Houston Texans 53-Man Roster Projection: Can One Week Of Preseason Change Things?
by TexansDC on Aug 18, 2011 8:00 AM CDT
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Yes. Yes, it can.
After Monday Night Football against the New York Jets, I thought I would take a crack at assembling a 53-man roster for your Houston Texans. I admit that it was not an easy process. I had to leave off about four guys that I would be hoping made it to the practice squad, but that's life in the NFL I suppose. The messy results and explanation await you after the jump.
QB - Matt Schaub/Matt Leinart/
They are the only three quarterbacks on the team and each plays a key role on the 53-man roster. Schaub's the unquestioned starter, Leinart's the capable back-up (How's that taste, Orlovsky?), and Yates is the developmental emergency project.
RB - Arian Foster/Derrick Ward/Ben Tate
I imagine Steve Slaton is cut or traded due to not having a role on the team. I hope Tate will get healthy and show what he's made of, and I stupidly hope Chris Ogbonnaya makes it through waivers. I cannot see the Texans abandoning a second-round rookie in his second year.
FB - Lawrence Vickers/James Casey
Ol' Coach Kubiak might platoon both fullbacks to ease on wear and tear over the course of a season. Versatility is going to be the key difference in a lot of roster spot battles. Casey can long-snap, play special teams, and line up at tight end, H-Back, and fullback.
WR - Andre Johnson/Kevin Walter/Jacoby Jones/Dorin Dickerson/Lestar Jean
The top four receivers need no explanation. If Lestar Jean continues to impress in practice and during games, then he will also require no explanation. Jeff Maehl and Terrence Toliver are my practice squad hopes out of this group.
TE - Owen Daniels/Joel Dreessen/Garrett Graham
Anthony Hill, I think it's time for you to get sit on someone else's injured reserve list.
OT - Duane Brown/Eric Winston/Rashad Butler
I love that we have experienced linemen. I really do. Cole Pemberton and Derek Newton, hit the practice squad.
OG - Wade Smith/Mike Brisiel/Antoine Caldwell/Shelley Smith
I hope we have seen the last of Kasey Studdard with his injury. I also think Shelley Smith is very underrated, so hopefully he can get some snaps to show how much better he is than Studdard. Caldwell and the Smiths can also swing to play center should anything happen there, so we have some versatility built in.
C - Chris Myers
The underrated Myers continues to roll solo as the only true center on the roster. At some point, I would like the Texans to pick up a late round kid to groom, as losing Myers could cause more problems than one would think.
DE - J.J. Watt/Antonio Smith/Damione Lewis/Tim Bulman/Tim Jamison
You need good defensive line depth, so I'm picking five here. Aside from Lewis, I can tell you at least one good play that each of the defensive ends made on Monday night. Three of them can also slide in and play defensive tackle in a nickel defense.
NT - Earl Mitchell/Shaun Cody
I wish there was a third body here, but these two are really the only locks at NT on the roster. Let's hope Earl Mitchell doesn't ever get hurt or that roster cuts force another team to part with a solid NT.
ILB - DeMeco Ryans/Brian Cushing/Xavier Adibi/Darryl Sharpton
I never thought I'd say this, but I'm driving the Adibi Bandwagon. No player looked better on Monday night in my eyes. I can't wait to get another look at Adibi with the first-team defense come Saturday.
OLB - Mario Williams/Connor Barwin/Brooks Reed/Jesse Nading/Bryan Braman
Wild Braman might force Kubiak's hand here. He was too impactful to be left to the waiver wire. He will be a lock if he can bring that energy to special teams. Steven Friday is a guy I hope can make the practice squad, as I liked him during the draft season and on Monday night.
CB - Johnathan Joseph/Jason Allen/Kareem Jackson/Brandon Harris/Brice McCain/Sherrick McManis
Roc Carmichael may be a IR stash or practice squader because this position is crowded with big-name veterans and high draft picks. McManis could also find his way to safety with his skill set, but I can't see any of these six guys not being on the roster. The competition for snaps on the back-end should help keep everyone's efforts up.
S - Glover Quin/Danieal Manning/Troy Nolan/Shiloh Keo
Keo better improve his tackling or else he could be practice squad fodder. You cannot play special teams in the NFL if you cannot tackle. The other three are locks, barring a miraculous performance by Torri Williams or Quintin Demps.
ST - Neil Rackers, Brett Hartmann, Jon Weeks
The rookie wins the punting competition in week one, in part due to his kickoff leg. Rackers and Weeks can coast until September 11th. For Weeks' sake, he better hope that there's not an extreme excess amount of talent impressing because Dreessen and Casey can both long-snap.
There's my take on the 53-man roster. Am I wrong? Am I right? Let me know in the comments, BRB faithful.
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Comments
Pretty much spot on...
I’d agree with most of your roster predicitions, except I see Kubes finding a way for Oingo Boingo to make the roster – the dedication to Foster and Tate I can understand, but I don’t know why he’s so hung up on Ward when Ogbonnaya is just as effective and cheaper
Ward and Ogbonaya are different type players in my mind
Most of Ogbonaya’s success came catching the ball out of the backfield.
For as many things as he got right on Monday night don’t forget that Ogbonaya averaged around 2 ypc. The line didn’t do him a ton of favors, but I think Ogbonaya got more hype from Monday than his performance warranted. I’m pulling for him and I can see him making this team but if he does it will likely be because our other RB’s are still banged up.
