Anybody have trouble getting into the Texans?

[SamFisher]

OK, I felt guilty about admitting this but its true. I just can't get that excited about the Texans.

I was a hardcore Oiler fan as a kid, my dad had season tix when I was in high school so I went to all the games, pretty much, and even in college, prior to the move, I would come home and catch a game at Christmas. I loved the team, even though they made me cry more often than not.

After that, I sort of halfheartedly followed the Oiler/Titans and kind of rooted for them because I had no other team to root for. I spent time in various cities (not houston) and couldn't really think about rooting for their team.

So naturally I was ecstatic when the Texans were awarded/annouced/whatever in 1999 and adopted them as my new team as a matter of principle.

However, a couple years later I just can't seem to bring myself to become fanatically in favor of them. Obviously, geographic proximity is part of the reason -- but I still fanatically pull for the Rox even though I'm not around town any more. Also, the fact that expectations are/were low, they being an expanision team, has something to do with it.

I think that can't be all of it though; tHere's just something about the Texans, that's just kind of boring. In their playcalling, in their coaching (or specifically their coach, man, seeing monotone, whitebread, bland-o Capers interviewed on TV makes me want to drink antifreeze for some excitement), in their style, look, everything. It's just really hard to get into them. I was jacked after that first night win over the Cowboys, but other than that the Texans era has been pretty dull.

Anybody else not able to get it up for the Texans here or am I alone?

[Groogrux]

Absolutely










































NOT!!!

[codell]

Sam,

Go to a game at Reliant Stadium when you have the chance. It might change your tune.

I went to a game last year and the whole in game atmosphere, stadium and experience was ............well ....overwhelming to say the least. Before that game, I watched their games, but didn't consider myself a die hard fan of theirs. That changed after I attented a game.

[pgabriel]

Sam, I understand what you mean by them being boring. They seem to be the ultimate "corporate team". They do seem to lack some personality although David Carr is a guy easy to root for. Years of rooting for the Oilers will kind of jade you to other teams in that sense though. One thing the Oilers had was characters. They were definitely a unique franchise, from Luv ya blu to the Run & Shoot.

[MadMax]

as a season ticket holder the last two seasons, boring is the last word i'd use. this team takes very good teams...teams far better than them...down to the wire over and over and over again. those games were among the most exciting pro games i've ever seen, and they happened week in and week out.

i think you'll find them more exciting as they shed the expansion label and become legit contenders.

[rezdawg]

Ive never anticipated a season like I am anticipating the upcoming football season....IM PUMPED!!!

Of course, the upcoming basketball season has me going nuts as well.

[BobFinn*]

I was a HUGE Oilers fan from 1970 till the move. I was even pulling for the Titans in the Super Bowl. After Houston got a new NFL team, I could care less about the Titans.

Now it's all about the Texans. I live and die with them much as I did with the Oilers. This team is going to be very very good this year.

You will have no trouble following them once they start winning. Isn't that how most Houston fans are?

[mateo]

The last three years I have had trouble getting into the Rockets, to be perfectly honest. The post-Dream years were unwatchable iso crap. I hate streetball and I hate turnovers.

Last year was a bit better, at least when I forced myself to watch I ended up enjoying myself sometimes. But sometimes I just fell asleep or ended up surfing the web with the game in the background.

I'm hoping T-Mac makes it watchable again.

The Texans, on the other hand, are freaking great to watch.

[rocketabc]

If you can't get into the team (for whatever reason--personally, I think you're insane), at least you could "get it up" for those on the cheerleading squad. Meet Shannon:

http://www.houstontexans.com/cheerleaders/images/ShannonMed.jpg

"Whammy!!!"

[Deji]

My grandparents were season ticket holders since 1960, so I grew up indoctrinated into the Oilers.

I have to agree with SamFisher. I think it has to do more with geography than anything. I left Houston in '97, so I haven't seen any games, don't have friends or coworkers talking about it, etc. It's hard to get caught up in the buzz. Most of the buzz here by fall is the Lakers pre-season. :(

Plus, for the Astros and Rockets, there are away games to go to at least. In LA, there's no football team to host them.

Most of the excitement I get from the Texans is from an occasional phone call from my dad and reading the bbs here. I also think, deep down, I'm still not over the Oilers. Other than following Ricky Williams, I found myself getting more into NCAA after the move, divorcing myself almost completely from the league. I tried to play Fantasy football last season, and totally sucked...I'd been out of it for too long. :)

[leroy420]

Originally posted by pgabriel
One thing the Oilers had was characters. They were definitely a unique franchise, from Luv ya blu to the Run & Shoot.

Kind of hard to do that after only 2 years.

I have tosay that I am crazy about the team and have been since they announced the return of pro football to Houston. Going to a game in person made me even more nuts about this team. To me, it is more fun to follow them from the start, watching them grow and gel into what will eventually be a very good franchise.

[BobFinn*]

Originally posted by Deji


I have to agree with SamFisher. I think it has to do more with geography than anything. I left Houston in '97, so I haven't seen any games, don't have friends or coworkers talking about it, etc. It's hard to get caught up in the buzz.



I have to disagree. I moved from Houston in 1988. I live in the northeast. Eagles, Steelers, Giants and Jets is all I hear about during the NFL season (hell, even most of the offseason as well) I have not met one other Texans fan up here. I have no problems following the Texans.

DirecTv is awesome in allowing you to follow an out of town favorite team. The internet is another good source. Geography plays no part in it.

[nWo34Life]

Dude, jump on the Titans bandwagon. Their the former Oilers if you still want to be an Oilers' fan.

It was a long ass drought when Bud Adams bailed and took the Oilers to Tennessee. When the Texans arrived, man, I was syked! I was tired of watching the f**king Cowboys on TV. There's always room for Cowboys fans, SamFisher. :rolleyes:

[The Real Shady]

SamFisher, the Texans are a bad team, and right now are boring to watch. Don't worry though, once they get better and start contending you'll get into them as will the rest of Houston.

Face it, you're a band-wagoner. ;)

[Harrisment]

I have season tickets in the bullpen area for the Texans, and it is rockin down there every single game. Attend one game and sit in the bullpen....I guarentee you will be permanently pumped for a Texans game after that.

[rezdawg]

Originally posted by The Real Shady
the Texans are a bad team, and right now are boring to watch.

Dude?? What tha?

