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.
Showing posts with label 2010 NFL Draft. Show all posts
Showing posts with label 2010 NFL Draft. Show all posts
Tuesday, July 20, 2010
Wednesday, June 23, 2010
The 10 Biggest Boom and Bust Probable Players From the 2010 NFL Draft
Few players have the infamous draft bust status and are stuck forever on the Wall of Shame. An even smaller minority are reminisced in the Hall of Fame.
There’s an obvious massive gap of players somewhere in between.
But I have taken on the challenge, conducting a list of 10 rookies that have the most simultaneous potential to become legendary superstars and doomed draft busts in alphabetical order.
In either case, they’ll receive coherent attention, and it could be a very positive motivation, paving the way to become the next Dan Marino or Jerry Rice.
On the other side, the boasted spectacle might backfire, turning what could have been a meticulous valuable team contributor into an unforgettable derailing draft bust, joining the likes of Ryan Leaf, Brian Bosworth, and Charles Rogers.
While I may miss the mark on a few, at least it won’t come at the expense of wasted millions, years of regret, and wrenching heartache.
1. Tyson Alualu, DT (Jaguars)
Tyson Alualu was an immense reach to be taken with the 10th overall pick, especially by a run-of-the-mill franchise.
In spite of this, Alualu has the potential to severely alleviate the bleeding that took place last season on the Jaguars’ defensive front.
He has the skills set and an excellent mindset to become an elite NFL player. It all depends on whether he can handle the pressure, and my gut suggests he’ll flourish.
2. Eric Berry, S (Chiefs)
Often considered the second coming of Ed Reed, Berry has a dangerous blend of terrific instincts, excellent ball skills, mind-blowing quickness and a hard-hitting truck-like ability.
While it’s very uncommon for a safety to be taken in the top five, Berry has the undeniable God-given talent and potential to become an all-time great.
3. Sam Bradford, QB (Rams)
Sam Bradford suffered a right shoulder injury in the first game of the ’09 season against Brigham Young, one play after becoming Oklahoma’s all-time leading passer.
Bradford returned to the field three weeks later against Baylor, but witnessed a season-ending injury to the same shoulder just a week later in the Red River Rivalry game.
There’s no question he has great leadership, accuracy, and quick delivery, but a potentially injury-prone first-overall-pick going to the worst team in the NFL doesn’t make for a good recipe, at least on paper.
4. Dez Bryant, WR (Cowboys)
Dez “Diva” Bryant found his wish granted when he was drafted by nearby Dallas.
Bryant is a standout receiver with cunning abilities and unlimited potential. However, his yearning for the spotlight could go amiss, making him the next Terrell Owens, but without the playing time. Miles Austin can help guide him the right direction.
5. Anthony Davis, OT (49ers)
Corresponding to Dez Bryant, Anthony Davis is also a significant risk for character issues. Head Coach Mike Singletary has illustrated he’s not tolerating distractions, so I have a feeling Davis will overcome adversity, and become a great addition on the opposite side of rookie Mike Iupati.
But it’s likely to be a bumpy ride along the way.
6. Joe Haden, CB (Browns)
Merge together Joe Haden’s striking physicality, great instincts, terrific ball skills, and outstanding ability in jamming receivers and you may have the next Champ Bailey.
However, Haden lacks ideal size, needs work on tackling, and dealt with performance issues at the Combine.
In addition, he heads to a team with a bad draft history, a secondary that offers little help, and a division that is home to Anquan Boldin, Derrick Mason, Hines Ward, Mike Wallace, Antonio Bryant, and Chad Ochocinco, and that’s just to name a few.
7. Ryan Matthews, RB (Chargers)
Ryan Matthews is explosive, elusive, and extremely productive.
But he played college in the WAC at Fresno State, which is a conference that’s jam packed with powerhouse offenses, but non-existent, abysmal defenses.
In addition, Matthews was a huge stretch, taken with the 12th pick overall, especially considering he would have still been avaliable in the latter part of the first round since teams like Houston had more important needs address like the secondary.
Furthermore, he has little to no experience in the passing game, which is a large component that seems to be fading away by the second with Vincent Jackson expected to miss the first 10 games of the regular season.
I could be later proven wrong, but the cons significantly outweigh the pros at this time.
8. C.J. Spiller, RB (Bills)
C.J. Spiller can’t carry the Bills with 20-25 carriers per game, but he’s a tremendous situational big-play home run threat.
He resembles Reggie Bush and Felix Jones, but brings potentially even more versatility and exuberance to the equation.
While he won’t have great protection in front of him, and albeit I can’t envision stardom quickly in the road ahead, Spiller should prove to be very successful as a versatile and lethal asset in a deadly trio, should Marshawn Lynch stay in Buffalo.
9. Tim Tebow, Wildcat QB (Broncos)
He didn’t play in an NFL-friendly system in college and he’s not all that accurate. He begins his career with a chip on his shoulder and he’s an obvious experimental project. These are the negatives that stack up against Tim Tebow.
However, Tebow plays with a ton of heart and passion. He’s very versatile, deceptively quick and elusive, fearless in the pocket, and a tremendous leader on and off the field.
While it’s likely he won’t start right away, it’s evident that he will earn playing time at some point this season, and you can be sure it will electrify the crowds with something completely extraordinary.
Hands down, this will go down as either the dumbest or smartest move by a head coach in NFL History. I don’t see a place in between in this case.
10. DeMaryius Thomas, WR (Broncos)
DeMaryius Thomas has very similar attributes to Tim Tebow. They have excellent work ethic, superb leadership, terrific athleticism, amazing versatility, are great additions for the locker room, and both come from a wacky offensive system in college.
Not only is Thomas a lower risk than Tebow, but he was also projected to go late in the first round.
