Unsung Hero: Gary Kubiak Is No Master Of Panic
I am going to cut to the chase on this season’s eighth Unsung Hero of the Week – it is Houston Texans head coach Gary Wayne Kubiak.
/waits for the boos to subside
Yeah, I know this is probably the least popular of all the Unsung choices, but it is long overdue for the Aggie alumnus – plus Texas A&M needs some sort of victory to keep itself afloat as they drift into the Southeastern Conference.
/waits for the mix of laughs and boos to subside
Okay, Kubiak. Unsung Hero. Jump now to find out why he deserves it.
This season, it would be easy to fall into that same old mindset. Early season games against New Orleans and Oakland were lost in the fourth quarter as the injuries began to mount (by the way, the teams who have beaten Houston are a division leading 8-3, 7-3, and 7-4....#justsaying).
Shelley Smith, Kasey Studdard, Darius Morris, and Rashad Butler are all out and have left no depth in the offensive line. Dominique Barber and Darryl Sharpton are two special teams beasts who have to watch future Hall of Famer Bryan Braman tear down the field. Mario Williams and Matt Schaub, two of the team's captains, now wear t-shirts on Sunday. You can now add Matt Leinart to this list, which does not even include lengthy injuries to Andre Johnson, Arian Foster, and Danieal Manning.
Despite all of this, the Texans sit on top of the American Football Conference, and its Southern Division, with an 8-3 record. Houston has a two game lead over 6-5 Tennessee and holds the first two tiebreakers (head-to-head match-up and division record). Instead of their traditional midseason swoon, the boys in Battle Red have won a franchise-best five in a row. The Texans are captains of their own fate as they weather the onslaught of injuries.
Captaining that ship is someone who is certainly not a master of panic. For years, Gary Kubiak was plagued by bad decisions and bad defensive coordinators. There were cries for firing Kubiak while his supporters shrank in numbers. Amidst his best season as a coach, I hope no one is crying for him to be fired anymore.
The 8-3 record is very nice, but that is not what makes me say this is Kubiak’s best season as a coach. He has been nothing short of masterful this season. A lesser coach could not keep this team focused on the next game while player after player was placed on injured reserve. A lesser coach could not keep morale up as more teammates stand on the sidelines with casts, slings, and t-shirts. A lesser coach would have lost his team while bad luck continued to make wins bittersweet. A lesser coach would make excuses and try to save himself from any potential hot seat.
Yet, this team's resolve and mental toughness is to be commended. This team has become a physical, battlefightin’ club that refuses to make excuses or feel sorry for itself – much like their "it’s on me" head coach. Houston continues to find a way to win with the parts they have and is now able to grind out wins – whether it is against Pittsburgh or Jacksonville. This does not happen if the leadership panics, and the leadership in the locker room starts with Gary.
As he prepares his rookie third-string quarterback to take the reins of an all too familiar offense, it is past time we acknowledge Gary Kubiak as the eighth unsung hero of the season for the work and leadership he has provided during a roller coaster of a season.
I will close with this statement: If the Texans make the playoffs as AFC South champions, Gary Kubiak should be the NFL’s Coach of the Year. Jim Harbaugh has a nice story, Jim Schwartz is turning his team from joke to second-place bully, and Green Bay could go 16-0, but managing the extremely unexpected and keeping this team from going Titanic is worthy of such an award.
Texans vs Jaguars coverage | Texans vs Jaguars recap | Texans vs Jaguars boxscore | Big Cat Country
153 comments
|
14 recs |
Do you like this story?
Comments
I agree on the coach of the year award going to Kubes
However, Houston teams, players, or coaches get no love and that will continue.
Follow me on twitter: @Super_Stud2100
I still think your team can do well. It might not be a bad idea for Kubiak to activate himself. He really was a good QB
Guardian of the Gate to La La Land!
Gonsoulin, Taylor, Wright, Gradishar, Atwater, and Davis.....
Why are they not in the Hall...I just don't understand.
Shiloh Keo deserves an honorary mention.
Epic day on special teams. Served as a big ol’ “fuck you” to the masses calling for him to be cut.
Not only that I would also like to thank this site for all its class...
….think about this
I did a post over at ‘Bolts from the Blue’ and they banned me from the site. It wasn’t even an unfriendly post just a post from a Denver fan talking about yesterday’s game a few days in advanced.
Can you imagine that! I have put some really rough posts at the Faiders site (got into some really good fights) and never ever feared that I would be banned from the site.
People at ‘Bolts’ must be really sensitive. I can still go there and read…just can’t make any comments or (in their words) participate.
Anyway, Thank you guys for putting up with me! … Anyway, back to Kubiak..
I have loved the guy as both a back-up to Elway and then as a coach. In fact I really think he was as much a part of our Super Bowl wins as Shanny. Shanny had the vision of what he wanted to see… But it was Kubiak that made sure it was done.
I watched Elway go from an athletic ‘Come from Behind’ wonder to an authentic 3,000 yard passer. Kubiak had a very calming affect on Elway.
Anyway, I still think you guys have the best team in the AFC…and wish you blessings for the rest of the season.

Guardian of the Gate to La La Land!
Gonsoulin, Taylor, Wright, Gradishar, Atwater, and Davis.....
Why are they not in the Hall...I just don't understand.
by Mike Clark on Nov 28, 2011 5:30 PM CST reply actions 15 recs
It's amazing how the personality of the different team sites can vary so widely...
…we are really blessed to have the collection of guys that handle this site and for the steady hand with which their benevolent Overlord guides their path.
