Houston Texans In-season Thread (1 Viewer)

[Raider Nation]

Play the game of your life tomorrow, Houston! Get Arian going... keep pretty boy off the field... limit penalties.Then you get the Ravens at home to go to The Show!

 

[Sonny Lubick Blowup Doll]

I had a feeling this would happen. Schaub normally goes soft under the bright lights and the secondary has been horrendous lately. The Texans need to find a way to control elite QBs and even Chris Weinke types if they want to make a run in the playoffs.

The Texans could also use better coaching. He's good enough to keep his job (with all that talent), but not good enough to go all the way, I'm convinced.

I tend to agree. Kubiak tends to rest on his laurels so I'm glad they had this wake-up call now. With all that talent there is no reason this team should get skunked by GB and NE. I think NFL coaches have figured out the blueprint to stop the Texans so I hope they make some adjustments before it's too late.

I think coaches like Kubiak are worse than ####ty coaches because they stay around a lot longer. Like your Norvs and Martys. All game long last night, I kept noticing poor decisions by Kubiak. That's nothing new and if I recall correctly, it's worse in big games. He's kind of a choker.What's funny is I'm a Broncos fan and I fear we have a similar problem in Fox. Too conservative, I know that much already. The only thing that might save the Broncos from his style is, thankfully, Manning...for now anyway.

Well, it happened.

 

[GregR]

Play the game of your life tomorrow, Houston! Get Arian going... keep pretty boy off the field... limit penalties.Then you get the Ravens at home to go to The Show!

Thanks man. From your lips to God's ear.

 

[GregR]

I had a feeling this would happen. Schaub normally goes soft under the bright lights and the secondary has been horrendous lately. The Texans need to find a way to control elite QBs and even Chris Weinke types if they want to make a run in the playoffs.

The Texans could also use better coaching. He's good enough to keep his job (with all that talent), but not good enough to go all the way, I'm convinced.

I tend to agree. Kubiak tends to rest on his laurels so I'm glad they had this wake-up call now. With all that talent there is no reason this team should get skunked by GB and NE. I think NFL coaches have figured out the blueprint to stop the Texans so I hope they make some adjustments before it's too late.

I think coaches like Kubiak are worse than ####ty coaches because they stay around a lot longer. Like your Norvs and Martys. All game long last night, I kept noticing poor decisions by Kubiak. That's nothing new and if I recall correctly, it's worse in big games. He's kind of a choker.What's funny is I'm a Broncos fan and I fear we have a similar problem in Fox. Too conservative, I know that much already. The only thing that might save the Broncos from his style is, thankfully, Manning...for now anyway.

Well, it happened.

Yeah, sorry to see that for you guys. I had to cheer for the Ravens just in case Houston wins so we'll get another home playoff game, but other than that would have rather seen the Broncos win.

 

[Raider Nation]

Play the game of your life tomorrow, Houston! Get Arian going... keep pretty boy off the field... limit penalties.Then you get the Ravens at home to go to The Show!

Thanks man. From your lips to God's ear.

Gonna be hard to sleep tonight, I'll bet. I remember waking up all excited for the Feb/2003 Super Bowl, only to find out that Barrett Robbins was on a coke bender in Mexico.Buzzkill.

 

[Major]

Pretty much what I expected. The Texans harbor no delusions of winning the game, just keeping it respectable. Unfortunately, this seems like Kubiak's philosophy each season

 

[Raider Nation]

Pretty much what I expected. The Texans harbor no delusions of winning the game, just keeping it respectable. Unfortunately, this seems like Kubiak's philosophy each season

Schaub is simply not a big-time QB. That position needs to be addressed.

 

[pizzatyme]

This is the reason I say the Patriots are the rival team for the Colts and not the Texans. Both the Colts and Texans were pretenders this season. Congrats to the Patriots and their fans.

 

[Major]

Pretty much what I expected. The Texans harbor no delusions of winning the game, just keeping it respectable. Unfortunately, this seems like Kubiak's philosophy each season

Schaub is simply not a big-time QB. That position needs to be addressed.

Yep, unfortunately mgmt doesn't feel the same and gave Schaub another ridiculous extension earlier this year (til 2016? ). In Houston, we call him Romo 2.0

 

[coolnerd]

Reports are that D. posey tore his Achille's heel...Awful injury for a skill position player who needs reps.

 

[coolnerd]

Pretty much what I expected. The Texans harbor no delusions of winning the game, just keeping it respectable. Unfortunately, this seems like Kubiak's philosophy each season

Schaub is simply not a big-time QB. That position needs to be addressed.