[mrpaige]

I'm not as heavily into the Texans as I was the Oilers, either, but I think a lot of that has to do with the fact that I pretty well quit watching the NFL once the Oilers were gone. After the first season in Nashville (the last "Oilers" season), football was just not on my radar to any extent.

I was excited following the expansion process, and I am more interested in the NFL and the Texans than I was between 1999 and 2002, but I'm still not back to where I was. And not being in Houston makes it that much harder to get fully amped up since we don't get a lot of the games here in Dallas.

[Dubious]

#1- Winning is what builds team loyalty. People watch sports to pump their own egos by "their' team winning. This is not true for Cubs fans but there are excetions to every rule.

#2- Passions wane as we get older. If you were a sportsmad overamped teenager during the Luvya Blue years, you will never again achieve that level of excitment with the Texans. T-Mac and Yao will never deliver wthe thrills The Dream did for those of us in our primes in 94 and 95 either.

And at some point 18 year old girls won't make you have palpatations either; welcome to the facts of life.

[The Real Shady]

Originally posted by rezdawg
Dude?? What tha?

4-12 and 5-11 = Bad Team

I do enjoy watching them play but losing is never as fun as winning.

[rezdawg]

Originally posted by Gene Peterson
And at some point 18 year old girls won't make you have palpatations either;

Interesting bit of info...thanks for the heads up, although, I hope Im the exception.

[Austin70]

I can tell if I am into the teams if in real close games my heart starts beating faster. It USED to do that for the oilers, now it is the Texans, Rockets and Astros.

[Master Baiter]

Originally posted by Gene Peterson
And at some point 18 year old girls won't make you have palpatations either; welcome to the facts of life.
No way. Sexy little 18 yo's will always produce the chubbage.

[moestavern19]

It's so much more fun to root for evil.

[pgabriel]

Originally posted by leroy420
Kind of hard to do that after only 2 years.

I have tosay that I am crazy about the team and have been since they announced the return of pro football to Houston. Going to a game in person made me even more nuts about this team. To me, it is more fun to follow them from the start, watching them grow and gel into what will eventually be a very good franchise.


But this team is boring, from the boring colors to the boring name. Its not just the players.

I like the Texans, and I like Bob McNair, but this team is boring to me. That's just my opinion

[nWo34Life]

Originally posted by The Real Shady
4-12 and 5-11 = Bad Team

Umm, we can let expansion teams get away with that. :rolleyes:

[The Real Shady]

Originally posted by nWo34Life
Umm, we can let expansion teams get away with that. :rolleyes:

Yeah, no $hit. It still means that they've been a bad team though, and that's all I said.

[DrewP]

Originally posted by nWo34Life
Umm, we can let expansion teams get away with that. :rolleyes:

I think its hilarious that you still have the cowboys being embarassed in your profile. It's been what, about two years? I can understand still being proud of it, but you would think something would have have happened in the last two years that would have excited you as much. Linger....

[Groogrux]

Originally posted by DrewP
I think its hilarious that you still have the cowboys being embarassed in your profile. It's been what, about two years? I can understand still being proud of it, but you would think something would have have happened in the last two years that would have excited you as much. Linger....

It is the greatest sig ever.

[DieHard Rocket]

It's really harder to follow NFL in the off-season (besides the draft) than it is to follow the other sports. NFL has such a long break and so many players that change teams you just can't keep up. Once the season arrives, however, I get as into it as any sport. Especially since we got the Texans.

[DieHard Rocket]

Originally posted by DrewP
I think its hilarious that you still have the cowboys being embarassed in your profile. It's been what, about two years? I can understand still being proud of it, but you would think something would have have happened in the last two years that would have excited you as much. Linger....

I think it's hilarious that a Cowboys fan still notices it and sounds bitter about it.

:)

[Austin70]

Originally posted by DrewP
I think its hilarious that you still have the cowboys being embarassed in your profile. It's been what, about two years? I can understand still being proud of it, but you would think something would have have happened in the last two years that would have excited you as much. Linger....

It is hilarious, that they lost to an expansion team. One of the best sigs on this bbs.

[nWo34Life]

Originally posted by Austin70
It is hilarious, that they lost to an expansion team. One of the best sigs on this bbs.

Thanks. Proud Houston Texans fan.

[Rockets2K]

Originally posted by nWo34Life
Thanks. Proud Houston Texans fan.

yep....I rarely agree with your takes on the Rockets, but you by far probably have the best sig here.

[DrewP]

wooh!

[KaiSeR SoZe]

How can you not get pumped for the Texans?

[Beck]

I'm not pumped for the Texans, but I live in Pittsburgh.

GO STEELERS!

:D

[KaiSeR SoZe]

I should rephrase:

How can you live in Houston and not get into the Texans?

[Dream Sequence]

This is my first year as a season ticket holder in any sport and I am pumped to see Carr-Johnson TD pass after pass. I working on getting hoops season tickets too. Man when I was in college, I told myself when I got out, I would by tickets in whatever city I was. Unfortunately I found myself in Dallas and NYC, cities with teams I can't stand. Thankfully, back in HTOWN and can root for my teams.

Honestly, how can you not be into the Texans if you are into the NFL.

[redgoose]

The hype at the Texans games are way better than they ever were at Oilers games. I admit i couldn't watch the 1st season. Run, Pass, Run, Punt.

However last year was different with AJ and DD. We took alot of good teams and made them play 48 minutes. I don't remember getting blown out even 1 time but i could be wrong. However, even NE got blown out 1 time.

All we need is more depth. 1 more year and we will have that depth needed, hopefully. That doesn't mean i'm still not exccited. :)

We are still undefeated on opening days!:D

[rezdawg]

This season will bring lots and lots of excitement.

Much improved from last year, imo.

[JBIIRockets]

Sam,

I cant understand why one wouldn't get into the Texans. The Oilers were such a cursed franchise, constantly providing heartbreak to their fans.

Now Houston NFL fans have a new hope. The owner is better, the whole organization is better. Casserly knows how to build winners. The Texans don't have any cursed stigma attached to them, and there is no reason to believe it will ever come with McNair as the man and with Casserly as the GM, with the successful pedigree he has.

Get into the Texans. They are gonna bring championships to Houston, at least that is what I believe.