I enjoy your posts MC… Thanks for sharing.
"Fanaticism consists in redoubling your efforts when you have forgotten your aim." - George Santayana
Recognition for you, sir
Your posts are always positive on this site (from what I’ve read) and I thank you for it. Having an outside perspective is always a plus, but sometimes I think you spoil us with good cheer! :D
My thoughts are like Brian Cushing on the field: Everywhere.
Maybe you can go over to 'Bolts from the Blue' read my post and see what I did wrong...
…I’ve been trying to e-mail the guy that runs the site and he’s blocked that also.
Guardian of the Gate to La La Land!
Gonsoulin, Taylor, Wright, Gradishar, Atwater, and Davis.....
Why are they not in the Hall...I just don't understand.
whatever you did,
it was on the raiders chargers second half thread. the comments still show up on the search bar, but they are not in the thread.
CUT KAREEM JACKSON CUT KAREEM JACKSON CUT KAREEM JACKSON CUT KAREEM JACKSON CUT KAREEM JACKSON CUT KAREEM JACKSON CUT KAREEM JACKSON CUT KAREEM JACKSON CUT KAREEM JACKSON
by Carter Liles on Nov 28, 2011 6:15 PM CST up reply actions
WoW, it was a Faider fan making fun of me....or of Tebow I should say...this is the giff he (or she) posted...

.
I thought it was really funny and later asked her if she could put a football in the Horses mouth…
personally I think he looks more like Elway than Tebow…

Guardian of the Gate to La La Land!
Gonsoulin, Taylor, Wright, Gradishar, Atwater, and Davis.....
Why are they not in the Hall...I just don't understand.
LOL
Guardian of the Gate to La La Land!
Gonsoulin, Taylor, Wright, Gradishar, Atwater, and Davis.....
Why are they not in the Hall...I just don't understand.
I couldn't find it
Damn it I am intrigued now. We let all kinds of Titans fans come on here and talk shit. You don’t seem that type, from what I’ve by of you. You are generally pretty civil if not down-right cordial.
Funny! Just moments ago I got an e-mail saying I've been un-banned. Funny that is...it says Rchard overeacted...
…I wonder if someone from ‘Bolts’ is reading this site?
Guardian of the Gate to La La Land!
Gonsoulin, Taylor, Wright, Gradishar, Atwater, and Davis.....
Why are they not in the Hall...I just don't understand.
do wonder...possibly an appeal from Tim.
or maybe just a review or change of heart.
Can’t imagine MC inspiring a change of heart…
;- )
'Without change something sleeps inside us, and seldom awakens. The sleeper must awaken.' -Frank Herbert
It does seem strange that this is the first time I've brought it up in another site...Hmmm...Maybe it was Tim
Guardian of the Gate to La La Land!
Gonsoulin, Taylor, Wright, Gradishar, Atwater, and Davis.....
Why are they not in the Hall...I just don't understand.
I also imagine the bannings get shared among the moderators.
'Without change something sleeps inside us, and seldom awakens. The sleeper must awaken.' -Frank Herbert
I think people take things too personal sometimes
That combined with a thin skin, their team losing and it all adds up to Mike Clark being a wise-ass that needs a banning to set an example.
"All our lives we're taught to get in line. The ones who conform never discover." - Undrafted Free Agent and NFL Rushing Leader Arian Foster
It turned out it was the little tit that I started to have with the faider fan and the sites monitor thoght it would get ugly..
…I don’t spend as much time at ‘Bolts’ as I do here….or they would know I don’t get ugly.
Guardian of the Gate to La La Land!
Gonsoulin, Taylor, Wright, Gradishar, Atwater, and Davis.....
Why are they not in the Hall...I just don't understand.
Good to see it was reversed!
"There's no reason to become alarmed, and we hope you'll enjoy the rest of your flight. By the way, is there anyone on board who knows how to fly a plane?"
I always appreciate your comments and positive attitude, so I went searching to see if I could determine the issue
After reading their “terms” and “rules”, it could be hyper sensitivity to this comment in your main post being too religious?:
Sometimes I think the old saying is true. 1 plus GOD is a majority.
"There's no reason to become alarmed, and we hope you'll enjoy the rest of your flight. By the way, is there anyone on board who knows how to fly a plane?"
It was actually a fight that a faider fan tried to start with me.
Guardian of the Gate to La La Land!
Gonsoulin, Taylor, Wright, Gradishar, Atwater, and Davis.....
Why are they not in the Hall...I just don't understand.
Brilliant... I was JUST thinking about this... rec'd a million times in my heart.
"Fanaticism consists in redoubling your efforts when you have forgotten your aim." - George Santayana
Agreed
I’d also put in a vote for Jacoby Jones and his punt returns setting us up with good field position. He’ll be key in the coming weeks
by splanket on Nov 28, 2011 5:35 PM CST via mobile reply actions
^This
Given that our offense wasn’t moving the ball well, it was important that our defense forced a ton of punts and that we did as much with them as possible. Jacoby had a solid game on PR.
But still Kubes deserves this weeks Unsung Hero. A year ago, we would’ve lost this game, and probably in jaw-dropping fashion.
by yeshuawithajo on Nov 28, 2011 7:20 PM CST up reply actions
I would give Jones an award for his blocks alone
dude is a team player, he has been working his ass off this season whether he’s getting the ball or not
"San Antonio is the best falling down team in the league"- Bill Worrell
by TheLastDynasty on Nov 28, 2011 7:49 PM CST up reply actions
I thought special teams as a whole were excellent yesterday.
