Matchup Preview of Texans vs. Dallas

[dalemurphy]

I know that I said I wouldn't start anymore threads, but we are on the eve on the the game and I'm at Reliant tomorrow. So, here's the preview:



I remember how encouraged I was after the 2004 season. The Texans had won 7 games and been competitive in most losses. It is humorous now to think back to my lofty expectations of that team for the following season, when I go through that roster: David Carr, Seth Wand, Robaire Smtih, Todd Wade, Jay Foreman, Petey Faggins, CC Brown, Antuan Peek, one-legged Kailee Wong, Billy Miller, Phillip Buchanan… Regardless, though, I entered the 2005 preseason hoping and even expecting to see a team that could challenge for a playoff spot. Then the preseason happened. I think the offense only scored 10 points in the first half of the first three games. Our final preseason effort was against Tampa Bay and the coaches pointed to the game as the time to straighten out the offense. The first team offense was scheduled to play at least a quarter and as much as a half. Well, David Carr was 1-5 with two interceptions and the Texans were trailing 24-0 at halftime. I remember watching the game and feeling my expectations for the season plummet and become replaced with dread and frustration.

Now I look back at that and I am grateful, because that was the watershed mark for the Texans and the beginning of the transition to the current organizational structure led by Gary Kubiak and Rick Smith. Tomorrow, however, is another such point of time for the Texans and this coaching staff. Now, regardless of what happens, this team isn’t going 2-14. They are far too talented for that level of putridity. But, the coaches have placed special emphasis on this game in response to last week’s poor performance in New Orleans. Therefore, if they come out flat, it is a sign that these players under this staff can not be properly motivated throughout the season. If they come out of the tunnel motivated and intense but are ineffectual, it is a sign that this team will be unable to handle the more talented teams in the NFL. Unfortunately, that is who they play this season… lots of good NFL teams. However, if they come out of the tunnel motivated, focused, and are able to execute the gameplan and win many of the individual battles throught the first half, then this is a team that is ready for the season and positioned to do some great things. I’ll be there, nervous but hopeful. Here are some specific matchups to keep your eye on:

1. Interior O-line versus Jay Ratliff and A-gap blitzers, particularly Bradie James (8.5 sacks in 2008). Ratliff is a monster! He may be 30 lbs lighter than most NT but he had 7 sacks and 33 QB pressures, not to mention causing havoc against the run. The Cowboys don’t run a traditional 3-4 defense. The front three does a lot more stunting and slanting, rather than simply eating up blockers. I have been impressed with Myers and Caldwell this preseason but this will be a difficult test for them. They are unlikely to receive much help from backs since they will have their eyes on the OLBs (Ware and Spencer).

2. Duane Brown and Eric Winston have looked great this preseason. Demarcus Ware and Anthony Spencer are elite pass rushers that should give the duo a lot of trouble. On the positive side of things, this is the perfect warmup/test for the Colts duo of Freeney and Mathis that is only 16 days away. (special note- watch for pulling guards and power runs that attack these speed rushers. It is a way of neutralizing their strengths and beating the heck out of them. Traditionally, we’ve simply tried to take advantage of their outside rushes by letting them upfield and running off tackle. Beating the hell out of them is more fun and I think pays more dividends as the game goes on. I hope to see some of that.)

CONTINUE READING

[Nconroe]

Well, I'd for sure like to see our defense stop the run.

I'd like to see some tackles by our defense.

I'd like to see Texans kick some Cowboys butts.

Then hopefully see some of our young guys play well.

I think RB's will be doing ok this year.

[Fonz the Boss]

Kubiak said starters would not play on the final pre season game.... All I want is for everyone to avoid significant injuries. Bringin back the dub would be nice also.

[NBT]

Well the Oline handled Ratliff and Brady James pretty good in the game, but it will be completely different when we play them for real in 3 weeks. I hope we come with our A-game. 2 wins in a row over the cowgirls would be sweet.