News: The Texans have traded linebacker DeMeco Ryans to the Eagles for a fourth-round draft choice in 2012. Ryans is expected to start in the middle of the Philadelphia defense. When playing in a 4-3 style of defense, Ryans had four straight seasons of 110-plus tackles with 7.5 sacks, 18 passes defensed, two forced fumbles and two interceptions.
Analysis: Expect third-year linebacker Darryl Sharpton to get the first crack at replacing Ryans in the Texans defense, though it's very possible that the team adds talent there before the start of the season. We still expect the Texans DST to remain a quality unit thanks to their solid pass rush and good secondary. Look their way with a late-round pick.
News: The Texans were able to bottle up Ravens RB Ray Rice on Sunday, but it wasn't enough in a 20-13 loss in the Divisional round of the playoffs. Rice managed just 60 rushing yards on 21 carries, while having no gain longer than 9 yards. He also was held to four catches for 20 yards, but QB Joe Flacco fired two touchdown passes as Houston was eliminated from the playoffs. The Texans held Baltimore to 227 yards and sacked Flacco five times. Unfortunately, Houston forced no turnovers.
Analysis: Houston went from one of the worst defenses in the NFL to one of the best in 2011. That was largely in part to some key personnel changes, but mostly because of the arrival of defensive coordinator Wade Phillips. He transitioned Houston to a 3-4 defense and it proved to be a great move for the Texans. Phillips has said he wants to be a head coach again, but if he returns to Houston in 2012, then the Texans DST will be a must-own Fantasy option on Draft Day. Keep tabs on what happens in Houston this offseason.
News: Houston certainly didn't appear to be fazed by making its first playoff appearance in franchise history on Saturday. The Texans defense bullied Cincinnati QB Andy Dalton throughout the game and recorded three interceptions and four sacks during an impressive 31-10 victory over in the Bengals in the AFC Wild Card round. One of the interceptions was returned 29 yards for a touchdown by Texans DL J.J. Watt during the second quarter as Houston scored 24 unanswered points to end the game.
Analysis: Houston halted Cincinnati's running game and allowed just 76 yards on the ground. The AFC South champions also turned rookie WR A.J. Green into a non-factor as defensive coordinator Wade Phillips' were too much for the Bengals to overcome. Much of the credit goes to Pro Bowl DB Johnathan Joseph, who smothered Green and effectively shut down the Bengals passing game. Fantasy owners should consider the resilient Texans a quality DST option in Fantasy playoff formats against Baltimore in the divisional round.
News: For the fourth straight game, the Texans DST failed to intercept a pass, as Houston lost to Tennessee in Week 17. They forced just one turnover -- a lost fumble by Titans RB Ahmard Hall -- which was recovered by DL Jesse Nading. The Texans allowed the Titans to roll up 361 yards of offense, and they managed only three sacks, though Tennessee entered the game tied with Buffalo for the fewest sacks allowed in the league.
Analysis: The Texans had been one of the most reliable DST units over the course of the season, but they ended the season in a bit of a tailspin. Still, their overall track record has been a good one, and they are worth using in postseason Fantasy formats. They will face the Bengals in the first round.
News: The Texans DST enters Week 17 as the third-most productive unit in standard Fantasy leagues, but they have been in a rut in recent weeks. Over their last three games, the Texans DST has not recorded a single interception, and they have collected only six sacks. Their next opponent, the Titans, has been among the best teams in the league at protecting the ball and the quarterback. They are tied with the Bills for fewest sacks allowed (21), and they are tied for the 10th-fewest turnovers (21). However, Tennessee has averaged just over 20 points per game.
Analysis: Between their recent slump and what could be a surprisingly tough matchup, the Texans may not perform like the top DST option that they have been for much of the season. Still, the Titans should not run up many points or much yardage, so the Texans can still be trusted as a No. 1 DST in Week 17, albeit a lower-end one.
News: On the first play of the game on Thursday night Texans LB Brian Cushing sacked QB Dan Orlovsky, causing a fumble. Houston recovered the ball setting up an easy scored for the offense. J.J. Watt had a sack taken away after he was called for a controversial helmet-to-helmet hit on Orlovsky. It didn't get any better for Watt as he was called for more costly penalties on Indy's final drive of the game. The Colts scored and ended up winning the game, 19-16. The Texans recorded three sacks and recovered one fumble in the contest.