Never use a metaphor, simile, or other figure of speech which you are used to seeing in print.
Never use a long word where a short one will do.
If it is possible to cut a word out, always cut it out.
Never use the passive where you can use the active.
Never use a foreign phrase, a scientific word, or a jargon word if you can think of an everyday English equivalent.
Break any of these rules sooner than say anything outright barbarous.
-Orwell, Politics and the English Language
www.battleredblog.com
by tehGrindCrusher on Nov 28, 2011 9:31 PM CST via mobile up reply actions
It was the D that won this game
Kubiak was just along for the ride and praying that the D held up. Wade Phillips and his D shone in this game. I give all the credit to Wade. Kubiak’s Unsung Hero Trophy is tarnished, in my mind. What did he do? He went Conserviak and punted a lot? Yeh…. Wade deserves this honor. There is no honor in punting. Wade’s D stepped up and won this game.
"All our lives we're taught to get in line. The ones who conform never discover." - Undrafted Free Agent and NFL Rushing Leader Arian Foster
That does it...
"Fanaticism consists in redoubling your efforts when you have forgotten your aim." - George Santayana
I see I have one person who agrees with me
Let’s not build any statues in Kubiak’s honor just yet. If Kubiak reacts and takes action to win a game, come talk to me. Curling up and purely counting on Wade’s D to win it, well, that is one way to win, but it’s not like Kubiak took action or reacted to adversity and made the difference. Thanks, Dillo!
"All our lives we're taught to get in line. The ones who conform never discover." - Undrafted Free Agent and NFL Rushing Leader Arian Foster
FIRE THE BUM!!!!
- Feeling the five stages of grief since 2002.
"It's either gonna make you a man or a coward. One of the two. I'm a be a man. I ain't never seen a coward, heard a coward, coward not in ma vocabulary." - Lawrence Vickers
by NoSafetiesNeeded on Nov 29, 2011 8:26 AM CST up reply actions
Funny... If you're still harshin' on the coach at this point...
…your mind is made up. Fine. But stop pretending that there is still more for him to show you. He’s had key pieces of his team gone for this whole season and has still managed to keep the team playing hard and moving forward, unlike some equestrian-oriented teams that will go unnamed.
I’m not going to go through the whole recitation of what he had when he got here, the overall trend of this team, nor try to defend his first two bad DC choices. But neither am I interested in fantasy-Wade-as-HC-behind-the-scenes nonsense. Wade Phillips has PROVEN multiple times that he IS NOT A HEAD COACH. That job is different than a coordinator’s job. Wade is a great DC and a great evaluator of defensive talent. Koobs is developing as a head coach and based on how he has guided this team through adversity this year, I’d submit that Koobs is developing into a GREAT head coach.
YMMV…
"Fanaticism consists in redoubling your efforts when you have forgotten your aim." - George Santayana
Disagree
This is so wrong. And, believe me, I am not on the opposite side of the spectrum. Kubiak is a good HC. That is where he is. I also think that he lacks in-game management skills. Does that mean he is devoid of in-game skills? No. Anointing him with a statue in his honor for the team winning a game after they lose their starting QB, when all he did was curl up and count on his DC genius to handle the opposition doesn’t do it for me. “Great coach?” Ha! Developing? I think you are getting carried away. I think there are some aspects of his character that are great. He stands by his players in public. Does that make him great? Some might think so. Wade Phillips is a great DC. His D won that last game. He deserves to be recognized as a great DC. His D played a great game. The Texans won. Kubiak dropped the ball during the game. He didn’t challenge the Refs when they took over the game with their calls going against the Texans and the non-calls not going against the Jags. He was a HC with his hands in his pockets. There has to be a happy medium and Kubiak was just so non-reactionary, that I think it just perpetuated the Refs boldness to be so onesided. We all saw it. We didn’t see Kubiak take any action. Kubiak has a long way to go to be considered a great coach. To call Kubiak a great coach is a discredit to the Lombardis, Parcells, and Cowhers that have graced the NFL.
"All our lives we're taught to get in line. The ones who conform never discover." - Undrafted Free Agent and NFL Rushing Leader Arian Foster
by Rip Jersey on Nov 29, 2011 8:49 AM CST up reply actions 1 recs
Rip...
In previous years, I’d agree with you whole-heartedly about Kubiak. But this year, his conservative nature has helped the team keep leads while the defense keeps teams from scoring. He’s got faith in his defense. I think he always has. And that’s what’s gotten us into trouble in previous years with his conservative nature. Protecting TJ by going with run plays and punting was a good move. He started out with a good game plan for Leinart. Leinart, for the most part, was shinning in his starting position. Kubiak deserves accolades for his proper placement of faith in the D this year(as opposed to years past). Besides, he probably won’t ever win any awards as HC, but he did a great job ensuring the victory Sunday.
Wade deserves just as much credit for Sunday’s win, though. And perhaps Jacoby…
I've got nothin'...
Shining?
I would say managing at best …but shining?
Yeah, shining...
He was 10 for 13 and had a great touchdown pass to Dreessen. No interceptions. He had a QB rating of 110… He wasn’t making long passes down field, but he wasn’t turning it over or making dumb plays. Not saying shining a la Aaron Rodgers, but shining as in doing a really good job in a tough situation.
