Brad Johnson after the Cowboys released him. He posted it on Steph's Chronicle blog. Just scroll down and look for the Brad Johnson post.
That's it for now. Updates as warranted.
Friday, July 10, 2009
Houston Texans Bull Site - July 2009
Houston Texans Bull Site - July 2009
A Fan's Perspective on all things Texans football
This the extremely slow part of the season. A such, I bring an abbreviated form of the Houston Texans Bull Site newsletter.
I see no sense in rehashing all the stuff going on in the Texans online blogosphere and message boards. Google "Texans" or follow the links on the right of this column and find out what the fans are saying.
You might find in reading some of the blogs you might need a little help. Thus I bring you the first ever glossary of Texans terms.
That does it for this tiny version of the newsletter. Things will pick up once camps open. I hope.
A Fan's Perspective on all things Texans football
This the extremely slow part of the season. A such, I bring an abbreviated form of the Houston Texans Bull Site newsletter.
I see no sense in rehashing all the stuff going on in the Texans online blogosphere and message boards. Google "Texans" or follow the links on the right of this column and find out what the fans are saying.
You might find in reading some of the blogs you might need a little help. Thus I bring you the first ever glossary of Texans terms.
Houston Texans Blogosphere Glossary
The Texans are the only sports team I follow extensively on the internet. So I don’t know if similar terms, nicknames and descriptions emerge on blogs and message boards of other teams. My guess is that they do. It took me some time to figure out some of the definitions while others were obvious.
Mothership – The Texans headquarters or official website. Many blogs refer to a press release or any information from official channels as word from the mothership. I’ve see Stephanie Stradley’s blog, the DGDB&D and IntheBullseye.com use the reference.
Smithiak – The Texans Godhead of general manager Rick Smith and head coach Gary Kubiak. Battle Red Blog’s slogan is “In Smithiak We Trust.” The term is widely used by Texans bloggers and message board posters.
Frenchy – Cornerback Jacques Reeves due to the “french” pronounciation of his name.
Pancakes – Houston Chronicle’s Texans beat writer John McClain. The earliest reference I can find is at Battle Red Blog at this post http://www.battleredblog.com/comments/2007/11/19/215332/74/13 by none other than Big Fat Drunk of the DGDB&D.
Chicken Legs – 2009 Texans first round draft pick Brian Cushing due to his huge upper body but skinny legs. Again credit goes to someone at DGDB&D.
TexansChick – Stephanie Stradley’s blog handle. She’s a huge Texans fan that writes a fan blog for the Houston Chronicle website and for AOL’s Funhouse. She is a prominent and respected Texans blogger.
Mr. Mittens – Former quarterback David Carr for his use of white gloves. It’s best we forget he was a Texan player.
DGDB&D – Originally titled DaGood,DaBad & DeMeco after linebacker Demeco Ryans. After a polite request and a donation to the blog’s favorite charity, the title was reduced to its current form.
David Rosenschaub – My three headed monster of the Texan quarterback. I came up with it after the shakey quarterback play of Matt Schaub and Sage Rosenfails at the start of the 2008 season. I had to throw in David Carr for good measure.
Sage Rosencopter – Back up quarterback Sage Rosenfels cemented his legacy in Houston sports lore with his epic meltdown against the Colts. Leading late in the game, Rosencopter tried to fly for a first down. Instead he was hit mid flight, spun like a helicopter, fumbled and it was returned for a TD and the Colts came from behind to avoid the upset.
Super Mario – Obviously defensive end Mario Williams and refering to the video game character.
‘dre – All Universe WR Andre Johnson
Little Dickie Justice – Chronicle columnist and hack. He hates most things Texans and GM Smith.
BE-SF - Again credit goes to the DGDB&D blog for this entry. It took me some digging to figure out it referred to the Tennessee Titans. Baby Eating - Sister Fuckers.
That does it for this tiny version of the newsletter. Things will pick up once camps open. I hope.
Saturday, June 13, 2009
Rex Grossman Signed
The Texans signed former Chicago Bears quarterback Rex Grossman.
Good or bad? I say neither. He signed for the vet minimum ($600K). He either is training camp fodder, an extra arm for camp or will be given a legitimate shot at replacing third stringer Alex Brink.
Given Matt Schaub's health and missing games the last two seasons, having veteran quarterbacks on staff is probably a good idea.