Yep, unfortunately mgmt doesn't feel the same and gave Schaub another ridiculous extension earlier this year (til 2016? ). In Houston, we call him Romo 2.0

unfortunately, the Texans are like most other teams that have a B level QB, they are stuck. The best chance at winning is trying to fix everything around him to near perfection, but that is nearly impossible to do. None of the 4 or 5 so-called elite dudes are available and if you get another guy around schuab (see river, cutler. romo) you getting same dog different fleas. Sigh...

 

[BRONG]

11-2.

Update?

 

[Kool-Aid Larry]

Pretty much what I expected. The Texans harbor no delusions of winning the game, just keeping it respectable. Unfortunately, this seems like Kubiak's philosophy each season

Schaub is simply not a big-time QB. That position needs to be addressed.

schaub completed 68% and only turned the ball over once (on the pats 37) on 50 throws, as compared with manning's 3 turnovers, which led to 17 points --- and everybody's been manning nonstop.when your team gives up 41 it's kind of hard to rip the qb for that game.I really don't think kubiak wants to be in a position where they have to throw the ball 50x.psand I think that pats/colts rivalry went out the door with manning.

 

[Raider Nation]

Pretty much what I expected. The Texans harbor no delusions of winning the game, just keeping it respectable. Unfortunately, this seems like Kubiak's philosophy each season

Schaub is simply not a big-time QB. That position needs to be addressed.

schaub completed 68% and only turned the ball over once (on the pats 37) on 50 throws, as compared with manning's 3 turnovers, which led to 17 points --- and everybody's been manning nonstop.when your team gives up 41 it's kind of hard to rip the qb for that game.

While your comment is fair, I wasn't only speaking to this game. Schaub has been dreadful for a month.It's even money that I will fall over and have a heart attack if he ever leads a team to the Super Bowl.

 

[Kool-Aid Larry]

well, schaub is locked in, and it could be a lot worse.I don't even know what I'd put at the top of the draft list if I were a hou fan --- maybe if they can get cushing back 100%, but they can't keep getting torched by teams like ne, and gb.I wouldn't overreact -- at least they're competitive in the conference.

 

[TheFly06]

Top 2 priorities have to be ILB and OL. Can't rely on Sharpton to stay healthy, and Bradie James needs to go. I hope Cushing comes back at full strength, but ya never know with these injuries. Derek Newton, Ben jones and Brandon Brooks should all improve next year, but I would still like to upgrade that right side of the O-line. Connor Barwin: gone. Don't want any part of him, even if "the price is right." Outside of the Ravens game, dude was a complete dud. Constantly running by the QB or RB. Getting easily blocked by the LT most plays. Bradie James: gone. Too old and slow. I guess Dallas was right in cutting him. Didn't expect a pro bowl season from the veteran, but he definitely disappointed. I know the cap wouldn't allow it, but in hindsight I wish we kept DeMeco. Shaun Cody & Earl Mitchell: even tho I like them, I don't think they offer much upside. Very average. Wouldn't lose sleep if they are cut. Antonio Smith: too inconsistent for too much $$$. Plus he's always good for a dumb penalty. Too cocky for one Super Bowl run with the Cards. Hopefully Crick improves so he can replace him, but that doesn't instill confidence. Brandon Harris: looking like a wasted 2nd round pick. Unless he has a Kareem-like turn around, he's the opposing QB's whipping boy next year. Kevin Walter: doesn't offer much at this point. Blocking can't help us when we are trailing in big games. Sucks that no young WR have developed under Kubiak. We'll have to keep KW again because of that. Needs to restructure again. I think he'll make 3.5 million next year. Could be wrong about that. Garrett Graham: had an ok season, but too brittle to depend on as the important 2nd TE. Bust of a 4th round pick, IMO. Ben Tate: starting to look like we made a mistake not trading him for Cleveland's 2nd round pick right before the last draft. Good player, but too injury prone and always ends up in Kubiaks dog house. Not a good goal-line back either despite his strong running style. Feel like Forsett was better than Tate this year. Can't trade now. Value sank big time. Special Teams: all you need to do is look at Holliday and Jacoby. I know they sucked ballz in Houston, and releasing them AT THE TIME was 100% the correct move. Now that the dust has settled, it's clear that Joe Marciano should've been fired weeks ago. His unit was a joke. Should give him the the pink slip tomorrow. Sucks, because I hear he's an awesome guy. But it's a business. And his results were terribad. Shayne Graham: should be gone. Better than Kris Brown in his final Texans year, but still not confident in his noodle leg. Gary's Aggie Man Crush, Randy Bullock, better be recovered from his blue groin, because we passed on Greg the Leg to take the A&M kicker. Now we'll basically have to try to make a playoff run with a rookie kicker next year. Great...Need to sign Glover and Casey like, tomorrow. Can't let them get away. Move Casey to TE#2 (even tho he let that easy TD catch and run slip right through his hands today) and bring in a traditional Fullback. And now for the hindsight is 20/20 comment: with Schaub's terrible struggles, I don't feel like the combo of him and Gary can take us to the SB anymore. I used to think so, but after our meltdown to close the season, I don't feel it. And I also don't believe Yates is the answer either. Wouldn't it have been WONDERFUL to use one of our two 3rd round picks from this past draft to take Russell Wilson??? Instead, we take Devier Posey at 68th (torn Achilles' tendon tonight btw) and Brandon Brooks at 76th. Wilson was taken at 75. I know Gary wouldn't let Schaub get beat out like Matt Flynn did, and we would not have got a chance to see the Seahawks awesome year in 2012, and alot of teams are saying "we should've drafted Wilson" after the fact, but MAN can I dream...he would be the perfect solution to our situation at QB right now. An injection of youth, smarts, athleticism, mobility, leadership and moxie. I was one of the final Schaub defenders, but NO more. Guy is the definition of Average. Probably on the level of Jake Plummer. Sorry, rant over. Love my Texans. Would've liked to see foster and watt go further this year. Feels like we wasted a great season from them.