I've got nothin'...
as i said managing
10 for 13 most of those being checkdowns
I consider someone to be shining...
when they do exactly what they’re supposed to do and don’t make bone headed plays. I’m not saying Leinart is a great QB. Just saying he did exactly what Kubiak wanted of him and did a good job of it. He wasn’t expected to throw down field for 40+ yards. He did have a nice mid-range throw to Dreessen while getting hit, though. Matter of opinion, though. You don’t agree with mine. That’s fine with me. But that’s because my idea of shining differs from yours.
I've got nothin'...
absolutely not crapping on you at all
but it appears we are judging him the same but you are calling it shining and i’m calling it managing
Not exactly true
It’s not Kube’s fault the running game was completely inept in the second half against a pretty good run defense. He took a third string QB who probably had a very limited play book to begin with and tried a few things but mostly relied on the 2 things he thought he could count on, the running game and D, to win the game. That’s just good coaching. If he’d come out blazing and a turnover changed the game you’d probably be screaming “why take risks with Yates. We have Foster!” Yes Philip’s D held the game for us as they should have but to say he did nothing and said Wade take over is just ignorant.
by sammocyr on Nov 29, 2011 11:24 AM CST up reply actions 2 recs
Dropped the ball during the game?
How exactly was he supposed to “challenge” the refs? Penalties are not challenge-able calls. Non-reactionary? The cameras were focused on a very pissed off Kubiak for damn near 5 mins at one point in the game. What else was he supposed to do, foot stomp up and down the sideline or throw the red flag anyway and draw another personal foul for his team?
I swear, you arm chair coaches get ridiculous with your rants. You let your hate cloud your common sense. If he didn’t intentionally run out the clock, like any other competent coach would do, there is a very good chance we wind up losing the game. Let’s not forget that they already had one wide open TD dropped in the endzone that could very well have changed the game, and that would’ve been on Wade’s defense, no?
WTF
I'm a man!! I'm forty!!
by Hydroshock on Nov 29, 2011 2:13 PM CST up reply actions 1 recs
This. Could not have said it better.
Kubiak coached this game EXACTLY as he should have. The ONLY way J-ville could make it a game was via turnover or big play. This site would be calling for his head if he was slinging it all over the field in the second half and his 3d string, rookie QB threw an interception or two leading to a loss. We were not exactly containing MJD either. Why risk bad field position or putting the D in a bad situation? Answer: You don’t.
Not sayin Kubiak didn't do a good coaching job
but I would’ve liked to see him challenge the 2nd fumble by Foster which seemed like his knee was down when the ball came out & the also he should’ve got on the refs for letting Jax get a play off after the play-clock expired on that one play. Just a few things i noticed, but he did an overall good job running the ball given how beastly the D was playing & not put his only QB dressed that day in a bad position, also it is me or were the refs utterly atrocious last game
The officiating was beyond atrocious
Its hard not to believe they have an agenda sometimes when the calls are that bad. Still, it would not have done a bit of good for Kubiak to lose his composure over it like Rip and others are suggesting. He was mad enough that everyone got the point. Going any further would have drawn a penalty and hurt the team.
As for challenging the second fumble, you can make a good case for that. I’d like to hear everyone’s opinion in JMay’s Kubiak Konundrum post this week.
I'm a man!! I'm forty!!
Kubiak will keep your team calm. I watched him do it with Elway (and if he can do that) he can do it for your team.
Guardian of the Gate to La La Land!
Gonsoulin, Taylor, Wright, Gradishar, Atwater, and Davis.....
Why are they not in the Hall...I just don't understand.
That alone makes him great!
"All our lives we're taught to get in line. The ones who conform never discover." - Undrafted Free Agent and NFL Rushing Leader Arian Foster
I always found the Kubiak/Elway relationship very interesting
A lot of people say Shanahan and Kubiak would not have had the success they did without Elway, but at the same time it should be noted that Elway never won the big one without them. I would argue that it was the Shanny/Kubiak offense that was the key factor. Elway no longer had to do it all himself.
How much of that do you credit to Kubiak? Did he really have that much of an influence in Denver?
I'm a man!! I'm forty!!
All I know is we haven't had a winning season since Kubiak went to the Texans.
Guardian of the Gate to La La Land!
Gonsoulin, Taylor, Wright, Gradishar, Atwater, and Davis.....
Why are they not in the Hall...I just don't understand.
Yes! We really didn't become a force until Kubiak became our OC...
We were good but couldn’t get over the hump.
Gary becomes our OC and we win two Super Bowls….and it should have been three in a row.
The year before we won our two SB’s we had home-field advantage throughout the playoffs and was stunned by the Jags in the first game.
We should have won the SB that year also.
Guardian of the Gate to La La Land!
Gonsoulin, Taylor, Wright, Gradishar, Atwater, and Davis.....
Why are they not in the Hall...I just don't understand.
Man !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I hope that's not a Bronco !!!!!!

Guardian of the Gate to La La Land!
Gonsoulin, Taylor, Wright, Gradishar, Atwater, and Davis.....
Why are they not in the Hall...I just don't understand.
Michael Bolton
Is really pissed at that dead horse!
A sharp tongue is the only edged tool that grows keener with constant use.--Washington Irving
by Foster Child on Nov 30, 2011 6:07 AM CST up reply actions
totally agree.
nobody has faced as much adversity this season besides the texans.
Michael: The feeling that you're feeling is what many of us call...a feeling.
Gob: It's not like envy, or even hungry...
"A lessor coach/team..."
I’m thinking Colts here, they lose 1 player and they can’t muster 1 win. We about have 1 win for each player on the IR.
I’m not sure Mario is a captain though. I think the season started with 2 captains on each side of the ball, Smith and Ryans are the defensive captains.