"If my hips had pockets, I wouldn't wear pants at all." @NotBurtReynolds
I can see Ogbonnaya stealing the 3rd spot if Tate can't stay healthy
If that happens, watch for Tate to get stuffed on the IR or PUP list
Murphy’s 20th Military Law:
If it’s stupid, but it works, it ain’t stupid
by The Night Owl on Aug 18, 2011 8:39 PM CDT up reply actions
Wait, what?
Ward is light years above Ogbonnaya. The Glacier was very good for us last year and then an unknown guy after one pre-season game where he rushed for 2.2ypc is going to unseat him?
You're probably right
Ward is a good RB, and a lot of the pulling for Ogbonnaya comes from his MNF hype. With the other running backs all banged up, I’m interested to see if he can have another good game on Saturday. In the end, I’d have to agree and say that he won’t unseat Ward though.
I feel the same way Pony and DD77DD...
OingoBoingo and Ward are two different types of backs and IMO we need a guy like Ward more. Reason being, he can push piles between the tackles and has some speed if he gets in the open. Also, you can’t overlook the value of a good blitz pickup man.
Oingo was great on the edge and showed some really elusive moves but can’t pound it the way Ward can. I see Ward as the defense softener and Arian as the gasher. Oingo just wouldn’t complement Arian quite as well and might get Shaub hurt against 1st stringers.
"You take drugs, Danny?"
"Everyday"
"Good"
by Austin Bob_Ford on Aug 18, 2011 9:48 AM CDT up reply actions
Oingo may be trade bait ... if they can pull it off
he is decent but it is the system that makes him shine
The down side is he really doesn’t have great speed, little or no latteral movement, and the catches he made were soft throws while wide open… he’s what you normally get as a lower string back…the upside… he is young and could get much better with the right coaching and team.
Doin stuff so nasty that you have to do it twice to confirm the level of nasty!!
For some reason I was expecting you predict Weeks geeting cut
I think he makes the team again as well, especially if history is any indication. And speaking of history, in another week or two we’ll look back and laugh at how Adibi tricked us that one last time.
I wsa hoping for the same.
I’ve been anti-carrying-a-long-snapper for years now, and it makes even less sense when two guys on the roster at other positions can do it and you have a buttload of positional talent that you’re trying to find space for. That said, Danny’s probably right that Weeks will make it.
The Two-Day Hangover @ SBN Houston | Twitter
I didn't think he'd make it either
but because the returners were so absolutely terrible, I couldn’t justify putting any of them on the team.
"Lord, beer me strength."
Who really is the best KR on this roster?
Derrick Townsel? You’d think we could at least teach one of the backup DB’s to do it effectively.
- Rivers McCown, From Mom's Basement | Twitter | Football Outsiders | Battle Red Blog
by riversmccown on Aug 18, 2011 10:12 AM CDT up reply actions
I really don't want Manning returning
I have no desire to see Troy Nolan at safety this season.
"Lord, beer me strength."
by TexansDC on Aug 18, 2011 10:26 AM CDT up reply actions 1 recs
But what will Kubiak likely do?
Unless someone else stands out, I think Kubiak has no problem using a starting safety for KR.
Yeah, Koobs and Shanny both have a bad habit of using starters on special teams.
In fact, that’s how Al Wilson’s career was lost.
It'd have to be Jacoby, IMO
He’s half of the #2 receiver but more expendable than Manning.
"Lord, beer me strength."
Concur.
Despite my better judgment, a manager at Battle Red Blog.
Supreme Galactic Editor of Battle Red Onion.
I am a visionary, I am a genius, and now I am angry! Now where are those pants at?!
Football is war by other means. - Carl von Clausewitz...sorta.
by UprootedTexan on Aug 18, 2011 10:54 AM CDT up reply actions
I agree. Why would anyone put their starting safety,
and most experienced leader of the secondary, at risk in a KR role?
Let’s not risk one of the most key positions that took this front office a fucking decade to fix!!
With Marciano in charge?
The man who hasn’t been able to get shit from KR since Mathis and a PR since Jones’ rookie season?
Why couldn’t we have flushed him, too?
Also, I just want a KR that can go forward and not fumble. That’s all I’m asking this year.
A Texans fan. Really. No, I'm not kidding.
http://www.battleredblog.com
"Blind fandom is all I got left." - LoneSpot
by bigfatdrunk on Aug 18, 2011 10:15 AM CDT up reply actions 1 recs
Why do they always make going forward look so damn difficult?
Losing yards on kicks drives me almost as crazy as not tackling.
He got one good year out of apostrophe
"If my hips had pockets, I wouldn't wear pants at all." @NotBurtReynolds
I kinda' miss apostrophe...
…kinda’ like I think we are going to miss David Anderson. Methinks there was more talent there than was allowed to be shown.
"And I’m sure [Kareem Jackson] would have a wonderful career as a professional interpretive dancer, with all that flapping his arms and falling down."
- tehGrindCrusher
apostrophe was absolutely terrible after he got his extension
That included kick returns too. He reached the edge of a cliff in his career and his skills just went right over the edge. I’ll miss DA, but he’s replaceable.
"If my hips had pockets, I wouldn't wear pants at all." @NotBurtReynolds
Yeah, and I guess apostrophe earned a place in my heart...
…over that stretch when Andre went down and it seemed like the receivers were waiting on the ball to get to them. There was one play near the sidelines were apostrophe went up, FOUGHT for the ball and got the reception and it was just so novel that it really stuck out in my mind. But his production wasn’t ever that great after that, granted.