 

[pizzatyme]

I would agree that going forward for the players the Colts/Pats rivalry is diminished now that Manning is gone. It, however, is not diminished for the fans. I guess my point is that until the Texans beat the Colts consistently, I will not view them as that true rivalry. Nice season for the Texans. Unfortunately, it far too reminds me of the Colts over the last several years. Good enough for the regular season. Not good enough for the playoffs.

 

[lod01]

well, schaub is locked in, and it could be a lot worse.I don't even know what I'd put at the top of the draft list if I were a hou fan --- maybe if they can get cushing back 100%, but they can't keep getting torched by teams like ne, and gb.I wouldn't overreact -- at least they're competitive in the conference.

I always shake my head when people call for replacing a QB of Schaub's abilities. It's like they think you can just trade for one or draft an Andrew Luck every year. The homers are the worst of them all. ARI, BUF, JAX, CLE, TEN, TB, PHI, KC would all trade a 1st rounder to HOU for Schaub in a heartbeat, then HOU would look like ARI although Yates may be competant.

 

[FF Ninja]

well, schaub is locked in, and it could be a lot worse.

I don't even know what I'd put at the top of the draft list if I were a hou fan --- maybe if they can get cushing back 100%, but they can't keep getting torched by teams like ne, and gb.

I wouldn't overreact -- at least they're competitive in the conference.

I always shake my head when people call for replacing a QB of Schaub's abilities. It's like they think you can just trade for one or draft an Andrew Luck every year. The homers are the worst of them all. ARI, BUF, JAX, CLE, TEN, TB, PHI, KC would all trade a 1st rounder to HOU for Schaub in a heartbeat, then HOU would look like ARI although Yates may be competant.

I agree on some level, but you are talking about two separate things. What I think people are saying is that you aren't going to win a championship with him unless you compile the 2000 Baltimore defense. So by saying he needs to be replaced, I don't think they are implying it will be easy to do. No one is assuming they can draft Andrew Luck or sign a free agent.That being said, nobody is trading a first rounder for Schaub.

 

[The Comedian]

Watching the game, had a conversation about how many QBs in the league I'd want Schaub ahead of. I went into the conversation expecting him to be around 16, I was surprised when I counted out that he was more like around 19th-20th. He's probably around average I guess. I thought he was pretty bad last night.

 

[FF Ninja]

Pretty much what I expected. The Texans harbor no delusions of winning the game, just keeping it respectable. Unfortunately, this seems like Kubiak's philosophy each season

Schaub is simply not a big-time QB. That position needs to be addressed.

Does anyone remember this one play? I think it was this at this time: 3rd Quarter 3rd-5, HOU25 10:02 M. Schaub incomplete pass to the rightI've always thought Schaub went down for the sack the easiest of any QB. I remember seeing him crumble without being touched against Baltimore last year in the regular season, but to his credit he did rally the team and take it to overtime only to immediately throw a pick 6.

