Why are we having so much trouble getting it together?

[CoogBull]

What is the deal with this team?

I believe we will all agree that the 2-14 season was the low point of the franchise. Looking to the 2006 draft, the teams after us were the Saints, Titans, Jets, and Packers.

When you look at this list, you notice that all of these teams have made the playoffs since that draft.

Why have they been able to get there while we are still struggling to get this franchise to simply play consistent football?

[Texan Heat]

That would be the multiple draft and millions of dollars question :D

[kahl4]

We are definately not the worst team out there right now, that's for sure. Being somewhere in the middle with flashes of greatness is a hard pill to swallow!

I know everyone is tired of hearing/reading 'give them some time', but we don't really have a choice right now.

The one GOOD thing is we are halfway through the season and no major injuries (until we hear about Matt). That is something for the brightside! :)

[CoogBull]

We are definately not the worst team out there right now, that's for sure. Being somewhere in the middle with flashes of greatness is a hard pill to swallow!

I know everyone is tired of hearing/reading 'give them some time', but we don't really have a choice right now.

The one GOOD thing is we are halfway through the season and no major injuries (until we hear about Matt). That is something for the brightside! :)

Is that a brightside or a darkside? In the past at least we could blame our problems on injuries. Now we have to face the fact that our starters are really error prone.

I think people are just tired of excuses. We have been very patient with this team and they keep coming up short.

We are not the worst team out there, but we are a bad team. We have talent, it just seems we do not use it well or is very spotty with a few notable exceptions.

[wildroot]

I think we've got all the talent we need to be an upper tier team. We've got the talent at all the positions we need except perhaps in the defensive backfield, but as last year showed, we can win with what we have on defense.
As much as i hate to say it cause i've always been a fan of his, I think it all fall to Kubiak. I think he's over his head as a HC. OC may be his calling. I'm dead tired of hearing him tell us he didn't get the team prepared which always begs the question why? I think we need a more "in your face" HC that won't put up with mistakes, or will make sure they are corrected. If this team finishes in the 6-10 area I'm afraid I'll be leaning towards replacing Kubes. Why he's kept this DC so long is beyond me which is a true reflection of Kubiak's vision. Or maybe he simply doesn't see the short-comings on that side of the ball. That's a problem. 3 years is plenty of time to make a turn-around especially when you see teams doing it in ONE season year in and year out. I also think McNair needs to come down hard and let Kubes know that he expects rapid fire improvement YESTERDAY! Could be Kubes is a reflection of Mcnair's expectations. That is, that Mcnair's are very low and so long as the stadium is full and he's making money all is good. I don't know. But it just seems like the team is without a strong vocal leader which a young team needs. It's gotta come from KUBIAK.

[kahl4]

Is that a brightside or a darkside? In the past at least we could blame our problems on injuries. Now we have to face the fact that our starters are really error prone.

I think people are just tired of excuses. We have been very patient with this team and they keep coming up short.

We are not the worst team out there, but we are a bad team. We have talent, it just seems we do not use it well or is very spotty with a few notable exceptions.

Hmmmm -- True -- It could be worse -- we could live in Oakland or Kansas City ;)

Gotta stick with them though!! I wear my Texans pride everyday, even when we lose. My tattoo isn't going away any time soon!

[Wolf123]

What is the deal with this team?

I believe we will all agree that the 2-14 season was the low point of the franchise. Looking to the 2006 draft, the teams after us were the Saints, Titans, Jets, and Packers.

When you look at this list, you notice that all of these teams have made the playoffs since that draft.

Why have they been able to get there while we are still struggling to get this franchise to simply play consistent football?

Saints got Brees, Packers had tons of talent just played bad, Titans got lucky with vanden bosh and albert actually started careing. Jets well i don't think there any good. Oh and the biggiest thing is we had zero talent when kubiak got here and all these other teams did.

[gforce365]

Saints got Brees, Packers had tons of talent just played bad, Titans got lucky with vanden bosh and albert actually started careing. Jets well i don't think there any good. Oh and the biggiest thing is we had zero talent when kubiak got here and all these other teams did.

actually the Saints had no talent either, but they decided to replace half of their team during that off season.

[RichieVar]

Before I even start replacing Kubes to be honest, I would give him another season. Coaches do take a while for their system to come into play. This blocking scheme doesn't work until the O-line starts getting acquainted with one another. I really would give him one more season to see if he can at least get us in the playoffs. Right now we still have some holes and maybe a coordinator that needs to be replaced but I think we should stick with Kub a bit longer.

[Wolf123]

actually the Saints had no talent either, but they decided to replace half of their team during that off season.

No talent? They had a great O-line, will smith, charles grant, deuce. The main difference is brees

[BIG ERN]

No talent? They had a great O-line, will smith, charles grant, deuce. The main difference is brees

Stole Jamal Brown from us also

[Wolf123]

Stole Jamal Brown from us also

I remember it like it was yesterday!

[BIG ERN]

I remember it like it was yesterday!

TJ is not a beast

[gforce365]

No talent? They had a great O-line, will smith, charles grant, deuce. The main difference is brees

ok, they didnt have much talent. they still got rid of a lot of the 3-13 team which including getting a new coach in Payton. they completely rebuilt that team in one season.

[CoogBull]

I think we've got all the talent we need to be an upper tier team. We've got the talent at all the positions we need except perhaps in the defensive backfield, but as last year showed, we can win with what we have on defense.
As much as i hate to say it cause i've always been a fan of his, I think it all fall to Kubiak. I think he's over his head as a HC. OC may be his calling. I'm dead tired of hearing him tell us he didn't get the team prepared which always begs the question why? I think we need a more "in your face" HC that won't put up with mistakes, or will make sure they are corrected. If this team finishes in the 6-10 area I'm afraid I'll be leaning towards replacing Kubes. Why he's kept this DC so long is beyond me which is a true reflection of Kubiak's vision. Or maybe he simply doesn't see the short-comings on that side of the ball. That's a problem. 3 years is plenty of time to make a turn-around especially when you see teams doing it in ONE season year in and year out. I also think McNair needs to come down hard and let Kubes know that he expects rapid fire improvement YESTERDAY! Could be Kubes is a reflection of Mcnair's expectations. That is, that Mcnair's are very low and so long as the stadium is full and he's making money all is good. I don't know. But it just seems like the team is without a strong vocal leader which a young team needs. It's gotta come from KUBIAK.

I actually think that you have a point. I have always thought that some of our problems were due to McNair's lack of passion.

I really think there should be an ultimatum. This team was talking about playoffs at the start of the season and now they look barely competent.

[CoogBull]

ok, they didnt have much talent. they still got rid of a lot of the 3-13 team which including getting a new coach in Payton. they completely rebuilt that team in one season.

Regardless, going from 3-13 to winning the NFC South is quite a feat. Well not a great feat considering how low talent the NFC South was the last few years.

I still think that a lot of the blame lays on the coaching staff and the FO.

[TacoMan]

Talent wise, they are one more off-season away from having playoff-solid talent up and down the lineup.

The bigger issue is, as a team they are not mentally or physically tough enough. Sadly, I do not think that characteristic can be coached into a player.