Analysis: Houston faces Tennessee in Week 17, a game they need to win to have a shot at a first-round bye in the playoffs. They are playing with out their defensive coordinator, but there is no excuse to allow a poor offensive team to do that in the closing minutes of the game. Fantasy owners should be disappointed in the Texans DST unit, but still view them as a viable option for Week 17.
News: The Texans DST is coming off one of the worst efforts of its season in Week 15 against Carolina. The unit allowed 28 points and 316 yards to Cam Newton and the Panthers as they didn't force a single turnover and only managed two sacks for a dismal two Fantasy points after topping double figures in the previous seven straight contests. The Texans DST faces the Colts in Week 16, and Indianapolis is playing as well as they have all season coming off the team's first victory last week.
Analysis: The Texans DST dominated the Colts Week 1 of the season with three sacks, a DTD and two turnovers forced. They also limited Indy to just seven points and 236 yards. That said, the Colts have been avoiding the turnovers lately and the Patriots, Ravens and Titans DSTs haven't exactly been great in recent weeks against them. All that said, we still consider the Texans DST one of the better units and the Colts offense one of the worst. That combination makes the Texans DST a worthwhile No. 1 Fantasy option for Week 16.
News: The Texans DST couldn't stop the Carolina passing game or running game in the Week 15 loss at home to the Panthers. The Texans DST allowed 316 total yards in the 28-13 defeat. The Texans DST did not force a single turnover in the game and managed just two sacks.
Analysis: The Texans DST had recorded double digits in Fantasy scoring in seven straight games entering Week 15. They did not make it this week. That said, the unit plays at Indianapolis in Week 16 and should be able to inflict its will upon the Colts. Of course, Indianapolis did pick up the team's first win in Week 15. Still, the Texans DST can remain a start-worthy unit for Week 16.
News: The Texans enter Week 15 with the second-most productive DST in standard Fantasy formats. They have held every team they have faced since Week 6 to fewer than 20 points and 350 yards of offense. However, in Week 15, they will face the Panthers, who rank 11th in the league in scoring and fifth in offensive yardage. Also, the Texans have recorded only one sack over the last two games, and the Panthers have allowed 30 sacks this year, which is also the league average.
Analysis: The Texans DST isn't likely to have its most dominant game in Week 15, given that it will be facing a very good offense. However, even at their worst, the Texans DST is simply too good to bench. They should be used as a No. 1 DST for the coming week.
News: Despite entering the game ranked second in the NFL with 35 sacks, the Texans defense recorded only one Week 14 at Cincinnati, giving it a grand total of one in its last two games combined. The Texans also went without an interception in the contest, though they did recover two fumbles. Fortunately, what they lacked in big plays they made up for in more traditional measurements, limiting the Bengals to 19 points on 285 yards.
Analysis: The Texans DST wasn't as dominant in Week 14 as it has been most of the season. It has now disappointed in back-to-back games after a stellar seven-sack effort at Jacksonville in Week 12. Unfortunately, the Texans' matchup against the Panthers in Week 15 doesn't figure to be so favorable either -- not with the play of QB Cam Newton this season. Still, unless you can find a defense with an extremely favorable matchup on the waiver wire, the upside of the Texans DST makes it worth using as a No. 1 Fantasy unit.
News: The Texans defense, which ranks second in the NFL with 35 sacks, went without one Week 13 against the Falcons, but it did limit Atlanta to 10 points on 337 yards, further establishing itself as one of the league's best units by slowing down one of the league's hotter offenses. So how will it fare on the road in Week 14 against a Bengals team that has lost three of its last four? If the Steelers' performance against the Bengals last week is any indication, pretty well. The Steelers limited the Bengals offense to seven points on 232 yards, recording three sacks and one interception in the process. They also forced rookie QB Andy Dalton out of the game early after he completed less than half his passes for the first time in his career.
Analysis: You think stopping Dalton from completing half his passes is good? The Texans did the same thing to Falcons QB Matt Ryan last week. The Texans may not have the prestige of the Steelers on defense, but they've actually been better this year, ranking second in yards allowed (274.1), fourth (90.7) against the run, third (183.4) against the pass and second in points allowed (15.8 points). In addition to being second in sacks, they're also tied for second (17) in interceptions, which means they'll likely be just as frustrating for a rookie quarterback as the Steelers were last week. True, Dalton has proven to be no ordinary rookie quarterback, but he's not so good that he should scare Fantasy owners away from using one of the most dominant DSTs in the game.
