[Official] Texans Offseason Thread

[Castor27]

This is the thread for training camp updates.

[ima_drummer2k]

The LONG offseason ends today. Football season, football season. Thank God Almighty, it's football season!!

July 26, 2007, 2:38AM
COMMENTARY

If Schaub's the answer, what's the question?


By JOHN P. LOPEZ
Copyright 2007 Houston Chronicle

The questions the Texans must answer in the sixth year of the franchise's existence go far beyond the usual depth-chart chatter that follows every NFL team this time of year.

They include questions about restoring confidence in the ticket-buying public. There are questions that have to do with philosophies of upper management and whether decisions that have been made will get the team pointed in the right direction.

There are questions of aesthetics regarding everything from whether the second-rate turf at Reliant Stadium again will look awful to if just showing up at the otherwise beautiful football facility still will be enough to appease fans.

There are questions of how on-field leadership will develop, namely Gary Kubiak's sophomore season as head coach. There are questions about general manager Rick Smith's offseason and finding ways to move past the Vince Young-Reggie Bush debacle of a year ago.

But for all the questions — and we haven't yet even touched the multiple unknowns all over the Texans' roster — there is only one answer.

His name is Matt Schaub.

He's got the whole Texans world in his hands.

Everything else secondary

This will be Schaub's camp, Schaub's season and Schaub's time to convince a city that a team which has done so many things wrong and had so much bad luck finally is worth caring about.

Neither Kubiak, Smith nor Texans owner Bob McNair would dare put that kind of pressure on a 26-year-old quarterback who has started exactly two NFL games in his three-year career.

But the fact is, Kubiak was answering roster questions Wednesday about everything from who will be the backup left tackle to the likelihood of signing a player from Mexico (Eduardo Castaneda) as part of the NFL's International Development Practice Squad Program.

It's all nice chatter, but it all pales in comparison to the only thing that really will matter for the Texans this year.

They need a quarterback, a leader and a tough-minded winner. They need a face of the franchise, a captivating presence who earns respect from teammates every day instead of losing it.

They not only need all of that but they need it all to come from the same player — Schaub.

Since he was acquired in an offseason trade with the Atlanta Falcons for draft picks, teammates have raved about the differences they have seen in Schaub's approach compared to that of former quarterback David Carr.

Where Carr often showed up only when it was required and often bolted early after after-noon meetings, Schaub has taken control and led the way.

"If I come in at 6:30 in the morning, he's already there and through with his workout," Texans guard Chester Pitts said. "Matt's taken command. He has a pocket presence. So goes the quarterback, so goes the team."

Kubiak has said Schaub has done everything asked of him and then some as he prepares for his first season as a starting quarterback in the league. There's a real feeling among everyone in the organization that work and leadership will not ever be a problem.

Off to a good start

During organized team activities in the spring, Schaub showed strength on passes over the middle, the ability to slide out of trouble in the pocket and a pursuit of perfection in the huddle that has some players kidding him about how he is so diligent in the way he enunciates his play-calls.

That's all good for now, of course. What will matter most is translating it all to the field.

The season whose journey begins today when players report to training camp will be a long one. Name a spot on the roster and there likely is a question to be answered.

Left tackle Charles Spencer, who showed so much potential before suffering a severe leg injury early last season, begins the year on the physically-unable-to-perform list and could be done. Receivers are young and unproven. Kick return star Jerome Mathis is healthy but has hamstrings that pop like taut guitar strings.

There's the importance of defensive end Mario Williams doing something to justify the No. 1 overall selection and battles for jobs at center, safety, cornerback, linebacker and tight end.

There's the kid rookie — Amobi Okoye — and the veteran star — Ahman Green — trying to settle things along the defensive line and in the backfield.

It's all important, sure. But none of it is as important as answering just one question: Is Schaub the man?

If that answer is yes, the Texans are on their way back into your heart.

john.lopez@chron.com

LINK (http://www.chron.com/disp/story.mpl/sports/5000317.html)

[texanskan]

19-0!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[nWo34Life]

Finally, some football action. Can't to see the Schaub/AJ/AG combo in full effect!

[Rockets111]

I'm so excited about the acquisition of Green. And I love what we've done with our defense. I've been hearing good things about Mario Williams' work during the offseason.

[peleincubus]

Finally, some football action. Can't to see the Schaub/AJ/AG combo in full effect!

yeah no doubt vince young should be even better in his 2nd year

;)

[Mr. Clutch]

I'm excited for football season and I have seasons tickets for the Texans.

But honestly looking at the roster I am a bit wary.

[nWo34Life]

http://d.yimg.com/us.yimg.com/p/ap/20070727/capt.504231e9f5a34c03b8426054db411416.texans_camp_football_htt110.jpg

Houston Texans wide receivers Keenan McCardell (14) and Andre Johnson, right, talk during the team's first NFL football training camp workout Friday, July 27, 2007 in Houston. McCardell, an unrestricted free agent, signed with the Texans on Friday.

http://d.yimg.com/us.yimg.com/p/ap/20070727/capt.94b530beb4b14548b09b82b766fa7709.texans_camp_football_htt106.jpg

Houston Texans quarterback Matt Schaub (8) listens to a coach during the team's first NFL football training camp workout Friday, July 27, 2007 in Houston. Schaub is replacing former starting quarter David Carr this season.

http://d.yimg.com/us.yimg.com/p/ap/20070727/capt.e6dbcc25ef5549aead806b05c435fb1e.texans_camp_football_htt112.jpg

Houston Texans players ride on a cart for the team's first NFL football training camp workout Friday, July 27, 2007 in Houston.

http://d.yimg.com/us.yimg.com/p/ap/20070727/capt.1cd67e21c9074f4c9da26aa9e269dd3c.texans_camp_football_htt104.jpg

Houston Texans first-round draft pick Amobi Okoye (91) battle guard Fred Weary (70) during the team's first NFL football training camp workout Friday, July 27, 2007 in Houston.

[Harrisment]

Oh so we signed Okoye? Sweet.