"And I’m sure [Kareem Jackson] would have a wonderful career as a professional interpretive dancer, with all that flapping his arms and falling down."
- tehGrindCrusher
He had a couple great moments
such as downing punts at the one a couple times and the Jax game. Unfortunately, finding lightning in a bottle like that is what’s allowed Marciano to keep his job for so long.
The Two-Day Hangover @ SBN Houston | Twitter
Certainly sucks to carry a guy who's exclusively a LS.
But it does sting a bit less, when that guy is automatic.
Yeah, it stings until ...
…you get to experience the joy of watching Matt Turk run around in circles in the end zone after a high-snap… obviously bewildered about what to do with that brown thing that is lying at his feet…
/drinks from the “special” water bowl…
"And I’m sure [Kareem Jackson] would have a wonderful career as a professional interpretive dancer, with all that flapping his arms and falling down."
- tehGrindCrusher
by DilloTex on Aug 18, 2011 11:25 AM CDT up reply actions 4 recs
apparently Demeco's not
and he has some swelling. That is disconcerting.
PUT TYLER ON THE GREENE!! update - .341/.430/.621!!!!
Public Relations Officer of the Tyler Greene Fan Club.
by Stash Musial on Aug 18, 2011 9:26 AM CDT up reply actions
Probably banged it on a helmet
"All our lives, we’re taught to get in line. The ones who conform never discover."-Arian Foster
ɔıןןıɹʎɔ ʇou sı ǝdʎʇ uʍop ǝpısdn
by Barryfromtexas on Aug 18, 2011 10:45 AM CDT up reply actions
I heard he dropped the elbow (MMA style) on Sanchez nutsack
only to painfully discover that dirty boy had a strap on under there
I thought that was Molden.
Maybe Tate should be the Groundhog instead?
Despite my better judgment, a manager at Battle Red Blog.
Supreme Galactic Editor of Battle Red Onion.
I am a visionary, I am a genius, and now I am angry! Now where are those pants at?!
Football is war by other means. - Carl von Clausewitz...sorta.
by UprootedTexan on Aug 18, 2011 10:56 AM CDT up reply actions
Sorry for pre-empting you, DC.
I didn’t notice your comment, last night, until after I fanposted my own take on the 53.
It’s a good write up. Your take on the roster looks sound, and I agree with you about the importance of DL depth. In my case, I felt that with Mario and Barwin automatically becoming the DEs in Nickel and Dime sets (as well as their potential to play there in emergency situations), something along the lines of five [nominal] DEs might be gratuitous. Plus, with Tate and Slaton still showing the effects of past injuries; with Ward also missing time now… we’re really going to need someone who’s already running pretty well, like Oggy.
If Foster and Oggy are the only healthy tailbacks going into the Colts game, we’re looking too thin. We have to run effectively in that matchup; no doubt about it.
I also think that if we could score another nose...
Mitchell and Cody are also very capable of spending time at DE.
I'd guess we go with only five corners and keep a 4th RB on the roster
Looks like a pretty solid guess though overall. WR’s and DB’s seems to be the best remaining battles in camp/preseason right now. It’s nice to be that solid teamwide
Lose Weeks.
That will allow us to keep Roc or Oingoboing or if they step up one of the receivers.
.................
It's just not going to happen
I don’t like it, but I can’t blame them for always carrying a DS.
"If my hips had pockets, I wouldn't wear pants at all." @NotBurtReynolds
After Monday night's game
This seems to be spot on for now. I did find it odd that the Texans had brought in a long snapper while Weeks is injured. This almost assures Weeks will stay on the roster.
I am hoping you are right about Studdard.
If Keo doesn’t play better – I think Barber will be on that list instead.
Barring major injuries – this probably won’t change a lot come Sept 4.
"All our lives, we’re taught to get in line. The ones who conform never discover."-Arian Foster
ɔıןןıɹʎɔ ʇou sı ǝdʎʇ uʍop ǝpısdn
The more Shelley Smith, the better
Studdard and Caldwell hurt should open up snaps for him.
"Lord, beer me strength."
Im really dissapointed that Carmichael hasnt been healthy
The CB depth chart would look a lot better if he was slotted behind Brandon Harris and pushing KJ for snaps. It would also allow the team some flexiblity with McMannis at Safety. Im really not sold on Keo and if McMannis was able to push him, the overall secondary depth is improved.
PUT TYLER ON THE GREENE!! update - .341/.430/.621!!!!
Public Relations Officer of the Tyler Greene Fan Club.
They cut Dobbins already?
I thought he was pretty solid Monday.
by The Original H-Town Stomp on Aug 18, 2011 9:36 AM CDT reply actions
He was OK against the run
A disaster in pass coverage
Kind of a Zac Diles 2.0
"All our lives, we’re taught to get in line. The ones who conform never discover."-Arian Foster
ɔıןןıɹʎɔ ʇou sı ǝdʎʇ uʍop ǝpısdn
by Barryfromtexas on Aug 18, 2011 9:39 AM CDT up reply actions
I think mine would look like
QB Schaub / Leinart / Yates (3)
RB Foster / Ward / Tate / Slaton (7) — If Slaton is cut, could be Ogbayanna.