[gforce365]

i know our offense has been good lately. but i think someone needs to establish who is the real OC on this team. Kyle is supposed to be calling the plays but there has been obvious communication issues with the play calling all season. as if Kubiak and Kyle cant agree on what to call. i agree with what wildroot said...i think Kubiak is well suited as an OC, but hasnt made that step to a great HC.

[sbalderrama]

We are what you'd expect from one of the mediocre teams in the league right now. I don't know why everyone is harping about the offense, the main problem this offense has right now is turnovers. If they don't turn it over, they can compete with anyone. The OL needs more time to gel, Brown is still a rook. I love how people are asking for Browns head already. LT's that excel as rookies are exceedingly rare. Everyone wants to "throw a rook in at CB and let them learn" but don't want to give Brown the chance to do the same thing. Even with the protection issues, the turnovers are the only thing keeping this offense from being competitive.

This team is mediocre and worse because of the defense. Our offense is not consistent enough yet to be able to win shootouts every game. Our defense's big problem is that they will perform well but give up way too many big plays, and mostly those big plays seem to be ones that should be at the most a 10 or 15 yarder and end up going to the house. If the defense would just be able to keep things under them and make the other offense grind it out more, the Texans would have a much better shot.

[CoogBull]

i know our offense has been good lately. but i think someone needs to establish who is the real OC on this team. Kyle is supposed to be calling the plays but there has been obvious communication issues with the play calling all season. as if Kubiak and Kyle cant agree on what to call. i agree with what wildroot said...i think Kubiak is well suited as an OC, but hasnt made that step to a great HC.

What irks me is that they do not let Schaub or Rosenfels call audibles. There are times where it os obvious what we are going to run. The other team's defense knows it, the fans know it, the guy selling hotdogs knows it, and we run it anyway. They should let Schaub change the play at the line. If you trust the guy with the offense, trust him to adjust according to what he sees in front of him.

[WriterGene]

Seems like the trouble is - the Offense can't seem to play well on the same day the Defense plays well.

We either Offensively tear it up and the Defense takes the day off - or the Defense holds us in games and the Offense can't get in the endzone.

That's why we've been hanging in games in the last 2 minutes week after week. We've only had 1 won game where it was a blowout. It's a coin flip - Offense or Defense? Who is going to play today?

[Wolf123]

What irks me is that they do not let Schaub or Rosenfels call audibles. There are times where it os obvious what we are going to run. The other team's defense knows it, the fans know it, the guy selling hotdogs knows it, and we run it anyway. They should let Schaub change the play at the line. If you trust the guy with the offense, trust him to adjust according to what he sees in front of him.

They do allow for some audibles and each of the pass plays has a built in audible in them.

[SuperstarII]

Before I even start replacing Kubes to be honest, I would give him another season. Coaches do take a while for their system to come into play. This blocking scheme doesn't work until the O-line starts getting acquainted with one another. I really would give him one more season to see if he can at least get us in the playoffs. Right now we still have some holes and maybe a coordinator that needs to be replaced but I think we should stick with Kub a bit longer.


If we have a chance to get Cowher next season, then I say do it!

[Wolf123]

If we have a chance to get Cowher next season, then I say do it!

He doesn't want to come here

[CoogBull]

He doesn't want to come here

Of course Cowher does not want to come here. He is winner and we are not commited to winning.

[Wolf123]

Of course Cowher does not want to come here. He is winner and we are not commited to winning.

Stupid comment! How do you know? Have you met our owner? I didn't think so, no one wants to win more then him.

[Da Rafsta]

That would be really cool, Cowher as HC and Kubes as OC and assistant coach.

[CoogBull]

Stupid comment! How do you know? Have you met our owner? I didn't think so, no one wants to win more then him.

Yeah and all the evidence suggests this how? All I see is a crappy product on the field. Why waste the money on getting great players when you are still selling out with the junk you put on the field?

This is a bad franchose. The blame starts at the top and goes all the way down. Other teams have turned it around but we still are limping along.

They put a bad product on the field and seem not to care. If they really did care they would fire Richard Smith right now. Our defense is terrible but he still lets him sit there and stink it up.

Yeah that is what a winner does.

[Wolf123]

Yeah and all the evidence suggests this how? All I see is a crappy product on the field. Why waste the money on getting great players when you are still selling out with the junk you put on the field?

This is a bad franchose. The blame starts at the top and goes all the way down. Other teams have turned it around but we still are limping along.

They put a bad product on the field and seem not to care. If they really did care they would fire Richard Smith right now. Our defense is terrible but he still lets him sit there and stink it up.

Yeah that is what a winner does.

Lets see he fired his good friend capers to get a winner. Got rid of carr his favorite player cause he didn't produce. Got rid of casserly cause he sucked. Texans have no money to waste! He went out there and spent a ton on players to make this team better and what happened? We got into cap hell and haven't been able to go after any more decent players. Once again you say they seem to put a bad product on the field and seem not to care. You know this how? have you ever met him? NO, you haven't!!! He cares! Does richard smith suck? Yes, he does, but we also have no talent on defense.

Winners are patient! No organization consistantly win when they do knee jerk reactions! Look at the cowboys

[CoogBull]

Lets see he fired his good friend capers to get a winner. Got rid of carr his favorite player cause he didn't produce. Got rid of casserly cause he sucked. Texans have no money to waste! He went out there and spent a ton on players to make this team better and what happened? We got into cap hell and haven't been able to go after any more decent players. Once again you say they seem to put a bad product on the field and seem not to care. You know this how? have you ever met him? NO, you haven't!!! He cares! Does richard smith suck? Yes, he does, but we also have no talent on defense.

Winners are patient! No organization consistantly win when they do knee jerk reactions! Look at the cowboys

Yes, and fans have been patient for a very long time. Sure he fired Capers and Casserly and chucked Carr. He had to. They were hurting the bottom line. The fans were in open revolt after that season and he is a businessman. Friends are not friends if they do not sell tickets.

You ask how I know he does not seem to care: The team still sucks.

The only other excuse would be that he is incompetent. This is the case in Oakland. Al Davis is a nut. I would never suggest that because I respect McNair as a businessman. I do not think he is incompetent. He has a sweet deal. He is making tons of money without having to put out a decent product.

In any other business this sort of failure would be unacceptable. But fans like you still sit around hoping that some day we will happen into a winning season.

Yeah the defense sucks because of a lack of talent. Still it is up to the people he hires and trusts to do their jobs. If they fail, you fire them.

Let me ask you" How much more of this mediocrity do we have to put up with before we can truly be angry about this team's lack of competence?

[Wolf123]

Yes, and fans have been patient for a very long time. Sure he fired Capers and Casserly and chucked Carr. He had to. They were hurting the bottom line. The fans were in open revolt after that season and he is a businessman. Friends are not friends if they do not sell tickets.

You ask how I know he does not seem to care: The team still sucks.

The only other excuse would be that he is incompetent. This is the case in Oakland. Al Davis is a nut. I would never suggest that because I respect McNair as a businessman. I do not think he is incompetent. He has a sweet deal. He is making tons of money without having to put out a decent product.

In any other business this sort of failure would be unacceptable. But fans like you still sit around hoping that some day we will happen into a winning season.

Yeah the defense sucks because of a lack of talent. Still it is up to the people he hires and trusts to do their jobs. If they fail, you fire them.

Let me ask you" How much more of this mediocrity do we have to put up with before we can truly be angry about this team's lack of competence?