But just like Tim, DeMaryius Thomas has a ton of pressure, as he tries to fill Brandon Marshall’s place.
This will likely force him to plummet down the toilet, or allow him to quickly triumph, vastly exceeding expectations.
There’s an obvious massive gap of players somewhere in between.
But I have taken on the challenge, conducting a list of 10 rookies that have the most simultaneous potential to become legendary superstars and doomed draft busts in alphabetical order.
In either case, they’ll receive coherent attention, and it could be a very positive motivation, paving the way to become the next Dan Marino or Jerry Rice.
On the other side, the boasted spectacle might backfire, turning what could have been a meticulous valuable team contributor into an unforgettable derailing draft bust, joining the likes of Ryan Leaf, Brian Bosworth, and Charles Rogers.
While I may miss the mark on a few, at least it won’t come at the expense of wasted millions, years of regret, and wrenching heartache.
1. Tyson Alualu, DT (Jaguars)
Tyson Alualu was an immense reach to be taken with the 10th overall pick, especially by a run-of-the-mill franchise.
In spite of this, Alualu has the potential to severely alleviate the bleeding that took place last season on the Jaguars’ defensive front.
He has the skills set and an excellent mindset to become an elite NFL player. It all depends on whether he can handle the pressure, and my gut suggests he’ll flourish.
2. Eric Berry, S (Chiefs)
Often considered the second coming of Ed Reed, Berry has a dangerous blend of terrific instincts, excellent ball skills, mind-blowing quickness and a hard-hitting truck-like ability.
While it’s very uncommon for a safety to be taken in the top five, Berry has the undeniable God-given talent and potential to become an all-time great.
3. Sam Bradford, QB (Rams)
Sam Bradford suffered a right shoulder injury in the first game of the ’09 season against Brigham Young, one play after becoming Oklahoma’s all-time leading passer.
Bradford returned to the field three weeks later against Baylor, but witnessed a season-ending injury to the same shoulder just a week later in the Red River Rivalry game.
There’s no question he has great leadership, accuracy, and quick delivery, but a potentially injury-prone first-overall-pick going to the worst team in the NFL doesn’t make for a good recipe, at least on paper.
4. Dez Bryant, WR (Cowboys)
Dez “Diva” Bryant found his wish granted when he was drafted by nearby Dallas.
Bryant is a standout receiver with cunning abilities and unlimited potential. However, his yearning for the spotlight could go amiss, making him the next Terrell Owens, but without the playing time. Miles Austin can help guide him the right direction.
5. Anthony Davis, OT (49ers)
Corresponding to Dez Bryant, Anthony Davis is also a significant risk for character issues. Head Coach Mike Singletary has illustrated he’s not tolerating distractions, so I have a feeling Davis will overcome adversity, and become a great addition on the opposite side of rookie Mike Iupati.
But it’s likely to be a bumpy ride along the way.
6. Joe Haden, CB (Browns)
Merge together Joe Haden’s striking physicality, great instincts, terrific ball skills, and outstanding ability in jamming receivers and you may have the next Champ Bailey.
However, Haden lacks ideal size, needs work on tackling, and dealt with performance issues at the Combine.
In addition, he heads to a team with a bad draft history, a secondary that offers little help, and a division that is home to Anquan Boldin, Derrick Mason, Hines Ward, Mike Wallace, Antonio Bryant, and Chad Ochocinco, and that’s just to name a few.
7. Ryan Matthews, RB (Chargers)
Ryan Matthews is explosive, elusive, and extremely productive.
But he played college in the WAC at Fresno State, which is a conference that’s jam packed with powerhouse offenses, but non-existent, abysmal defenses.
In addition, Matthews was a huge stretch, taken with the 12th pick overall, especially considering he would have still been avaliable in the latter part of the first round since teams like Houston had more important needs address like the secondary.
Furthermore, he has little to no experience in the passing game, which is a large component that seems to be fading away by the second with Vincent Jackson expected to miss the first 10 games of the regular season.
I could be later proven wrong, but the cons significantly outweigh the pros at this time.
8. C.J. Spiller, RB (Bills)
C.J. Spiller can’t carry the Bills with 20-25 carriers per game, but he’s a tremendous situational big-play home run threat.
He resembles Reggie Bush and Felix Jones, but brings potentially even more versatility and exuberance to the equation.
While he won’t have great protection in front of him, and albeit I can’t envision stardom quickly in the road ahead, Spiller should prove to be very successful as a versatile and lethal asset in a deadly trio, should Marshawn Lynch stay in Buffalo.
9. Tim Tebow, Wildcat QB (Broncos)
He didn’t play in an NFL-friendly system in college and he’s not all that accurate. He begins his career with a chip on his shoulder and he’s an obvious experimental project. These are the negatives that stack up against Tim Tebow.
However, Tebow plays with a ton of heart and passion. He’s very versatile, deceptively quick and elusive, fearless in the pocket, and a tremendous leader on and off the field.
While it’s likely he won’t start right away, it’s evident that he will earn playing time at some point this season, and you can be sure it will electrify the crowds with something completely extraordinary.
Hands down, this will go down as either the dumbest or smartest move by a head coach in NFL History. I don’t see a place in between in this case.
10. DeMaryius Thomas, WR (Broncos)
DeMaryius Thomas has very similar attributes to Tim Tebow. They have excellent work ethic, superb leadership, terrific athleticism, amazing versatility, are great additions for the locker room, and both come from a wacky offensive system in college.
Not only is Thomas a lower risk than Tebow, but he was also projected to go late in the first round.
But just like Tim, DeMaryius Thomas has a ton of pressure, as he tries to fill Brandon Marshall’s place.
This will likely force him to plummet down the toilet, or allow him to quickly triumph, vastly exceeding expectations.
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