[nWo34Life]

http://d.yimg.com/us.yimg.com/p/ap/20070727/capt.630b8087410c4eaf8d3bf2ec98358eb8.texans_camp_football_htt103.jpg

Houston Texans defensive tackle Amobi Okoye (91) battles guard Chester Pitts (69) during the team's first NFL football training camp workout Friday, July 27, 2007 in Houston. Okoye is the Texans first-round draft pick.

http://d.yimg.com/us.yimg.com/p/ap/20070727/capt.ebf0957104ea4978bccc8a5898190a6b.texans_camp_football_htt102.jpg

Houston Texans quarterback Matt Schaub throws a pass during the team's first NFL football training camp workout Friday, July 27, 2007 in Houston. Schaub replaces former starting quarterback David Carr this season.

http://d.yimg.com/us.yimg.com/p/ap/20070727/capt.ccb9131215b74b9b91cbeede9df4e500.texans_camp_football_htt105.jpg

Houston Texans head coach Gary Kubiak gives instructions to his team during the their first NFL football training camp workout Friday, July 27, 2007 in Houston.

[nWo34Life]

So did Okobi sign?

http://www.chron.com/disp/story.mpl/sports/5004422.html

Yep, signed up for 6 years.

[SwoLy-D]

http://d.yimg.com/us.yimg.com/p/ap/20070727/capt.630b8087410c4eaf8d3bf2ec98358eb8.texans_camp_football_htt103.jpg

Houston Texans defensive tackle Amobi Okoye (91) battles guard Chester Pitts (69) during the team's first NFL football training camp workout Friday, July 27, 2007 in Houston. Okoye is the Texans first-round draft pick. LOL - Chester Pitts has to hold Okoye's jersey in order to keep him from going around him. Veteran move. :D

FYI - I will try to get tickets to the practices... if I get to go, I will be wearing my ROCKETS red hat.

Thank you for the photos, nWo34Life.

[DonkeyMagic]

:D LOL - Chester Pitts has to hold Okoye's jersey in order to keep him from going around him. Veteran move. :D

FYI - I will try to get tickets to the practices... if I get to go, I will be wearing my ROCKETS red hat.

Thank you for the photos, nWo34Life.


you can hold if its in his chest. plus you cant go easy the rookie :D

thank god some football is coming about though.

im excited. anything is better than carr. Green has some legs left and im optimistic of taylor. I hope mario makes a huge stride but i do like the front line much better.

8-8 here we come. w00t

[percicles]

:D

8-8 here we come. w00t

You mean Darren McFadden here we come.

...and then fleece the Cowyboy's hillbilly owner so he can draft his Arkie boy.

[ima_drummer2k]

I have tickets to tomorrow's practice from 8 to 11. If it doesn't rain... I'll take some pics. I have no idea how to post them, but I'll worry about that later.

[HillBoy]

Is Spencer done? Exactly how bad is his injury and what does that mean for the OL come fall?

[Kam]

Spencer is on the PUP list which means he cannot come back untill week 8.

Basically, it means Matt Schaub will be on his back more than Paris Hilton.

I think the line is better, but I think Schaub will also know to get rid of the ball.

[DieHard Rocket]

Is Spencer done? Exactly how bad is his injury and what does that mean for the OL come fall?

He still has cartilage in his knee, so he's not done. They're just taking a very cautious approach to putting him back on the field. The knee needs to be fully ready before all that weight starts trying to shift around on it.

[solid]

The Texans have really nice uniforms. That's something.

[Groogrux]

Chris Taylor out for season (http://www.houstontexans.com/news/Story.asp?STORY_ID=3433).

Taylor sidelined: Chris Taylor received unfortunate news today as the second-year running discovered he likely will miss the entire season with a torn meniscus in his left knee, according to general manager Rick Smith. Surgery will be performed tomorrow to “suture the tear," but in the interim the team will look to add another running back to the camp squad.

Darius Walker, a Texans undrafted free agent that was cut on July 23, was mentioned by Smith as a possible replacement, as well as former Oklahoma running back Quentin Griffin, who participated most recently with the Hamburg Sea Devils in NFL Europa.

[mogrod]

Chris Taylor out for season (http://www.houstontexans.com/news/Story.asp?STORY_ID=3433).

Thats sucks. I was really lookig forward to him possibly breaking out this year.

[DonnyMost]

McClain was predicting Chris Taylor to be the go-to guy by years end.

Sucks.

[Bono]

McClain was predicting Chris Taylor to be the go-to guy by years end.

Sucks.


McClain is too worried about his movie career now. He knows nothing about the Texans.

[pradaxpimp]

I'm so excited about the acquisition of Green. And I love what we've done with our defense. I've been hearing good things about Mario Williams' work during the offseason.

If his work includes a bunch of partying...SWEET!

[ima_drummer2k]

I heard on the radio that Andre Davis is having a great camp so far. Andre Davis?? He was good in college but didn't do much in Cleveland or Buffalo.

Who knows, maybe he can step up and become a decent #2 or #3 WR...

[conquistador#11]

with owen daniels on the team,we can get away with having Davis as the no.2 receiver. Owen daniels does not get enough credit! i can see this guy easily having 80 catches and 10 touchdowns this season.

[Shroopy2]

with owen daniels on the team,we can get away with having Davis as the no.2 receiver. Owen daniels does not get enough credit! i can see this guy easily having 80 catches and 10 touchdowns this season.

I think Mario Williams will get 12 sacks before Owen Daniels ever catches 80 balls. If Daniels is even like an Alge Crumpler in Atlanta (55-60 cathes , 6-8 TDs) then that will be a very solid year

[rhester]

Went to the practice Saturday, must say Mario Williams is one big fast strong dude.

He is just larger than I thought he was. No fat either. Looked like a body builder type.

Hope he gets double digit sacks.

[leroy420]

http://d.yimg.com/us.yimg.com/p/uc/20070730/ltm070731.gif

[texanskan]

http://d.yimg.com/us.yimg.com/p/uc/20070730/ltm070731.gif

pwn3d

[A-Train]

I can't believe the Texans didn't retire David Carr's #8! :mad:

[swilkins]

I can't believe the Texans didn't retire David Carr's #8! :mad:

Perhaps #8 deserves a better QB.

[MiniMing]

http://d.yimg.com/us.yimg.com/p/uc/20070730/ltm070731.gif

Harrington will have a better year than Schaub.

[jtotheb]

Harrington will have a better year than Schaub.
dude....seriously...lay off the crack.

