The Houston Texans have received a great amount of attention from around the league this offseason with contract disputes and a crucial suspension for steroid use.
But when it’s all said and done, it’s been a positive experience for Texans fans.
It’s helped pass the time, which has been a great way to cope with the offseason pain.
But with preseason just a few weeks away, we no longer have to cope. In no particular order, here are the top 10 things Texans fans can expect this season!
VOTP, My Radio Debut
For those of you who are unaware, I’m a 17-year-old freelance sportswriter from Tuscaloosa, AL, and two weeks ago I was honored as a requested featured guest on CBS Sports Radio (SportsRadio610 KILT Houston) to talk about my predictions for the upcoming season comprised in one of my articles titled, “Houston Texans: 2010 Game-By-Game Predictions…in Limericks!”
I would like to thank each and every one of you who read the piece, as without the increasing exposure I might have not been given the tremendous opportunity.
If you would like to hear the podcast, I would be more than happy to send you a tape via email as soon as I get it from the station.
Verse of this Piece
“My father taught me and said, “Hold on to my words with all your heart. Keep my commandments and you will live. Get wisdom and understanding. Don’t forget or ignore my words. Hold on to wisdom, and it will take care of you. Love it, and it will keep you safe.”—Proverbs 4:4-6 (Proverbs 4:1-3 in previous article and verses 7-27 are expected to follow.)
I have written a verse of my own choosing (unless one was requested) with every new article I’ve presented since I began with after my 50th piece on Bleacher Report.
This is just something small to glorify my Lord and Savior. I hope this will inspire someone to step out, to speak without fear, and perhaps one day start somewhat of a trend. If you’d like to request a verse, toss a message over via inbox. God Bless!
No. 10 UPSET ALERT: Brewing Upset in Week 1 in Reliant Stadium
The Texans play host to the Colts to kick off the 2010 season. Houston has only conquered Indianapolis once in their eight year history, but has always given the Colts everything they could handle.
With King Schaub and Andre Johnson at their best, the puzzle set in place, and an invigorating crowd atmosphere, the Texans pull off the win in thrilling upset fashion. (Prediction: Texans 27, Colts 23)
No. 9 A Weekly List of Marquee Game Predictions from Cowboys and Texans Fans
Beginning in either preseason or Week 1 of the regular season, I will be conducting a weekly column unveiling NFL marquee game predictions along with a trusted panel from Cowboys and Texans fans’ perspectives.
The idea was inspired via B/R Senior analyst Terrence Robinson and the NFL Fox Pregame Show. The series will be a mix of both, but producing entirely original work and analysis, of course.
No. 8 DeMeco Ryans and Zac Diles Pick up the Slack During Cushing’s Suspension
Brian Cushing had a phenomenal NFL debut, producing 133 tackles, 2 forced fumbles, 4 sacks, and 4 interceptions, along with being crowned 2009 Defensive Rookie of the Year.
However, Cushing faces a four-game suspension to begin the season due to steroid use. While this could mar the defense, DeMeco Ryans is prepared to lead and take charge.
Additionally, Zac Diles has recently turned heads and plans to up his game as well. Diles will remain on the weak side instead of moving to Cushing’s spot, preventing a second adjustment, as weak side and strong side linebackers have different responsibilities.
No. 7 Retribution: “The Bonecrusher” Will Take No Prisoners Against the Chiefs
Bernard Pollard, also known as “The Bonecrusher” and “Patriot Killer,” has racked up 300 tackles, 6 forced fumbles, and 7 interceptions in his four seasons in the league.
The infamous and extremely lethal free safety reportedly has revenge in mind when his club faces Kansas City, his former team, in Week 6. You can expect this game to get pretty ugly, as the entire secondary no longer relies solely on Pollard’s performance.
No. 6 Three-Headed Monster at RB Will Succeed and Create Balance on Offense
Houston led the league in passing last season, but ranked 30th in rushing. But with the O-Line more experienced, additional offensive versatile weapons, and a three-headed monster at running back, look for more balance from the Texans in 2010.