I honestly think second teamer Dan Orlovsky is a legit two and there is no way Grossman beats him out on the depth chart.
If for whatever reason both Schaub and Orlovsky can't go, I feel more comfortable starting a vet like Grossman than turning the keys over to Bink.
Good or bad? I say neither. He signed for the vet minimum ($600K). He either is training camp fodder, an extra arm for camp or will be given a legitimate shot at replacing third stringer Alex Brink.
Given Matt Schaub's health and missing games the last two seasons, having veteran quarterbacks on staff is probably a good idea.
I honestly think second teamer Dan Orlovsky is a legit two and there is no way Grossman beats him out on the depth chart.
If for whatever reason both Schaub and Orlovsky can't go, I feel more comfortable starting a vet like Grossman than turning the keys over to Bink.
Friday, June 5, 2009
Houston Texans Bullsite - June 2009
Houston Texans Bullsite
A Fan’s Perspective of the Texans
June 2009
The Dreaded Long Days of the Off Season
Free agency is over. The draft came and went. OTAs and mini-camps are underway. Barring major injuries, I don’t expect any earth shaking news coming out of the Texans camp.
I’m not going to rehash the draft, free agency or other issues just for the sake of writing something. There are plenty of articles on such things on the internet and the Texans blogosphere.
So then what do I write about? Evidently nothing. It’s the off season. I’m not going to create news or issues.
I already gave my Way To Early 2009 Prognostication when the schedule came out.
The Mothership is spewing out OTA news.
I didn’t go to the Pigskins and Pins event. I forgot to RSVP or pay attention to the deadline for registering.
I did go to the All Access event held for season ticket holders on May 27th.
All Access
Unfortunately I missed the Frank Bush interview and I didn’t feel like listen to Sports Radio 610 ramble on while waiting for the Kyle Shanahan interview.
I did get to see first round draft pick Brian Cushing up close for the first time. First thing he needs to do is lose the long hair. He looks like a typical California surfer douchebag. Come on, Brian, this is Texans. I don’t mean bust out the cowboy hat (remember Cowboys are hated around these parts) and boots. But ditch the goofy hair. Try mixing some speech lessons around the game film sessions and practice. Good Lord, was I the only one not understanding a word he said? My two year old nephew speaks clearer.
I did see the mini pep rally the Texans had with the band, Marc Vandermeer and the players.
The first to speak was GM Rick Smith. Not much substance said. Matt Schaub, Chester Pitts, Mario Williams, Steve Slaton, Andre Johnson, Antonio Smith and Brian Cushing were all introduced. Schaub stated that the goal was to make the playoffs. Anything after that was icing on the cake. Johnson took it further. He said he not only expects to make the playoffs, he expects them to win in the playoffs. Anything short of that and he considers the season a failure. Johnson also said if they fail, he considers it a personal failure and a let down to the Houston fans. It may have been Williams, or maybe Pitts, that stated how fired up he was to see so many fans out to an event in May. Seeing the crowd and fans made him excited for the upcoming season.
The only player that didn’t address the crowd was Slaton. After everybody else spoke, the fans started chanting “Steve, Steve, Steve!” but he didn’t come out to speak. He looked genuinely bashful in my opinion.
Pitts was the only one announced that would speak. The other players were just going to be introduced. I guess the fired up crowd incited them all, except Slaton, to give a few words.
While the crowd was enthusiastic about all the players, it’s obvious who the favorites are by the noise created at the introductions. Cushing got a rousing ovation only to be out done when Matt Schaub was introduced. I think the fans have decided to live and die with Schaub at quarterback. There were no boos like the early in the Dolphins game.
The crowd really erupted when Mario Williams walked on stage. Then the spontaneous chants of “Mario, Mario, Mario” started.
However, the loudest applause came for All-Universe WR Andre Johnson (The Cardinals Larry Fitzgerald is the other All-Universe WR).
It’s clear that the fickle fans of Houston are in love with the Texans right now. There was unbridled enthusiasm at the pep rally. The players and fans have high expectations for the upcoming season. The mentality around the Mothership, players, fans and management is this is a playoff season or it will be considered a bust.
Coach Kubiak’s Seat Getting Warm?
With the playoff or bust mentality, the question arises: Will Coach Gary Kubiak survive the season if they don’t make the playoffs?