[JamesC]

dude....seriously...lay off the crack.

Until we know what we have with Schaub, I cant argue with him. I do hope he will be WAY off on his prediction though.

[leroy420]

Harrington will have a better year than Schaub.

Is that with Michael Jenkins, a 35 yr old Joe Horn, or Brian Finneran (who didn't even play in 2006)? I know the Texans don't have the best receiver corps, but I'd be willing to bet that the Falcons WR's are ranked a hell of a lot lower than the Texans.

[benchmoochie]

Atlanta has Alge Crumpler > any receiver we have except for Johnson.

[MiniMing]

dude....seriously...lay off the crack.

Check back with me at the end of the season, and you'll see.

Everyone thought I was crazy when I said the Cubs will have a better season than the Astro's...

[The Cat]

Check back with me at the end of the season, and you'll see.

Everyone thought I was crazy when I said the Cubs will have a better season than the Astro's...

There's not a person in the world who doesn't get a few predictions right here and there.

[leroy420]

Atlanta has Alge Crumpler > any receiver we have except for Johnson.

Owen Daniels is going to have a good season. Maybe not Crumpler's #'s, but somewhere close enough to be a threat and take more pressure off of AJ and the rest of the WR's.

[Groogrux]

Check back with me at the end of the season, and you'll see.

Everyone thought I was crazy when I said the Cubs will have a better season than the Astro's...

Joey Harrington does have a great track record!

[dskillz]

Owen Daniels is going to have a good season. Maybe not Crumpler's #'s, but somewhere close enough to be a threat and take more pressure off of AJ and the rest of the WR's.


I agree with this. Owen should be a big part of our offense this season.

[ima_drummer2k]

Joey Harrington does have a great track record!
It's not quite as good as David Carr's track record.

That is to say it's slightly better than MiniMing's prediction record...

[MiniMing]

It's not quite as good as David Carr's track record.

That is to say it's slightly better than MiniMing's prediction record...

Not as good?

Harrington 72 TDs is 69 games. Carr 59 TDs is 76 games.

[MadMax]

Everyone thought I was crazy when I said the Cubs will have a better season than the Astro's...

huh? no one thought you were crazy. they may have disagreed, particularly as fans. but i think every pre-season publication i read suggested the cubs would have a better season than the astros.

[MiniMing]

huh? no one thought you were crazy. they may have disagreed, particularly as fans. but i think every pre-season publication i read suggested the cubs would have a better season than the astros.

I was talking about the all the hardcore Astro's fans here, people who would type paragraph after paragraph trying to explain why the Stro's would have a great season and compete for the divison. The homers.

I think before the season started the writer Jose de Jesus Ortiz from the Houston Chronicle predicted 90+ wins and a divison title lol. So not every pre-season prediction had the Cubs.

[The Cat]

I was talking about the all the hardcore Astro's fans here, people who would type paragraph after paragraph trying to explain why the Stro's would have a great season and compete for the divison. The homers.

I think before the season started the writer Jose de Jesus Ortiz from the Houston Chronicle predicted 90+ wins and a divison title lol. So not every pre-season prediction had the Cubs.

You're no different than the "homers" when your every prediction is exactly the same: doomsday (or insert whatever ESPN tells you). You're equally biased in the other direction.

[MiniMing]

You're no different than the "homers" when your every prediction is exactly the same: doomsday (or insert whatever ESPN tells you). You're equally biased in the other direction.

Just cause ESPN says one thing, if I say the same thing or something similar... doesn't mean that's not how I feel. I don't go by what ESPN says, I could care less, I go by what I feel...

and trust me, I'm no homer.

Texans are garbage, Stros are garbage, Rockets only team worth watching out of Houston.

[jtotheb]

so basically, you just needed some attention

[robbie380]

anyone hear anything about babin running into schaub's knee? my friend said he heard something about that happening...can anyone verify this?

[jtotheb]

anyone hear anything about babin running into schaub's knee? my friend said he heard something about that happening...can anyone verify this?

http://www.houstontexans.com/news/Story.asp?story_id=3448

Training camp practice report - Day 6

August 1, 2007
By Will Flaherty, HoustonTexans.com


Training camp highlights - Day 6


Bruised and battered: Entering their sixth day of camp, the Texans are “physically at a wall,” according to coach Gary Kubiak. The team got a break from two straight days of full pads during the morning practice on Wednesday, wearing only their shoulder pads, helmets and shorts.

“I’m just saying I think it’s that point in camp,” Kubiak said. “This is our 10th practice today. We’ve been getting after it pretty dang good.”

Minor injuries incurred Tuesday by wide receivers David Anderson and Keenan McCardell, in addition to a slight tweak that sidelined linebacker Shawn Barber, left the team shorthanded at multiple positions for practice Wednesday.

“We’re short on bodies this morning,” Kubiak said. “We came out here with seven wide receivers and six healthy linebackers. To really continue to go with our full load of work, it was tough, but we’re pushing through it, and we’re getting better.”

Even with these injuries slowing progress during training camp, Kubiak does see a silver lining in that he can get a better look at players who are on the margins to make the roster, especially those at the wide receiver position.

“We’re getting a lot of reps for some young kids because we got some guys nicked up,” Kubiak said. “Like today, this Harry Williams kid has come out here and made some plays. And Jerome (Mathis) needs some reps, so he’s getting a ton today. Bethel Johnson’s got the talent to play in this league. He needs the reps. Though I like to have all 11 of them, when we come out here with seven of them, all those kids got better, so that’s what’s important.”

After special teams practice in the afternoon, Kubiak provided a more complete injury report. All of the injuries he cited were minor, and affected players were expected to return soon. According to Kubiak, Barber’s injury was only a knee sprain, making his status day-to-day, and precautionary x-rays on linebacker Trent Bray, who sat out the morning practice with a rib injury, were negative.

Abbate update: Even in the infancy of his switch from linebacker to fullback, Jon Abbate is adapting well, so well that Kubiak believes he has a serious future playing his new position in the NFL.

“It’s been special, that’s all I can say,” Kubiak said of Abbate’s switch. “You take a kid from defense and put that much pressure on him, and put him on the offensive side of the ball, you’ve got a short window to try to impress us. He can play in this league at fullback. At this point right now, he’s got to be one of the surprise players in this camp.”