FB Vickers (8)
WR Johnson / Walter / Jones / Dickerson / Maehl (13) — I don’t buy the Jean hype on one game against third-stringers. Maehl is a better fit for the back-end considering Dickerson and Jones are both deep receivers.
TE Daniels / Dreessen / Casey / Graham (17)
OT Brown / Winston / Butler (20)
OG Smith / Brisiel / Caldwell / Smith (24)
OC Myers (25)
DE Watt / Smith / Lewis / Jamison / Bulman (30)
DT Mitchell / Cody (32)
ILB Ryans / Cushing / Sharpton / Keglar (36)
OLB Mario / Barwin / Reed / Nading (40)
CB Joseph / Jackson / Allen / Harris / Carmichael / McManis (46)
S Manning / Quin / Keo / Barber (50)
ST Rackers / Weeks / (Punter) (53)
- Rivers McCown, From Mom's Basement | Twitter | Football Outsiders | Battle Red Blog
x-man will beat out keglar.
and did you see maehl get the shit ran over him when he tried to do a crackback block? if keo does not pick it up he could be gone and we add another receiver.
Xavier Adibi is a total non-factor
One preseason stint of adequacy does not make up for four years of sadness and injuries.
- Rivers McCown, From Mom's Basement | Twitter | Football Outsiders | Battle Red Blog
by riversmccown on Aug 18, 2011 9:51 AM CDT up reply actions
He's always had the physical talent
But he’s never been able to stay on the field. He’ll always have Week 11 in 2008.
A Texans fan. Really. No, I'm not kidding.
http://www.battleredblog.com
"Blind fandom is all I got left." - LoneSpot
by bigfatdrunk on Aug 18, 2011 10:08 AM CDT up reply actions
Hammy... 'cuz all the other kids are doing it...
"And I’m sure [Kareem Jackson] would have a wonderful career as a professional interpretive dancer, with all that flapping his arms and falling down."
- tehGrindCrusher
Xfinity handed out new water cups at practice with a safety slogan directed specifically at the Texans players
by MeMongo on Aug 18, 2011 1:46 PM CDT up reply actions 4 recs
You are the photo king... nice one. rec'd
"And I’m sure [Kareem Jackson] would have a wonderful career as a professional interpretive dancer, with all that flapping his arms and falling down."
- tehGrindCrusher
he's also seemed to pick up nagging injuries every time he starts to get a little momentum too
"If my hips had pockets, I wouldn't wear pants at all." @NotBurtReynolds
he does have speed though
and if WP can utilize that quality, he could have impact
PUT TYLER ON THE GREENE!! update - .341/.430/.621!!!!
Public Relations Officer of the Tyler Greene Fan Club.
by Stash Musial on Aug 18, 2011 1:01 PM CDT up reply actions
No Braman?
But I thought it was already a given that he would make the HOF.
The Two-Day Hangover @ SBN Houston | Twitter
That was Oggy
And Mario Williams is the worst player EVAR and doesn’t deserve to make the team.
A Texans fan. Really. No, I'm not kidding.
http://www.battleredblog.com
"Blind fandom is all I got left." - LoneSpot
TRADE HIM WHILE WE STILL CAN!!!!
PANIC! TERROR! BLEATING!!!
Despite my better judgment, a manager at Battle Red Blog.
Supreme Galactic Editor of Battle Red Onion.
I am a visionary, I am a genius, and now I am angry! Now where are those pants at?!
Football is war by other means. - Carl von Clausewitz...sorta.
by UprootedTexan on Aug 18, 2011 11:01 AM CDT up reply actions
"BLEATING"? Really? Nice...
I’m a fan of the random sheep shout out.
"And I’m sure [Kareem Jackson] would have a wonderful career as a professional interpretive dancer, with all that flapping his arms and falling down."
- tehGrindCrusher
You're thinking of J.J. Watt
- Rivers McCown, From Mom's Basement | Twitter | Football Outsiders | Battle Red Blog
by riversmccown on Aug 18, 2011 9:51 AM CDT up reply actions
No...
He was inducted after the first week of practice.
A Texans fan. Really. No, I'm not kidding.
http://www.battleredblog.com
"Blind fandom is all I got left." - LoneSpot
Oh yeah.
(GATORADE) The best defensive end in the history of the NFL, and there is no chance we will regret selecting him at all. (GATORADE)
- Rivers McCown, From Mom's Basement | Twitter | Football Outsiders | Battle Red Blog
by riversmccown on Aug 18, 2011 9:54 AM CDT up reply actions
Do not besmirch the good name of Justin J. Watt.
Or the fine products by Gatorade!
Despite my better judgment, a manager at Battle Red Blog.
Supreme Galactic Editor of Battle Red Onion.
I am a visionary, I am a genius, and now I am angry! Now where are those pants at?!
Football is war by other means. - Carl von Clausewitz...sorta.
by UprootedTexan on Aug 18, 2011 11:03 AM CDT up reply actions
I fuel up with Gatorade prior to all BRB-related reading
The Two-Day Hangover @ SBN Houston | Twitter
don't you mean bleach?
Sorry Rivers….just had to do it
"If my hips had pockets, I wouldn't wear pants at all." @NotBurtReynolds
by papabear on Aug 18, 2011 12:44 PM CDT up reply actions 1 recs
He is in such a great situation
First year of the 3-4 transition with no proven OLBs on the roster.
And he didn’t show the hesitation that Reed did.
"Lord, beer me strength."
I don't completely disagree.