The general consensus among the blogs, fans, message boards and media is Kubiak will be back to coach another season if the playoffs are missed. Unless there is a total team implosion, ala Dom Caper’s 2-14 comedy, Kubiak should be safe.
TexansChick Stephanie Stradley wrote a great blog entry about Kubiak’s sitting in owner Bob McNair’s crosshairs. Read it at Gary Kubiak on the hotseat? Nope, I don't think so.
Who Takes the Seat Next?
It’s to early for guessing a replacement for Kubiak. Yet I have a friend, you know who you are if you are reading, that is already trotting out names to replace Kubiak. I can’t get it through his thick skull that McNair won’t fire Kubiak just because they miss the playoffs.
My friend has brought up two names: Mike Holmgren and the Jaw Bill Cowher. The body isn’t even cold and he wants Holmgren in. Cowher? Forget it. Two reasons. I don’t think Cowher would come to Houston. I think he takes the Carolina or Jacksonville jobs if they open up. I don’t see him straying to far from home. The other reason is I think bringing a 3-4 coach would be a disaster. The Texans don’t have the personnel for it. My friend states that the Texans have the linebackers for it and Cowher knows how to coach it. I disagree. Plus what do you do with Mario Williams? Stand him up at outside linebacker? A position he’s never played! A 3-4 end doesn’t attack like Williams. You certainly don’t ask him to tie up blockers for the LBs. It would be a tremendous waste of his talent.
Coaching Changes Not Always the Answer
Firing coaches is the easy answer but not always the smart move. Remember two years ago the Giants were on the verge of firing Tom Coughlin. Management and ownership brought him back for 2007 on a short leash. Coughlin did something unheard of. He checked his ego somewhat at the door and became a little bit of a player’s coach. What happened? They pulled off the upset of the undefeated New England Patriots in the Super Bowl. Raise your hand if you think the Giants would have even made the Super Bowl, much less win it, if Coughlin was calling games for TV.
Obviously keeping a coach won’t win you the Super Bowl. My point is many times firing a coach is a knee jerk reaction. The media and fans howl for a coach’s head. Ownership fears TV blackouts and drop off of season ticket sales so they take the coach out back and put one in his skull.
Of course, a coaching change is sometimes necessary. I cited the 2005 Dom Capers Comedy Caper earlier. Detroit had to let Rod Marinelli go if for nothing else to start with a clean slate after 0-16. KC let Herm Edwards go because the regime had changed and they wanted their guy. Mike Shanahan overplayed his hand in Denver after winning a power struggle a in March 2008 over then GM Ted Sundquist. Tampa Bay ownership grew tired of Jon Gruden’s antics.
Other times management doesn’t know what’s going on so they make the coach the fall guy. Ask Eric Mangini in New York. How GM Mike Tannenbaum kept his job is beyond me. He’s the one responsible for the roster. Was Mangini entirely at fault for the perceived team failure? No. Bringing in Brett Farve and free agent signings had Tannenbaum’s finger prints all over it. If anything both should have been shown the door but Tannenbaum made Mangini the fall guy.
On the flip side, I don’t think letting Romeo Crennel was the smart thing to do in Cleveland. I think he’s a better coach than Mangini but owner Mike Lerner decided to clean house. Surprisingly the other Ohio team kept coach Marv Lewis. It’s the one smart thing Bengals management has done lately.
Is it Kick Off Time Yet?
Camp opens next month and then the preseason shall be upon us. This slow part of the season is hard to write about. I did commit myself to writing a monthly article in the off season. The first two were easy with free agency and the draft. I’m already scratching my head about next month’s issue. Maybe I’ll just cut and paste articles from the blogs. Yeah, right.
Sunday, May 3, 2009
Texans Illustrated - Draft Post Mortem
Texans Times Illustrated
Post Draft Edition
May 2009
Yawn!
That’s my shoot from the hip evaluation of the Houston Texans 2009 draft class. Other than outside linebacker (Brian Cushing) and offensive line depth (Antione Caldwell), the Texans didn’t address any of the other team needs. They took two cornerbacks, two tight ends, a back up safety and a raw project.
Here’s my evaluation, starting from the bottom up.
Troy Nolan SS Arizona St. 7th Round
They definitely needed a safety. Starting quality would have been preferable. Nolan needs some work and weight. Also is a bit flat footed for a safety. He clocked in at 4.64 40 and benched 225 lbs 12 times at the combine.