But that play yesterday just confirmed to me that he's a total %^&*@! now who can't handle pressure (physical D-line pressure, not mental). He was getting pressured, ran to his right, and actually escaped a diving lunge by a defensive lineman. He was totally free with at least 15 yards to the sideline to either run for the first down (haha) or keep rolling out and try to make a play. But what does he do? He immediately throws the ball away despite no imminent pressure. F***ing p****. WHY?! I can maybe understand if you are at the 35 yard line and you don't want to take a sack to push your team out of FG position, but seriously, there wasn't any pressure anymore. That play was just sickening. The announcers were baffled as well. I guess the guy has just been injured too many times and he's gun shy. An unfortunate circumstance, but also a problem. We can't dig ourselves out of holes if our QB folds every time he feels the slightest bit of pressure.

Someone else mentioned he only had 1 turnover on 50 attempts (kool-aid, I think). That means nothing because he's constantly throwing the ball 4 yards on 3rd-7. So of course no one is picking him off. He got a ton of garbage yards and still only had 6.7 ypa last night. He plays scared. So does our coach. The only way we were going to win last night is if we got aggressive and we didn't even come close to aggressive. That was a pitiful, tentative effort. I blame Kubiak at least as much as I blame Schaub.

 

[TheFly06]

Schaub on local radio right now:Opens with coach speak, gives credit to New England. Says the opening big return by Manning threw off their opening "script" of 15 plays. Contributed to messing up in the red zone. On fans losing confidence in him the last 6 weeks: doesn't know what to say to those fans. Says team lays it all on the line week in and week out. More coach speak -_-On lack of no huddle late in the game: team still wanted to use their multiple formations. A two minute offense with 10 minutes left would've forced them to stay in a single formation. On INT to Ninkovich: saw him and tried to get it over him, says it was just a great play by the defender. Nothing really to take away from the interview. Schaub, he seems like a great guy. But it's the same thing week in and week out, year after year from him and Kubiak. "We need to go back to work. We have things we need to correct. This team is always battling. We played a team that just made more plays today. We're gonna build on this." I know they're not gonna throw themselves under the bus or trash teammates or coaches, but WHEN will these problems be fixed?? WHEN will the "battling" pay off? It's always red zone problems. It's always a short pass, short of the sticks. It's always a draw play on 3rd and long. Same problems, different years. I always defended Gary and Matt. But, I don't think I can anymore. The window might be closed before it really opened. Luck is already a special QB, and the texans still can't win in Indy. Just wait until the Colts get some more good players. I think they made some great chicken salad with chicken slop this year. Plus, Texans have 49ers, Seahawks, Rams, Patriots, Broncos and Ravens in 2013. I wouldn't feel confident in any of those games next year. I see a regression in record next year. It'll be a battle just to win the division vs Indy. I don't see the Texans getting a 1st round bye next year either. Schaub finished the interview saying that the most important thing the team needs to improve on for next year is being more consistent for next year. When? WHEN will Houston have a consistent team?! Geez. More of the same.

 

[dhockster]

I would agree that going forward for the players the Colts/Pats rivalry is diminished now that Manning is gone. It, however, is not diminished for the fans. I guess my point is that until the Texans beat the Colts consistently, I will not view them as that true rivalry. Nice season for the Texans. Unfortunately, it far too reminds me of the Colts over the last several years. Good enough for the regular season. Not good enough for the playoffs.

Fair assessment. I had some questions answered yesterday. My overall takeaway is the Texans as an organization are currently constructed to be a good, but not great team. I do not see that changing under the current braintrust of McNair/Kubiak/Phillips/Schaub. The signing of Schaub to a long-term deal in the off-season significantly hamstrings the Texans ability to get to the next level in the next couple of years. It was a really good season, but disappointing that the Texans blew their chance to get home-field advantage with losses to the Vikings and Colts. In hindsight, the Texans probably would have lost at home to either the Ravens or the Patriots, but they definitely locked in their fate by blowing those last two regular season games.I will have more analysis on the team when I have more time to write.

 

[Lobary]

Does anyone remember this one play? I think it was this at this time: 3rd Quarter 3rd-5, HOU25 10:02 M. Schaub incomplete pass to the right

I've always thought Schaub went down for the sack the easiest of any QB. I remember seeing him crumble without being touched against Baltimore last year in the regular season, but to his credit he did rally the team and take it to overtime only to immediately throw a pick 6.

But that play yesterday just confirmed to me that he's a total %^&*@! now who can't handle pressure (physical D-line pressure, not mental). He was getting pressured, ran to his right, and actually escaped a diving lunge by a defensive lineman. He was totally free with at least 15 yards to the sideline to either run for the first down (haha) or keep rolling out and try to make a play. But what does he do? He immediately throws the ball away despite no imminent pressure. F***ing p****. WHY?! I can maybe understand if you are at the 35 yard line and you don't want to take a sack to push your team out of FG position, but seriously, there wasn't any pressure anymore. That play was just sickening. The announcers were baffled as well.