Useing that logic every team that sucks has a owner who just doesn't care! No one has the right to question anyone's heart unless they know them. What give you the right to watch a game and then question everyone's heart? Ever lost a game, ever failed at something? It didn't mean it was because you didn't have heart or didn't care. When kubiak came in we basically had expansion team talent. Not his fault and your right the blame lies with Bob on that one for hireing the wrong people, but he fixed his mistake and hired two very competent people. I say you give kubiak until his 4th season, I don't think thats to much to ask for, after what he inherited and what he's done for the offense.

[CoogBull]

I have the right because I have paid my money and showed up. I am a fan and I have the right to demand that the team prove why they are being paid so much.

Not every team that sucks has a bad owner. Some just have incompetent management like the Bengals or the Lions. Others have crazy owners like the Raiders. Some teams just have bad luck with injuries and player development. I still fail to see where McNair is committed to winning. We have yet to make a big splash in free agency and we spend money on known non-producers.

Still, it is the nature of the league for teams to get good, age, then fall off. We have not done this at all. Look at the Chiefs. They have been to the playoffs since 2006. Is it too much to ask that your team make the playoffs every couple of years or at least compete occassionaly?

All I ask is that there be some accountability on this team. You say that McNair has rectified his mistake. For me, and the majority of fans, the jury is still out on that. It looks right now that we are regressing. I do not feel that the evidence suggests that Kubiak is a very good coach. He has trouble managing the clock and can not win on the road. A good coach should be able to do those things. What would make me happy and prove to me that McNair is committed to winning is simply firing Richard Smith right now.

I am willing to give Kubiak another season. Still my hopes are not high. I just do not want to be in the same place three years from now hoping that Kubiak will eventually get it together.

I am just sick of the excuses. The buck stops at the top. It is McNair's job to hire people to get it done and he has failed.

I still can not see why there is anything out of line with telling McNair: "You have a nice new stadium, millions of dollars, and devoted fans. You need to win and do it quick."

[3andOUT]

The biggest difference in games we win and lose is TURNOVERS. When we protect the ball, we usually win.....or at least have a chance to win. When we give the ball away, we lose, and a lot of those losses are games we could have won.

They just have to protect the freaking ball, it makes all the difference in the world. There's no question we have holes and weaknesses on this team... who doesn't? But nothing is going to change until they can figure out how to protect the ball, especially on the other team's side of the field.

[Wolf123]

I have the right because I have paid my money and showed up. I am a fan and I have the right to demand that the team prove why they are being paid so much.

Not every team that sucks has a bad owner. Some just have incompetent management like the Bengals or the Lions. Others have crazy owners like the Raiders. Some teams just have bad luck with injuries and player development. I still fail to see where McNair is committed to winning. We have yet to make a big splash in free agency and we spend money on known non-producers.

Still, it is the nature of the league for teams to get good, age, then fall off. We have not done this at all. Look at the Chiefs. They have been to the playoffs since 2006. Is it too much to ask that your team make the playoffs every couple of years or at least compete occassionaly?

All I ask is that there be some accountability on this team. You say that McNair has rectified his mistake. For me, and the majority of fans, the jury is still out on that. It looks right now that we are regressing. I do not feel that the evidence suggests that Kubiak is a very good coach. He has trouble managing the clock and can not win on the road. A good coach should be able to do those things. What would make me happy and prove to me that McNair is committed to winning is simply firing Richard Smith right now.

I am willing to give Kubiak another season. Still my hopes are not high. I just do not want to be in the same place three years from now hoping that Kubiak will eventually get it together.

I am just sick of the excuses. The buck stops at the top. It is McNair's job to hire people to get it done and he has failed.

I still can not see why there is anything out of line with telling McNair: "You have a nice new stadium, millions of dollars, and devoted fans. You need to win and do it quick."

I agree with some of what your saying, and I think if richard smith isn't fired it will say alot about kubiak. The main problem I have with your reasoning is that I've met McNair and if you ever met him or hung out with after a loss you'd know to never question his passion for football and his desire to win! Its time to all get behind sage now and ROOT ROOT ROOT for the texans!

[wildroot]

McNair needs to hang out with Jerry Jones for a bit. Maybe some of his passion and can-do attitude will rub off on him. I'm just not quite sure McNair knows how to be an NFL team owner other than dolling out the bucks to buy the team. It seems as if he's content to let the football people handle the football side of it and whatever happens, happens. I'd like to see him put some heat on Kubiak and Co. and see what happens.
And Cowher CAN be had. Everyone has a price. You just have to be willing to meet it.

[CoogBull]

I agree with some of what your saying, and I think if richard smith isn't fired it will say alot about kubiak. The main problem I have with your reasoning is that I've met McNair and if you ever met him or hung out with after a loss you'd know to never question his passion for football and his desire to win! Its time to all get behind sage now and ROOT ROOT ROOT for the texans!

Maybe McNair has a desire to win, but that is not evident on the field. He can get upset all he wants, but I do not see him getting any better guys on this team. As a matter of personal pride he should be pitching a hell of a fit. I would be ashamed to let something like that hit the field with my name attached to it.

People can be upset about something and still not have the gumption to change it.

I think we have found out a lot about Kubiak already. We have seen him manage the clock poorly, make stupid challenges, and basically look like he has no idea what he is doing. Gary was a great OC, but I am afraid he is in a little over his head as a HC. I will give him one more year. If he does not make the playoffs next year he needs to go.

I will root for Sage with all my heart. I love this team and want them to win in the worst way. I just doubt we are on the right track. When Kubes and Smith came in I had so much faith in them. Now it seems that this was unwarranted.

If McNair would come out and say: "This year is a big disappointment and I am mad as hell. Smith and Kubiak have one year to turn it all around or it is splitsville."

[wildroot]

Maybe McNair has a desire to win, but that is not evident on the field. He can get upset all he wants, but I do not see him getting any better guys on this team. As a matter of personal pride he should be pitching a hell of a fit. I would be ashamed to let something like that hit the field with my name attached to it.

People can be upset about something and still not have the gumption to change it.

I think we have found out a lot about Kubiak already. We have seen him manage the clock poorly, make stupid challenges, and basically look like he has no idea what he is doing. Gary was a great OC, but I am afraid he is in a little over his head as a HC. I will give him one more year. If he does not make the playoffs next year he needs to go.

I will root for Sage with all my heart. I love this team and want them to win in the worst way. I just doubt we are on the right track. When Kubes and Smith came in I had so much faith in them. Now it seems that this was unwarranted.

If McNair would come out and say: "This year is a big disappointment and I am mad as hell. Smith and Kubiak have one year to turn it all around or it is splitsville."

I pretty well agree with everything you're saying. Well put.

[Texans86]

Maybe McNair has a desire to win, but that is not evident on the field. He can get upset all he wants, but I do not see him getting any better guys on this team. As a matter of personal pride he should be pitching a hell of a fit. I would be ashamed to let something like that hit the field with my name attached to it.

People can be upset about something and still not have the gumption to change it.

I think we have found out a lot about Kubiak already. We have seen him manage the clock poorly, make stupid challenges, and basically look like he has no idea what he is doing. Gary was a great OC, but I am afraid he is in a little over his head as a HC. I will give him one more year. If he does not make the playoffs next year he needs to go.