I think they gave it to Smith after Mario got hurt.
I recall Smith talking after he lost his mind on the goalline in Baltimore (the game after Mario was lost) that he was a Captain now and can’t keep doing stupid shit like that. Mario has been a Captain from day one.
By far an awesome coaching season
It’s great to see Gary in an element he thrives in. Hell, even last season I think he did an alright job considering he had a doormat for “defense.”
As a fan I might not agree with everything he does, but I don’t think there’s a better coach for this team. Bravo, Kubiak, keep up the great work!
My thoughts are like Brian Cushing on the field: Everywhere.
This is my favorite Unsung Hero choice yet.
Kubiak did an incredible job showing confidence in our defense and keeping Yates from getting killed.
by WhiskeyR on Nov 28, 2011 5:53 PM CST reply actions 8 recs
Couldn't disagree more strongly with your Post title
Showing confidence? That deserves a trophy? Bah! Wade won this game. It’s Wade’s D. Kubiak just curled up and survived because Wade’s D did all the work, and did they! Wade deserves the honor of Unsung Hero. He has done the job all season long and this game was the greatest example of how valuable and unsung this D is. I sing the praises of Wade’s D!
"All our lives we're taught to get in line. The ones who conform never discover." - Undrafted Free Agent and NFL Rushing Leader Arian Foster
...and a SECOND "Konserviak" trophy for Rip!!!
"Fanaticism consists in redoubling your efforts when you have forgotten your aim." - George Santayana
Another vote of approval! You're awesome Dillo!
It’s time we put a stop to the blind hero worship of Kubiak. We want to know what he did to deserve such recognition!
"All our lives we're taught to get in line. The ones who conform never discover." - Undrafted Free Agent and NFL Rushing Leader Arian Foster
HE.JUST.WINZ.TEH.GAMEZ
- Feeling the five stages of grief since 2002.
"It's either gonna make you a man or a coward. One of the two. I'm a be a man. I ain't never seen a coward, heard a coward, coward not in ma vocabulary." - Lawrence Vickers
by NoSafetiesNeeded on Nov 29, 2011 8:27 AM CST up reply actions 3 recs
What he did to deserve the recognition was by being SMART. He saw that Jville's O was overmatched by his defense, we were down to a rookie 3d string QB, he had a 10 point lead, and correctly, allowed his defense to control the game.
That type of high-level, strategic thinking and awareness is exactly what you want in a HC. Let the coordinators manage their respective sides of the ball, you manage the higher level decisions.
Exactly
But you know what? I wouldn’t even call it strategic thinking. That’s coaching 101. Had the score been closer or we had been behind, the calls would’ve been completely different.
I'm a man!! I'm forty!!
I saw that the Jags were overmatched by the Texans D! Give me a Unsung Hero Statue!!!!
"All our lives we're taught to get in line. The ones who conform never discover." - Undrafted Free Agent and NFL Rushing Leader Arian Foster
I disagree
Had the game become tied at some point Kubes would have gotten more aggressive with the play calling but it didn’t so he didn’t. He played it smart and did not give the offense a chance to lose the game. Wade did his job and did perfectly but give to Kubes for not doing anything stupid.
by CJ3m on Nov 29, 2011 10:01 AM CST via iPhone app up reply actions
I totally agree
Normally I toss the “Konserviak” flag, but he was brilliant and managed the game by protecting his last QB standing with a classic “turtle” move and total faith in the defense. The defense only allowed two field goals! #InKubiakWeTrust
"There's no reason to become alarmed, and we hope you'll enjoy the rest of your flight. By the way, is there anyone on board who knows how to fly a plane?"
I totally agree with this selection
Kubiak has gone from good to great this season. Lets all thank Mister mcnair for bringing in Wade and letting kybiak focus on what he does better than anyone
by TexansForLife on Nov 28, 2011 6:06 PM CST via mobile reply actions 3 recs
This is the result I was getting stiff for from the beginning of the Wade rumors...
… essentially dual head coaches & letting Kubiak focus solely on the offense.
by The Arian Race on Nov 28, 2011 6:10 PM CST up reply actions 1 recs
Kubiak has gone from misfortunate picker of DCs to being forced to accept a change in the guard
Kubiak looks good only because Wade makes him look good. This is Wade’s D that won this game. I give Kubiak the credit for letting Wade do his thing.
"All our lives we're taught to get in line. The ones who conform never discover." - Undrafted Free Agent and NFL Rushing Leader Arian Foster
Dom Capers = stellar defensive coordinator
…but much like our beloved Wade, not so much of a head coach.
"Fanaticism consists in redoubling your efforts when you have forgotten your aim." - George Santayana
I wonder what would have happened
if we had brought Kubiak in as OC instead? Would we be in the same position as we are now, with a great defensive mind as HC and an amazing OC to back him up?
#UselessSpeculation
Nope because the disfunctional front office...
…would have still gone out and scouted talent like a random-number-generator.
Charlie Casserly was a cancer that doomed the organization to failure. For whatever reason, Dom either couldn’t or didn’t demand the right to make his own personnel decisions.
"Fanaticism consists in redoubling your efforts when you have forgotten your aim." - George Santayana
Now if Kubiak
Can get T.J. up to speed and we win out he should definetly get coach of the year
by TexansForLife on Nov 28, 2011 6:24 PM CST via mobile reply actions
That would be deserving of Unsung Hero status
"All our lives we're taught to get in line. The ones who conform never discover." - Undrafted Free Agent and NFL Rushing Leader Arian Foster
Only one way Tennessee wins a tie breaker...
