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Last week in this space, I opined that the Texans were on the brink of outright panic. They then lost to the Rams. We're past the brink. We're bathing in panic now. If 2-4 wasn't enough to give you agita, Gary Kubiak decided to up the ante by naming Case Keenum his starting quarterback for Sunday's game against the Chiefs at Arrowhead Stadium. A second-year player, in his first year on the 53-man roster, who has never taken a regular season snap in the NFL, much less started a game, will get his first taste of meaningful action against a starting defense on the road in a rather hostile environment.
If Case Keenum leads the Texans to victory on Sunday, it will be one of the greatest days in franchise history. If the Texans lose and fall to 2-5, the panic of the fan base will give way to acceptance of our lot in 2013 and draft talk will start in earnest (to the extent it hasn't already). Which outcome is in the cards? Read on for one man's predictions.
1. Case Keenum's a great story, and I truly hope he succeeds on Sunday. Unfortunately, I don't see it happening. It won't be a CASETASTROPHE, but he's not going to set the world on fire. I foresee 143 passing yards, a 55% completion percentage, a scramble or two that makes you appreciate having a mobile quarterback, 0 passing TDs, and one interception for Keenum. He'll be under pressure all afternoon. Thanks in advance, Derek Newton.
2. The Texans are going to continue to ride Arian Foster, and Foster will respond again. Pencil him in for 19 carries, 93 yards, and one touchdown.
3. It's been awhile since I called a special teams touchdown. I'm doing it this week. For the Chiefs, of course. On a punt return. And yet, Joe Marciano will remain gainfully employed, free of any repercussions for his actions.
PUT YOUR NAME ON IT: If the Chiefs had a dangerous offense, this one would get ugly. Jamaal Charles is as good as it gets and will get his, but I do not believe the Chiefs will roll the Texans' defense. That does not mean I expect a particularly close or fun game. I would love to be wrong, and if "Three And Out" has taught us anything, it's that I usually am. That would be far more preferable to the alternative. Texans 10, Chiefs 20.
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