I will root for Sage with all my heart. I love this team and want them to win in the worst way. I just doubt we are on the right track. When Kubes and Smith came in I had so much faith in them. Now it seems that this was unwarranted.

If McNair would come out and say: "This year is a big disappointment and I am mad as hell. Smith and Kubiak have one year to turn it all around or it is splitsville."

I do not want Jerry Jones as an owner. He is in on every decision and rules that football team like you recommend Bob McNair do. In the past dozen years, that team has won as many playoff games as we have, and in the process, he has turned them into a soap opera. I'd rather have an owner that allows the football people to make football decisions.

[wildroot]

I was speaking more to the point of his passion to field a winning team. Disagree as I may with some of his player moves, at least he's out there doing something when his team is losing, signing high profile players trying to give his team a boost and I have no doubt that he's be in Wade's face demanding results if the circumstances warranted it.

[wildroot]

Before I even start replacing Kubes to be honest, I would give him another season. Coaches do take a while for their system to come into play. This blocking scheme doesn't work until the O-line starts getting acquainted with one another. I really would give him one more season to see if he can at least get us in the playoffs. Right now we still have some holes and maybe a coordinator that needs to be replaced but I think we should stick with Kub a bit longer.

Tell that to Jim Zorn, or Atlanta's HC....whats-his-name.

[CoogBull]

I do not want Jerry Jones as an owner. He is in on every decision and rules that football team like you recommend Bob McNair do. In the past dozen years, that team has won as many playoff games as we have, and in the process, he has turned them into a soap opera. I'd rather have an owner that allows the football people to make football decisions.

I do not want a Jerry Jones style owner who is in everybody's business. But you have to give him credit for putting together Super Bowl teams and being proactive in free agency.

I would for love McNair to let the football people make the football decisions. I just doubt that Kubiak and Smith are able to do this. They have not impressed me right now in the football department.

I just think the patience of the fans is wearing thin. Look at the Lions. Their fans have accepted crap for a long time and that is what they get.

I'm willing to give Kubiak and Smith one more year, but that is it. If this season ends up in the tank, which is where it is heading, and they can not improve next year, they need to go.

In the NFL you can not have a 10 year or a 5 year plan. You have to have a 3 or 2 year plan. Gary and Smith are on their third year and they need to make something happen.

[GNTLEWOLF]

I have to say that I'm getting tired of the"we will be a play-off team next year" mentality as well. All the excuses for mediocraty are beginning to wear real thin. Accountability should be the word at all levels of thi organization.

[CoogBull]

I have to say that I'm getting tired of the"we will be a play-off team next year" mentality as well. All the excuses for mediocraty are beginning to wear real thin. Accountability should be the word at all levels of thi organization.

Exactly.

This franchise can get back on track quickly if it really wants to. First of all they need to look to teams like the Dolphins and Falcons and see what wisdom we can gain from their current success.

This team needs a plan. Its motto should be: "Consistency, Integrity, Accountability."

[wildroot]

It needs to be 'if we don't start winning the fans are going to stop coming to the games and Bob Mcnair's going to fire Kubiak and bring in someone who'll really make our lives miserable"

I got to go to bed so I can Vote tomorrow before work....another losing effort.

[trutexan02]

no talent? They had a great o-line, will smith, charles grant, deuce. The main difference is brees


brees is all the difference.

[Wolf123]

Exactly.

This franchise can get back on track quickly if it really wants to. First of all they need to look to teams like the Dolphins and Falcons and see what wisdom we can gain from their current success.

This team needs a plan. Its motto should be: "Consistency, Integrity, Accountability."

I'm just curious, Can you give me your step by step guide to getting the texans into a playoff contender. It needs to be detailed and not just have them ready to play.

[LongBignasty1]

We need a beasty Defensive coordinator, no matter the cost!

[CoogBull]

I'm just curious, Can you give me your step by step guide to getting the texans into a playoff contender. It needs to be detailed and not just have them ready to play.

Well I do not get paid to do this but the guys who do seem not to be very good at it, so what the hell.

1. Fire Richard Smith

This is easy. We need to find a d-cord who knows what he wants and demands the right players.

I myself am partial to the Tampa 2, but I will leave the choice to the coach.

2. Delegate the majority of our FA money to the defense.

Julius Peppers is a FA this year I believe, and so may be Haynesworth. Get one of them to play opposite Mario.

3. Trade our top 10 draft pick this year for more picks.

It is probable that we will be drafting in the top 10 this year. It would be in our best interests to trade away this pick for a later pick in the first round and some additional picks in the 2nd and 3rd.

4. Give an ultimatum to Kubiak and Smith.

They have one more year. That is it. No more, no less. When you make people play for their jobs you will be startled by the results.

5. Think about trades.

We should seriously look into our roster and see if there is any value there. If you can get significant picks from trading a Jacoby Jones or Amobi we should explore that.

Mainly we need picks and a top tier FA. That is how the Falcons improved this year.

[Hustler]

Well I do not get paid to do this but the guys who do seem not to be very good at it, so what the hell.

1. Fire Richard Smith

This is easy. We need to find a d-cord who knows what he wants and demands the right players.

I myself am partial to the Tampa 2, but I will leave the choice to the coach.

2. Delegate the majority of our FA money to the defense.

Julius Peppers is a FA this year I believe, and so may be Haynesworth. Get one of them to play opposite Mario.

3. Trade our top 10 draft pick this year for more picks.

It is probable that we will be drafting in the top 10 this year. It would be in our best interests to trade away this pick for a later pick in the first round and some additional picks in the 2nd and 3rd.

4. Give an ultimatum to Kubiak and Smith.

They have one more year. That is it. No more, no less. When you make people play for their jobs you will be startled by the results.

5. Think about trades.

We should seriously look into our roster and see if there is any value there. If you can get significant picks from trading a Jacoby Jones or Amobi we should explore that.

Mainly we need picks and a top tier FA. That is how the Falcons improved this year.

You've got a great plan there Coog and I agree with most of it EXCEPT:

I would not trade our top ten pick (eventhough more picks could deliver more value--->)unless we got an OFFER WE CAN'T REFUSE.

Some people are saying the MLB from USC ,Mualaga, might fall to our spot and if he did I'd move the prodigious yet undersized and extremely swift Demeco Ryans to WLB (IMO, his natural spot).

If this gentleman wasn't available I would go after his run-stuffing, ball-hawking USC teammate (S) Mays (just projections, w/ right to change until draft).

[wildroot]

I also agree with everything Coog said, especially trading down. I'd much rather have a pair of 2s (in addition to the one you already have) than a one UNLESS it's a can't miss like Mario. IMO there's too much money at stake with 1st round picks, and you increase your odds with a couple 2s.

[HJam72]

ZBS with "traditional" ZBS sized guys is not going to work anymore. The DTs are getting bigger and the rules have changed. I don't see what it would hurt to run ZBS with a bigger center, at least for starters (maybe he can gain weight?).

Our DTs are too small for their respective positions. Look what happened when Okam came in at the end of the game and TJ switched to Okoye's normal position: TJ in backfield, tackle for loss. Don't see that much, do ya?