Nolan does have some play making ability. He returned four interceptions for TDs in two seasons. He’s also athletic. He played basketball, track and field and soccer in high school.
What the scouting report I have says is that sometimes it was more a case of him being in the right place at the right time. He’s heavy footed and his skills aren’t particularly suited for the pro game. He’s rated as a solid back up but nothing more. He grades out as a late round prospect or priority free agent.
My Grade picking Nolan: C+, solid back up.
Brice McCain CB ??? 6th Round
I have no idea. I can’t find a scouting report as of yet. I can’t find him on a depth chart. Nice pick Texans.
McCain update: Apparently he's really fast. In an Al Davis fit, Smithiak took McCain.
My grade on McCain: Incomplete
James Casey TE/HB Rice 5th Round
Casey is a good pick who might pay off. He’s athletic and versatile. He’s probably too small and definitely not strong enough to play tight end. On the other hand he probably makes a great NFL halfback.
The scouting report for him is full of praise. Whoever wrote it likes his athleticism, pass catching ability, a knack for finding an open field, work ethic, eye-hand coordination and upper body strength.
The only knocks are his arm length and lower body strength. The scout thinks the short arms limits his ability to stretch out for balls and his lower body isn’t strong enough to be an inline blocker. The only other knock is his age due to four years of minor league baseball. I don’t have a problem with his age. It’s not like he took the beating of a lineman or running back over those four years.
Overall I think Casey will be a great value pick and add some a couple more dimensions to the offense. I also expect he will contribute on special teams.
My grade on Casey: B+, great value and versatility
Anthony Hill TE North Carolina St. 4th Round
I’m not sure I really understand this pick.
Hill gets glowing praise for size, blocking ability off the snap and ability to find the open seam in zone coverage. His size makes him hard to bring down and he also boasts a great work ethic.
The big downside to Hill is his injuries. Questions about his durability abound. Also his ability to learn a pro playbook is in question.
He probably makes the team as third TE or second on passing downs. I doubt he contributes to special teams due to his injury history.
My grade for Hill: C-, where’s the back up running back?
Glover Quin FS-CB New Mexico 4th Round
Well I take back what I said earlier about not drafting a safety. Quin was listed in the Houston Chronicle’s John McClain’s draft day blog as a cornerback. He plays both positions.
After reading his scouting report, I must say this is a nice pick up. On the plus side of the ledger, he can react well to plays. He can adjust to the ball when it is thrown and he can read defenses and recognize run plays. He attacks the run well. Overall he has good instincts and is a great tackler. Supposedly he only missed five tackles last season. He’s also one tough S.O.B.
There isn’t much negative about him. There are some questions about his injuries and can he stay health if he were to play safety full time. There is also a knock on the competition he faced.
I like what Quin brings to the Texans. He’s a tough sure handed tackler who can sniff out a play. Definitely what I want in a free safety.
I can understand the worries about his injuries but I don’t see anything that can cause long term problems for the Texans. He broke his arm in JUCO in 04, played every game in 06, missed two games with groin injury in 07 and second half against BYU and he started every game in 08. He played through pain and injury. He also had off season knee surgery. I don’t think there is much to worry about though.
He might turn out to be a steal for the Texans.
My grade on Quin: A-, potential future starter
Antoine Caldwell G/C Alabama 3rd Round
I was geeked up about Caldwell when he was first selected. As I read the scouting report, my opinion dropped a spot or two about him.
The best that can be said of Caldwell is he’s instinctive; blocks well at the line and can make calls at the line. Don’t ask him to do much more.
Beyond that he’s pretty average. He’s not strong off the snap, doesn’t move side to side well, doesn’t knock defenders back and can’t move to pick up the blitz. In other words, don’t ask him to move. To quote the scouting report, “Could become a functional pivot (back up guard and center) in the pros if he is protected and not asked to pull or travel far.” Yup, Big Guy, just stand there and get in someone’s way.
My grade on Caldwell: D+, the guy just can’t move in any direction
Connor Barwin DRE-OLB-TE Cincinnati 2nd Round
I want to know who spiked the Texans punch while making this selection. Barwin has a lot of upside and potential but is quiet a reach in the 2nd round. The Texans had more pressing needs than a raw project at right end.
Barwin shot up the boards during the combine. He registered the best times in several of the drills. He is a great athlete and is quick off the ball.