Abbate, who was lauded by Kubiak for his hard-hitting style, said that he just focuses on getting through each individual practice and giving maximum effort as he continues to pick up on plays, tips and instruction.

“I can’t get to tomorrow until I get through today,” Abbate said. “I think the biggest thing is just looking at the install that I have for each day, learning it, coming out here, competing, playing fast and just hitting hard.”

Fletch is happy to be here: With a secondary that allowed the second-highest opponent completion percentage in the league and recorded the third-lowest number of interceptions, Kubiak knew that the team needed to shore up its defensive backfield.

He feels that the team’s addition of free agent corner Jamar Fletcher has done just that.

“It was extremely important, because we thought about in free agency, there were some other corners out there, and Fletch (Jamar Fletcher) was on our radar,” Kubiak said. “We weren’t sure if we had a chance with him. When we got him in here, he knew some of our players, and it ended up ticking for us, so we’re very fortunate.”

Entering his seventh year in the league and coming off a season where he notched three interceptions (including one returned for a touchdown) and 37 tackles for the Detroit Lions, Fletcher saw not only an opportunity with the Texans for his career to mature, but also for his team to do so.

“I just felt that Houston was overall the best fit, being that I saw growth,” Fletcher said. “What they did bringing in guys, myself included, I just thought this was a perfect situation for Jamar Fletcher.”

Rooks pay their dues: NFL rookies have long been picked on in training camp by veterans, and from making them sing their school alma mater in front of the team at dinner taping to them to goalposts, such traditions still continues today.

In Texans camp, rookies are obliged to carry veterans’ shoulder pads back to the locker room, and today’s practice yielded many comical examples. One unlucky victim was guard Kasey Studdard, who was seen leaving the morning practice Wednesday wearing at least four pairs of shoulderpads on his back, in addition to carrying one in each hand.

Fellow rookie Brandon Harrison, however, realizes that these chores are just part of the first year experience for new NFL players.

“It’s kinda like being a freshman in college all over again,” Harrison said. “You get all the grunt work and all the dirty work. You expect it, you come out and you’re willing to do it. We gotta pay our dues.”

Schaub OK: Although no-contact rules concerning quarterbacks were in effect, quarterback Matt Schaub got roughed up a bit during the team period of Wednesday morning’s practice. Schaub was inadvertently knocked down by a teammate, but Kubiak said that his starting quarterback is not injured.

“It was an accident,” Kubiak said, “We actually x-rayed him just to make sure, but he’s fine.”

[Jackfruit]

Anyone hear about Mario Williams injuring his hammy? Not sure how serious it is and I haven't seen it anywhere else. I heard this on 790 AM on the way home from work today.

[DieHard Rocket]

Anyone hear about Mario Williams injuring his hammy? Not sure how serious it is and I haven't seen it anywhere else. I heard this on 790 AM on the way home from work today.

Kubiak said it just tightened up on him a little. Nothing serious at this point anyway.

[ima_drummer2k]

How did Babin get anywhere NEAR the QB?

Either he was going against the practice squad, or our OL is worse than we originally thought...

[leroy420]

How did Babin get anywhere NEAR the QB?

Either he was going against the practice squad, or our OL is worse than we originally thought...

Or is it better? Maybe he was pancaked and accidentally fell into Schaub...

[The Cat]

Just cause ESPN says one thing, if I say the same thing or something similar... doesn't mean that's not how I feel. I don't go by what ESPN says, I could care less, I go by what I feel...

and trust me, I'm no homer.

Texans are garbage, Stros are garbage, Rockets only team worth watching out of Houston.

I know you're not a homer. You're the complete opposite, which is every bit as biased.

[leroy420]

I know you're not a homer. You're the complete opposite, which is every bit as biased.

I admit that this is how I am about the Cowboys, Mavs & Jazz. Difference is, I don't hijack threads for the attention/post count.

[MadMax]

I was talking about the all the hardcore Astro's fans here, people who would type paragraph after paragraph trying to explain why the Stro's would have a great season and compete for the divison. The homers.

I think before the season started the writer Jose de Jesus Ortiz from the Houston Chronicle predicted 90+ wins and a divison title lol. So not every pre-season prediction had the Cubs.

i thought they'd be able to compete in this division. i'm a fan, so i usually overrate them as opposed to underrating them.

but honestly...your posts here about the texans and astros are trollish. it's negative after negative, no matter what.

[msn]

but honestly...your posts here about the texans and astros are trollish. it's negative after negative, no matter what.
Ding ding! We have a winner!

[msn]

I go by what I feel...
Now, there's a dependable source of solid, trustworthy, unshakeable truth! I felt like crap this morning. Maybe I should have stayed home from work! I felt terrible about the Astros' performance by the ASB in 2005, too.

We should all derive our opinions from our emotions; the world would be a much flakier place and hence a more entertaining place.

[MiniMing]

i thought they'd be able to compete in this division. i'm a fan, so i usually overrate them as opposed to underrating them.

but honestly...your posts here about the texans and astros are trollish. it's negative after negative, no matter what.

So basically, I'm not allowed to say they suck... I'm suppose to agree with everyone and say "WWW, we can do it!!" Cause if I say they suck, it will be negative and "trollish". Ok... it's not negative, it's FACT. The Astros suck. Not being negative, just stating the truth.

[Shroopy2]

I agree, can't say for sure Joey Harrington WON'T have a better year than Matt Schaub and vice-versa. Schaub's overall numbers "extrapolated" aren't much different than Harrington's.

Then its somewhat undecided if its the Atlanta receiving group thats been bad or if its Michael Vick himself making the receivers look like a bad group. Is it coincidence since Vick's been there they've stunk every year? The Chris Chandler years looks like the run n' shoot days compared to Vick's tenure, passing stats wise. Not saying if Vick had Andre Johnson or Roy Williams he'd make them look all look like Corey Bradford but still...I bet if they went to Atlanta their numbers would take a bigger hit than usual even for a running team and running QB.

I guess I'm saying maybe the Falcons WRs might not be as bad on paper as they appear and Harrington might get better numbers than expected. Schaub DOES have a great thing going for him in Andre Johnson to help his cause, so it'll be interesting to watch...