[rockets-#1]

I didn't like the Oilers, but I love the Texans. I was pumped up to see them before they even played their first game. I've been to almost every home game and atmosphere is just awesome. I think they've been a real competitive team and if a few more things go their way, they win four more games last year. This year I predict them to go 8-8. The Texans have a great core in the making in Carr-Johnson-Daviss. How could you not get pumped up for multiple Pro Bowlers?

[Trader_Jorge]

I probably get psyched up more for Texans games than any other professional sports game. With the Oilers, I had this religous ritual that I followed before each game. After the Broncos playoff loss in 1993 where Elway converted a couple of 4th downs on that last drive, I was physically ill for a week. After the Buffalo game a year later, I was just in shock. I was one of the few that went to every home game in the final 1996 season. The Texans haven't achieved that status yet, but as they improve, I'm sure I'll ratchet up the obsession. They grow on you as you become more familiar with the players and watch their career progression. Drew Hill, Haywood Jeffries, Ernest Givens and Webster Slaughter -- what a receiving corps -- that Buddy Ryan 46 defense team was the best they fielded during the 90's. It's a shame it ended when Keith Cash spiked that ball into the Buddy Ryan poster after catching the pass from Montana in the Dome. Ugh.

[whag00]

A few playoff heartbreaks will help you get close to them...

[Deckard]

Sam, you're not alone. I feel the same way. I was pumped when the franchise was awarded... really excited, but I can't seem to get worked up about them now that they're playing, except for that first game with the fairies up in Dallas. I'm sure a lot of it is not going to a game yet at Reliant. If I still feel this way after that, I won't know what to think.

I guess I just had too much invested in the Oilers. I started seeing them with my Dad their first season in the AFL and remember, as a kid, them winning the first 2 championships. I've always thought it unfair that they didn't get the credit they should have for that. Yes, it was the AFL, but it was damn good football. I saw Blanda kick the first 50 yard pro field goal. I cheered, sweated, screamed and stopped just short of killing myself because of that damn team many times.

I just don't feel that for the Texans. And I hate the name. It's boring and stupid, in my opinion. That doesn't help. With any luck, I'll go to at least one game this season, and maybe I'll feel differently. I hope so.

[rocketabc]

Originally posted by Deckard
I just don't feel that for the Texans. And I hate the name. It's boring and stupid, in my opinion.

I hate YOU .

[Joshfast]

I love the Texans. Great core of young players, classy organization, great stadium, unbelievable nail biters... too many things to list.

I can't wait for football to start!

[moligity]

I'm not sure how it's possible that one could find the Texans boring? They played so many close games in one of the toughest schedules in the NFL. They are a 2nd year team playing over and beyond expectations.

Did you miss the game against the Titans at home, I guess so.
Didyou miss the game against Patriots, probably.
How about the Jacksonville game,

Actually do like football?

If you don't live in Houston, I may understand; but the problem is not the Texans, but rather the lack of familiarity with the team. It shows when those who claim thay get "bored" qoute the win-loss record as the basis of their arguement. Of all three teams in Houston, the Texans are the last team I would call boring.

Anyway, whatever . . . it takes all kinds.

[Deckard]

Originally posted by rocketabc
I hate YOU .
Well, assuming that's not a joke, I'm sorry I can't hate you back.
You're obviously too immature to bother with.

[MadMax]

Originally posted by pgabriel
But this team is boring, from the boring colors to the boring name.



i'm sorry...boring colors?? boring name??

are you a girl?? :D this sounds like something my 15 year old niece would say!

what's exciting about the cowboys' colors?? what's exciting about the patriots' colors??

who has an exciting name?? or exciting colors??

(you know i'm just giving you a hard time, pgab...but i don't get it!)

[PhiSlammaJamma]

The Division is still stacked. I think it will be hard for the Texans to get out of it alive. But an upset or two could even them out with the Colts for a Wild Card.

Titans 13-3
Colts 11-5
Texans 7-9
Jaguars 6-10

[caphorns]

There has been so much good karma about the Texans franchise from the start. I really do not get it how a football fan can be put off by the color of uniforms or the speaking style of the coach. If that's your gig, watch Queer Eye for a Straight Guy instead of football.

By good karma I mean:

1. Having a great owner committed to do what it takes to win a SB

2. Having one of the most recognized and respected General Managers agree to sign on in Casserly

3. Buidling probably the best and most innovative stadium in the NFL today

4. Being the first team in the history of the NFL to win its opening game as a new franchise AND to do so against your most hated rival (that win, for me, was almost a championship in itself)

5. Challenging the best teams in the NFL weak in and weak out in close games

I'm sure there are more, but maybe (just maybe) some of you are not used to the feeling of success. You prefer characters (Dan Pastorini?), color schemes (Columbia Blue?) and flashy but incompetent coaches (Glanville?). Unlike those days that I can now look at and laugh about, this group will be succesfull, much like the New England Patriots are successful.

[nWo34Life]

Originally posted by Rockets2K
yep....I rarely agree with your takes on the Rockets, but you by far probably have the best sig here.

I know. Gotta work on it. :D

[dwil8686]

I moved from Houston in 01 and I still find it difficult to get pumped up about the Texans.

One of the problems is that the Texans don't have a heated rivalry yet.

[rocketabc]

Originally posted by Deckard
Well, assuming that's not a joke, I'm sorry I can't hate you back.
You're obviously too immature to bother with.

Fair enough.

[SamFisher]

Originally posted by caphorns
There has been so much good karma about the Texans franchise from the start. I really do not get it how a football fan can be put off by the color of uniforms or the speaking style of the coach. If that's your gig, watch Queer Eye for a Straight Guy instead of football.



Well, when you have a team that's not going to win, you have to look to other things (Glanville at least won some ballgames) for excitement. It's real hard for anybody to get happy about a Texans team that is aimiing for 6-10.

Capers is just a freaking snoozefest. We were somewhat spoiled with the Oilers in that regard with guys like Bum, Glanville, Jack Pardee who was boring but had an interesting resume and at least brought an interesting offense to the table, and had the coordinator cock-fights on the sidelines.

I recall watching Capers get interviewed on ESPN during the 2003 draft, they tossed him a total sofball question like: "Coach, what are you trying to get out of this draft class to help you improve next year?" his response was literally" Well, we're just going to try to improve and get better next year". Yawn.

Then they asked Jeff Fisher the same question, and he said "Well, we drafted two Rockies and a Tank so I think our D will be a little tougher next year" (referring to rocky calmus, rocky boiman and tank williams). Now, that didn't exactly cause me to spit milk out of my nose in hilarity, but at least he shows a little life and said something borderline witty.