I tried to do a fanpost, but failed.
http://www.texansbullblog.com/houston-wins-tiebreaker-tennessee-nerds-geeks/news/
by JMFC on Nov 28, 2011 6:43 PM CST reply actions 4 recs
but I think Tennessee plays in the SEC
you mean the BE-SFs, right?
Yates - our current game manager.
From his press conference....he's certainly saying all the right things.
“I’m not down,” said Kubiak. “I’ve got some issues on my hands, but I’m not down. This team is not down. I want everyone to know that. I want the city to know that. We’re excited about our opportunity. It has been very challenging, but hey, that’s part of life. You get some challenges, you’ve got to step to the plate and find a way to get it done.”
"Lord, beer me strength."
by TexansDC on Nov 28, 2011 6:50 PM CST reply actions 6 recs
I think he just converted me
To Kubiakicism. Amen!
A sharp tongue is the only edged tool that grows keener with constant use.--Washington Irving
by Foster Child on Nov 28, 2011 6:56 PM CST up reply actions
His sound bites normally suck...
But I’m glad that he’s saying the right things with this ginormous cluster fuck of a QB connundrum(sp?)…
I've got nothin'...
I've been one of the worst for calling for Kubiak's head.
but he has been able to keep this team “battling” through some pretty serious adversity.
I would even begrudgingly acknowledge he deserves a Coach of the Year award.
Just my $.02
Even duct tape can't fix stupid
Keeping things in perspective
I would have loved a Parcells, or Cowher. But Kubes has gotten the team to lay off the “Woe is us” attitude and stay on an even keel. The team sounds more upbeat after each injury. I don’t expect a Super Bowl, but I think 11-5 and one playoff win are possible.
And please, don’t anyone say promote Wade to head coach! Excellent defensive coordinator, mediocre head coach. He let the Plowboys get down on themselves, but he could probably have improved their defense good enough to get into the playoffs.
So far
I agree.
Now let’s see how we finish. I saw your stipulation about winning the AFC South, but I don’t think he’d deserve it unless we finish with 11 or 12 wins.
Yates - our current game manager.
not to diminish the job he's done
He has done an amazing job to this point.
Yates - our current game manager.
I'd agree.
It’d take 11, IMO, to get that award.
11 with that adversity > Harbaugh’s 12-14 with no real injuries and NFC West > Schwartz’s 10 or so 2nd place team > Green Bay’s 16-0 with no injuries this season.
"Lord, beer me strength."
Great article.
My other two nominees for this award are Glover Quin and Shaun Cody.
I enjoyed watching Cody engulf MJD on a couple of plays, and there’s not a single safety in the league playing harder than our GQ.
Cushing seemed to be bottled up last game
Glover was our best defensive player oh and Barwin.. I mean 4 sacks my lord
Karate? The Dane Cook of martial arts?
I say forget years past
Kubiak is all class. He never has anything negative to say about his players to the media or outsiders but handles his business with anyone outta line at practice or in the locker room, he always takes the blame for anything bad that happens on the team and praises everyone else when good things happen. He’s exactly what you want in a team leader. Guy never panics or flips out but is always emotional enough to fire up his team. Hell, the angriest I’ve seen him is when he got the unsportsmanlike for the challenge flag. I’ve been mad with him in the past, but this season has made me a follower of Kubiakicism led by his holiness wade
"San Antonio is the best falling down team in the league"- Bill Worrell
I really think not having to worry about the defense has made him a better HC.
He really seems to have improved greatly since Baltimore.
Dallas Cowboys, all hat and no cattle since 1996.
by Jonathan Fosburgh on Nov 28, 2011 7:58 PM CST up reply actions
Agreed
Having a solid D led by a former HC has definitely taken a lot of stress/pressure off of him. Still, even before our D got to #1 I always had a lot of respect for how he carried himself and ran the team. You always hear other reports of coaches saying this or that, Kubiak doesn’t let the media have anything and takes care of team business with the team
"San Antonio is the best falling down team in the league"- Bill Worrell
by TheLastDynasty on Nov 28, 2011 8:37 PM CST up reply actions
No doubt, Kubiak is a respectful person and that is why so many commenters have said, "I like the guy, but he is just a good OC and not a HC"
Well, I will say he is doing better, but I am not ready to crown him a huge success as a HC. I think he still makes mistakes that I don’t want to see my HC making. I don’t expect anyone to be faultless. But, let’s give credit where credit is due. All hail Wade! He is the difference-maker here. It is because of Wade that this team is on a five game win streak after a 3-3 start. It was Kubiak’s mismanagement that was at the root of the three losses to start. Wade’s D has gotten even better and that is where I point to the success of this team. A #1 D is not to be taken for granted.
"All our lives we're taught to get in line. The ones who conform never discover." - Undrafted Free Agent and NFL Rushing Leader Arian Foster
yeah I really like how Wade has handled all of the injuries to our star offensive players
I'm a man!! I'm forty!!
Gotta disagree with this Rip.
The D was still “getting up to speed” those three games. Meco was still recovering, Cushing was finding his place in the defense, Mario was still getting a feel for his place in the defense, Watt was still getting used to the speed of the NFL vs college. There were plenty of reason on both sides of the ball why we lost those three games.
This level of blind hatred of Kubiak makes even my dislike of him last year look like an elementary school huff.
Just my $.02
Even duct tape can't fix stupid
There's no hatred for Kubiak in what I say at all
I said I like him. He is not deserving of an Unsung Hero Statue is all I’m saying. You guys think I’m bashing Kubiak. I’m not.