The downside is his upside. He needs coaching. A lot of coaching. He has little in the way of moves, can’t shed blockers, doesn’t attack blockers well and doesn’t read or react to plays very well. He only played defense one year in college. The scouting report I have on him says he needs a few years to develop and grades him out as a mid-round talent.
I don’t have a problem with the Texans taking Barwin. I have a problem with them taking him in the 2nd round. The need at safety and back up running back were a higher priority. With the win now mentality of the Texans, they could ill afford to waste a draft pick on Barwin this high.
My grade on Barwin: C+, great prospect taken way too early.
Brian Cushing OLB USC 1st Round
The Texans were going to take either Brian Cushing or Clay Matthews with the first pick. There was a distinct possibility that they were going to trade down in the draft. Regardless, they wasted no time in taking the linebacker that was at the top of their board.
Cushing will be expected to step in right away and contribute. He may not start initially but his role will expand during the season.
The good? He’s a beast. He eats puppies and small animals for breakfast. For lunch he eats chains and craps nails. Cushing is a monster. He’s the only person known to have been called “Sir” by Chuck Norris.
On the football field, he is a menace to life. He plays hard and can shed blockers. Cushing doesn’t mind attacking the lead blocker. He has no hesitation in administering a hit and leading the point of attack.
The downside? His aggressiveness can be used against him. Misdirections can catch him flat footed. He can overrun a play and take himself out of position to make plays. He’s a little high strung too. Some think he’s too muscular and that his size hinders him sometimes. This caught me by surprise: as a pass rusher, Cushing skills are limited. He often came off the field on third downs. The injury bug is also a big concern.
My take on Cushing is that he’s a solid pick. Matthews may have been a better selection though. Matthews moves better to the ball and is a three down player. Cushing can be a three down player but it will take some work and good coaching. Other than injury concerns, his negatives appear to be correctable if he wants to learn and the coaches teach him techniques and how not to take himself out of plays. That may require him to tone down the intensity a notch or two. He does bring the nastiness of right tackle Eric Winston to the defensive side of the ball. Attitude and nastiness are definitely missing from the Texans defense.
My grade on Cushing: A-, brings attitude and hard hits to defense
Overall I have to say this is a disappointing draft for the Texans. They needed to shore up the defense and build some depth. They get the linebacker they needed in Cushing and a potential starter in Quin. Barwin may contribute but I don’t think he’s ready for the pros yet. The Texans would have been better served by selecting another defensive tackle. Despite what a friend of mine thinks, Shaun Cody isn’t the answer.
Offensively they literally dropped the ball. They picked up a slow footed lineman in the third and an oft injured TE in the fourth. Casey will be an exciting player and special teamer. They also failed to draft a capable back up for Steve Slaton.
Overall Grade on Texans Draft: C-
Sunday, April 19, 2009
2009 Houston Texans Schedule – My First Quick Take
2009 Houston Texans Schedule – My First Quick Take
Some things even out. Last season I had to burn 5 vacation days to see Texans home games. This year I only have to burn 3. Not bad at all. I do shift work. Some months my work days fall on Football Sundays.
At first glance it doesn’t look like the schedule makers did the Texans any favors.
Initially it looks fine that the Texans get 3 of 4 games at home to start the season. The only road game is at divisional foe Titans. They host three winnable games against the Jets, Jaguars and Raiders.
However, that home stretch comes with a cost. The next 4 out of 5 games are played on the road. Mixing the bye week, the Texans play one home game in six weeks. Two games loom large on the road. The first road game will be against defending NFC Champion Arizona Cardinals and closing out the road stretch with divisional arch nemesis Indianapolis Colts. The sole home game is against the 49ers.
If the Texans can defend the home field and win 2 of 4 on the long road stretch through the first nine games, they are looking at a 6-3 record. That puts them in prime contention not only for a wildcard but for the division title.
An upset or two greatly enhances playoff chances as long as they don’t drop a game they should win. If they can stun the Titans, Cardinal or Colts on the road it puts the Texans in the thick of the divisional race. Once again that assumes a strong start to the season. Worst case scenario while staying in contention is a split in the first four games and winning 3 of the next 5. That leaves them at 5-4. Any worse and they are on the outside looking in.