I've heard this one referenced numerous times by those critical of Schaub's play yesterday and it's just misplaced criticism. Schaub had a very average day at best in compiling decent stats and a respectable 90 passer rating, but he was at his worst when circumstances dictate he play his best, and it likely cost his team a chance to advance to the AFC title game. However, that third down play was not on Schaub but on the right side of the offensive line. The loud criticism I've read about him not running for the open field just shows how susceptible the average viewer is to the knee-jerk responses from the TV booth. If you go back and watch that replay you'll see that Schaub was under heavy pressure from Justin Francis, and by the time he eluded him and escaped the pocket to his right he was almost a full ten yards behind the line of scrimmage. Francis was in pursuit and Vince Wilfork was giving chase across the field at least five yards up the field of Schaub. Had Schaub tucked it and ran he would've needed fifteen yards to get the first down from that point, and Matt Schaub doesn't get fifteen yards with his feet. Even if he'd eluded Wilfork and beat him past the original LOS, he was not in position to beat the LB covering Owen Daniels downfield. That backer would've beaten Schaub to the first down marker and probably had a free shot on him. He took the only play available but made a poor throw. If he were a more athletic guy with some foot speed he could've avoided the rush a little longer and bought time for his TE to break free, but that's not who Matt Schaub is. I blame the protection on that one.

ETA: I do blame Schaub for not simply resetting on that one outside the pocket and throwing it to his open receiver (Walter?) downfield. He lost his composure on that play and opted to throw the ball away rather than risk a negative play. But there's no way he gets the first down with his feet.

 

[Lobary]

Schaub on local radio right now:On INT to Ninkovich: saw him and tried to get it over him, says it was just a great play by the defender.

Did he say anything about seeing Daniels wide open on that trailing route behind Casey? Had he thrown it to OD, Ninkovich would've had to make an impossible play rather than merely a great one. That was a dagger.

 

[Buckna]

well, schaub is locked in, and it could be a lot worse.

I don't even know what I'd put at the top of the draft list if I were a hou fan --- maybe if they can get cushing back 100%, but they can't keep getting torched by teams like ne, and gb.

I wouldn't overreact -- at least they're competitive in the conference.

I always shake my head when people call for replacing a QB of Schaub's abilities. It's like they think you can just trade for one or draft an Andrew Luck every year. The homers are the worst of them all. ARI, BUF, JAX, CLE, TEN, TB, PHI, KC would all trade a 1st rounder to HOU for Schaub in a heartbeat, then HOU would look like ARI although Yates may be competant.

I agree on some level, but you are talking about two separate things. What I think people are saying is that you aren't going to win a championship with him unless you compile the 2000 Baltimore defense. So by saying he needs to be replaced, I don't think they are implying it will be easy to do. No one is assuming they can draft Andrew Luck or sign a free agent.That being said, nobody is trading a first rounder for Schaub.

I think a few teams would easily (or at least an early second), but there's no point in debating since it will never happen. While I don't think Schaub is as bad as most make him out, the fans saying "woe-is-me" about his contract extension don't have to worry much. Only his 2013 base salary is guaranteed so we are only married to him for 1 more year if he stinks. 2014 and on you can save cap money by cutting him if we need to (although it's a sizeble dead money hit in '14 and we'd need a replacement QB.) IMO, it's really only a 2 year extension as the back end money is huge and would need to be restructured if he is still on the team come 2015.

 

[saintfool]

the question you have ask is: when will schaub or kubiak be given their walking papers?

 

[coolnerd]

the question you have ask is: when will schaub or kubiak be given their walking papers?

uhmm...this was the Texans best season ever...12-4 and at points being talked about as the best team in the NFL. This is the first year they were thought to be Superbowl contenders for real. If this were year 3 or 4 then the question has merit.No they probably do not have what it takes to win it all, but these dudes were not canned at a 6-10 season a couple years back. totally safe.

 

[FF Ninja]

Does anyone remember this one play? I think it was this at this time: 3rd Quarter 3rd-5, HOU25 10:02 M. Schaub incomplete pass to the right

I've always thought Schaub went down for the sack the easiest of any QB. I remember seeing him crumble without being touched against Baltimore last year in the regular season, but to his credit he did rally the team and take it to overtime only to immediately throw a pick 6.