The secondary. We got MAJOR problems in the secondary, which is something that drives me crazy. I don't like bad secondaries. We need more talent/better play out of our corners, we need a FS that lets NOBODY get behind him and is a ball hawk (E. Wilson? I don't know), and along the same lines, we need to give up on this interchangeable safeties crap. A team without a true FS is a team that will be outscored, PERIOD.

Last, but not least, I don't believe we have a true starting QB, although that problem shows on many teams. At least we have 2 really good backups.

Oh, we could also use a younger A. Green. This team does NEED a better running game. It isn't build to pass so much, but that's all that really works right now.

[Wolf123]

Well I do not get paid to do this but the guys who do seem not to be very good at it, so what the hell.

1. Fire Richard Smith

This is easy. We need to find a d-cord who knows what he wants and demands the right players.

I myself am partial to the Tampa 2, but I will leave the choice to the coach.

2. Delegate the majority of our FA money to the defense.

Julius Peppers is a FA this year I believe, and so may be Haynesworth. Get one of them to play opposite Mario.

3. Trade our top 10 draft pick this year for more picks.

It is probable that we will be drafting in the top 10 this year. It would be in our best interests to trade away this pick for a later pick in the first round and some additional picks in the 2nd and 3rd.

4. Give an ultimatum to Kubiak and Smith.

They have one more year. That is it. No more, no less. When you make people play for their jobs you will be startled by the results.

5. Think about trades.

We should seriously look into our roster and see if there is any value there. If you can get significant picks from trading a Jacoby Jones or Amobi we should explore that.

Mainly we need picks and a top tier FA. That is how the Falcons improved this year.

1. Love the idea of getting rid of Smtih- Tampa bays raheem brock will be a hot candidate this year for DC

2. The texans have to resign Dunta, Owen daniels, Ryans to big time contracts. Were just not going to have enough money to give anyone 30-40 million guaranteed. I'd look more for impact players at positions that don't cost as much.

3. Always a fan of getting extra picks especially seeing what kubiak and smith can get in the later rounds.

4. Why our you giving smith an ultimatum? He's one of the top young GM's in the league right now and just signed a contract extension. Kubiak you have a point with.

5. Trades almost never happen in the nfl, and your not going to get anything for Jacoby. Also why trade Okoye? Your going to get less value then you gave to get him and he's only like 20 years old.

[Wolf6151]

MY recipe for fixing the Texans, or at least a good start.

1. Fire Richard Smith immediately and hire a Buddy Ryan type of DC that will grab a player by the face mask and kick him in the ***** and demand his attention and excellence.

2. Cut Anthony Weaver, C.C. Brown, Demps, Ahman Green and any other subperforming player with no potential for getting better immediately. Weaver has sucked for years and Green is a walking injury that never should have been hired to begin with. I know Weaver will cost us some money due to a long term guaranteed contract that he signed with Casserly but bite the bullet and cut out the cancer. Weaver is an example to younger players of showing up and collecting a paycheck. As for Green a 30+ yoa. running backs with bad knees should not even be looked at in free agency. It's time to cut some of these fat lazy millionares.

3. Drag Travis Johnson, Matt Schaub, Amobi Okoye, Bennett, Reeves and any other subperforming players with potential for getting better into the front office and make sure that they know that if their level of play doesn't improve tremendously they'll be at the unemployment office with Weaver and Green etc...

4. Demote Meyers and Brisiel to backup status. They don't cost much and can provide semi effective backup.

5. Start playing Molden, Okam, and Adibi and see what they can do in the game over a 3-4 game span. Evaluate them and give them some playing time, what's it gonna hurt we suck already.

6. Our draft pick will be in the top 10. Definetly trade down, with Detroit if possible, and get the 1st round pick they got from Dallas probably in the mid 20's and pick up Detroits 2nd round pick and the 3rd round pick they got from Dallas. Point wise on the trade value chart that should be pretty close. The 2nd round pick from Detroit will be at the top of the 2nd round and we can draft one of the great Centers coming out this year. With our 1st round pick in the mid 20's, go after someone like Aaron Curry, Myron Rolle, Greg Hardy etc...

7. Bob McNair needs to have a "Come to Jesus" meeting with the entire coaching staff and make sure they know they're on probation and have one more year to make some significant progress with the team and with their own on the field management of the game.

This team has got some talent but needs alot more. The great talented players we do have are not going to want to stick around when they turn free agents if they realize they've been playing for a team that doesn't want to make significant improvements to the team. Also McNair needs to do this stuff now and not wait for the off season.

[spurstexanstros]

I think we just need a defense that can make stops on third downs...thats about it.

[TheLBCoach]

MY recipe for fixing the Texans, or at least a good start.

1. Fire Richard Smith immediately and hire a Buddy Ryan type of DC that will grab a player by the face mask and kick him in the ***** and demand his attention and excellence.

2. Cut Anthony Weaver, C.C. Brown, Demps, Ahman Green and any other subperforming player with no potential for getting better immediately. Weaver has sucked for years and Green is a walking injury that never should have been hired to begin with. I know Weaver will cost us some money due to a long term guaranteed contract that he signed with Casserly but bite the bullet and cut out the cancer. Weaver is an example to younger players of showing up and collecting a paycheck. As for Green a 30+ yoa. running backs with bad knees should not even be looked at in free agency.

3. Drag Travis Johnson, Matt Schaub, Bennett, Reeves and any other subperforming players with potential for getting better into the front office and make sure that they know that if their level of play doesn't improve tremendously they'll be at the unemployment office with Weaver and Green etc...

4. Demote Meyers and Brisiel to backup status. They don't cost much and can provide semi effective backup.

5. Start playing Molden, Okam, and Adibi and see what they can do in the game over a 3-4 game span. Evaluate them and give them some playing time, what's it gonna hurt we suck already.

6. Our draft pick will be in the top 10. Definetly trade down, with Detroit if possible, and get the 1st round pick they got from Dallas probably in the mid 20's and pick up Detroits 2nd round pick and the 3rd round pick they got from Dallas. Point wise on the trade value chart that should be pretty close. The 2nd round pick from Detroit will be at the top of the 2nd round and we can draft one of the great Centers coming out this year. With our 1st round pick in the mid 20's, go after someone like Aaron Curry, Myron Rolle, Greg Hardy etc...

7. Bob McNair needs to have a meeting with the entire coaching staff and make sure they know they're on probation and have one more year to make some significant progress with the team and with their own on the field management of the game.

This team has got some talent but needs alot more. The great talented players we do have are not going to want to stick around when they turn free agents if they realize they've been playing for a team that doesn't want to make significant improvements to the team. Also McNair needs to do this stuff now and not wait for the off season.

I agree. There does need to be some tough love going on the Texans' front office. I would love to see Kubiak become somewhat of a disciplinarian on the sidelines. Who knows what he does when the camera isn't on him, but he seems too easy-going on the sidelines. I'm all for giving Okam, Adibi and company a shot late in the season. Nice post.

[wildroot]

MY recipe for fixing the Texans, or at least a good start.

1. Fire Richard Smith immediately and hire a Buddy Ryan type of DC that will grab a player by the face mask and kick him in the ***** and demand his attention and excellence.