Arian Foster performed extremely well at the end of his rookie debut and expects to resonate in an effective 1-2 punch with bouncing-back Steve Slaton to start the season.
Ben Tate will then shortly join the crew, pushing the pile, and breaking for big runs. Look for 900-1,200 yards from the tough trio.
No. 5 Fortified Pass Rush Will Improve the Look of the Secondary
Mario Williams has started every game in his four seasons in the NFL, producing over 200 tackles, 39.5 sacks, and 9 forced fumbles.
But to the surprise of most, Williams was outperformed by the death-defying duo in Antonio Smith and rookie Connor Barwin in the first year in Houston on the other side.
Moreover, Amobi Okoye will have aided help from rookie Earl Mitchell in the middle of the defensive front. Additional pass rush will come from Xavier Adibi and Zac Diles.
Bottom line—the added depth, talent and experience will ameliorate the overall success of the run defense and pass rush.
This will take away less of the pressure on second-year corner Glover Quinn, rookie Kareem Jackson, who I know will exceed expectations, and Bernard Pollard, who will rip your head off, if you’re not careful.
No. 4 Seven Texans Players to 2010 Pro Bowl
On offense, one of two exterior linemen will join Matt Schaub and Andre Johnson. The competition is between the very athletic and dependable Eric Winston and Duane Brown, who has provided excellent protection on the blind side of Matt Schaub.
On defense, Mario Williams and Demeco Ryans are perpetual favorites and easily make their way into the Pro Bowl. Brian Cushing falls short due to the four-game suspension.
Bernard Pollard has a record year and takes the place for Cushing. Either rookie Kareem Jackson or tight end Owen Daniels finishes out the fierce tribe.
No. 3 Dominique Barber to Replace Eugene Wilson by Season’s End
Eighth-year veteran and injury-prone free safety Eugene Wilson is a solid mentor, but hasn’t brought much to the field since his days in New England.
Wilson accrued 29 tackles, 2 interceptions, and one forced fumble in eight starts last season. Filling in for the injured Wilson, Dominique Barber produced 33 tackles and 1 interception in six starts in his sophomore season.
Wilson is the projected starter, but regardless of another injury, you can expect Dominique Barber to be the new frontrunner by the end of the season, at the latest.
No. 2 .500 or Better Winning Percentage Against Divisional Opponents
Finishing second in its division didn’t come by beating its divisional opponents last season, as the Texans crashed into unchartered waters with a 1-5 record.
But this season their division tests aren’t all lined up beside each other, avoiding the bad four-game losing streak. The Texans accomplish the must-win against the Colts in Week 1, pounce on the Jaguars in the middle of November, and hold onto a 4th quarter lead to get past the Titans in Week 12.
This grants the Texans a solid as pudding 3-3 record against their division opponents.
No. 1 First Ever Playoff Birth
The Texans joined the league in 2002, and like a persistent drunk, they’ve continuously been knocking on the door, without acknowledging that it was unlocked the entire time.
This season the Texans have all the pieces in place, and proceed into the postseason door for the first time in franchise history.
Albeit there’s some arduous competition against the NFC East, along with the Jets and Ravens, the AFC West will provide some relief.
Many pundits will be in shock with the amount of success to come, as Houston takes the fifth seed with a record from between 10-6 to 12-4, with 11-5 the most likely outcome.
Tuesday, July 20, 2010
Saturday, July 17, 2010
2010 NFL Preview: Top 10 AFC South Impact Rookies in 2010
Last month I conducted a directory on the top 10 NFL rookies who I felt had the most simultaneous potential to become legendary superstars and derailing draft busts.
Now, despite the fact that another writer covered this same story, I’m back via a much-needed youth trip to the Gulf, inspired, completely invigorated, and ready to take on the task with a refreshing twist.
While it’s no secret it that often takes more than one season for a star to rise to fame and a failure to plummet to shame, rookies have been known to make an early impact.
Even the lesser impact frequently becomes influential. So without further adieu, I present the top 10 rookies from the AFC South division who are most ready to resonate.