[leroy420]

So basically, I'm not allowed to say they suck... I'm suppose to agree with everyone and say "WWW, we can do it!!" Cause if I say they suck, it will be negative and "trollish". Ok... it's not negative, it's FACT. The Astros suck. Not being negative, just stating the truth.

There's being realistic and there's just being an ass.

[ima_drummer2k]

Heard on the radio this morning that Jerome Mathis is actually CATCHING PASSES at an alarming rate so far this training camp. And he's not even hurt yet.

:eek:

[gucci888]

Heard on the radio this morning that Jerome Mathis is actually CATCHING PASSES at an alarming rate so far this training camp. And he's not even hurt yet.

:eek:

Ya...the Chron put out an article the other day about Mathis' improvement as a WR. Both Kubiak and Mathis had a lot of good things to say, hopefully he can stay healthy because we could sure use another capable receiver.

[MadMax]

So basically, I'm not allowed to say they suck... I'm suppose to agree with everyone and say "WWW, we can do it!!" Cause if I say they suck, it will be negative and "trollish". Ok... it's not negative, it's FACT. The Astros suck. Not being negative, just stating the truth.

Not at all. There are fans here who say they suck all the time. The problem is...you say it everytime. EVERY response you have regarding the Astros is negative. That's why you get labelled as trollish.

[H-Town Info]

miniming has no credibility on any houston team.

[Groogrux]

Not at all. There are fans here who say they suck all the time. The problem is...you say it everytime. EVERY response you have regarding the Astros is negative. That's why you get labelled as trollish.

And Texans.

[HillBoy]

Heard on the radio this morning that Jerome Mathis is actually CATCHING PASSES at an alarming rate so far this training camp. And he's not even hurt yet.

:eek:
The prospect of getting cut from the team can be a powerful motivator...

[msn]

So basically, I'm not allowed to say they suck... I'm suppose to agree with everyone and say "WWW, we can do it!!" Cause if I say they suck, it will be negative and "trollish". Ok... it's not negative, it's FACT. The Astros suck. Not being negative, just stating the truth.
It is neither fact nor truth--it is your opinion, and you would do well not to confuse the two. For the record, I happen share your opinion for this year anyway. The Astros are horrible this year.

I agree with the commentary of other folks here--your posts aren't considered trollish because they have a negative opinion, they are considered trollish because that's all you *ever* say. You're also not helping yourself when you present your negative opinions as "FACT!" and "TRUTH!!"

[macalu]

Just cause ESPN says one thing, if I say the same thing or something similar... doesn't mean that's not how I feel. I don't go by what ESPN says, I could care less, I go by what I feel...

and trust me, I'm no homer.

Texans are garbage, Stros are garbage, Rockets only team worth watching out of Houston.

oh, you mean the same Houston Rockets who haven't done anything the last 12 years?

[BigTex]

here are the texans players ratings in madden 08
http://www.sportsgamer.com/games/madden08/roster/team/texans/

schaub 83
mario 86
demeco 88
okoye 79
dunta 87
johnson 94
geen 86
dayne 80
cook 83
daniels 83

vince young 87 :cool:

[bobmarley]

here are the texans players ratings in madden 08
[url]
schaub 83
mario 86
dayne 80
cook 83
daniels 83



They rated Schaub the same as Jameel Cook and Owen Daniels?

Please someone explain this to me

[BigTex]

They rated Schaub the same as Jameel Cook and Owen Daniels?

Please someone explain this to me


i think they are rated by how good they are at their position

so daniels would have an 83 rating as a tight end and schaub an 83 as a QB

if that makes any sense

[Nashvegas]

for those of you who have been to training camp, which session is the best to attend? or does it just depend?

I want to go check it out, but I don't live that close, so I don't want to drive out there and waste my time.

thanks in advance

[Francis3422]

Earl is done for the season per ESPN.com

[leroy420]

Earl is done for the season per ESPN.com

And they missed out on a possible replacement for free safety...

Jags sign Sammy Knight (http://sports.yahoo.com/nfl/news?slug=ap-jaguars-knight&prov=ap&type=lgns)

I know they elevated Von Hutchins to starting FS and moved Brown to SS. This is the best possible scenario with who is on the roster right now. Hutchins had a nice int on Saturday and is much more of a natural FS than Brown is. Hopefully this works out well with Brown playing his natural position and having a better cover safety in Hutchins.

[gucci888]

And they missed out on a possible replacement for free safety...

Jags sign Sammy Knight (http://sports.yahoo.com/nfl/news?slug=ap-jaguars-knight&prov=ap&type=lgns)

I know they elevated Von Hutchins to starting FS and moved Brown to SS. This is the best possible scenario with who is on the roster right now. Hutchins had a nice int on Saturday and is much more of a natural FS than Brown is. Hopefully this works out well with Brown playing his natural position and having a better cover safety in Hutchins.

From the Chron:

The Texans are bringing in four defensive backs for tryouts Tuesday, and three of them are former first-round picks.

Safeties Tyrone Poole (Carolina), Shaun Williams (Giants) and Derrick Gibson (Raiders) were No. 1 picks.

Cornerback Raymond Walls also will be working out for general manager Rick Smith and the team's personnel department.

Williams, 31, played in 12 games for the Panthers. last season. Gibson, 28, played in 16 games for the Raiders. Poole, 35, played in 12 games for the Raiders. Walls, 28, played in seven games for the Cardinals.

http://www.chron.com/disp/story.mpl/sports/5050527.html

[JeopardE]

Well, the Raiders defense was actually pretty good last year, so I don't mind us working out two of their corners at all.

[ima_drummer2k]

I know they elevated Von Hutchins to starting FS and moved Brown to SS. This is the best possible scenario with who is on the roster right now. Hutchins had a nice int on Saturday and is much more of a natural FS than Brown is. Hopefully this works out well with Brown playing his natural position and having a better cover safety in Hutchins.
Hutchins supposedly had a great camp, so I guess now we will see what the kid can do...

Damn, we really can't afford any more season ending injuries...

[DaDakota]

When does the Comet's season start again?

[swilkins]

When does the Comet's season start again?

You're kidding right?

[ima_drummer2k]

You're kidding right?
He's just trying to get a reaction. It's what he does.