But I think Dickerson’s extra year in the system and actual draft status gives him a leg up.
- Rivers McCown, From Mom's Basement | Twitter | Football Outsiders | Battle Red Blog
by riversmccown on Aug 18, 2011 9:52 AM CDT up reply actions
i would not put jean over dickerson just yet.
i want to see schuab throwing the balls to these guys.
And Dickerson blocked 2 guys on that TD run
"All our lives, we’re taught to get in line. The ones who conform never discover."-Arian Foster
ɔıןןıɹʎɔ ʇou sı ǝdʎʇ uʍop ǝpısdn
by Barryfromtexas on Aug 18, 2011 10:48 AM CDT up reply actions
Spending a 7th round pick doesn't really make someone an 'invesment'.
I much prefer Rivers’ angle. DD has been on the roster for a year, and would be considered more of an investment because of that.
We spent a draft pick on Trindon Holliday, but I won’t be sad if we cut him. That goes for anyone, really, as long as someone hops over them on the depth chart. Or, especially in cases of ineffectiveness.
7th round picks are a lot more expendable than 2nd rounders.
Despite my better judgment, a manager at Battle Red Blog.
Supreme Galactic Editor of Battle Red Onion.
I am a visionary, I am a genius, and now I am angry! Now where are those pants at?!
Football is war by other means. - Carl von Clausewitz...sorta.
by UprootedTexan on Aug 18, 2011 11:05 AM CDT up reply actions
That's not really true
Dickerson was the one making all the noise all through camp last year and he made several nice catches in the pre-season that had people salivating over him. Dickerson has an extra year in the system not mention that he is faster and bigger than Jean. The coaches have a pretty good idea what Dickerson can do, Jean’s getting his chance to show what he can do. Chances are one of the other young WR will get more of an opportunity this week or next to prove themselves.
I’m always fascinated by how the young the player that surprises everyone one training camp is immediately considered crap the next…only to be replaced by the next young “this guy is going to be great” player.
"If my hips had pockets, I wouldn't wear pants at all." @NotBurtReynolds
So far, then, one good preseason for each? Yeah, Dorin has a leg up as far as experience goes. While that is indeed very important in this offense, it’s not like we’re talking about a huge difference in experience. Or hype.
Just saying it's not accurate to say that Jean has shown more than Dickerson at this point
"If my hips had pockets, I wouldn't wear pants at all." @NotBurtReynolds
I don't know what we're arguing about
We might have already seen more from Jean, than we’ve seen from Dickerson
Dickerson has had more pre-season games, more training camp time, and was even more hyped at this time last year than Jean was. I’m not saying who I think will end being the better player(though I think it’s Dickerson), but your OP insinuated that we haven’t seen all that much from Dickerson.
"If my hips had pockets, I wouldn't wear pants at all." @NotBurtReynolds
Dickerseon
can also block. I didn’t watch Jean, but blocking is important.
Thank God for football!
by BattleRedHusker on Aug 18, 2011 10:35 AM CDT up reply actions
Alright, I'll clarify.
I orginally stated that we might have seen more. Sure, we’ve seen Dickerson get more preeason playing time… but what have we actually seen, of value? The two are quite comparable, in that respect.
I didn’t tear Rivers to shreds over it. It’s all good, though, pb. I like discussion. It’s an interesting time of year for it.
Correct.
The players who had one decent pre-season game so far this year are receiving Jets-level hype on this board.
I guess it just goes back to it being too early to know
but it reminds me of people thinking we don’t need Owen Daniels because we have James Casey – albeit to a much much lesser extent
For some reason
probably since I have limited football knowledge, my favorite thing is trying to figure out who Smithiak will keep, instead of who I think should make the team. Its a fun game.
I'm not saying you're saying that, btw
Just that after one pre-season game we’ve got a lot of people people (in the fanbase) thinking unknown rookies are going to unseat all these vets
Dickerson was getting a lot of hype last year, too.
But I’d say the coaches know what they have in him. Jean so far is mostly unknown to them, that’s why he’s getting his opportunity this week. he earned it, but who knows how it will go.
I'd still like to see more than one game before I arrive at that conclusion just yet.
Despite my better judgment, a manager at Battle Red Blog.
Supreme Galactic Editor of Battle Red Onion.
I am a visionary, I am a genius, and now I am angry! Now where are those pants at?!
Football is war by other means. - Carl von Clausewitz...sorta.
by UprootedTexan on Aug 18, 2011 11:02 AM CDT up reply actions
I should also explain
That Keglar and Barber making the team over (presumably) more talented reserves is all about special teams. They have already looked horrific in the preseason, were terrible last year, and this team needs all the help there that they can get.
- Rivers McCown, From Mom's Basement | Twitter | Football Outsiders | Battle Red Blog
by riversmccown on Aug 18, 2011 10:08 AM CDT up reply actions
I can buy that
…but it’s depressing because Barber and to a lesser extent Keglar were part of the poor special teams last year.
"If my hips had pockets, I wouldn't wear pants at all." @NotBurtReynolds
this
But, in all fairness to the 53 man roster projections, player from other teams will probably trickle onto our roster at some point. I personally had Hill beating out Graham as a nod to a special teams role. Though, I hope we’ll be able to run with something better.