News: The Texans, who entered the game with 35 sacks, second-most in the NFL, didn't record a single one Week 13 against the Falcons. And yet they limited one of the league's hotter offenses to only 10 points on 337 yards. They also recorded two interceptions in the contest -- both in the first quarter. One went to DB Kareem Jackson, and the other went to DB Jason Allen.
Analysis: In fairness, the Texans did benefit from an inordinately high number of drops by the Falcons, but the fact of the matter is they proved they could be a dominant defensive team even when their pass rush isn't getting to the quarterback. Prior to Week 13, the Texans hadn't gone a whole game without a sack, and they had a season-high seven just last week. Their 3-4 defense has emerged as one of the best in football, limiting opposing offenses to an average of 219.5 yards over the last six games. The Texans DST is good enough to start in Fantasy regardless of matchups, so keep it active for Week 14 at Cincinnati.
News: The Texans are down to their third-string quarterback for Week 13 against the Falcons, but even with their offense in a state of uncertainty, their defense has continued to thrive. The Texans rank second in the NFL with 16.3 points allowed per game and are surrendering a league-low average of 268.4 yards. They also haven't given up more than 14 points to an opponent since Week 6. Still, they'll surely be in for a test against a Falcons team that has won five of six -- with QB Matt Ryan averaging 264.2 yards through the air during that stretch -- especially if rookie QB T.J. Yates is unable to sustain drives and avoid turnovers.
Analysis: While the lack of offense could ultimately hurt the Texans DST, it wasn't a problem last week at Jacksonville. The Texans recorded a season-high seven sacks in the contest and limited the Jaguars' offense to only seven points. But the Jaguars offense is hardly the Falcons offense, meaning we still don't know what to expect from the Texans DST in this matchup. The Falcons have allowed the ninth-most Fantasy points per game to defenses this season, though, so you wouldn't want to dismiss the Texans DST entirely. It has been such a reliable Fantasy unit all season that you could get away with using it as a low-end No. 1 option this week.
News: The Texans DST had a great game Sunday at Jacksonville in Week 12. The Texans had seven sacks, including four by Conner Barwin, and one interception in a 20-13 victory. The Texans actually did not allow a touchdown on defense because the Jaguars returned an Arian Foster fumble for a score in the first quarter. On special teams, Jacoby Jones led the way with seven punt returns for 116 yards.
Analysis: The Texans DST continues to play well, and they take advantage of great matchups like when facing the Jaguars. The matchup in Week 13 against Atlanta is difficult, but the Texans DST is still worth starting in most formats.
News: The Houston defense has enjoyed a dramatic turnaround this season and has vaulted to the top of the NFL in allowing just 269.7 yards per game. The Texans are also slotted third in the league at yielding a meager 16.6 points a game entering Week 12 against Jacksonville. But with QB Matt Schaub out for the remainder of the season, there were concerns the defense could face more pressure. "The teams haven't changed that we're playing. They're still on the schedule," LB Brian Cushing said. "We're going to play the same kind of defense (and) I think we're only going to get better as the season goes on."
Analysis: Houston limited the Jaguars to just 14 points in the teams' first meeting -- the seventh opponent it has held to less than 20 points this season. The Texans will also receive a boost on defense and special teams with the expected return of Danieal Manning from an ankle injury. "He adds another dimension," DB Johnathan Joseph said. "He can also go back there and add another dimension to the kickoff return." Houston has amassed four sacks in each of its past two games and should be considered a high-end No. 1 Fantasy DST for Week 12.
News: The Texans DST had another outstanding performance on Sunday of Week 10 in a win at Tampa Bay. The Texans DST held Josh Freeman and the Buccaneers to just 231 total yards of offense as Freeman passed for just 170 yards with one TD and three interceptions. The Texans DST forced four turnovers in the performance and added four sacks of Freeman.
Analysis: The Texans DST has now allowed 14 or fewer points scored on them in four straight games as the defense has been phenomenal. The Texans DST has been outstanding in four straight games and has been pretty much all year. When they come back from bye Week 12 at Jacksonville, the Texans DST will be a must-start Fantasy unit.
News: The Houston defense finished the 2010 season ranked third-worst in the NFL allowing almost 380 yards per game. Just over half a season later, The Texans DST heads into Week 10 at Tampa Bay No. 1 in the NFL in total defense, allowing just 274 yards per contest. The Texans DST has recorded three-straight double-digit efforts in terms of Fantasy production and the unit has forced eight turnovers in those three contests with seven sacks and a defensive and special teams touchdown. The Texans DST already has six games in double figures in Fantasy scoring this season.