"All our lives we're taught to get in line. The ones who conform never discover." - Undrafted Free Agent and NFL Rushing Leader Arian Foster
It's nice.
However, I would have liked to see him lay into the refs after Jacksonville got away with helmet-to-helmet on a sliding TJ Yates. That should have been met with outrage, given the way things have gone for us lately.
Thank you
How many times during the game do you see Kubiak being passive when he should be demonstative? This is where Kubiak needs to step it up and be a HC and stop being the Refs doormat. So many calls went against the team in this game, what I have been calling Homer-calls, but where was Kubiak when those happened? Why doesn’t he voice his concern to the Refs a little more? I would say there were about five penalty calls during this game that needed more attention. That is significant.
"All our lives we're taught to get in line. The ones who conform never discover." - Undrafted Free Agent and NFL Rushing Leader Arian Foster
how many calls
do you see get overturned because the coach is flapping his gums? I’ll help you out…zero! Demonstrative coaches are overrated.
"A blog is not writing. It’s graffiti with punctuation"
by semihard@texans on Nov 29, 2011 10:23 AM CST via iPhone app up reply actions
This issue here isn't
Kube’s passiveness. It’s the refs inconsistency and ability to be influenced. We have to accept that they will not get every call right but when you bring in calling one way or the other due to coaches getting in their ear than it’s a deeper issue. Worse than getting a call wrong or missing one. On another note for all the stubborn people out there. Wouldn’t you be more likely to call for the respectful person and actually dig your heals in against the person screaming at you. I would.
by sammocyr on Nov 29, 2011 11:36 AM CST up reply actions 4 recs
I agree with Rip
What would have happened if Jacksonville had somehow managed to tie the game? What if they had won the game? Would Kubes still be glorified for “playing it conservative?” I understand that he was trying to protect Yates, but c’mon man! Let the boy play! You know why the run game got stuffed in the 2nd half? Because the Jags knew they were gonna run. I think Kubes has a brilliant offensive mind, but he sometimes gets lost with game management situations. He admitted in his post-game interview that he should have ran Tate more. How do you forget to get Tate in the game?? And if your 3rd string QB is getting laid out in a slide, how are you not in the middle of the field screaming in the refs face? Unsung hero is Dressen if you ask me. If he hadn’t gotten the ball rolling, who knows how that game might have turned out…
Swat and swim, dip and rip, twist and spin; just do whacha gotta do to light up that QB.
Jville did not tie the game for the exact reasons you are complaining about.
By being conservative, Kubiak essentially game Jville no real hope of winning the game. Absent turnover, and points off them, no way Jville was scoring on our D. Kubiak recognized this and the predicament he was in with his QB in the second half and made the smart decision.
And what good would that have done?
Gotten him thrown out of the game? What purpose would that have served? Then all of you screaming for him to be more “demonstrative” would have been calling for his head because he got thrown out of the game at a critical juncture.
UHG! This is getting ridiculous.
Just my $.02
Even duct tape can't fix stupid
you must not have watched the same game
CBS cameras were all over a pissed off Kubiak SEVERAL times. But hey, keep up the hate!
I'm a man!! I'm forty!!
oh yeah.. thats what it is. hate.
Swat and swim, dip and rip, twist and spin; just do whacha gotta do to light up that QB.
so how does exactly, does Kubes' ballsac taste like?
Swat and swim, dip and rip, twist and spin; just do whacha gotta do to light up that QB.
What are you, 12?
Rip posted that Kubiak was too passive throughout the game, but especially on crucial plays that were questionable.
Hydroshock responded (to Rip) that contrary to Rip’s statement, Kubiak was demonstrative at several points throughout the game. He then implied that Rip was suffering from confirmation bias.
And then you implied that Hydroshock was performing fellatio on Gary Kubiak. Hopefully I’m missing something.
by Tailgate Andy on Nov 29, 2011 3:40 PM CST up reply actions
Having an opinion doesn't make me a "hater"
I don’t like the implication that I wasn’t “watching the game.” What? I can’t dislike Kube’s in game decisions? Overall, I think he’s an O.K. coach. He really excels at his game planning. But that being said, I think he floundered in the second half of that game.
Swat and swim, dip and rip, twist and spin; just do whacha gotta do to light up that QB.
All of those things are fine.
But because of the reply button, people who at SBN sites have the ability to respond directly to other posters.
In this instance, Hydroshock responded to a specifc allegation of Rip Jersey’s. None of which touch on anything that you’ve just raised.
So to recap, Hydroshock wasn’t calling you a hater, he was callign Rip Jersey a hater. He wasn’t implying you weren’t watching the game, he was implying that Rip Jersey wasn’t watching the game. No one is saying that you can’t disagree or dislike Kubiak’s in game decisions.
Yours in Christ,
by Tailgate Andy on Nov 29, 2011 3:56 PM CST up reply actions
Thank you TA
Furthermore, I wasn’t calling Rip a hater for just his one comment either. It was in response to his entire crusade against Kubiak for reasons that I find trivial.
I'm a man!! I'm forty!!
sorry
my comment was made in poor taste. Sorry if I hurt anyone’s feelings. And I’m not 12, I’m 14.
Swat and swim, dip and rip, twist and spin; just do whacha gotta do to light up that QB.
Yes, that was extremely frustrating.
After all the bullshit calls against us and all the QB injuries we’ve been suffering, including that hit against Leinart which was borderline dirty, and calling roughing the passer on us for something less—Kubes should’ve been FURIOUS.
http://www.crawfishboxes.com
That's a good point
I don’t know if this was the same officiating crew, but if so it would explain the no call.