After the bye week, the Texans face their three divisional enemies in consecutive weeks. They host the Titans on Monday Night Football and the Colts the next week. They close out divisional play at Jacksonville. This is the next important stretch of games of the season. Regardless of a 6-3 record or 5-4 record, 2 of 3 wins is a must. One win leaves them with a 7-5 or 6-6 record. If they enter 6-3 and win 2 of 3, they are sitting in good spot at 8-4. In two scenarios, they could end up 7-5. While not the end of the world, the competition for a playoff spot becomes fierce.
Also two wins in the three game divisional stretch helps tremendously. Last year the Texans finished 8-8 with only two divisional wins; the MNF win over the Jags and the late season street fight with the Titans. It is vital to the playoff hopes that they win more than two divisional games.
The final four games are split with two at home and two on the road. They host Seattle, go on the road against the Rams and Dolphins and then return to host the Patriots. A split, in my two scenarios, leaves them at either 10-6 or 9-7. While both are winning records, it doesn’t guarantee a playoff spot. The Patriots sat home last season with an 11-5 record.
The two keys to the season, in my way to early analysis, is to continue winning at home and improving the divisional record. Winning at home has actually been the easy part. Last season they lost two home games. Only the Ravens blew them out. They were one Sage Rosenfail turnover from going 7-1 at home. The true test of a contender is how they do on the road. For the Texans, improving the divisional record goes hand in hand with winning the road games.
Some things even out. Last season I had to burn 5 vacation days to see Texans home games. This year I only have to burn 3. Not bad at all. I do shift work. Some months my work days fall on Football Sundays.
At first glance it doesn’t look like the schedule makers did the Texans any favors.
Initially it looks fine that the Texans get 3 of 4 games at home to start the season. The only road game is at divisional foe Titans. They host three winnable games against the Jets, Jaguars and Raiders.
However, that home stretch comes with a cost. The next 4 out of 5 games are played on the road. Mixing the bye week, the Texans play one home game in six weeks. Two games loom large on the road. The first road game will be against defending NFC Champion Arizona Cardinals and closing out the road stretch with divisional arch nemesis Indianapolis Colts. The sole home game is against the 49ers.
If the Texans can defend the home field and win 2 of 4 on the long road stretch through the first nine games, they are looking at a 6-3 record. That puts them in prime contention not only for a wildcard but for the division title.
An upset or two greatly enhances playoff chances as long as they don’t drop a game they should win. If they can stun the Titans, Cardinal or Colts on the road it puts the Texans in the thick of the divisional race. Once again that assumes a strong start to the season. Worst case scenario while staying in contention is a split in the first four games and winning 3 of the next 5. That leaves them at 5-4. Any worse and they are on the outside looking in.
After the bye week, the Texans face their three divisional enemies in consecutive weeks. They host the Titans on Monday Night Football and the Colts the next week. They close out divisional play at Jacksonville. This is the next important stretch of games of the season. Regardless of a 6-3 record or 5-4 record, 2 of 3 wins is a must. One win leaves them with a 7-5 or 6-6 record. If they enter 6-3 and win 2 of 3, they are sitting in good spot at 8-4. In two scenarios, they could end up 7-5. While not the end of the world, the competition for a playoff spot becomes fierce.
Also two wins in the three game divisional stretch helps tremendously. Last year the Texans finished 8-8 with only two divisional wins; the MNF win over the Jags and the late season street fight with the Titans. It is vital to the playoff hopes that they win more than two divisional games.
The final four games are split with two at home and two on the road. They host Seattle, go on the road against the Rams and Dolphins and then return to host the Patriots. A split, in my two scenarios, leaves them at either 10-6 or 9-7. While both are winning records, it doesn’t guarantee a playoff spot. The Patriots sat home last season with an 11-5 record.
The two keys to the season, in my way to early analysis, is to continue winning at home and improving the divisional record. Winning at home has actually been the easy part. Last season they lost two home games. Only the Ravens blew them out. They were one Sage Rosenfail turnover from going 7-1 at home. The true test of a contender is how they do on the road. For the Texans, improving the divisional record goes hand in hand with winning the road games.
Saturday, April 11, 2009
Texans Times Illustrated - it's a working title for now
Texans Times Illustrated
April 2009
Inaugural Issue
What is the Texans Times Illustrated? My newsletter about my hometown NFL team – the Houston Texans.
This is my labor of love for the Texans. I’m not sure what direction it will go but I plan on doing it monthly during the off season and weekly during the season.
In this issue, I’ll take a look at the free agent moves and a draft preview.