But that play yesterday just confirmed to me that he's a total %^&*@! now who can't handle pressure (physical D-line pressure, not mental). He was getting pressured, ran to his right, and actually escaped a diving lunge by a defensive lineman. He was totally free with at least 15 yards to the sideline to either run for the first down (haha) or keep rolling out and try to make a play. But what does he do? He immediately throws the ball away despite no imminent pressure. F***ing p****. WHY?! I can maybe understand if you are at the 35 yard line and you don't want to take a sack to push your team out of FG position, but seriously, there wasn't any pressure anymore. That play was just sickening. The announcers were baffled as well.

I've heard this one referenced numerous times by those critical of Schaub's play yesterday and it's just misplaced criticism. Schaub had a very average day at best in compiling decent stats and a respectable 90 passer rating, but he was at his worst when circumstances dictate he play his best, and it likely cost his team a chance to advance to the AFC title game. However, that third down play was not on Schaub but on the right side of the offensive line. The loud criticism I've read about him not running for the open field just shows how susceptible the average viewer is to the knee-jerk responses from the TV booth. If you go back and watch that replay you'll see that Schaub was under heavy pressure from Justin Francis, and by the time he eluded him and escaped the pocket to his right he was almost a full ten yards behind the line of scrimmage. Francis was in pursuit and Vince Wilfork was giving chase across the field at least five yards up the field of Schaub. Had Schaub tucked it and ran he would've needed fifteen yards to get the first down from that point, and Matt Schaub doesn't get fifteen yards with his feet. Even if he'd eluded Wilfork and beat him past the original LOS, he was not in position to beat the LB covering Owen Daniels downfield. That backer would've beaten Schaub to the first down marker and probably had a free shot on him. He took the only play available but made a poor throw. If he were a more athletic guy with some foot speed he could've avoided the rush a little longer and bought time for his TE to break free, but that's not who Matt Schaub is. I blame the protection on that one.

ETA: I do blame Schaub for not simply resetting on that one outside the pocket and throwing it to his open receiver (Walter?) downfield. He lost his composure on that play and opted to throw the ball away rather than risk a negative play. But there's no way he gets the first down with his feet.

I read that twice and I feel like you're trying to argue with me while saying the same thing. I wrote "(haha)" after the running it for a first down statement because I agree with you that this wasn't going to happen, but I'd have rather seen him try than to see him immediately throw it to the sideline like a scared little girl. Plus, if he does begin to run the guy covered OD (or whoever was closest) has to come off of him and Schaub could just drop it in to OD for the first down (assuming he is capable of switching between the "tuck and run" back to the pass, which I doubt he is since his adrenaline is probably going crazy considering how little he runs/how scared he plays).Furthermore, of course the early pressure on him was on the o-line. I never said it was his fault he got pressure on that play. Every QB gets pressured at times. The difference is in how the QB handles the pressure. He handled it like a class A vuh-jina.

So your "ETA" states exactly what my post states. He is a bia for immediately throwing the ball away in a critical moment instead of looking downfield.

 

[12punch]

the question you have ask is: when will schaub or kubiak be given their walking papers?

Didn't you guys just win 12 games, or something like that?Better be careful what you wish for - a lot of teams would love to trade their problems for yours.Thefly's detailed list reminded me of something, though - didn't they have a couple crap punts yesterday?Those guys might want to look for a mesko in the draft.Everybody ripped belichick for drafting that guy, but that field position is huge.Re: pats/coltsIt wouldn't surprise me if some colts fans are still trying to beat the pats, but you're kidding yourself if you think there are 3 people in new england who give indy 2 thoughts w/o manning.Indy just isn't a peer anymore.I'd say if there's an out of division rival, it's balt, now.

 

[Lobary]

Does anyone remember this one play? I think it was this at this time: 3rd Quarter 3rd-5, HOU25 10:02 M. Schaub incomplete pass to the right

I've always thought Schaub went down for the sack the easiest of any QB. I remember seeing him crumble without being touched against Baltimore last year in the regular season, but to his credit he did rally the team and take it to overtime only to immediately throw a pick 6.

But that play yesterday just confirmed to me that he's a total %^&*@! now who can't handle pressure (physical D-line pressure, not mental). He was getting pressured, ran to his right, and actually escaped a diving lunge by a defensive lineman. He was totally free with at least 15 yards to the sideline to either run for the first down (haha) or keep rolling out and try to make a play. But what does he do? He immediately throws the ball away despite no imminent pressure. F***ing p****. WHY?! I can maybe understand if you are at the 35 yard line and you don't want to take a sack to push your team out of FG position, but seriously, there wasn't any pressure anymore. That play was just sickening. The announcers were baffled as well.