VOTP, Honorable Mentions
Honorable Mentions
RB LeGarrette Blount, Titans
OLB Rennie Curran, Titans
WR/PR/KR Trindon Holiday, Texans
TE Garrett Graham, Texans
CB Kevin Thomas, CB, Colts
Verse of this Piece
“Happy is the person who finds wisdom, the one who gets understanding. Wisdom is worth more than silver; it brings more profit than gold. Wisdom is more precious than rubies; nothing you could want is equal to it. With her right hand wisdom offers you a long life, and with her left hand she gives you riches and honor.” —Proverbs 3:13-16
I have written a verse of my own choosing (unless one was requested) with every new article I’ve presented since I began with after my 50th piece on Bleacher Report.
This is just something small to glorify my Lord and Savior. I hope this will inspire someone to step out, to speak without fear, and perhaps one day start somewhat of a trend. If you’d like to request a verse, send me a message via B/R.
No. 10 Dorin Dickerson (WR, Texans)
The Houston Texans found a completely earth-shattering steal in the seventh round of last April’s draft with the extremely versatile and athletic Dorin Dickerson.
Having played in several positions on both sides of the football, Dickerson will have a loose chain and very few limitations.
Albeit it’s likely he’ll breakout later on in his career, his charismatic versatile abilities could launch him down the same path as Julian Edelman, who was also a 7th-round pick.
No. 9 Myron Rolle (SS, Titans)
Rhode scholar Myron Rolle rolls into the National Football League with heavy doubts.
Like many, I don’t expect the seventh-round-pick to start right away, but he’s in good hands, groomed by an additional former Seminole in safety Chris Hope.
The sky is the limit for Rolle and he should have his opportunity to shine by season’s end.
“This is the perfect example of how brains mixed with athletic ability are the best combination in sports.”—AFC Team Leader, Assignment Desk Editor and Bleacher Report Senior Writer Daniel Wolf
No. 8 D’Anthony Smith (DT, Jaguars)
D’Anthony Smith wasn’t a great selection at first glance, but beneath the surface, he was a perfect third-round snag for the Jags.
He’s quick, explosive, and very disruptive. Moreover, he pushes the pocket well, has a high motor, good character, and is a team leader.
He won’t start immediately, but should have a promising impact in an effective rotation in the revamped defensive front.
No. 7 Damian Williams, WR, Titans
In an effort to help prevent Kenny Britt from being trapped in double coverage and one-dimensional attack, the Titans brought in third-round-pick Damian Williams.
While Williams won’t breakout with 70 catches, he should reel in around 35, all the while illustrating supreme route running and solid playmaking ability.
This should further diversify the offensive gameplan and force the opposition to respect the pass.
No. 6 Pat Angerer, LB, Colts
Pat Angerer: The name implies high levels of intensity, anger and aggression, all of which Pat Angerer possesses. Some analysts say Angerer is slightly undersized to play middle linebacker.
“What Angerer might not have in size, he makes up for with great instincts. He is a good run defender and very effective in pass coverage…”—Bleacher Report’s Bret Feddern
“A lot of good defensive players in the history of the game that weren’t quite good enough or fast enough ended up having ten or 12-year careers and Pat [Angerer] could end up being one of those guys,” said NFL Network’s Paul Burmeister.
No. 5 Jerry Hughes, DE, Colts
Jerry Hughes is expected to make an immediate impact with the Colts.
Though Robert Mathis and Dwight Freeney are still elite defenders and provide one of the top defensive line tandems in the league today, injuries hit without warning.
In addition, nothing hurts an opposing offensive line and signal caller more than a deft, fluctuating alternation, continuously bringing in phenomenal players with fresh legs.
No. 4 Derrick Morgan, DE, Titans
A major abyss has to be filled with the loss of Jevon Kearse and Kyle Vanden Bosch. Derrick Morgan is the man for the job, as he brings toughness, elusiveness, aggression, and so much more to the equation.
Morgan has a very promising future and I only suspect an instant impact with an abounding career for years to come.
No. 3 Ben Tate, RB, Texans
The Texans led the league in passing last season, and yet the receiving corps is even stronger.