If Hill showed us his special teams "prowess" in the 1st preseason game
Then he is likely gone – he was pretty bad on ST
"All our lives, we’re taught to get in line. The ones who conform never discover."-Arian Foster
ɔıןןıɹʎɔ ʇou sı ǝdʎʇ uʍop ǝpısdn
by Barryfromtexas on Aug 18, 2011 10:52 AM CDT up reply actions
Yeah, he was bad. But downgrading wouldn't help anything either.
Then again, he’ll be on IR by this Sunday…
I would say Carmichael will be on the practice squad
He hasn’t played at all and is way behind.
You think a Rick Smith fourth-round pick will be exposed to waivers?
Guffaw.
- Rivers McCown, From Mom's Basement | Twitter | Football Outsiders | Battle Red Blog
by riversmccown on Aug 18, 2011 10:21 AM CDT up reply actions
why does it seem like
this team can never keep a fast CB healthy?
I am Sancho
by HoustonTransplant on Aug 18, 2011 10:23 AM CDT up reply actions
ok, how about a fast cb taller than an oompa loompa?
I am Sancho
by HoustonTransplant on Aug 18, 2011 10:25 AM CDT up reply actions
It's a dead heat, right?
But evidently Hartmann is our best KO man. I wonder who’s doing better as the holder…
Didn't they have like almost the exact same stats as each other on Monday night?
If it becomes dead even then Maynard wins, just because of experience,
.................
Hartman apparently has a bigger leg, but someone said he needs to be more consistent.
"If my hips had pockets, I wouldn't wear pants at all." @NotBurtReynolds
McCain will make the 53 man roster...
Dickerson was a TE, i’m pretty sure he would be better than Maehl in the slot. And i’m on the Lestar Jean bandwagon. we don’t need to carry 4 RB…send to ir, practice sqaud, or release…we will carry 3. Braham if he keeps playing like he did, will find himself on the roster.
Don't ask me! Ask Google, you dumb Yahoo!
McCain is hot trash.
- Rivers McCown, From Mom's Basement | Twitter | Football Outsiders | Battle Red Blog
by riversmccown on Aug 18, 2011 10:40 AM CDT up reply actions 2 recs
Nah...
hot trash wouldn’t give 10 yard cushions on first and goal from the 2.
The Two-Day Hangover @ SBN Houston | Twitter
That was Moulden
"All our lives, we’re taught to get in line. The ones who conform never discover."-Arian Foster
ɔıןןıɹʎɔ ʇou sı ǝdʎʇ uʍop ǝpısdn
by Barryfromtexas on Aug 18, 2011 11:43 AM CDT up reply actions
I think he was referring to the Jets game in 2010.
- Rivers McCown, From Mom's Basement | Twitter | Football Outsiders | Battle Red Blog
by riversmccown on Aug 18, 2011 2:23 PM CDT up reply actions
Jean Hype.....
Watching him at practice he was making play after play. He is a raw talent, but the dude has spectacular catch ability….Looking forward to seeing more of him, but for the small sample size, the hype is justified.
It takes a big man to walk away, but a bigger man to break his freaking jaw!
I'll wait for one more preseason game
before I start jumping on his wagon. He was impressive in the Jets game but he’s gotta produce again.
Really don't get keeping Slaton over OingoBoingo...
…what am I missing?
Slaton seems like irreparably damaged goods to me.
"And I’m sure [Kareem Jackson] would have a wonderful career as a professional interpretive dancer, with all that flapping his arms and falling down."
- tehGrindCrusher
I agree.
But, damn, wouldn’t it be sweet if we were wrong?
If he could somehow get close enough to where he used to be, physically, I’d say he’s worth having around.
So he can fumble?
He has not proven to me that he can hold on to the ball….
True but from TC reports
He was fumbling also…. I think it’s much deeper than a neck issue…
see my below comment
ie: he cannot adequately protect the ball, without the range of motion in his neck allowing him to locate oncoming defenders
the neck injury caused his arm to be numb
If there is still a nerve issue that very likely plays a role in the fumbles. Hard to hold onto something you can’t feel.
"If my hips had pockets, I wouldn't wear pants at all." @NotBurtReynolds
"Hard to hold onto something you can’t feel."
TWSS?
The Two-Day Hangover @ SBN Houston | Twitter
by MDC on Aug 18, 2011 12:49 PM CDT up reply actions 2 recs
more times than I care to remember my friend
well played
"If my hips had pockets, I wouldn't wear pants at all." @NotBurtReynolds
I'm as big a fan of a comeback story as the next guy...
…but Slaton hasn’t looked like the same guy (to me) since the neck injury.
I’m going to defer to the guys that make these calls for a living, but Oingo seemed pretty competent on Monday. But…. Slaton looked pretty competent for an entire season before his injury so maybe there’s just more real evidence to support believing in him.
"And I’m sure [Kareem Jackson] would have a wonderful career as a professional interpretive dancer, with all that flapping his arms and falling down."
- tehGrindCrusher
I'm with you, though. It's far fetched.
Since the injury, he hasn’t been able to locate oncoming defenders in his periphery. I’ve noticed it, in his decision making, with the few carries I’ve seen him take since. Add to that, his surgery, which actually fused the vertebrae in his neck together. I suspect he would have already been long gone, if Ben Tate and Jeremiah Johnson hadn’t been injured, last preseason.
I think the overall package...Slaton probably isn't as good
But he gains a little because he is a really good screen back, and the Texans could use that if Rick Dennison has woken up from last year’s nightmare and decided that screens are a wonderful thing.