If they aren't going to laugh, at least make it interesting Dom! The NFL is for entertainment purposes, right.

[pgabriel]

Originally posted by SamFisher


I recall watching Capers get interviewed on ESPN during the 2003 draft, they tossed him a total sofball question like: "Coach, what are you trying to get out of this draft class to help you improve next year?" his response was literally" Well, we're just going to try to improve and get better next year". Yawn.




Bill Simmons did a column in 01 when he had to cover the first Houston Bowl between TCU and Texas A&M. He talked about Capers giving the teams a speech about success or something. And it was a list of 10 things such as, preparation, sticking to the goal, etc. Simmons talked about how boring it was, and joked about how boring Capers was. I didn't realize it then, but everytime I hear him give an interview I think about that column.

I understand where you are coming from. Like I wrote earlier, the team is just seems too corporate, and its boring. The Oilers had a distinctiveness about them. From the Columbia Blue colors, to the coaches. And the Oilers just seemed like they were from Houston, instead of just some other NFL team.

Don't get me wrong, I root for the Texans and I've attended a game. The game was exciting and I think the Texans are well on their way to success. But sometimes they just seem like another NFL team. Maybe that will change over time.

[caphorns]

same and gabe - is your real criticism that you don't think CAPERS is the right guy? If that's all you are saying then fine, I don't necessarily disagree. For instance, I personally think his style of offense is far far too conservative.

But the Texans franchise has OVERACHIEVED to date. For me, I like following teams that overachieve. I also give them greater odds of making it deep in the playoffs than teams that consistently underachieve (the Glanville Oilers). As for personalities, Steve McKinney is great and has a personality suited for old Oiler fans (kind of a more PC Carl Mauck).

To fully "get there" the team will need to go through the ordinary cycles. Give them time. But, easily I think this is one of the most interesting new franchises in all of sports in the last 30 years or so.

[moligity]

Look, who cares if the Head coach doesn't "entertain" you.

You are the type of consumer who the NFL targets when they have comedians broadcast during MNF or have William Hung sing during halftime.

Watch professional wrestling if you're looking for "characters."
My guess is that you are biased towards the Texans. You definitely havn't watched a game.

[nWo34Life]

If you are a true Houston football fan, patience is a virtue w/ this team. It took a while w/ the Oilers when they got started. We should apply the same motive w/ the Texans. Give it a few years and they'll grow on you.

[SamFisher]

Originally posted by moligity
Look, who cares if the Head coach doesn't "entertain" you.

You are the type of consumer who the NFL targets when they have comedians broadcast during MNF or have William Hung sing during halftime.

Watch professional wrestling if you're looking for "characters."
My guess is that you are biased towards the Texans. You definitely havn't watched a game.

Please stop this.

If you read the post that started it all, I was a hardcore fan of the oilers to the point of nearly driving myself crazy in the process. I sat in a section of fans that was devoted to Eugene Seale, and brought inflatable plastic seals to the games.

I'm a total purist in every sense of the word. I once spent a weekend on the road and in cheap motels in South Bend and Canton in the middle of the summer visiting the college and pro football halls of fame, respectively. I once jogged six miles in Albany just to watch Giants training camp for an hour, and then jogged six miles back. I used to keep stats with pen and paper while playing full seasons of 4th and Inches on my Commodore 64. I turn the tv down when jill arrrington or lisa guerrero starts yapping their stupid traps on the sideline.

Don't call me a casual fan.

[caphorns]

sam - pretty superficial response. I don't know what holding seal dolls has to do with what he is saying which is - you guys are clearly focusing on the wrong things. sport is about playing hard and winning (not just aesthetics) to most of us.

[SamFisher]

Originally posted by caphorns
sam - pretty superficial response. I don't know what holding seal dolls has to do with what he is saying which is - you guys are clearly focusing on the wrong things. sport is about playing hard and winning (not just aesthetics) to most of us.

Superficial? Not to the baseless accusation which was leveled.

Look, I expressed my opinion that I can't really get excited about the Texans -- not because I'm not a real football fan.

Rather, the reason why it's perplexing to me, and becuase I started this thread, is because I'm a real football fan.

So for somebody say "Well, you just must not be a real football fan!" is annoying to me.

[Groogrux]

SF,

I think it's because you're not here. I think if you were, you'd feel different. Now for these other wackos who can't get into them and live her...I'm speechless. :)

[caphorns]

That's actually not what the guy said. He probably questions why you are downing a great franchise like the Texans just because you are bored with the coach. I imagine that everyone who is a Texans fan probably went through some period of transition. But to just pick some relatively minor detail (like how the coach talks to the media) as an example of a boring team. Seriously, I don't think you've watched many of their games. They are not a boring team to watch, even if you aren't crazy about Capers or the color scheme.

[dwil8686]

I consider myself to be a diehard sports fan but the Texans just haven't captured my imagination the way the Oilers had. Maybe they never will. I grew up with Luv Ya Blue and was in high school/college during the Run-N-Shoot era. Those teams seemed to be larger than just a football team. They overachieved (Blue) and underachieved (Shoot). We were lovable, we choked, we were cursed, and had people that also symbolized the Houston area in Earl, Bum, Moon, Childress, Lathon, etc. Even the Run-n-shoot offense was a Houston thing with UoH using it also. Plus as I mentioned earlier the Oilers had rivals. The Texans will given time but Texans/Cowboys is lame in comparison to Oilers/Steelers, Oilers/Browns, and Oilers/Bengals of the late 80s-early 90s. The Titans, Colts, Jags, or even the 'Boys coming to town just don't do it for me yet. Hopefully someday it will. I'm holding out hope.

BTW, I've never been a fan of them but.......have the Cowboys ever considered Houston a rival? I always thought that we made a helluva lot more out of our meetings than they did. They always seemed to get up more for the NFC East and Niners than they did for the little team down the road with the inferiority complex (us).

[MadMax]

how much of all of this is attributable to age, i wonder.

doesn't it take far more to capture your imagination today than it did when you were 10 years old?

[SamFisher]

Originally posted by caphorns
That's actually not what the guy said. He probably questions why you are downing a great franchise like the Texans just because you are bored with the coach. I imagine that everyone who is a Texans fan probably went through some period of transition. But to just pick some relatively minor detail (like how the coach talks to the media) as an example of a boring team. Seriously, I don't think you've watched many of their games. They are not a boring team to watch, even if you aren't crazy about Capers or the color scheme.

