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.
Wednesday, October 7, 2009
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.
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