- Rivers McCown, From Mom's Basement | Twitter | Football Outsiders | Battle Red Blog
by riversmccown on Aug 18, 2011 2:25 PM CDT up reply actions
Well, I defer to your expertise...
…and I hope that he does regain that explosiveness because he sure could bring me up out of a chair.
"And I’m sure [Kareem Jackson] would have a wonderful career as a professional interpretive dancer, with all that flapping his arms and falling down."
- tehGrindCrusher
After one game...
I wasn’t impressed with Casey’s blocking coming out of the back field. Didn’t really seem to drive through after initial contact.
I am Sancho
by HoustonTransplant on Aug 18, 2011 10:16 AM CDT reply actions
This might be true
But I looked at Foster’s highlights from last year, and Vonta (while he destroyed a few LB’s) only really had to get in the way, and Arian was already through the hole. I think the same will be true with THOR. Just get in the way, and Foster will be gone.
UTD whoosh
by Marzindells on Aug 18, 2011 10:31 AM CDT up reply actions
Yeah he has enough stength to create the initial hole
I’m just saying he might not have to stick with the guy for long when Arian is on his heels
UTD whoosh
by Marzindells on Aug 18, 2011 10:33 AM CDT up reply actions
Casey flattened two Jets Monday night
I don’t know why people haven’t noticed that
On one play #52 – on another it was a safety coming up
His other blocks were pretty normal – but he didn’t miss anyone.
"All our lives, we’re taught to get in line. The ones who conform never discover."-Arian Foster
ɔıןןıɹʎɔ ʇou sı ǝdʎʇ uʍop ǝpısdn
by Barryfromtexas on Aug 18, 2011 10:57 AM CDT up reply actions
vickers is a beast
catches the ball better than leach ever did, and can block just as well, but maybe not as physical as leach. So we get the same results, but you wont see as many people getting blown the fuck up. Casey needs to stay at TE. This is the preseason, so he looked OK at FB, but he needs to be at TE
@THEREALALLENOU on twitter - "The man, the verb, the legend" OU'd
I actually like the idea of a platoon.
Fullbacks wear down so easily. And the rushing attack is such an important aspect of our team.
I saw solid blocks
Nothing in particular stood out – besides his catch and run.
"All our lives, we’re taught to get in line. The ones who conform never discover."-Arian Foster
ɔıןןıɹʎɔ ʇou sı ǝdʎʇ uʍop ǝpısdn
by Barryfromtexas on Aug 18, 2011 11:00 AM CDT up reply actions
Yes an OK block
The key on that TD was Dickerson blocking 2 guys
"All our lives, we’re taught to get in line. The ones who conform never discover."-Arian Foster
ɔıןןıɹʎɔ ʇou sı ǝdʎʇ uʍop ǝpısdn
by Barryfromtexas on Aug 18, 2011 11:47 AM CDT up reply actions
He's simply not built to be a fullback.
Vickers will win that battle handily I think.
Despite my better judgment, a manager at Battle Red Blog.
Supreme Galactic Editor of Battle Red Onion.
I am a visionary, I am a genius, and now I am angry! Now where are those pants at?!
Football is war by other means. - Carl von Clausewitz...sorta.
by UprootedTexan on Aug 18, 2011 11:12 AM CDT up reply actions
No, but
(a) The numbers from last season suggest that Foster did better sans fullback anyway and (b) Casey is is built to be a fantastic H-back, which this offense could utilize very well.
The Two-Day Hangover @ SBN Houston | Twitter
Yup.
I still need to do a post on this.
The Two-Day Hangover @ SBN Houston | Twitter
by MDC on Aug 18, 2011 12:01 PM CDT up reply actions 3 recs
I agree
As long as he can handle the job in the blocking department, I think his ability to be a playmaker from the fullback spot is just too interesting to ignore.
UTD whoosh
by Marzindells on Aug 18, 2011 12:22 PM CDT up reply actions
yep, the key is going to be the flexibility we have with Casey
Just a lot of different ways to attack the D when Casey is on the field if he can be just passable as traditional fullback to keep the defense honest.
"If my hips had pockets, I wouldn't wear pants at all." @NotBurtReynolds
one person i will be looking at this sat will not be on the texans team.
Deandre Mcdaniel Strong Saftey UDFA was the best to come out.
Just keep him away from women and stairwells.
Despite my better judgment, a manager at Battle Red Blog.
Supreme Galactic Editor of Battle Red Onion.
I am a visionary, I am a genius, and now I am angry! Now where are those pants at?!
Football is war by other means. - Carl von Clausewitz...sorta.
by UprootedTexan on Aug 18, 2011 11:14 AM CDT up reply actions
McCain is LUCKY Roc isnt playing in the preseason
thats the only reason he makes the roster. I hope he can get back and at least practice, because McCain isnt an NFL corner IMO
@THEREALALLENOU on twitter - "The man, the verb, the legend" OU'd
great job TDC
i gonna disagree on the adibi note tho.. although he did look quick, when i rewatched the game he really made the plays by misreads by the Oline..he was subbed in for cush, and i think if its cush in that spot the linemen would have taken more notice..it seemed like since it was adibi, they just didnt account for him at all at times and again, with cush i think he would be more of a focal point and there would have been a lot more pointing from the linemen when cush toes that line for the blitz vs adibi
It could also be the attention given to Watt and Mario
that the Oline gave to them that let Adibi get a hit without being blocked.
