For an explanation of what the heck I am doing here, see this post.

Win #2--Week 4 @ Atlanta. I wanted to claim that the second win would come in the second game, as the Texans roll into Carolina and exorcise the final memories of David Carr. I wanted to, but I couldn't bring myself to do it for a number of reasons. So it is that, in week 4, the Texans will bring their record back to .500 with a victory over Matt Schaub's former employers.

Why? Well, first, there is the little issue of a certain overrated QB and some dog fighting.¹ Assuming Robespierre Goodell continues his reign of terror on NFL ne'er-do-wells, Señor Mexico certainly faces at least 4 games. And this, children, means that Joey Harrington will be under center. Ballgame.

But what if Vick is not suspended? I'm still calling this one win number two. While the Falcons' linebackers are good, they are still part of a starting front seven that only totaled 12.5 sacks. Just as importantly, Grady Jackson appears to be rapidly declining as an interior player and there are still some unanswered questions regarding John Abraham's ability to still be a full-time contributor. (He played in only 8 games last year as was less than effective when he did play.) The defense will also be relying on two rookies from Arkansas--Jamaal Anderson and Chris Houston--at DE and CB. Add an old SS and a mediocre (at best) FS and you have a front unit that doesn't get much pressure, a shaky secondary situation, and a defensive right side that should be susceptible to the run. The Texans will be able to score in that equation.

When the Falcons have the ball, I look for them to allow DeMeco to spy Vick throughout the game. Also, because Vick is a lefty, Greenwood (or one of the new LBs) will probably keep contain if/when Mike rolls out, allowing DeMeco to defend Crumpler over the middle. Shante Orr and Weaver (switching sides with Mario for this one?)will have run responsibilities (assuming Manchild gets some middle penetration, which should be achievable against Tyson Clabo). That kind of run defense should be enough against a finesse back like Dunn.

When Vick throws, Joe Horn is a couple years removed from being an elite receiver and Dunta matches up well with Horn at this point. Petey will continue to be a question, but with a little help over the top he should be able to adequately defend Michael Jenkins or Roddy White.

Thus, the Texans will end September at 2-2.

¹ Allegedly.

Labels: Athletes who don't stab people, Big dudes doing the little things, DeMeco Ryans, Dunta Robinson, Is Roger Goodell gonna have to choke a bitch?, Preview, Teams that aren't the Texans

Posted by matt on Thursday, June 14, 2007 at 5:55 PM | Permalink