I've heard this one referenced numerous times by those critical of Schaub's play yesterday and it's just misplaced criticism. Schaub had a very average day at best in compiling decent stats and a respectable 90 passer rating, but he was at his worst when circumstances dictate he play his best, and it likely cost his team a chance to advance to the AFC title game. However, that third down play was not on Schaub but on the right side of the offensive line. The loud criticism I've read about him not running for the open field just shows how susceptible the average viewer is to the knee-jerk responses from the TV booth. If you go back and watch that replay you'll see that Schaub was under heavy pressure from Justin Francis, and by the time he eluded him and escaped the pocket to his right he was almost a full ten yards behind the line of scrimmage. Francis was in pursuit and Vince Wilfork was giving chase across the field at least five yards up the field of Schaub. Had Schaub tucked it and ran he would've needed fifteen yards to get the first down from that point, and Matt Schaub doesn't get fifteen yards with his feet. Even if he'd eluded Wilfork and beat him past the original LOS, he was not in position to beat the LB covering Owen Daniels downfield. That backer would've beaten Schaub to the first down marker and probably had a free shot on him. He took the only play available but made a poor throw. If he were a more athletic guy with some foot speed he could've avoided the rush a little longer and bought time for his TE to break free, but that's not who Matt Schaub is. I blame the protection on that one.

ETA: I do blame Schaub for not simply resetting on that one outside the pocket and throwing it to his open receiver (Walter?) downfield. He lost his composure on that play and opted to throw the ball away rather than risk a negative play. But there's no way he gets the first down with his feet.

I read that twice and I feel like you're trying to argue with me while saying the same thing. I wrote "(haha)" after the running it for a first down statement because I agree with you that this wasn't going to happen, but I'd have rather seen him try than to see him immediately throw it to the sideline like a scared little girl. Plus, if he does begin to run the guy covered OD (or whoever was closest) has to come off of him and Schaub could just drop it in to OD for the first down (assuming he is capable of switching between the "tuck and run" back to the pass, which I doubt he is since his adrenaline is probably going crazy considering how little he runs/how scared he plays).Furthermore, of course the early pressure on him was on the o-line. I never said it was his fault he got pressure on that play. Every QB gets pressured at times. The difference is in how the QB handles the pressure. He handled it like a class A vuh-jina.

So your "ETA" states exactly what my post states. He is a bia for immediately throwing the ball away in a critical moment instead of looking downfield.

Correct, I jumped the gun based on what others have written elsewhere. At first quick glance I mistakenly thought you were arguing that he should have run for the first down and edited my post rather than delete it.

 

[12punch]

Btw, for the schaub haters - you can say what you want about the pats defense, but i think one team has scored 40 on us in the last 7 years.

 

[dhockster]

the question you have ask is: when will schaub or kubiak be given their walking papers?

Based on how McNair/Kubiak operate I think both are safe for at least two years. McNair is very loyal so even if Kubiak were to fail to make the playoffs next year I think he still would have another year to try to get back to the playoffs. Kubiak is also very loyal and based on him/the Texans signing Schaub to a new contract this year, I think Schaub gets two more years.I am not saying either deserve that, but no one is getting let go from this team that won a club record number of games and won a playoff game.

 

[Major]

the question you have ask is: when will schaub or kubiak be given their walking papers?

uhmm...this was the Texans best season ever...12-4 and at points being talked about as the best team in the NFL. This is the first year they were thought to be Superbowl contenders for real. If this were year 3 or 4 then the question has merit.No they probably do not have what it takes to win it all, but these dudes were not canned at a 6-10 season a couple years back. totally safe.

I just fear the window is short - Schaub and AJ are getting old and the young studs on d are going to want . Just seems like the Texans are wasting their best years on a coach that won't bring them to the promise land. This year their schedule/division weak and when the pressure came, they crumbled. Seems like this has more to do with the mentality Kubiak instills than anything else. Note: I've been a Kubiak hater now for 3-4 years. The guy is softer than wet cake.

 

[Major]

Btw, for the schaub haters - you can say what you want about the pats defense, but i think one team has scored 40 on us in the last 7 years.

yeah but most of those points and Schaub's stats come when the game is out of reach and we're just trying to keep it "respectable".

 

[Buckna]

the question you have ask is: when will schaub or kubiak be given their walking papers?

Didn't you guys just win 12 games, or something like that?Better be careful what you wish for - a lot of teams would love to trade their problems for yours.Thefly's detailed list reminded me of something, though - didn't they have a couple crap punts yesterday?Those guys might want to look for a mesko in the draft.Everybody ripped belichick for drafting that guy, but that field position is huge.Re: pats/coltsIt wouldn't surprise me if some colts fans are still trying to beat the pats, but you're kidding yourself if you think there are 3 people in new england who give indy 2 thoughts w/o manning.Indy just isn't a peer anymore.I'd say if there's an out of division rival, it's balt, now.