yea
but thats other side of the line (from my memory) where it was a missed assignment from the OL..but ur right in the fact that for some reason (see:mario n watt combo) swtich from the 43 to the 34 we now have a MUCH improved line..so one way or another there will be a lot of 1 guy getting home cuz of the quick confusion of the 34…and its not that the jets rnt used to seeing the 34 more, so yea, im luving our switch
On that Adibi sack
it was Adibi, Mario, Watt, Smith, (Couldn’t see what number the player on the right was.) Jets Oline sent about 3-4 players to block out Mario and Watt while leaving Adibi unblocked. There was a player open on the side where Adibi was and Sanchez was looking to throw to that player but the heat came on too fast and he got sacked.
yea, i rewatched the play a couple of times
im not really disagreeing with nething ur saying..but when u look at the line man, i THINK it was RG, he just has a complete missed assignment..he takes a step back and because of the attention, like u said, to watt and mario he goes left instead of right…but when i saw it happen, i just said THAT DOESNT HAPPEN IF ITS CUSH…so thats my big thing there, there were enough linemen to cover our guys, but since the jets prolly didnt know (OR DID) adibi, they just didnt really consider him where with cush i think they take more notice of him presnap…i watch it again tonite, but again, i think we agree what happend.
I agree with you
It did seem like the RG should of blocked out Adibi but decided his priority was Watt/Mario. If it were Cushing, there definitely would be more attention garnered. I do think you and I agree that even if it was Cushing though, Watt or Williams would of gotten the sack instead.
I rewatched the plays too
Both his sacks came with a free run at the QB. Not the most difficult thing to do in the world (unless your last name is Keo) to take 5 steps and hit a guy like you have for your whole life. Schaub could have made that sack. Watt was doubled for sure on his first sack freeing up Adibi. Aside from the two freebies he had one impressive play where he chased down a stretch play from the backside. He’s what coaches call a pretender: he shows flashes in the preseason then fails miserably in the regular season.
From the mothership
Reliant stadium’s roof will be closed……………………..
No shit…… we’ve had record breaking temperatures in Houston… was there even a doubt…..
i hate to remind u but
pittsburg…remeber we wore white and he were gonna wear them out and open the roof and make them wear black..that REALLY worked out well
I think the Kansas City Chiefs game last year was open roof.
It still got a bit toasty in there because the sun started to do its rounds.
Goo'd for the center comment.
If Meyers goes down…..Ovay!
Alcohol is necessary so that a man can have a good opinion of himself, undisturbed by the facts.
I think MArio will be more disruptive than we think.
We are using one preseason game as a gauge of what he can become. As of now I think he is doing fine based on what was said by others. The Jests threw away from him and and designed plays to go to the other side. He is having a minor scrabble effect but closer to the line of scrimmage.
I will wait to see how the rest of the pre-season plays out but i think he is right on schedule of where he is supposed to be from a transition point of view.
- 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 Aug 18, 2011 1:04 PM CDT reply actions
I think some good chess is being played by Wade
to set up Five Head for a real ass beating that he can’t study film in prep for.
Tate, Keo and Weeks could be candidates not to be on the 53-man roster
for different reasons. I can see Tate going to PS, as well as Keo. Weeks could be cut because they want that spot for a position/depth player.
So, who can make the 53-man roster in lieu of any of the above? TDC, you mentioned a KR. Who that is, I don’t know. What else, maybe a CB, because there is uncertainty there. Likely someone that is on the current roster. Also, an ILB, because they may need depth there. Any candidates on the current roster? Maybe, Mr. Irrelevant if he can get healthy.
I didn't do anything wrong!.... and, I won't do it again.
Man I CRINGE when you guys talk about Tate being cut...
…and believe me I have learned not to argue with you guys about talent (except the whole Kubiak issue /toothy smile), but I just really have this nightmare vision of Tate getting cut and then blowing it UP somewhere else.
If Koobs has stuck with Flakespeare this long, I HOPE that he is patient with Tate.
"And I’m sure [Kareem Jackson] would have a wonderful career as a professional interpretive dancer, with all that flapping his arms and falling down."
- tehGrindCrusher
Dude, if Tate gets cut; clears waivers/makes it to practice squad...
then there is something seriously wrong with him physically. A la Slate.
What was I thinking
I meant Tate could go to IR. Sorry for that.
I didn't do anything wrong!.... and, I won't do it again.
Yeah, my brother and I were discussing today what lousy head coaches we'd be....
… and how we’d probably waste a lot of roster slots and cap space on guys that we were just afraid of cutting loose right before they broke out.
But sadly, I think that it follows the same pattern that I believe in with regard to stocks… you just have to follow the trend. The trend is your friend ( I know… “Until it’s not…”), but in most cases if a guy gets knicked up for two seasons in a row, it is unlikely that he is suddenly going to become durable, unless there were outside forces at work (see “Schaub, Matt”)
"And I’m sure [Kareem Jackson] would have a wonderful career as a professional interpretive dancer, with all that flapping his arms and falling down."
- tehGrindCrusher
"Suck it, Jim Tressel, you filthy, cheating, unfashionable piece of monkey scrotum."
- MDC
I'd be more than willing to wait longer on Tate's full recovery.
Slaton has had plenty of time. He’d better start performing… now.
Agreed.
I will be really upset if Tate gets cut, mainly because I also fear him going to Indy and breaking his foot off in our collective asses twice a year.
The Two-Day Hangover @ SBN Houston | Twitter
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