No, they don't. Not really close, actually. And I'm guessing you maybe weren't wholly serious and said it to make a larger point about perceptions and expectations and looking at everything on paper, etc., which I don't necessarily disagree with... But comments like this, imo, take for granted what the Texans actually *do* have: * a Pro Bowl QB * a Pro Bowl RB (who rushed for more yards, btw, than the entire Lion team last year) * a Pro Bowl WR * a Pro Bowl TE * a Pro Bowl DE * 2 Pro Bowl LBs And all, IIRC, under 30. There aren't a lot of teams in football that can't boast that strong a nucelus. I have no idea if this staff and these players can make it happen, and everyone's frustration and impatience is 100% justified - but there *is* a lot here to build around. Super Bowl contenders? That's obviously a stretch - but that core listed above is a strong enough nucelus to expect postseason action.
Fixed Well Schaub and AJ will both be 30 by this time next month and many players are never the same after season-ending injuries like OD and DeMeco have had. Also, AJ and Mario's injuries scare me, as they are the kind that tend to linger around forever. Not trying to play the grim reaper here, just saying we're not exactly the youthful, sky is the limit, exuberant team full of potential we were several years ago. I know, I know.... Spoiler
The Lions are where the Texans were in 2007. Lots of budding talent and hope, but let's see if they can put it all together. I wouldn't be surprised to see them jump up to 9 or 10 wins if the stars align.
You should have stopped right there. But if you want to get serious about this... The Lions, in terms of overall performance last year, were similar to the Texans. Same record. And the disparity between our offense and theirs was about the same as the disparity between their defense and ours. (about 12-13 places higher, depending on what stats you use) I guess you could say that isn't damning the Texans, as much as it is praising the Lions. They don't have the on paper sex appeal the Texans do, but for some reason, they fair just as well. But neither team is in sniffing range of a Superbowl next year, that's the main point.
The Lions have a blossoming young QB, a top 3 WR, arguably the best DT in the league already in Suh, and just had by all accounts a solid draft (depending on how Fairley pans out). They have the pieces too, just younger pieces.
They're the 2007 Texans of the NFC. People will be picking them as sleepers for the next 3-4 years, while they flounder at .500
I would disagree when factoring in expectations. The Lions' 6-10 season was considered a success and step in the right direction. The Texans'... not so much. If they both live up to their potential this year, the Texans will be in the playoffs and the Lions will be in the 7-to-9 win range, several steps behind Green Bay in their division and likely trailing better teams in the WC chase. I think the Texans of '07 comparison is apt. Of course.
I think you broke more than fixed. AJ played for 10 weeks on the ankle and went to the Pro Bowl. Minor surgery and a (longer) offseason should take care of that. Daniels' season-ending injury was two years ago, not last year. True about Mario but Demeco is reportedly ahead of schedule on his rehab and, again - they all are getting an extended rest with the lockout. Demeco and Mario's position switch (which could be temporary anyway, depending how it goes) are the only concerns, IMO. Oh, I'd disagree. Add this year's rookie class to the mix - by all accounts a good one - and I think the team has a very nice young core. Two guys just now hitting 30? It might not be limitless potential - the clock is certainly ticking - but this group can play together for 3-5 more years at pretty close to maximum potnetial.
Idk why you some of you guys are even Texans fans. I know I wouldn't watch or care if I had zero faith of getting into the playoffs.
Because they are from Houston. At least, that's the case for me. Obviously everyone doesn't (nor should they) feel that way. But for me, it's Astros (first and foremost), Texans, Rox, 1836 (I mean "Dynamo"), Coogs, Owls, Aeros, HBU, and even the area high schools. All Houston, all the time, baby.
They have a revolving door at quarterback. Stafford can't stay healthy, he's played in 13 games over the past 2 years
Stafford is good when he plays, he just has to stay on the field. Much like Schaub in his first two years with Houston.