Well, I picked out Capers because it sort of symbolized what I get to see and hear of the Texans from here. I see the occasional highlight and such but otherwise, it's hard, not living in houston, to pick them out from the mass of NFL teams by virtue of anything they have done in the last few years. Maybe it's just cause they're still too new, I don't know.

But I know for a fact that it's not because I care more about halftime shows. Give me a freaking break.

[caphorns]

I loved the Oilers as much as anybody. But, lets face it, the franchise was a failure because of its owner. There can be no doubt about that. I would have stayed loyal to them and sat through it all. I think I actually went to almost every game.

I really am annoyed with people who are so mired in nostalgia they feel they need to whine about the present. Why not watch and follow the team? It really helps. Don't just look to one superstar or hope the coach to inspire you or make you laugh. Follow what they are doing. Learn a bit about how they are building the team. You have to love players like Dom Davis and Andre (both phenoms in the making). I heard alot of the same moaning and groaning about the Oilers after the Bum Phillips era ('no character' - 'who cares'). Then they had a good year or two and the waggoneers jumped back on.

You guys reflect much of the attitude of a bandwaggon fan. You approach a new relationship with the Texans expecting what - a history? a coach that tells good jokes? a tacky 80s style uni? They don't have any of that. This is a serious franchise that wants to win a Super Bowl and is committed to doing what it takes to get there. In ten or less years when they are in the SB, you'll start to claim them I guess. Until then, enjoy your Sunday's.

More power to the Texans (and the fans that are willing to join on) and F the Oilers!

[moligity]

Originally posted by SamFisher
But I know for a fact that it's not because I care more about halftime shows. Give me a freaking break.

You're right, I'm sure you're a die-hard and knowledgable fan of the game. I don't think anyone watches for William Hung, but you did seem to base part of your take on Caper's personality and the team colors.

I could see how, if you don't live in Houston, it would be hard to get into the Texans. There's nothing wrong with that, not everyone has to like them. If you're a Titans fan, cool. But the Texans play tough, always as the underdog, and they still make things interesting. There is nothing uninteresting or boring about their play. (although Palmer is kind of conservative due to the lack of depth on offense).

I was also a big Oilers fan, but they left. Bye. Most of the players that were on the Oliers are now gone -- save McNair (who I love but never actually played in the Dome) and George. We now have the Texans in town in the best football stadium in the world, and we see a young team ready to emerge as a true Super Bowl threat in a couple of years.

If you're "not into them." That's cool, it doesn't really matter.

[codell]

Sam,

Have you ever tried to start a wave at a football game??

[Lil Francis]

Im going to see the Raiders, Jags and Vikes. I can't wait to see Woodson and Andre go head to head.

[moligity]

Originally posted by caphorns
I really am annoyed with people who are so mired in nostalgia they feel they need to whine about the present. Why not watch and follow the team? It really helps. Don't just look to one superstar or hope the coach to inspire you or make you laugh. Follow what they are doing. Learn a bit about how they are building the team. . . .

Right on, couldn't have said it better. Although I could see how some fans value tradition. The Texans can't instantly create that, it will take time, but it's good to be part of it from the start.

[moligity]

Originally posted by Lil Francis
Im going to see the Raiders, Jags and Vikes.

Those are great games, I got Jags and Vikes tickets. Do you think Woodsen still has the wheels to cover Johnson by himself? I not so sure, but the Raiders do have an improved D-line.

[Raven Lunatic]

What does it mean for a team to be too corporate?

[mateo]

I can see what SamFisher is saying....our coaching staff just isnt exciting enough. If Dom Capers would change his name to Masta Dom C and carry an oversize mic instead of wearing headphones....that would get me even more excited about the Texans.

Carr - Coach, I know that 1st and 10 running play was a loss, so I am thinking I should pass it to Andre!!!!

Masta Dom C- WHAAAAAAT?

Carr - Coach, on 2nd down, I would like to go deep to Andre.

Masta Dom C - WHAAAAAT?

Carr- Uh, Coach, uh....can I pass the pass to AJ?

Masta Dom C - OOOOOKAAAAAAAAAAY!!!!

Oh man, I am excited already!!!!

And the colors...we need more shine. Silver, gold, and maybe some platinum.

We should resign the unis completely. What we need is PINSTRIPES. Oh yeah, and RETRO. And maybe a new fuzzy mascot.

[mrpaige]

Originally posted by pgabriel
I understand where you are coming from. Like I wrote earlier, the team is just seems too corporate, and its boring. The Oilers had a distinctiveness about them. From the Columbia Blue colors, to the coaches. And the Oilers just seemed like they were from Houston, instead of just some other NFL team.

Pro sports has become so much more corporate in the past ten years, and I would venture to say that Houston has become more corporate since the "glory days" of the Oilers. Houston of the 1970s was a far different kind of place than it is today. There were a lot of bigger-than-life characters in all aspects of Houston society at that time. Those sorts of people are far less prevalent everywhere today.

What does it mean for a team to be too corporate?

I take it to mean a team that seems to be molded more by MBAs and marketing wizards than just the personalities of the owners, coaches and players.

One example of this for me, was when, instead of just picking a name that meant something to him like Bud did back in the day, McNair went through focus groups and all of that to determine the name, and ended up with something that was fairly bland, unoriginal but the least objectionable of any choice. The fly-by-the-seat-of-the-pants philosophy that seemed to be the way things were done for a large portion of the Oilers history was gone and replaced by MBAs doing marketing research.

That sort of feeling pervades all of professional sports these days (and other industries, too). Where it becomes more about selling an entertainment brand than playing a game. I don't think the Texans are alone in this regard (and, as a matter of fact, I don't think it'd be all that different if we still had the Oilers. We just don't have the long-ago less-corporate time of the Texans to remember).

The Texans are a product and a brand more than a football team, as are pretty much every other team in sports these days.

[Deckard]

Originally posted by caphorns
............
You guys reflect much of the attitude of a bandwaggon fan. You approach a new relationship with the Texans expecting what - a history? a coach that tells good jokes? a tacky 80s style uni? They don't have any of that. This is a serious franchise that wants to win a Super Bowl and is committed to doing what it takes to get there. In ten or less years when they are in the SB, you'll start to claim them I guess. Until then, enjoy your Sunday's.

