It seems as if Houston has been the sleeper pick in the AFC South for decades now. Every August the chatter starts about the Texans explosive offense and how their draft and free agent signings significantly improved their defensive holes. So what’s different this year?
The world shifted yesterday as reports surfaced that Peyton Manning under went his third neck surgery likely sidelining him for the majority of the 2011 season. Without Peyton, Indianapolis struggled mightily this pre-season, which ultimately prompted them to sign retired QB Kerry Collins. Though Collins is no slouch, he’s no Peyton either. He’ll manage the Colts to a respectable season simply because of their weak schedule that highlights only five playoff teams from a year ago.
In other AFC South news, Jaguars head coach Jack Del Rio released starting quarterback David Garrard in favor of the relatively unknown Luke McCown. The move seemed odd as Jaguars owner Wayne Weaver informed Del Rio that without a playoff berth this year he’d likely be let go. Though Garrard was no pro-bowler the Jaguars offense is significantly worse without him.
See the theme? As opposed to years past, the Texans can be justified as the AFC South champions simply because they’ve maintained the status quo as oppose to the regression of their division rivals.
Does this mean the Texans will finally surpass the Colts? Yes, and if not then head coach Gary Kubiak should be fired and immediately labeled as the second worst bust in NFL head coaching history, bowing only to Lou Holtz and his tenure with the New York Jets.
Houston’s offense is simply superior to the rest of the division. Matt Schaub has surpassed 4,000 yards and 24 touchdowns the past two seasons and has a career 64% completion rate. Andre Johnson is the best receiver in the entire division and possibly the NFL. He’s physical, fast, and demands double coverage. He spreads the field and keeps opposing defenses honest which allows fellow receivers Walters, Jones and Daniels to roam free. To make things better, the Texans showcase Arian Foster who led the NFL in rushing yards and touchdowns during 2010. The Titans Chris Johnson may be more explosive but Houston’s running depth is second to none. Derrick Ward average over six yards per carry last year and 2nd rounder Ben Tate is a beast in waiting. Even if Foster slows due to injuries the Texans have the pieces to continue a strong running attack. No matter which way you look at it, the Texans have the ability to outscore any team in the league.
The knock on Houston has always been their defense. However, a complete overhaul was done this off-season highlighted by the hiring of former Cowboys head coach Wade Phillips. Phillips is known for a unique 3-4 scheme that pressures opposing quarterbacks via blitzing linemen. His philosophy includes all linemen shooting ONE gap as opposed to the typical two-gap responsibility (two gap linemen requires personnel to stop, view, and react to one of two gaps depending on what the offense is doing). By shooting one gap the blitzing linemen creates immediate pressure as oppose to the reactionary approach. Phillips covers his aggression by assigning linebackers to gap protection. Another unique trend in Phillips scheme is his use of outside linebackers as a fourth lineman. In many cases he’s simply blitzing the linebacker as a defensive end. However, in some longer yardage scenarios he’s actually transforming the 3-4 to a 4-3 with nickel coverage. This powerful transition keeps most offenses one step behind.
In addition to the new defensive philosophy, the Texans added quality depth at every positional need this off-season. In April’s draft, they selected J.J. Watts and Brooks Reed which both fit well in Phillips aggressive 3-4 scheme. Add in Houston’s returning studs DeMeco Ryans, Brian Cushings, and Mario Williams and the Texans will undoubtedly achieve Phillips desired pass rush.
Houston also drafted cornerbacks Brandon Harris and Rashad Carmichael which added needed depth and talent to the NFL’s worst secondary in 2010. Additionally, the Texans signed Cincinnati corner Jonathon Joseph, former 1st round selection, and the speedster Danieal Manning. Though signing talented players rarely guarantees success the Texans specifically addressed major needs and their efforts should pay dividends rather quickly. Furthermore, 2010 1st round selection, Kareem Jackson should be more polished this year after being thrown to the wolves in 2010. He’s a bump and run specialist that should flourish in Wade Phillips defense scheme.
The Texans have one of the best offenses in the NFL. They’ve over hauled their defensive philosophy, and improved their defensive personnel enough to handle the likes of Kerry Collins and Luke McCown. Their division has self destructed and the road to the playoffs seems wide open to everyone watching. The Houston Texans could should and will win the AFC South this year. Finally!