2. Cut Anthony Weaver, C.C. Brown, Demps, Ahman Green and any other subperforming player with no potential for getting better immediately. Weaver has sucked for years and Green is a walking injury that never should have been hired to begin with. I know Weaver will cost us some money due to a long term guaranteed contract that he signed with Casserly but bite the bullet and cut out the cancer. Weaver is an example to younger players of showing up and collecting a paycheck. As for Green a 30+ yoa. running backs with bad knees should not even be looked at in free agency. It's time to cut some of these fat lazy millionares.

3. Drag Travis Johnson, Matt Schaub, Amobi Okoye, Bennett, Reeves and any other subperforming players with potential for getting better into the front office and make sure that they know that if their level of play doesn't improve tremendously they'll be at the unemployment office with Weaver and Green etc...

4. Demote Meyers and Brisiel to backup status. They don't cost much and can provide semi effective backup.

5. Start playing Molden, Okam, and Adibi and see what they can do in the game over a 3-4 game span. Evaluate them and give them some playing time, what's it gonna hurt we suck already.

6. Our draft pick will be in the top 10. Definetly trade down, with Detroit if possible, and get the 1st round pick they got from Dallas probably in the mid 20's and pick up Detroits 2nd round pick and the 3rd round pick they got from Dallas. Point wise on the trade value chart that should be pretty close. The 2nd round pick from Detroit will be at the top of the 2nd round and we can draft one of the great Centers coming out this year. With our 1st round pick in the mid 20's, go after someone like Aaron Curry, Myron Rolle, Greg Hardy etc...

7. Bob McNair needs to have a "Come to Jesus" meeting with the entire coaching staff and make sure they know they're on probation and have one more year to make some significant progress with the team and with their own on the field management of the game.

This team has got some talent but needs alot more. The great talented players we do have are not going to want to stick around when they turn free agents if they realize they've been playing for a team that doesn't want to make significant improvements to the team. Also McNair needs to do this stuff now and not wait for the off season.

Sounds good. All the cuts may put us back in Cap-Hell though.
The biggest thing this team need to do, and it has to come from the top, is have a kick-*** and take names attitude. These players need to be taken to the barn when they screw up. There aren't enough minutes in a game for everyone to have a turn at "that was my fault". Errors have to stop or there will be consequences. It's almost like Kubiak wants everyone to like him and is afraid to take a hard line.

[CoogBull]

MY recipe for fixing the Texans, or at least a good start.

1. Fire Richard Smith immediately and hire a Buddy Ryan type of DC that will grab a player by the face mask and kick him in the ***** and demand his attention and excellence.

2. Cut Anthony Weaver, C.C. Brown, Demps, Ahman Green and any other subperforming player with no potential for getting better immediately. Weaver has sucked for years and Green is a walking injury that never should have been hired to begin with. I know Weaver will cost us some money due to a long term guaranteed contract that he signed with Casserly but bite the bullet and cut out the cancer. Weaver is an example to younger players of showing up and collecting a paycheck. As for Green a 30+ yoa. running backs with bad knees should not even be looked at in free agency. It's time to cut some of these fat lazy millionares.

3. Drag Travis Johnson, Matt Schaub, Amobi Okoye, Bennett, Reeves and any other subperforming players with potential for getting better into the front office and make sure that they know that if their level of play doesn't improve tremendously they'll be at the unemployment office with Weaver and Green etc...

4. Demote Meyers and Brisiel to backup status. They don't cost much and can provide semi effective backup.

5. Start playing Molden, Okam, and Adibi and see what they can do in the game over a 3-4 game span. Evaluate them and give them some playing time, what's it gonna hurt we suck already.

6. Our draft pick will be in the top 10. Definetly trade down, with Detroit if possible, and get the 1st round pick they got from Dallas probably in the mid 20's and pick up Detroits 2nd round pick and the 3rd round pick they got from Dallas. Point wise on the trade value chart that should be pretty close. The 2nd round pick from Detroit will be at the top of the 2nd round and we can draft one of the great Centers coming out this year. With our 1st round pick in the mid 20's, go after someone like Aaron Curry, Myron Rolle, Greg Hardy etc...

7. Bob McNair needs to have a "Come to Jesus" meeting with the entire coaching staff and make sure they know they're on probation and have one more year to make some significant progress with the team and with their own on the field management of the game.

This team has got some talent but needs alot more. The great talented players we do have are not going to want to stick around when they turn free agents if they realize they've been playing for a team that doesn't want to make significant improvements to the team. Also McNair needs to do this stuff now and not wait for the off season.

Most of these are good ideas.

#1: Perfect. We need to bring back the "House of Pain."

#2: I agree with you on everyone but Demps. Demps has been servicable for what he is. Ahman needs to go. His contract is not much, but he is taking up space where a better player should be.

#3: Another good idea. The team needs to be willing to use the word "rebuilding" if push comes to shove. Nothing wrong with starting over.

#5: I agree on Moulden, but Adibi is still undersized and Okam has not impressed me at all. If Adibi can put on 20 -25 pounds and keep his quickness, we should start playing him. Moulden is playing like a beast on special teams. Remember last year Diles played really well on special teams and now he is shaping up to be a very servicable to good linebacker. I just hope they do not wait as long with Moulden as they did with Diles.

#6: Agree. We need more picks, not higher picks. We should make stockpiling picks a priority in the off season.

#7: Agreed once again. Though I would add Smith to the meeting. I have not been impressed with his performance so far as GM. I think it takes and "old hand" to rebuild a team.

We do have some talent. I just question if it is the right talent. Every team in the league has talent, but it is more a question about how you put together different players rather than getting talent.

Our new d-cord (at this point it is a given we will get a new one) needs to sit down with the GM and outline the types of players he needs for his system. We can then evaluate the roster based on that.

[wildroot]

Rebuild...I don't even want to venture into that territory. IMO we've got the players, it's the leadership that needs some work. Add a starter and some depth through the draft and FA signings, maybe one big-name FA and we're there. I think you can mold the talent we have into a 9-7, 10-6 team though.

I keep thinking back to last years team nutting out that 8-8 with ALL the injuries....got everyone back this year and....

[wildroot]

Also....I don't like the ZBS. I want beefy lineman opening up holes. I'd really be interested if you could bring one of these 600 pound Sumo wrestlers over and make him an O/Lineman. Just one of those things I think would be neat to try.

[3andOUT]

I think pretty much every single one of you guys are overthinking this thing. The difference between wins and losses is almost always turnovers.

We protect the ball and we win the games we're supposed to and give ourselves a chance to win the tough ones. We turn it over and we lose.

This isn't the Texans team of the past where you can blame a lack of talent for our record being what it is. You CAN blame not being undefeated on a lack of talent, but you can't really use talent or performance by specific players (except maybe Reeves :) ) as an excuse for being 3-5.

It's about being smart and holding on to the ball. If they protect the ball we still get our *** kicked by Pitt, but probably would've won against JAX, TENN and MIN, and we definitely win against Indy .

[CoogBull]

Rebuild...I don't even want to venture into that territory. IMO we've got the players, it's the leadership that needs some work. Add a starter and some depth through the draft and FA signings, maybe one big-name FA and we're there. I think you can mold the talent we have into a 9-7, 10-6 team though.

I keep thinking back to last years team nutting out that 8-8 with ALL the injuries....got everyone back this year and....

I do not want to venture into rebuilding either, but I also do not want to be a team with talent that just can't get out of the basement. The Redskins were like that for a very long time. The Raiders have had such high draft picks that have netted them some talent, but they just can not get it together.