More power to the Texans (and the fans that are willing to join on) and F the Oilers!
What crap. I was 10 years old in 1961. I was a rabid fan of the Oilers up until the point that they left Houston. I suffered through the bad times with them and the good times. Because you had to suffer through the good times as well, at least with the Oilers.

I'm not a "bandwagon fan." I'm the opposite. And I'm not some kid, like a lot of you here. And I'm not obsessed with notalgia for the Oilers. What bothers me, and you obviously don't get it, is that I don't feel the passion for the Texans that I felt for the Columbia Blue. I'll repeat that... it bothers me. I'm also a rabid fan of the Rockets, which should be clear to the meanest understanding by the amount time I spend at this site. If they had left, which was very possible a few years ago, I suspect I would have the same problem with any team that eventually replaced them.

If you people can't relate to any of that, tough. It's a pity.

[caphorns]

I said you reflect the attitude of a bandwaggon fan. You might not like it, but to expect to feel the same about the Texans after two years as you did about the Oilers after 20 plus years is absurd. You're waiting for stuff to happen and will jump on the bandwaggon when it does. In this case, that would be how a bandwaggon fan acts. Personally, I love NFL football, I love that Houston has a team and I especially love that a class act like McNair is running the show. What's not to like about this?

And don't act so sanctimonious when you and others come on here to throw negative vibes out there about a fantastic young team. You should expect to take crap for it. Give the Texans a chance and don't bemoan the little stuff. Your grieving about the Oilers should be over by now. If not, I suggest a therapist, not a sports fans board.

[Deckard]

Originally posted by caphorns
I said you reflect the attitude of a bandwaggon fan. You might not like it, but to expect to feel the same about the Texans after two years as you did about the Oilers after 20 plus years is absurd. You're waiting for stuff to happen and will jump on the bandwaggon when it does. In this case, that would be how a bandwaggon fan acts. Personally, I love NFL football, I love that Houston has a team and I especially love that a class act like McNair is running the show. What's not to like about this?

And don't act so sanctimonious when you and others come on here to throw negative vibes out there about a fantastic young team. You should expect to take crap for it. Give the Texans a chance and don't bemoan the little stuff. Your grieving about the Oilers should be over by now. If not, I suggest a therapist, not a sports fans board.
Bandwagon is spelled with one g, chump. You have reading comprehension somewhere below that of my 13 year old son. And I'm not going to repeat myself, because you're not worth it.

"Negative vibes?" "Sanctimonious?" And, the kicker, "Your grieving about the Oilers should be over by now. If not, I suggest a therapist, not a sports fans board." What a laugh!

You don't get it and you obviously never will. It's not about the Oilers.

[caphorns]

I actually thought my last statement was a little over the line, so that's fair. But to say your thread was not about the Oilers when right off the bat you let us know that you don't feel the same way about the Texans as how passionate you felt about the OILERS. It's in your thread.

Regardless, I am certain that when the Texans find their way to the playoffs, you'll buy your gear and join in. Then maybe you can find the passion for NFL that you once had. Fine and fair. Other people on this tread, however, have tried to pin the blame on how the Texans have built the team - whining about how the coach talks to the media. That's the kind of thing that reminds me why Houston is accused of having such bad (and I mean horrible) sports fans.

[Lil Francis]

Originally posted by moligity
Those are great games, I got Jags and Vikes tickets. Do you think Woodsen still has the wheels to cover Johnson by himself? I not so sure, but the Raiders do have an improved D-line. Yeah I still think Woodson is the best CB in the league and it should be fun to watch him cover Andre. The first game of the season (vs Chargers) should be the Texans first blowout game. If Rivers is starting they should blitz him every play like they did David when they went to SD a couple of seasons ago.

[Lil Francis]

Originally posted by MadMax
how much of all of this is attributable to age, i wonder.

doesn't it take far more to capture your imagination today than it did when you were 10 years old? Wuz up buddy!!! Man you have been quiet the last couple of days. See Giles went 2-4 last night with a couple of RBIs. Guess who is in first place:eek: :D

[MadMax]

Originally posted by Lil Francis
Wuz up buddy!!! Man you have been quiet the last couple of days. See Giles went 2-4 last night with a couple of RBIs. Guess who is in first place:eek: :D

what's today's date, Lil Francis?

where do you get that i'm quiet!!! you post here next to never!!! i've got like 3 million posts.

[pgabriel]

Originally posted by mrpaige

The Texans are a product and a brand more than a football team, as are pretty much every other team in sports these days.


Thanks, that's exactly what I meant. I was going to write that they are more concerned about selling an image than just football. But your post was more accurate.

But to be fair, I haven't had any problems with actual football moves, and I think the team will be successful.

[moligity]

Deckard

I think you're right, you are not a bandwagon fan. However, you are looking towards the Texans for 30 years of Oilers history and the passion you felt. You can't replace that.

You don't have to be a Texans fan. If you don't like the name, fine. The coach is boring, fine. But that has more to do with you personally than any deficiencies in the Texans organization. You can still be a Titans fan -- That's a cool name, isn't it? Sure is.

I think some people are offended that the Texans get the attention in Houston, and the Oilers, err, Titans are now Tennessee's team. Hate on Bud (not Bum), not the Texans.

It still blows my mind when people complain after McNair brings an NFL team back to Houston.

[Lil Francis]

Originally posted by MadMax
what's today's date, Lil Francis?

where do you get that i'm quiet!!! you post here next to never!!! i've got like 3 million posts. HEHEHE! I know today's date and I also know who is in first place:p Never bet against the Braves.

[caphorns]

Originally posted by moligity
Hate on Bum, not the Texans.

Did you mean Bud (I hope). Cause I don't know a soul that can hate on Bum (or his Blue Ribbon sausage).

[MadMax]

Originally posted by Lil Francis
HEHEHE! I know today's date and I also know who is in first place:p Never bet against the Braves.

Championships aren't won in July. Talk to me in September.

[Lil Francis]

Originally posted by caphorns
Did you mean Bud (I hope). Cause I don't know a soul that can hate on Bum (or his Blue Ribbon sausage). Earl Campbell sausage is pretty good also.

[moligity]

Originally posted by caphorns
Did you mean Bud (I hope). Cause I don't know a soul that can hate on Bum (or his Blue Ribbon sausage).