I'm a man!! I'm forty!!
But would you have complained if they had thrown a flag?
I certainly wouldn’t have. Both were clear penalties and probably came with malicious intent. If the refs are going to overprotect players, then they aught to make the fucking calls on plays that could actually injure guys (as opposed to the shitty roughing the passer call that went against us that same game).
I’m becoming more and more convinced this season that the refs don’t actually understand the rules.
I'm ok either way....so long as it is called consistently for both sides across the season.
Major fail with consistency. The refs dont appear to understand the rules…that’s my bitch. I didn’t get upset at the non call on Yates.
I am upset
on the no call on Yates cause that rule has been in place for many many years. QB slides the ball is placed way back but he is protected. Has nothing to do with leading with the helmet or anything like that. He slid well before he was launched at and that is one of the most inconsistent calls in football.
^This
He does the boss thing right – you gotta respect that
"The greatest danger in planning for tomorrow is using yesterdays logic."
Marc Kahlberg
"Some ideas are so stupid that only intellectuals believe them." - George Orwell
by Barryfromtexas on Nov 28, 2011 9:38 PM CST up reply actions
Couldn't agree more
For all the bashing we’ve done on Kubes (and I’ve done my fair share), he’s been nothing short of masterful this last month and change, and going back to the offseason he’s been making great choices with Rick Smith.
How many Biletnikoffs does he have? NOT TWO!
Was too far to huck a beer at a Stro’s player as per bone’s request. Jess (girlfriend) said I was too far, I said challenge accepted, a security guard said guess again.-BD34
Kubes has impressed me this season.
He deserves a lot of credit for holding things together. However, were it not for Wade Phillips, he would be on his way out of town.
This looks like the perfect coaching combination, playing to the strengths of both men. Let’s hope it hangs together for some more productive years.
"Gut Feeling"
Gastrointerologists confirm the human gut contains no rational thoughts.
What it IS full of is fairly well known.
Kubiak = Payton?
Sean Payton went 8-8 and after hiring Greg Williams as DC won the Superbowl. So will Kubiak and Wade be the equal of Payton and Williams over the next few years? If the Saints lost Brees, how would they fare? Will the Texans do better over the next few weeks in comparison due to Kubiaks coaching? Curious minds want to know. Should be interesting to see how the team responds, and the job Kubiak is able to do. He already has 1 win with a thrid string QB taking the majority of the snaps.
by McAggie on Nov 29, 2011 6:06 PM CST up reply actions 3 recs
If the Saints lost Brees
Brees is an elite QB. If they lost him they would obviously suffer some production loss, but Chase Daniel has looked extremely good in every opportunity he’s had so I’m not sure it would keep them from contending.
As for Kubiaks coaching influence over the next few weeks, it’s hard to say. It’s nearly impossible for a rookie 5th rounder, with literally no NFL game experience prior to last week, to step in with 5 weeks to go and take his team the distance. That being said, it couldn’t be a better situation for him. He’s got a top ranked run game and defense, and his HC is renowned for being a very good QB mentor. The homer in me would like to think we can still make a run, but the realistic side of me says it’s not likely. If anything I think we’ll see a predictable down turn in offensive production that will cost us a deep playoff push, but due to Kubiak’s coaching it will not be as drastic as it likely would for other teams. I think we’ll still be competitive to the end. At least I hope. Kubiak is good, but he’s no miracle worker. It really all depends on Yates.
I'm a man!! I'm forty!!
...and speaking of unsung heroes who have had a ton of poo flung at them
by howler monkeys like me, how about Rick Smith getting some props for the deep, talented team he has built?
Don’t look now, but the man has grown a long list of winning player moves that he can compare favorably to any other GM’s list.
"Gut Feeling"
Gastrointerologists confirm the human gut contains no rational thoughts.
What it IS full of is fairly well known.
Glad we have him and not the GM in Arlington.
Dallas Cowboys, all hat and no cattle since 1996.
by Jonathan Fosburgh on Nov 28, 2011 9:24 PM CST up reply actions
Ain't that the truth?
I’m glad every day that Jerry has the Cowboys.
"Gut Feeling"
Gastrointerologists confirm the human gut contains no rational thoughts.
What it IS full of is fairly well known.
I missed the game yesterday.
How did Andre and Manning look coming off of their injuries?
"Bite off more than you can chew. Then chew it."
I think Manning had the first tackle of the game from scrimmage.
AJ? Well, he apparently caused Arian’s first fumble (or contributed to it). He had a nice catch from Leinart that got wiped off due to OPI called against him. Nothing else until for awhile that I recall when he caught a few from Yates.
Dallas Cowboys, all hat and no cattle since 1996.
by Jonathan Fosburgh on Nov 28, 2011 9:45 PM CST up reply actions
He was open quite a few times ('Dre)
But we had Captain Checkdown at QB
Yes Kubiak is awesome..and as a " die hard " Houston fan since Billy" white shoes " ( as a kid ) i give Kubiac a thumbs up! If your a Houston fan you understand having to put up with some crazy stuff from, players being traded to owners giving us up..Gary has given us a truely remarkable come back in football since the Oilers were destroyed, with a no surrender attitude ! Go Texans and Please Gary…find us a QB..i want anouther shot at New Arleens ..oops i may have missspelled it..who dat ..I dont know..Maybe Garcia!!
i could help you coach!

by 
