[MR. MEOWGI]

When does the Comet's season start again?

Their first regular season game is Sunday 9/9 at Jacksonville. VY will probably be suspended and won't play.

[Dr. Basketball]

here are the texans players ratings in madden 08
http://www.sportsgamer.com/games/madden08/roster/team/texans/

schaub 83
mario 86
demeco 88
okoye 79
dunta 87
johnson 94
geen 86
dayne 80
cook 83
daniels 83

vince young 87 :cool:



I do not have Madden yet becuase I am out of town, but I really want to know what every team is ranked on offesnse and defense. If someone could link where to find what every teams overall score is on offense and defense that would be great. And, if this is not on the internet, if someone with the game could list what they are for all 32 teams. Thanks!

[KAS13]

I do not have Madden yet becuase I am out of town, but I really want to know what every team is ranked on offesnse and defense. If someone could link where to find what every teams overall score is on offense and defense that would be great. And, if this is not on the internet, if someone with the game could list what they are for all 32 teams. Thanks!


DeMeco got robbed

[JeopardE]

Can't start threads ... someone help post this.

http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/trainingcamp07/columns/story?columnist=mosley_matt&id=2978578&lpos=spotlight&lid=tab2pos1

Highlights ... Mario Williams says he wants to set a new NFL single season sack record; Dunta spent the offseason working out in Jersey while living out of a Ramada Inn; also, the Texans defense ranked #10 in the league over the last 13 games of the season after the horrible 3-game start.

[leroy420]

Can't start threads ... someone help post this.

http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/trainingcamp07/columns/story?columnist=mosley_matt&id=2978578&lpos=spotlight&lid=tab2pos1

Highlights ... Mario Williams says he wants to set a new NFL single season sack record; Dunta spent the offseason working out in Jersey while living out of a Ramada Inn; also, the Texans defense ranked #10 in the league over the last 13 games of the season after the horrible 3-game start.

Here you go...

Williams setting bar high in Year 2

By Matt Mosley
ESPN.com
(Archive)

Updated: August 17, 2007

HOUSTON -- Texans defensive end Mario Williams desperately wants to blend in with his teammates, but that's no easy task when you're perhaps the most controversial No. 1 overall draft choice in league history.


Nationally, the Texans were ripped for not selecting running back Reggie Bush. But in this city, homegrown quarterback Vince Young will always be the one who got away.

To his credit, Williams has somehow remained patient with the persistent questions. Asked whether he'd ever daydreamed of being, say, the third overall pick, Williams didn't hesitate.

"No, because it would've been the same type of stuff," he said. "It would've been just as bad because people don't look at the overall situation. They just wanted someone else."

Fortunately for the Texans, Williams hasn't let the unreasonable expectations put him in the tank. When last season ended, he offered to take every member of the defensive line on an all-expense-paid vacation to Brazil. When only three teammates expressed any interest in the trip, he instead holed up at the Texans' Methodist Training Facility, where he dropped 10 pounds and added even more quickness to his game.

If you don't count his unscheduled appearance in a YouTube video driving his burnt-orange Lamborghini at 150 mph on a highway in North Carolina, it's been a pretty solid offseason for Williams.

"He's matured a lot as a person," second-year coach Gary Kubiak said. "There's no doubt about that. As a player, things are easier for him now. He doesn't have to work so hard just at the base schemes and what we're doing. Now he's just got to grow basically as a pro; coming up with more packages to rush the passer, coming up with more moves. That's where he's got to get better, to become more effective."

It seems odd that a coach who built his reputation as an offensive coordinator in Denver appears to be staking his future to a talented but young defense. The Texans have chosen a defensive lineman in the first round in four consecutive drafts, in part because the first two picks, Travis Johnson and Jason Babin, haven't exactly worked out.

Kubiak hired former Dolphins defensive coordinator Richard Smith to change the defense from a 3-4 to a 4-3, and the early returns were disastrous. Through the first three games of 2006, the Texans' defense was allowing 483.7 yards per game as the team was outscored, 98-49.

In order to create some semblance of a pass rush, Smith played Williams on both sides, and moved him inside on third-down passing situations. As a result, Williams wasn't consistent, and his inability to register a sack through the first three games only added to his self-doubt.

"Moving him all around wasn't the right thing to do," Smith said. "We decided to let him get good at one spot, so he could just let his instincts take over."

Even now, veteran defensive end N.D. Kalu occasionally pulls Williams aside to remind him not to be so mechanical. Kalu, who played college football a few miles from Reliant Stadium at Rice, has served as a sounding board for young players such as Williams and this year's first-round draft choice, defensive tackle Amobi Okoye.

"I looked over the other day and Mario was counting his steps before making a move," Kalu said. "He's got 20 different people in his ear, and sometimes you have to say, 'Screw the coaches, screw the technique.'"

Williams finished with only 4½ sacks last season, but he played half the season with a foot injury that kept him out of practice and required pain-killing injections. A lot of players attempt to explain that sacks don't tell the whole story -- especially when they don't record many. But that's not the case with Williams.

Asked about his personal goals heading into this season, Williams said he wanted the single-season sack record. When I reminded him that he came up 18 sacks shy of that mark, his expression didn't change.

"You have to aim high," Williams said. "So I want the record."

Lost in the fallout from the 2006 draft is the fact that second-round draft choice DeMeco Ryans had a remarkable season at middle linebacker, finishing with 125 tackles and 3½ sacks. At 23, he's already the unquestioned leader of this defense. The only problem is that the former Alabama star is so unassuming that coaches have asked him to become more of a vocal presence on the field.

"I've coached players like Gary Plummer and Ken Norton Jr.," Smith said, "and DeMeco already has the recognition skills those guys had in their 10th years. A lot of times rookies will come over to the sideline all wide-eyed when something goes wrong, but that never happened to him."

Ryans said he takes a lot of pride in the fact that the Texans have chosen to build around their defense.

"We have to be the backbone of the team," he said. "If the offense can put a few points on the board, we think we can do the rest."

A week after the Texans fell to 0-3 with an embarrassing loss to the Redskins last season, they held the Dolphins to 289 yards in a 17-15 victory. Over the final 13 games of the season, the Texans had the 10th-best overall defense in the league, and allowed only 303.8 yards per game.