However, Head Coach Gary Kubiak’s top priority this offseason was upgrading the running game, and he believes Ben Tate could have an immediate impact.
While Tate had some injuries, he comes off a stellar senior year at Auburn, accumulating 1,362 yards on 263 carries for a 5.2 average, with 10 touchdowns.
“The Texans are optimistic Steve Slaton will have a nice bounce-back season and they like everything they’ve seen from Arian Foster. And then there’s Tate, who could make a position of weakness one of strength,” according to Houston Chronicle’s Richard Justice.
Expect to be blown away by a successful three-headed monster in second-year pro Arian Foster, the new and improved, no longer fumble and injury-prone Steve Slaton, and the very complimentary bell cow rookie Ben Tate.
No. 2 Tyson Alualu, DT, Jaguars
Questions still remain on what went through the minds in the Jaguars’ organization when they made the immense reach for Tyson Alualu with the 10th pick overall, as well as which system will be run on defense.
This will determine whether Alualu lines on the outside in a 3-4 or inside in a 4-3.
However, his excellent mindset and outstanding skills set will impede the bleeding that took place on the Jaguars’ defensive front in ’09, and I can tell he’ll quickly become a star.
And that to me is as clear as the Mediterranean Ocean.
No. 1 Kareem Jackson, CB, Alabama
First-round corner Kareem Jackson comes in as Dunta Robinson’s replacement and now joins forces with another former Tide defender and NFL superstar in the making in DeMeco Ryans.
Jackson possesses excellent leadership, toughness, quickness, a winner mentality, and the experience in a resembling pro system to be an ample influence in Week One.
While Jackson won’t be winning battles with Larry Fitzgerald in his first season, don’t count out the possibility soon enough, as he duels it out with Andre Johnson in practice.
Now, despite the fact that another writer covered this same story, I’m back via a much-needed youth trip to the Gulf, inspired, completely invigorated, and ready to take on the task with a refreshing twist.
While it’s no secret it that often takes more than one season for a star to rise to fame and a failure to plummet to shame, rookies have been known to make an early impact.
Even the lesser impact frequently becomes influential. So without further adieu, I present the top 10 rookies from the AFC South division who are most ready to resonate.
VOTP, Honorable Mentions
Honorable Mentions
RB LeGarrette Blount, Titans
OLB Rennie Curran, Titans
WR/PR/KR Trindon Holiday, Texans
TE Garrett Graham, Texans
CB Kevin Thomas, CB, Colts
Verse of this Piece
“Happy is the person who finds wisdom, the one who gets understanding. Wisdom is worth more than silver; it brings more profit than gold. Wisdom is more precious than rubies; nothing you could want is equal to it. With her right hand wisdom offers you a long life, and with her left hand she gives you riches and honor.” —Proverbs 3:13-16
I have written a verse of my own choosing (unless one was requested) with every new article I’ve presented since I began with after my 50th piece on Bleacher Report.
This is just something small to glorify my Lord and Savior. I hope this will inspire someone to step out, to speak without fear, and perhaps one day start somewhat of a trend. If you’d like to request a verse, send me a message via B/R.
No. 10 Dorin Dickerson (WR, Texans)
The Houston Texans found a completely earth-shattering steal in the seventh round of last April’s draft with the extremely versatile and athletic Dorin Dickerson.
Having played in several positions on both sides of the football, Dickerson will have a loose chain and very few limitations.
Albeit it’s likely he’ll breakout later on in his career, his charismatic versatile abilities could launch him down the same path as Julian Edelman, who was also a 7th-round pick.
No. 9 Myron Rolle (SS, Titans)
Rhode scholar Myron Rolle rolls into the National Football League with heavy doubts.
Like many, I don’t expect the seventh-round-pick to start right away, but he’s in good hands, groomed by an additional former Seminole in safety Chris Hope.
The sky is the limit for Rolle and he should have his opportunity to shine by season’s end.