Talk about rebuilding maybe a little out of place right now, but it should be in the back of everyones mind. Kubes and Smith should get one more year. After that nothing should be off the table.

[CoogBull]

I think pretty much every single one of you guys are overthinking this thing. The difference between wins and losses is almost always turnovers.

We protect the ball and we win the games we're supposed to and give ourselves a chance to win the tough ones. We turn it over and we lose.

This isn't the Texans team of the past where you can blame a lack of talent for our record being what it is. You CAN blame not being undefeated on a lack of talent, but you can't really use talent or performance by specific players (except maybe Reeves :) ) as an excuse for being 3-5.

It's about being smart and holding on to the ball. If they protect the ball we still get our *** kicked by Pitt, but probably would've won against JAX, TENN and MIN, and we definitely win against Indy .

I get what you are saying, but turnovers are also a function of talent and team planning. Oart of the turnover conversation must take into account the turnover ration. It is not much of a big deal if you turn the ball over 10 times if you cause 15 on the otherside. That is a function of pass rushers who force other teams into making mistakes and a Secondary that can take advantage of the situation.

Additionally, turnovers are often caused by bad pass protection. I do not think that the line is providing the QBs with stellar protection.

[3andOUT]

I get what you are saying, but turnovers are also a function of talent and team planning. Oart of the turnover conversation must take into account the turnover ration. It is not much of a big deal if you turn the ball over 10 times if you cause 15 on the otherside. That is a function of pass rushers who force other teams into making mistakes and a Secondary that can take advantage of the situation.

Additionally, turnovers are often caused by bad pass protection. I do not think that the line is providing the QBs with stellar protection.

There's no question the protection isn't stellar, but that's the case with a lot of teams. Very rarely do quarterbacks have time to sit back there, survey the field, step up and throw the ball exactly where and when they want to.

The decision making has to get better at the QB position. You don't always have to throw the ball. You WILL get hit though and you have to be able to sense pressure and protect the ball regardless of what else is happening on the field.

I'm not saying there is no correlation between talent and turnovers, but I don't think one has that much to do with the other. We do need to get better at taking the ball away on D, a lot of that has to do with talent. Offensively, the QBs have to make better decisions. The coaches also need to make better decisions i.e. clock managment, going for it on 4th

Sage didn't have to make that throw in the redzone on Sunday. He didn't have to force that ball, and those are the kind of mistakes that are the difference between Ws and Ls.

[TheRedfishCo]

I keep thinking back to last years team nutting out that 8-8 with ALL the injuries....got everyone back this year and....

I been saying that the 8-8 record last year was misleading and fans would over look it. 2 wins against teams with a winning record and last years schedule was one of the easiest. Many predicted 10 or more wins but I couldn't see more than 7. Look at the up coming games every single game will be tough except for Oak. This team is no different from last year, there isn't a major addition through FA or anything. Slaton is a big surprise by you can't expect rookies to make an impact if you are in the hunt for the playoffs. The owner has to fork out the big bucks and show commitment to winning by signing that big FA who ever he is.....and I'm not talking about trading draft picks away for a backup QB with barely any experience.

[3andOUT]

I been saying that the 8-8 record last year was misleading and fans would over look it. 2 wins against teams with a winning record and last years schedule was one of the easiest. Many predicted 10 or more wins but I couldn't see more than 7. Look at the up coming games every single game will be tough except for Oak. This team is no different from last year, there isn't a major addition through FA or anything. Slaton is a big surprise by you can't expect rookies to make an impact if you are in the hunt for the playoffs. The owner has to fork out the big bucks and show commitment to winning by signing that big FA who ever he is.....and I'm not talking about trading draft picks away for a backup QB with barely any experience.

You're completely wrong. Rookies can't make an impact in a playoff race??? Look at the Giants last year. Not only did their rookies make an impact in the playoff race, but they made big plays in playoff games and the super bowl for that matter. Every single rookie had an impact in one way or another.

You are even more wrong (which is nearly impossible) about needing to spend big bucks on free agents. History shows, time and time again, that good teams are built through the draft.

[wildroot]

You're completely wrong. Rookies can't make an impact in a playoff race??? Look at the Giants last year. Not only did their rookies make an impact in the playoff race, but they made big plays in playoff games and the super bowl for that matter. Every single rookie had an impact in one way or another.

You are even more wrong (which is nearly impossible) about needing to spend big bucks on free agents. History shows, time and time again, that good teams are built through the draft.

Problem is, is that by that time people like AJ will be on the down side of their carriers. Do you seriously want to wait another 3-4 years to build through the draft? We've been doing that since day ONE. It has to be a mix of FAs and the draft. We could have gone after Jevon Kearse, Jared Allen, Kevin Carter or Antonio Smith any of witch would have looked nice on our D-line. Who do we sign? Kalu. None of these guys were restricted so if I'm not mistaken we wouldn't have owed their former team anything. Plus we had cap money this year.
We have to take advantage of the system that's in place to improve out team!

[Wolf123]

Problem is, is that by that time people like AJ will be on the down side of their carriers. Do you seriously want to wait another 3-4 years to build through the draft? We've been doing that since day ONE. It has to be a mix of FAs and the draft. We could have gone after Jevon Kearse, Jared Allen, Kevin Carter or Antonio Smith any of witch would have looked nice on our D-line. Who do we sign? Kalu. None of these guys were restricted so if I'm not mistaken we wouldn't have owed their former team anything. Plus we had cap money this year.
We have to take advantage of the system that's in place to improve out team!

We didn't have any cap room last year. Jevon kearse isn't very good anymore, and Jared allen got over 30 million guaranteed.

[wildroot]

We didn't have any cap room last year. Jevon kearse isn't very good anymore, and Jared allen got over 30 million guaranteed.

If I remember correctly we had over 16 million in cap room during the off-season last year. Teams like the Cowboys always seem to juggle contracts around to sign someone they really want. We could have done the same and add that to the 16 mil+ to work with, I'd have thought we would have been able to sign at least ONE difference maker.

[silvrhand]

If I remember correctly we had over 16 million in cap room during the off-season last year. Teams like the Cowboys always seem to juggle contracts around to sign someone they really want. We could have done the same and add that to the 16 mil+ to work with, I'd have thought we would have been able to sign at least ONE difference maker.

That's cause players volunteer to take cuts and want to win.

[3andOUT]

Problem is, is that by that time people like AJ will be on the down side of their carriers. Do you seriously want to wait another 3-4 years to build through the draft? We've been doing that since day ONE. It has to be a mix of FAs and the draft. We could have gone after Jevon Kearse, Jared Allen, Kevin Carter or Antonio Smith any of witch would have looked nice on our D-line. Who do we sign? Kalu. None of these guys were restricted so if I'm not mistaken we wouldn't have owed their former team anything. Plus we had cap money this year.
We have to take advantage of the system that's in place to improve out team!

NO, problem is that we've had cap trouble we're trying to get out of. YOu act like it was just a matter of flipping the switch and adding those guys you mentioned above. Jared Allen and Kevin Carter were not options- they didn't want to come here. A LOT of FA's don't want to come here. The reality is that people overpay for free agents, just look at Jock Reeves. Try and justify him being the second highest paid player on the team.