"We weren't as bad as we thought we were," said cornerback Dunta Robinson, a first-round draft choice in 2004.

Robinson spent February and March living out of a Ramada Inn in Newark, N.J., while working out at a nearby training facility. He had to take a shuttle to the facility because he left his two cars in Houston.

"It felt so good winning those last two games of the season that I just wanted to keep going," he said. "This city deserves a winning football team, and I felt like we all needed to do something extra to make that happen."

Now, we'll see if all that work pays off.

Matt Mosley covers the NFL for ESPN.com. He may be reached at matt.mosley@sbcglobal.net.

[JeopardE]

I meant post it as a new thread. :)

[bigboymumu]

What exactly did Mario do in the second preseason game?

[tulexan]

What stuck out in that article is what ND Kalu said about Mario having 20 different people in his ear telling him what to do. This reminds me of Office Space and Peter having four different bosses.

[ThePrivate]

What exactly did Mario do in the second preseason game?

Not a DAMN thing! Dude will not impose his will on the field.

[gucci888]

What exactly did Mario do in the second preseason game?

Literally nothing...Mario has yet to make the stat sheet so far this preseason. No solo tackles, no assisted tackles, no sacks, no nothing. He hasn't even gotten close to the QB.

[ima_drummer2k]

Literally nothing...Mario has yet to make the stat sheet so far this preseason. No solo tackles, no assisted tackles, no sacks, no nothing. He hasn't even gotten close to the QB.
Yeah, I admit... it's a little disturbing. I haven't seen him even get double teamed yet either. Both games, the LT has just stood him up on every snap.

Mark and Andre were saying he was held on that TD throw by Leinart. Um....hello??? Guys are held on every play in the NFL. It's part of the game. Not an excuse at all.

On the bright side, I know that guys whose starting spots are a sure thing aren't going to go all out during the preseason, but still..... just show us something, Mario.

[tulexan]

He hasn't been doubled all the time, but I have seen him doubled when watching games. I don't know what to think with him. Either he is just a slow starter like last year where he didn't show much until the 3rd or 4th game, he isn't showing much because he doesn't want to get hurt in the preseason, or he is just thinking way too much on each play. This next game is really important for him because he is going to play for a majority of the game and if he has another game with zero stats, it is going to get pretty ugly.

[bigboymumu]

He hasn't been doubled all the time, but I have seen him doubled when watching games. I don't know what to think with him. Either he is just a slow starter like last year where he didn't show much until the 3rd or 4th game, he isn't showing much because he doesn't want to get hurt in the preseason, or he is just thinking way too much on each play. This next game is really important for him because he is going to play for a majority of the game and if he has another game with zero stats, it is going to get pretty ugly.


I didn't like the pick and I like it less every game. I hope I am wrong but I just don't think he has the heart or motor.

[updawg]

From a chron article...

"Five of the top 19 salaries on the Texans' roster belong to defensive linemen. Altogether, defensive linemen will count for more than $15 million against the 2007 salary cap."

This is what troubles me the most. The have invested so much in the d-line and so far have received very little in return. Hopefully that starts to change this season.

[msn]

From a chron article...

"Five of the top 19 salaries on the Texans' roster belong to defensive linemen. Altogether, defensive linemen will count for more than $15 million against the 2007 salary cap."

This is what troubles me the most. The have invested so much in the d-line and so far have received very little in return. Hopefully that starts to change this season.
Remember when our O-line was paid so ridiculously and were one of the worst in the league? Bad memories.

[Ric]

just show us something, Mario.
keep in mind also, the first team cardinal offense faced two legit passing downs (out of 15): a 2nd and 14 (in which they ran) and a 3rd and 7. i believe they faced two other downs, both 3rd and 3's.

he hasn't blown anyone off the line, but he hasn't been a complete non-factor, either. watch the 4th and 1 play: he and maddox created space for clark to come in and make the initial contact. he also forced leinart to move to his second read on the TD throw - he was causing havoc.

[Drewdog]

With all the talk focused on Mario Williams, I haven't heard anything on this kid Okoye....

Is he doing well in camp? :confused:

[texanskan]

With all the talk focused on Mario Williams, I haven't heard anything on this kid Okoye....

Is he doing well in camp? :confused:

I look for him to be very up and down but the good news is Babin is playing well and we have not even seen Weaver yet so it's not like Okoye will left out there because we have guys who can play if the young guy struggles.

[ima_drummer2k]

With all the talk focused on Mario Williams, I haven't heard anything on this kid Okoye....

Is he doing well in camp? :confused:
My sources (Mark and Andre on 610) tell me that he is ahead of schedule on pass rushing but struggling with stopping the run. I guess that's to be expected from a rookie DT who is already in the starting lineup.

Tough to judge how a DT plays because they can do so much without even showing up in the stat line.

[JeopardE]

With all the talk focused on Mario Williams, I haven't heard anything on this kid Okoye....

Is he doing well in camp? :confused:

Okoye gets a pass because he's a rookie. He'll get his turn at getting piled on next year.

[DonnyMost]

Okoye gets a pass because he's a rookie. He'll get his turn at getting piled on next year.

not to mention he's just a couple months past 19...

[msn]

not to mention he's just a couple months past 19...
If fourteen qualifies as "a couple", then OK. Amobi turned 20 on June 10. :p

[tulexan]

Williams seeking change for better
Intent on getting to the QB, the much-scrutinized DE of the Texans will try some new tricks this week

By MEGAN MANFULL
Copyright 2007 Houston Chronicle

Mario Williams realizes there is a citywide debate occurring because of him. His skills are being questioned. His intensity is being questioned. The whole reason he's in Houston is being questioned.

Williams isn't oblivious to any of it, but talking about it isn't his favorite activity. Instead, the Texans defensive end is trying to spend his time working to end the debate. To silence his critics. To show the franchise he can be the disruptive player it drafted with the No. 1 overall pick last year.

"I'm just trying so hard," Williams said. "I have so many different people telling me this and telling me that. I'm just trying to do too much right now."

Williams isn't going to stop listening, though. He has been working closely with the coaches this week, watching film and dissecting his performances. He said he is going to test out a new approach in the third preseason game against Dallas on Saturday in hopes it could spark something in the pass rush.