“This is the perfect example of how brains mixed with athletic ability are the best combination in sports.”—AFC Team Leader, Assignment Desk Editor and Bleacher Report Senior Writer Daniel Wolf
No. 8 D’Anthony Smith (DT, Jaguars)
D’Anthony Smith wasn’t a great selection at first glance, but beneath the surface, he was a perfect third-round snag for the Jags.
He’s quick, explosive, and very disruptive. Moreover, he pushes the pocket well, has a high motor, good character, and is a team leader.
He won’t start immediately, but should have a promising impact in an effective rotation in the revamped defensive front.
No. 7 Damian Williams, WR, Titans
In an effort to help prevent Kenny Britt from being trapped in double coverage and one-dimensional attack, the Titans brought in third-round-pick Damian Williams.
While Williams won’t breakout with 70 catches, he should reel in around 35, all the while illustrating supreme route running and solid playmaking ability.
This should further diversify the offensive gameplan and force the opposition to respect the pass.
No. 6 Pat Angerer, LB, Colts
Pat Angerer: The name implies high levels of intensity, anger and aggression, all of which Pat Angerer possesses. Some analysts say Angerer is slightly undersized to play middle linebacker.
“What Angerer might not have in size, he makes up for with great instincts. He is a good run defender and very effective in pass coverage…”—Bleacher Report’s Bret Feddern
“A lot of good defensive players in the history of the game that weren’t quite good enough or fast enough ended up having ten or 12-year careers and Pat [Angerer] could end up being one of those guys,” said NFL Network’s Paul Burmeister.
No. 5 Jerry Hughes, DE, Colts
Jerry Hughes is expected to make an immediate impact with the Colts.
Though Robert Mathis and Dwight Freeney are still elite defenders and provide one of the top defensive line tandems in the league today, injuries hit without warning.
In addition, nothing hurts an opposing offensive line and signal caller more than a deft, fluctuating alternation, continuously bringing in phenomenal players with fresh legs.
No. 4 Derrick Morgan, DE, Titans
A major abyss has to be filled with the loss of Jevon Kearse and Kyle Vanden Bosch. Derrick Morgan is the man for the job, as he brings toughness, elusiveness, aggression, and so much more to the equation.
Morgan has a very promising future and I only suspect an instant impact with an abounding career for years to come.
No. 3 Ben Tate, RB, Texans
The Texans led the league in passing last season, and yet the receiving corps is even stronger.
However, Head Coach Gary Kubiak’s top priority this offseason was upgrading the running game, and he believes Ben Tate could have an immediate impact.
While Tate had some injuries, he comes off a stellar senior year at Auburn, accumulating 1,362 yards on 263 carries for a 5.2 average, with 10 touchdowns.
“The Texans are optimistic Steve Slaton will have a nice bounce-back season and they like everything they’ve seen from Arian Foster. And then there’s Tate, who could make a position of weakness one of strength,” according to Houston Chronicle’s Richard Justice.
Expect to be blown away by a successful three-headed monster in second-year pro Arian Foster, the new and improved, no longer fumble and injury-prone Steve Slaton, and the very complimentary bell cow rookie Ben Tate.
No. 2 Tyson Alualu, DT, Jaguars
Questions still remain on what went through the minds in the Jaguars’ organization when they made the immense reach for Tyson Alualu with the 10th pick overall, as well as which system will be run on defense.
This will determine whether Alualu lines on the outside in a 3-4 or inside in a 4-3.
However, his excellent mindset and outstanding skills set will impede the bleeding that took place on the Jaguars’ defensive front in ’09, and I can tell he’ll quickly become a star.
And that to me is as clear as the Mediterranean Ocean.
No. 1 Kareem Jackson, CB, Alabama
First-round corner Kareem Jackson comes in as Dunta Robinson’s replacement and now joins forces with another former Tide defender and NFL superstar in the making in DeMeco Ryans.
Jackson possesses excellent leadership, toughness, quickness, a winner mentality, and the experience in a resembling pro system to be an ample influence in Week One.
While Jackson won’t be winning battles with Larry Fitzgerald in his first season, don’t count out the possibility soon enough, as he duels it out with Andre Johnson in practice.
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