I'm all for improving the team, but history shows over and over and over and over again that you must draft well to win. YOu can add a few free agents here and there but rarely is there ever a big free agent pickup that legitimately earns his pay and makes that big of a difference.

[wildroot]

Try and justify him being the second highest paid player on the team.



You're right, I can't justify the signing of Reeves at his salary. Simply another example of FO moves that will slow our progression.

[3andOUT]

You're right, I can't justify the signing of Reeves at his salary. Simply another example of FO moves that will slow our progression.

I understand your point though. I'm frustrated just like you and something has to be done. It's always a big gamble going after FAs to fill big holes, especially when you aren't just "one guy away". Free agents are necessary, but not nearly as much as quality scouting and making smart decisions on draft day in my opinion.

There's no question that we have MUCH more talent now than we've ever had, but we don't have any toes left because we shoot ourselves in the foot so **** much.

[Hustler]

MY recipe for fixing the Texans, or at least a good start.

1. Fire Richard Smith immediately and hire a Buddy Ryan type of DC that will grab a player by the face mask and kick him in the ***** and demand his attention and excellence.

2. Cut Anthony Weaver, C.C. Brown, Demps, Ahman Green and any other subperforming player with no potential for getting better immediately. Weaver has sucked for years and Green is a walking injury that never should have been hired to begin with. I know Weaver will cost us some money due to a long term guaranteed contract that he signed with Casserly but bite the bullet and cut out the cancer. Weaver is an example to younger players of showing up and collecting a paycheck. As for Green a 30+ yoa. running backs with bad knees should not even be looked at in free agency. It's time to cut some of these fat lazy millionares.

3. Drag Travis Johnson, Matt Schaub, Amobi Okoye, Bennett, Reeves and any other subperforming players with potential for getting better into the front office and make sure that they know that if their level of play doesn't improve tremendously they'll be at the unemployment office with Weaver and Green etc...

4. Demote Meyers and Brisiel to backup status. They don't cost much and can provide semi effective backup.

5. Start playing Molden, Okam, and Adibi and see what they can do in the game over a 3-4 game span. Evaluate them and give them some playing time, what's it gonna hurt we suck already.

6. Our draft pick will be in the top 10. Definetly trade down, with Detroit if possible, and get the 1st round pick they got from Dallas probably in the mid 20's and pick up Detroits 2nd round pick and the 3rd round pick they got from Dallas. Point wise on the trade value chart that should be pretty close. The 2nd round pick from Detroit will be at the top of the 2nd round and we can draft one of the great Centers coming out this year. With our 1st round pick in the mid 20's, go after someone like Aaron Curry, Myron Rolle, Greg Hardy etc...

7. Bob McNair needs to have a "Come to Jesus" meeting with the entire coaching staff and make sure they know they're on probation and have one more year to make some significant progress with the team and with their own on the field management of the game.

This team has got some talent but needs alot more. The great talented players we do have are not going to want to stick around when they turn free agents if they realize they've been playing for a team that doesn't want to make significant improvements to the team. Also McNair needs to do this stuff now and not wait for the off season.

Love the detail!!!!! This & Coog's retort, Wildroot, 3andout, and Wolf's (Silvr's too, just seemed 1--->2 many LMAO) posts are wonderful examples of being proactive rather than cannabalizing each other. Great work Guys...TY for ur opinions. (not that y'all care, but I appreciate the posts...TY)

[Hustler]

I agree. There does need to be some tough love going on the Texans' front office. I would love to see Kubiak become somewhat of a disciplinarian on the sidelines. Who knows what he does when the camera isn't on him, but he seems too easy-going on the sidelines. I'm all for giving Okam, Adibi and company a shot late in the season. Nice post.

He does seem easy going on sidelines, but if u believe (since I don't attend daily practices or meetings) the writers and radio personalities yelling and intensity is not the prob for Kubs on weekdays.

[wildroot]

I understand your point though. I'm frustrated just like you and something has to be done. It's always a big gamble going after FAs to fill big holes, especially when you aren't just "one guy away". Free agents are necessary, but not nearly as much as quality scouting and making smart decisions on draft day in my opinion.

There's no question that we have MUCH more talent now than we've ever had, but we don't have any toes left because we shoot ourselves in the foot so **** much.

I don't have a problem taking a gamble on a player, but no one, and I mean no one thought Reeves was anything special when we signed him. A player of his caliber had no business getting the kind of money he signed for and thats what keeps holding us back we throw money at these marginal players rather than saving it for a PROVEN "difference maker". I have real questions about Kubiak's eye for talent when it comes to the FA signings.

[3andOUT]

I don't have a problem taking a gamble on a player, but no one, and I mean no one thought Reeves was anything special when we signed him. A player of his caliber had no business getting the kind of money he signed for and thats what keeps holding us back we throw money at these marginal players rather than saving it for a PROVEN "difference maker". I have real questions about Kubiak's eye for talent when it comes to the FA signings.

1) Free agent are FREE meaning they can go where they want. Not many big time difference makers want to come here. That can change in the near future, but that's the way it's been and the way it is. The "difference makers" get competitive offers from several teams. Sometimes it's money, sometimes it's about the team, but not too many guys have wanted to come play here.

2) You can't blame Kubiak entirely for who we have and haven't signed. Rick Smith heads up the scouting department, and is the executive talent evaluator. McNair also has veto power, but you can't totally blame Kubiak.

[SuperstarII]

Well I do not get paid to do this but the guys who do seem not to be very good at it, so what the hell.

1. Fire Richard Smith

This is easy. We need to find a d-cord who knows what he wants and demands the right players.

I myself am partial to the Tampa 2, but I will leave the choice to the coach.

2. Delegate the majority of our FA money to the defense.

Julius Peppers is a FA this year I believe, and so may be Haynesworth. Get one of them to play opposite Mario.

3. Trade our top 10 draft pick this year for more picks.

It is probable that we will be drafting in the top 10 this year. It would be in our best interests to trade away this pick for a later pick in the first round and some additional picks in the 2nd and 3rd.

4. Give an ultimatum to Kubiak and Smith.

They have one more year. That is it. No more, no less. When you make people play for their jobs you will be startled by the results.

5. Think about trades.

We should seriously look into our roster and see if there is any value there. If you can get significant picks from trading a Jacoby Jones or Amobi we should explore that.

Mainly we need picks and a top tier FA. That is how the Falcons improved this year.

Hire Bill Cowher when you get the chance...

[BIG ERN]

hire bill cowher when you get the chance...

exactly!

[wildroot]

1) Free agent are FREE meaning they can go where they want. Not many big time difference makers want to come here. That can change in the near future, but that's the way it's been and the way it is. The "difference makers" get competitive offers from several teams. Sometimes it's money, sometimes it's about the team, but not too many guys have wanted to come play here.

2) You can't blame Kubiak entirely for who we have and haven't signed. Rick Smith heads up the scouting department, and is the executive talent evaluator. McNair also has veto power, but you can't totally blame Kubiak.

1) When I see "name" players going to teams like Detroit, Ciny, Cleveland, Buffalo, Atlanta, Oakland, KC, St.Louis and N.O. then surely we can sign a few. I can't see any of these teams (or cities) being that attractive to potential signings, at least no worse than Houston.


2) Front office then. A combination of Kubes, Smith and McNair. Easier to just say Kubiak as he's the out front.