"We have got to change everything as far as how I come out here and do things," Williams said. "We're looking at how I was coming off the ball and my point of attack and things like that. ... I'm going to change that up a little bit as far as how I'm coming out there on opposing tackles."

The Texans are also changing the personnel on their defensive line this weekend by putting their eight-man rotation in place. Travis Johnson will see his first action with the first team at left tackle, and Earl Cochran will get more repetitions with the first team at left end. Anthony Weaver hoped to make his return from a knee injury, but the doctors haven't cleared him.

No matter how the others perform, the focus will remain on Williams. His teammates realize that and are trying to help him.

"He's such a good kid," veteran end N.D. Kalu said. "He's trying to do everything right, and it kind of takes away from his aggressiveness. I just try to tell him, 'Man, you're 6-7, 300 pounds, and you've got great explosiveness. Just use it and hit somebody in the mouth. Don't sit here and count your steps and worry about your hand movements. ... You've just got to be a freak.'

"Because he's a freak of nature, some things that a guy like myself has to do, he doesn't have to do. And that's what point I try to get across to him."

Williams has stayed after practice to work with Kalu. And he has listened — to everyone.

"Everybody is trying to help me. Everybody," Williams said. "Everybody in the stadium is trying to help me relax."

Williams realizes the focus of the preseason is to prepare for the regular season. So after his approach in the first two preseason games didn't result in any tackles, assists or sacks, he was willing to take a chance and try something new.

"This is the point where it needs to be done," Williams said. "The preseason is for the players. We don't even watch film necessarily of the (other) team. So this is the time to do it."

Frustration among the Texans' defensive linemen is evident. With so much attention being paid to their unit, they understand they must deliver. But they aren't panicking about the pass rush — or about Williams.

"I think Mario is still searching for his fastball," Weaver said. "Right now, he's experimenting with a lot of things, and that's what the preseason is for. But come game time, I think you saw it last season, he turned the corner, and he was rushing the passer and was getting to the quarterback.

"So now it's just a matter of waiting for the numbers to come."

megan.manfull@chron.com

http://www.chron.com/disp/story.mpl/sports/5073885.html

[DonnyMost]

If fourteen qualifies as "a couple", then OK. Amobi turned 20 on June 10. :p

yea.. as in, he was no longer 19 as of june.. "past" 19.. understand?

[msn]

yea.. as in, he was no longer 19 as of june.. "past" 19.. understand?
I understand that's inaccurate. He's "past" 20--by two months. 20 yrs, 2 months old. He's fourteen months "past 19". "Understand?"

[DonnyMost]

I understand that's inaccurate. He's "past" 20--by two months. 20 yrs, 2 months old. He's fourteen months "past 19". "Understand?"

please go slap yourself

[rezdawg]

LJ says he probably wont be ready for the opener. He may play a little, but wont be in full force. Nice.

[VooDooPope]

LJ says he probably wont be ready for the opener. He may play a little, but wont be in full force. Nice.

What he meant is he won't need to be at full force against the Texans D.

[gucci888]

LJ says he probably wont be ready for the opener. He may play a little, but wont be in full force. Nice.

Actually he just said he won't be 100%, I think he'll play as much as he needs to .

[Groogrux]

What he meant is he won't need to be at full force against the Texans D.

That same defense that was 10th in yards allowed the last 13 weeks of the season?

[VooDooPope]

That same defense that was 10th in yards allowed the last 13 weeks of the season?

I'd be willing to bet you a couple rounds of drinks and a bowl of the good stuff he goes over 110 on the Texans. We on?

After piling up a Chiefs single-season record 1,750 rushing yards in just nine starts in 2005, proved his durability with a remarkable 2006 campaign … Opened all 16 games a year ago en route to breaking his own franchise record with 1,789 rushing yards … Also posted an NFL single-season record 416 carries, breaking the previous mark established by Atlanta RB Jamal Anderson (410) in ‘98 … Despite opponents often putting as many as nine players in the box, the dominating runner finished second in the NFL in rushing, trailing only San Diego RB LaDainian Tomlinson (1,815) ... Joined L.A. Rams RB Eric Dickerson (’83-84) and Denver RB Terrell Davis (’97-98) as only the third player in NFL history to produce 1,750 or more rushing yards in back-to-back seasons … Topped the Chiefs record book with 11 100-yard rushing games in 2006 and currently owns 24 such contests in his career, tying RB Priest Holmes for the top total in franchise history

[Groogrux]

I'd be willing to bet you a couple rounds of drinks and a bowl of the good stuff he goes over 110 on the Texans. We on?

Even if I lose, I win. You're on. :)

[VooDooPope]

Even if I lose, I win. You're on. :)

The we, sir, have ourselves a friendly wager. :D

[Raven Lunatic]

Did yall seriously just make a bet involving a bowl of pot?

[VooDooPope]

Did yall seriously just make a bet involving a bowl of pot?

Obi-Wan: These aren't the droids you're looking for.

Stormtrooper: These aren't the droids we're looking for.

Obi-Wan: He can go about his business.

Stormtrooper: You can go about your business.

Obi-Wan: Move along.

Stormtrooper: Move along... move along.

[thegary]

a bowl of the good stuff

does it show my age when i admit i only smoke the good stuff.
wait a second, what are we talking about?

[Major Malcontent]

Now lets not be hasty...a bowl of the good stuff could mean breakfast cereal.

I never eat off brand myself!

[rezdawg]

I think Im at a stage that if the Texans lose, I will be pissed...and will remain grumpy throughout the week until Sunday hits again.

Thats how I was with the Oilers...and now the expectation to win every week is coming back.

[Akhorahil]

Not that it really means anything, but I just wanted to point this out. Unless the Colts score 34+ points in their final preseason game... The Texans led the league in scoring. I can't stress how unimportant that is... but if it makes one Texans fan smile, it's worth mentioning.

[VooDooPope]

Even if I lose, I win. You're on. :)

I'd be willing to bet... he goes over 110 on the Texans. We on?

I'm glad the Texans won. The D played a great game. Lets figure out a good time I can pay up.

[Groogrux]

I'm glad the Texans won. The D played a great game. Lets figure out a good time I can pay up.

I had completely forgot about this! Awesome!