So Long Sage Rosenfail, Hello Two Points Orlovsky
Sage Rosenfails was sent packing to the Minnesota Vikings in exchange for a 2009 fourth round draft pick. Rosenfails stepped in and went 2-3 as a starter while Matt Schaub was injured. He is probably best known for his epic meltdown against the Indianapolis Colts.
I had this weird thing about taking a picture of the scoreboard after a game last season. For some odd reason I decided to do it at the 8 minute mark of the Colts game. Right before Rosenfails epic blunders. I was to stunned to snap one after the game.
That game forever cemented my low opinion of Rosenfails. I have no idea what Rosenfails was thinking during the game. I think he started seeing his headlines and the ensuing quarterback controversy. Instead of managing the game, his head swelled. Up to the collapse, he played a perfect game. His bootlegs were a thing of beauty. The mass of players went one direction while Rosenfails went the opposite direction and would hit an open receiver downfield. The game plan was perfect. Keep the offense on the field and Payton Manning on the sidelines.
Then in a matter of minutes the whole game collapsed. Rosenfails thought he was John Elway and turned into a helicopter. That one play changed the game and gave Manning the opening he needed to pull off the victory.
Up until the Colts game, Sage Rosenfels was the most popular player on the team. Hordes of fans were calling for Schaub to be benched and Rosenfels to start.
Two things turned the fans against Rosenfails: 1. the Colts meltdown and 2. the realization that he’s not better than Schaub.
The team decided to send Rosenfails to the Vikings for a draft pick. Good luck Minnesota, he’s your problem now.
The Perfect Season
Of course, Matt Schaub’s ability to play a full season is still a big question. In two seasons as the Texans starting QB he’s missed several games. It goes to reason that the Texans must find someone capable of starting in the likely event that Schaub will miss a few games.
So to fill Rosenfails shoes, the Texans went out and signed Don Orlovsky. Orlovsky was a part time starter for those perfect Detroit Lions. Unfortunately perfection for the Lions is a low bar. 0-16 is perfect. Perfectly bad.
Orlovsky isn’t a major upgrade from Rosenfails. He is a capable starter and definitely isn’t any worse than Rosenfails. Like the man he replaces, Orlovsky is better known for his epic blunder than his success. Orlovsky evidently forgot the dimensions of the football field. He notoriously stepped out of the endzone against the Vikings for a safety. The margin of victory was two points (a 12-10 loss) and cost the Lions a chance of at least one win season.
Orlovsky now dons the steel blue and battle red of the Texans. Here’s hoping the only use the Texans have for him is mop up time in a blowout. And hopefully that blowout is in the Texans favor.
The Other Free Agents
The Texans have never been big players on the free agency scene. They probably will never chase free agents of Albert Haynesworth’s magnitude or make a trade for Julius Peppers. The current regime prefers to build through the draft and use free agents for depth. Matt Schaub is probably the biggest trade in the history of the club. Earth shattering trade it isn’t. It is by the standards of this club.
The big name free agent, again at least by the standards of this team, the Texans signed is defensive end Antonio Smith. Smith comes to the Texans from the Phoenix Cardinals. Smith will step in and start at left defensive in and sometimes move to the tackle spot on third down passing situations. The signing helps fill one obvious need on the defensive line and also allows the team to address other areas of need through the draft.
The Texans hope Smith can help alleviate some of the double teams on Mario Williams. He is Super Mario but he can’t do it all by himself. The other factor is the learning curve for a defensive end. Rookie seasons are usually a wash as they learn the game. The light didn’t go off in Williams’ head until the middle of his second season. The Texans can’t afford to wait another two seasons for a defensive lineman to learn on the job.
The other signing was defensive tackle Shaun Cody, also of the Detroit Lions. Who? That’s right. Who. The Lions had exactly one good player on defense and his name isn’t Cody. As on of the posters at InTheBullseye.com stated, “we already have a Travis Johnson.” Cody brings nothing to the table. Cody started four games last season. How bad are you when you can’t crack the starting line up on the worst team in football? The terms of his contract haven’t been released except for the dollar amount and number of years. If I had to guess, I think it’s all nonguaranteed money in the form of roster bonuses for making the team. Other than that he’s training camp fodder.