Yeah, a lot of belly aching from some of my fellow fans. At some point you have to act like you belong here. So we didn't win the Superbowl this year, lots of great teams fall short every year for a myriad of reasons. I guess the fan base is just really impatient having had to suffer so many awful expansion years and Kubiak's underperforming first few seasons.

 

[GregR]

The thing that is a sore point for me today is the lack of preparation and taking advantage of opportunities.Two prime examples... the Texans faced a 2nd and 1. The offense was lined up and Schaub standing in the shotgun looking over the defense. Patriots D-lineman was trying to get off the field, and was easily a good 10 yards from the sideline at the point the Texans were set. All they had to do was even look like the snap was imminent and the refs are supposed to throw the flag and blow the play dead, and it would be a 1st down.Instead Schaub looks over the defense and lets the lineman get off the field. While I can blame Schaub, truly that is the fault of the coach that he doesn't have his team ready to look for and take advantage of those opportunities.Another example was the play the Patriots challenged. Texans should have been lined up and waiting for the ref to set the ball down and snapped it immediately. Either they wouldn't have gotten the challenge flag out there in time, or if nothing else you would have taken away an extra 5+ seconds of the coach being able to talk to the booth and get information on what the replay showed. Again, that is on the coach. There should be a play that the offense knows you go to if there is a possibility of a challenge that could rule against you, that gets run on a single call from the QB.

 

[dhockster]

The thing that is a sore point for me today is the lack of preparation and taking advantage of opportunities.Two prime examples... the Texans faced a 2nd and 1. The offense was lined up and Schaub standing in the shotgun looking over the defense. Patriots D-lineman was trying to get off the field, and was easily a good 10 yards from the sideline at the point the Texans were set. All they had to do was even look like the snap was imminent and the refs are supposed to throw the flag and blow the play dead, and it would be a 1st down.Instead Schaub looks over the defense and lets the lineman get off the field. While I can blame Schaub, truly that is the fault of the coach that he doesn't have his team ready to look for and take advantage of those opportunities.Another example was the play the Patriots challenged. Texans should have been lined up and waiting for the ref to set the ball down and snapped it immediately. Either they wouldn't have gotten the challenge flag out there in time, or if nothing else you would have taken away an extra 5+ seconds of the coach being able to talk to the booth and get information on what the replay showed. Again, that is on the coach. There should be a play that the offense knows you go to if there is a possibility of a challenge that could rule against you, that gets run on a single call from the QB.

This is the primary reason I feel the Texans will not get to the next level. Who in the playoffs, other than Marvin Lewis, are Kubiak/Phillips going to outcoach?

 

[GregR]

Tight end Owen Daniels was added to the AFC Pro Bowl roster Monday, making him the ninth Texan and the second AFC replacement tight end in the all-star game.Daniels will go in the place of the injured Rob Gronkowski, since Bengals tight end Jermaine Gresham’s already replacing the injured Heath Miller of the Steelers.

 

[Jayded]

I think the big question with Schaub, moving forward, is what the Texans do with that position. I don't think he's a bad QB but I'm not sure if he's the guy to take the Texans to the next level. Basically, I think he may have reached his ceiling.The problem is the draft this year doesn't have a solid QB of the future from all appearances. So what do you do?If we look forward to 2014, it wouldn't appear there is a stellar QB that'll be ready to come out then unless you want to consider the merits of Johnny Manziel as a pro and coming out early at that point.I think the smart move for the Texans may be to trade for a backup with starter potential to really push Schaub. I think that's the definitely the short term answer. They need to start giving him a hard shove to get with it or he'll be pulled. I doubt he really has concerns about being passed over on the depth chart by Dan Orlovski, Matt Leinart, or TJ Yates (recent backups).

 

[GregR]

I think coolnerd said it well when he said:

unfortunately, the Texans are like most other teams that have a B level QB, they are stuck. The best chance at winning is trying to fix everything around him to near perfection, but that is nearly impossible to do. None of the 4 or 5 so-called elite dudes are available and if you get another guy around schuab (see river, cutler. romo) you getting same dog different fleas.

Just looking at the mindset the team has, I don't see any realistic way they move on from Schaub any time soon short of injury and a backup who sets the world on fire.I also still think it's possible to win a Super Bowl with Schaub. But like before, I don't think it's likely that Schaub will carry you to one as the primary reason you got there. As coolnerd said, they need to make the other parts of the team a strength such that they can carry a game with just decent play at QB. At least until the team finally decides to move on, which I expect won't be for a few years.