Oh Crap, my mistake -- I meant Bud; there's nothing wrong with Bum or his sausage.

Thanks for the heads up.

[Deckard]

Originally posted by moligity
Deckard

I think you're right, you are not a bandwagon fan. However, you are looking towards the Texans for 30 years of Oilers history and the passion you felt. You can't replace that.

You don't have to be a Texans fan. If you don't like the name, fine. The coach is boring, fine. But that has more to do with you personally than any deficiencies in the Texans organization. You can still be a Titans fan -- That's a cool name, isn't it? Sure is.

I think some people are offended that the Texans get the attention in Houston, and the Oilers, err, Titans are now Tennessee's team. Hate on Bud (not Bum), not the Texans.

It still blows my mind when people complain after McNair brings an NFL team back to Houston.
Hmm. Didn't mention the coaching staff or anything about the Texans being boring. I just don't like the name.

I could care less about the Titans now, unless they get to the Superbowl. Then I'd like to see Fisher coach a winner.

I'm not the least bit offended about any attention the Texans get... the more they get, the better I like it. I just don't feel that passion I had for the Oilers. I don't know why that's confusing. I miss it. It's what I fully expected to feel for the Texans. It's probably from not seeing a game at Reliant. I have lived in Austin for over 20 years, so I have to go to some trouble to see a game.

Who has hated on the Texans? Where do you get this stuff? So, it's not OK to say anything that might be construed as criticism? I've got to spell it out?

Anybody have trouble getting into the Texans?

Simple question. My answer is yes. By my standards, my personal standards, as a fan of every Houston pro team, and the U. of H., then yes, I'm having trouble getting into them. It has nothing to do with who's coaching the team and how they are doing, and it sure as hell has nothing to do with McNair, who saved the city from being a desert when it comes to the NFL. I've followed Houston sports teams for over 40 years. Why on earth would I not admire McNair? I've seen the other owners in action.

I'll say it again... why is that confusing?

[caphorns]

Deckard - I moved back to Houston from Austin 2 years ago. As a result, I found I got into the Texans because I know about them by reading the Chronicle every day and seeing reports about them on the news. You don't get this coverage in Austin, so I guess it's understandable why you might not get into the team. I think you would feel differently if you lived here. Despite your statements about the name (or others about the coach) I imagine that lack of information would be one solid reason you would not be INTO the Texans. Because, as others have said, the team, and the manner it plays, is very compelling.

[Deckard]

Originally posted by caphorns
Deckard - I moved back to Houston from Austin 2 years ago. As a result, I found I got into the Texans because I know about them by reading the Chronicle every day and seeing reports about them on the news. You don't get this coverage in Austin, so I guess it's understandable why you might not get into the team. I think you would feel differently if you lived here. Despite your statements about the name (or others about the coach) I imagine that lack of information would be one solid reason you would not be INTO the Texans. Because, as others have said, the team, and the manner it plays, is very compelling.
Nice post, and so was your last one. Thanks, I'll try to see a game. :)

[moligity]

Hope you can make a game, or not. Whatever

[moestavern19]

Originally posted by moligity
Do you think Woodsen still has the wheels to cover Johnson by himself?

hehehehehehehe. You are referencing the guy who put Randy Moss on lock last season. I think he can stay with Andre Johnson. C-Wood is going to sign his new fat extension and get ready to put the clamps down all season long. Raiders - Texans should be a good game, I don't expect the Raiders to win, but it should be good anyway.

[SmeggySmeg]

the texans as a team name still really irks me... the Houston Texans... of course a team from Houston is a Texan... it's sort like the professional sports player talking in the third person......

i used to love the Oilers..... maybe in the drunken haze i have realised they somehow led me to the rockets.. but damn i followed Moon to Minnesota and that stuck.... Go Vikes and uck the boring Houston Houstonians!!!!!!!

[MR. MEOWGI]

I miss the old Astros, old Oilers, and old Rockets.

The Oilers ROCKED! I still don't like the name Texans. I wish they would of gone with the name Apollos and kept a space theme going while using the Oilers colors.

The new Astros uniforms are lame. It just screams Academy outdoors sportswear. The whole Killer B's era sucks and bores the crap out of me. Astros used to have soul...

Don't even talk to me about the Rockets uniform changes. T-Mac is making them look better though. :D

[M&M]

Sounds similar to the problem some have with the newer Star Wars movies after growing up with the first three. Maybe it is just that your are no longer a child. And that you, as a child, were let down so much by the Oilers that you are afraid to let yourself be moved into a relationship that may also let you down. Furthermore, adults are more skeptical of change than children. Of course, you are named (on here) after a video game character right? Go see a game live. You will catch the fever. By the way, the Oilers were taken away by their greedy owner. So why hold on so long?

[mrpaige]

Originally posted by M&M
Sounds similar to the problem some have with the newer Star Wars movies after growing up with the first three. Maybe it is just that your are no longer a child.

And the prequels really aren't very good movies. My kids didn't care for the Star Wars prequels. They've seen the originals on tape and like the first two quite a bit (Return of the Jedi not so much).

And I didn't really get into NFL football until I was an adult. Sports is so often something passed from father to son, and my father didn't like sports and never watched it. I didn't, either. It was only when I went off to college and started watching the Red Raiders that I started getting in to sports.

So, I wasn't around for the Luv Ya Blue era. I didn't see Earl or Bum or Pastorini. Even Warren Moon was well established by the time I started watching. I've read the history, but I didn't experience it personally.

I'm not holding on to the Oilers, but their disappearance did get me out of football because it left me without a team. It takes time to get back into it after completely laying off for several years (and, like I said, I don't get to see most of the games since they aren't on TV here in D/FW. I think it would help me get into 'em better if I had DirecTV again).

But I do think it is harder for me to get into sports in general these days because it has become so corporate overall.

[MR. MEOWGI]

Originally posted by mrpaige
And the prequels really aren't very good movies.

You are an idoit.

[mrpaige]

Originally posted by MR. MEOWGI
You are an idoit.

They aren't.

They aren't terrible or even bad really, but they aren't good movies, either. They're typical chinese food movies like a lot of what comes out these days (and really, in any day. The budgets and the hype are simply bigger these days).

[MR. MEOWGI]

Originally posted by mrpaige
They aren't.

They aren't terrible or even bad really, but they aren't good movies, either. They're typical chinese food movies like a lot of what comes out these days (and really, in any day. The budgets and the hype are simply bigger these days).