Mock Draft Overload
Yet it’s all for nothing. How many get it right? How many actually know what they are talking or writing about? Most are talking heads full of hot air. If they were actually good at what they do then they would either charge for their services or be on staff somewhere. I can understand the entertainment value of trying to construct a mock draft or two. I can’t understand a fan or journalist sitting in front of the TV and practically masturbating to the combine. It’s a total waste of time to create a mock draft before free agency, the combine and school pro days.
I prefer to read scouting reports and other reports about players but I put no value in reading mock drafts. I restrict my reading to the Houston Chronicle’s John McClain and Lance Zeirlien, Texans Chick aka Stephanie Stradley, InTheBullseye.com, DGDB&D and my Pro Football Weekly subscriptions. Also I prefer to read player rankings by position versus where they will go in the draft.
Texans Draft Preview
Another reason I don’t read mock drafts is that they are a steaming pile. The most glaring need for the Texans is on defense. Head coach Gary Kubiak has stated that the Texans want their first pick to be a starter. Other than center, they are set on the offense. Yet there are several websites that have the Texans taking offense. I’ve seen mock drafts taking Mark Sanchez, Beanie Wells, Keyshawn Moreno and Jeremy Maclin.Defense, Defense, Defense
The obvious need for the Texans is defense. The Antonio Smith signing negates the need to draft an end. I also don’t think they take a tackle with the first pick. They are expecting Amobi Okoye to step up in his third season. They probably aren’t ready to give up on the Travis Johnson Experiment.
That leaves the linebackers and defensive backfield. DeMeco Ryans holds down the middle. Zac Diles and Xavier Adibi played on the outside. Diles played well enough until his season ending injury. Kevin Bentley took Ziles’ place and was at best adequate. Adibi may be snake bitten with the injury bug. Depth at linebacker is a concern. The starting corners and rotation is set with Jacques Reeves, Dunta Robinson, Fred Bennett and probably Antwuan Molden. At safety, they want to see what they have in Dominique Barber. Nick Ferguson re-signed with the team to return as a starter. Depth at safety is a definite need.
The defense needs a playmaker and starter to come out of this draft. Two would be great. The first position I look the Texans to take is at outside linebacker. There are several linebackers in this draft class expected to make an impact right away. Some have suggested the Texans take a middle linebacker and move DeMeco Ryans back to his college position on the outside. The Texans probably won’t do that. They hit the jackpot with Ryans in the middle. No need to move him outside when there are players available in the draft to take the outside. The lack of quality first round safeties also will push the Texans to take an outside linebacker.
It’s in the second round is where they will either look for the safety or a pass rushing end. With the plan to move Antonio Smith to tackle on some passing situations, they could possibly take an end they think can be a third down end.
Offense?
Two areas need to be addressed on offense.
The first is a second running back to spell starter Steve Slaton and pick up short yardage. Some fans have suggested a power back. With the zone block scheme the Texans use, a power back probably isn’t in the cards. A quick cutting back is what they look for.
The second area is depth on the offensive line. All five linemen started the sixteen games. According to who you believe and read, rookie Duane Brown had either a decent year or a bad year. Most believe he was a reach in the first round. Regardless he’s the starting left tackle the team has sought since its inception. Center Chris Meyer is undersized. However I don’t think they will want to mess with a starting line up that played all season together.
Despite what some alleged gurus claim, the Texans won’t take an offensive player with the first pick. Of course, never say never. There are two players that I might consider taking.
The Texans brain trust would be insane not to consider taking Texas Tech WR Michael Crabtree. I have two scenarios with Crabtree. As much as I like Kevin Walters as the second wideout, Crabtree would be a major upgrade and a nightmare to cover opposite of Andre Johnson. The other scenario is making a deal with a team than needs a wide receiver and swapping 1st round picks and picking up a second or third rounder.
The other player is Oklahoma State TE Brandon Pettigrew. There were some knocks on his times at the combine. Despite that he is the only first round talent at tight end. The Texans have an excellent TE in Owen Daniels but Pettigrew has a reputation as a great blocker. He is probably not a great fit for the Texans but I’d have to consider him before I move on to the next player on my board.
Connecticut running back Donald Brown intrigues me if he were still available when the Texans select in the second round. According to the Pro Football Weekly scouting report:
…best used on counters, misdirections and in space…Could really excel in zone blocking scheme.
He is projected as a borderline first rounder.
Exciting Time for the Texans and Their Fans
That’s it for this issue. Next month I’ll obviously review the draft. Also I’ll be posting updates to this newsletter on a website or blog.
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