You're right. I'm the freakin' idiot. For some reason I thought you were talking about the original trilogy. :o

It's not the effects that make the prequels bad, it's mostly the characters and some of the story, and Lucas pandering to 5 year olds instead of adults, but I guess that is for a different thread.

Sounds similar to the problem some have with the newer Star Wars movies after growing up with the first three. Maybe it is just that your are no longer a child. And that you, as a child, were let down so much by the Oilers that you are afraid to let yourself be moved into a relationship that may also let you down. Furthermore, adults are more skeptical of change than children. Of course, you are named (on here) after a video game character right? Go see a game live. You will catch the fever. By the way, the Oilers were taken away by their greedy owner. So why hold on so long?

What is wrong wanting to hold on to something that is good? Change is good when it is for the better. The Oilers were more than a childhood memory, they were a friend. Then they take away your friend, and later someone comes along and says "this is your friend now."

I liked my old friend better, for many reasons.

[Deckard]

It's nice to see Sam and I aren't the only ones here who are having a hard time getting into the Texans, or dislike the name. I was beginning to wonder!

I really liked this analogy...

What is wrong wanting to hold on to something that is good? Change is good when it is for the better. The Oilers were more than a childhood memory, they were a friend. Then they take away your friend, and later someone comes along and says "this is your friend now."
...........posted by MR. MEOWGI



It can take awhile to make new, close friends. The ones you really care about.

[nWo34Life]

Did anyone catch the ending of the Oilers and the beginning of the Titans on the NFL Network this morning? Man, it sucked to see them leave. But I'm grateful that the Texans are in Houston and we have someone to root for now. Bud Adams (not the Titans) is a traitor in this town and he will never be forgotten. :mad:

[MadMax]

Originally posted by SmeggySmeg
the texans as a team name still really irks me... the Houston Texans... of course a team from Houston is a Texan... it's sort like the professional sports player talking in the third person......


you mean like a montreal canadien??

or a new york yankee??

texan means more than just a person from texas

[Hmm]

Originally posted by MadMax
texan means more than just a person from texas

Remember the alamo? :p

[SamFisher]

Originally posted by MadMax
you mean like a montreal canadien??

or a new york yankee??

texan means more than just a person from texas

I have to agree with smeg on this one. I did not like the name choice much at all, as does most everybody I've talked to who is not from Texas.

New York Yankee is better than New York New Yorker. The Habs do have dumb name, but it's too old to change.

[Rocket Fan]

Very pumped for the Texans... I'm only 21 though and still was farely young when Oilers left so I was never really into the oilers that much so that probably helps.

I dont know if it woudl be harder to get into the texans or not if i had been a huge oilers fan

[Mr. Clutch]

I'm late to this, but no I haven't had any trouble getting into them. I have been to like 6 Texas games, and the intensity and fun at those games is so much higher than a normal Astros and Rockets games. (Though I hope that changes).

Did anyone have trouble getting into football in general when the Oilers left? I hardly even bothered watching. I guess I need a hometown team to cheer for.

[thegary]

i've been in new york for 10 years and can't get into any of the teams here. when the oilers split to nashville, i followed the titans, when the texans started up, bye-bye titans. i grew up with houston teams and will always root for them. it's not even a conscious decision, it's in the blood.

[MadMax]

Originally posted by Mr. Clutch
I'm late to this, but no I haven't had any trouble getting into them. I have been to like 6 Texas games, and the intensity and fun at those games is so much higher than a normal Astros and Rockets games. (Though I hope that changes).

Did anyone have trouble getting into football in general when the Oilers left? I hardly even bothered watching. I guess I need a hometown team to cheer for.

this is me, exactly. i stopped watching the NFL for the most part after the Oilers left. lost all interest, save a few playoff games. that was really weird.

with the announcement of expansion, i got more interested...starting watching a bit more. and then when the texans hit the field, i was sold. i mean, geez...to win your first game against the in-state Cowboys the way they did...with a crowd that loud...to open up your very first season every with a bomb to bradford, followed by a diving TD...i mean, that's as magical as it gets in professional sports. i was hooked. they've only hooked me more with the way they've played UP to the level of their competition the past 2 seasons, with little expectation.

[IROC it]

I'm a Houston fan.

Take my team out of Houston, lose me as a fan.

I like some of the individuals we lost with the change, but not the Tennesee Possums.

I thought it was poetic justice to see them come 1 yard short in that Superbowl vs. the Rams.

Very, very pleased with the ownership down to the players of the HOUSTON Texans.

And about the name... Just where could the Texans end up moving to in Texas that could support them?

They're here for ever.

Go Texans!

btw- I used to have a shrine to the Oilers in my room.... even larger than the Rockets until about '93 (I realized I could support a real winner)... I was also however a bigger Moon supprter by then and followed him to Minnesota, then Seattle... then lost track, but by then the Oilers had flown the coop. Buncha chickens. Bud Adams is no "Bud" to Houstonians, so the fan loyalty to his franchise blows me away.

BUt I'll always root for Houston 1st, and anyone who's playing against the Cowboys 2nd... :p

[MadMax]

Originally posted by IROC it
I'm a Houston fan.

Take my team out of Houston, lose me as a fan.

I like some of the individuals we lost with the change, but not the Tennesee Possums.

I thought it was poetic justice to see them come 1 yard short in that Superbowl vs. the Rams.

Very, very pleased with the ownership down to the players of the HOUSTON Texans.

And about the name... Just where could the Texans end up moving to in Texas that could support them?

They're here for ever.

Go Texans!

btw- I used to have a shrine to the Oilers in my room.... even larger than the Rockets until about '93 (I realized I could support a real winner)... I was also however a bigger Moon supprter by then and followed him to Minnesota, then Seattle... then lost track, but by then the Oilers had flown the coop. Buncha chickens. Bud Adams is no "Bud" to Houstonians, so the fan loyalty to his franchise blows me away.

BUt I'll always root for Houston 1st, and anyone who's playing against the Cowboys 2nd... :p

have i told you lately, that i love you? :D

[TheFreak]

I've been to a few games, and a lot of it just seems so fake to me. People are just booming with artificial excitement for this team they barely know. Seriously, it's like life and death to some of the people there (at least that's how it seems), and the team didn't even exist a year or two prior to that game. I guess I just can't work up that kind of fervor that quickly.