Analysis: The Texans DST has allowed just 33 points to be scored on them in the last three games as they've been playing ridiculously well as a unit. That said, facing Tampa Bay in Week 10, the Buccaneers have not been allowing much Fantasy scoring to opposing DST units. The Saints DST did nothing against them Week 9, plus, Tampa Bay has avoided turning the ball over in three of their last five games. Of course, Josh Freeman did throw four interceptions against the Bears Week 7. The Texans DST has been a great unit all season and the Buccaneers should pose a significant challenge enough to quit starting them in most formats for Week 10.
News: The Texans defense held Cleveland to one touchdown in a 30-12 rout of the Browns in Week 9. Cleveland totaled just 172 yards, which included 44 rushing yards. Houston forced two turnovers (one interception, one fumble) and sacked QB Colt McCoy four times.
Analysis: Houston did a great job of pressuring McCoy all day. The defense pinned its ears back after Cleveland couldn't run the ball without RBs Peyton Hillis and Montario Hardesty, who were out due to injuries. But it's not like this is a one-week wonder. Houston has been great defensively since Wade Phillips came on as defensive coordinator this season. Make sure to start the Texans DST in Week 10 at Tampa Bay.
News: Texans CB Jason Allen said the league's third-ranked defense (286.8 ypg) can get better. Much better. "We feel like we haven't reached our potential," he said. "We're just preparing each and every week and have an attitude that we want to get better... it's definitely paying off for us." Next up on the schedule in Week 9 is the Browns, who are averaging just 305.7 yards and 15.3 points per game. After years of watching the defense struggle, QB Matt Schaub now takes joy in viewing the league's third-ranked unit at work. "It's fun to watch our defense," he said. "We've known that through training camp. We knew what was about to happen this season. It's fun to watch them fly around and make plays."
Analysis: Adding defensive guru Wade Phillips and switching to a 3-4 defense has done wonders for Houston. Although, it will have to continue to make progress despite losing Mario Williams, Darryl Sharpton and Danieal Manning to injuries in recent weeks. We still like the Texans DST as a No. 1 Fantasy option in Week 9 against Cleveland, who will be down RBs Montario Hardesty and Peyton Hillis due to injuries. Chris Ogbonnaya is expected to start at running back for Cleveland. The Browns are expected to get back WR Mohamed Massaquoi, who missed a game due to a concussion.
News: Texans CB Jason Allen said the league's third-ranked defense (286.8 ypg) can get better. Much better. "We feel like we haven't reached our potential," he said. "We're just preparing each and every week and have an attitude that we want to get better... it's definitely paying off for us." Next up on the schedule in Week 9 is the Browns, who are averaging just 305.7 yards and 15.3 points per game. After years of watching the defense struggle, QB Matt Schaub now takes joy in viewing the league's third-ranked unit at work. "It's fun to watch our defense," he said. "We've known that through training camp. We knew what was about to happen this season. It's fun to watch them fly around and make plays."
Analysis: Adding defensive guru Wade Phillips and switching to a 3-4 defense has done wonders for Houston. Although, it will have to continue to make progress despite losing Mario Williams, Darryl Sharpton and Danieal Manning to injuries in recent weeks. We still like the Texans DST as a No. 1 Fantasy option in Week 9 against Cleveland, who could be down RBs Montario Hardesty and Peyton Hillis due to injuries.
News: The Texans DST played well Sunday against the Jaguars in Week 8. The Texans had two interceptions, one sack and helped Houston win 24-14. On special teams, Jacoby Jones had five punt returns for 280 yards.
Analysis: The Texans DST continues to play well and took advantage of a good matchup against the Jaguars. Houston has another favorable matchup against Cleveland in Week 9 and should be considered a starting option.
News: After being a sore point in previous seasons, the Houston defense has experienced dynamic improvement en route to first place in the AFC South this year. The Texans have been boosted by new defensive coordinator Wade Phillips, who installed a 3-4 scheme that has resulted in 19 sacks in seven games -- tied for fourth-most in the NFL. "We're meshing together. We're playing well," Houston DL J.J. Watt said. "It's cool to see how well everybody meshes together in Coach Phillips' defense. It's a lot of fun." The Texans host Jacksonville in Week 8.
Analysis: Houston will have to fill a large void on special teams after Danieal Manning suffered a broken fibula. Manning was the league's sixth-best kickoff returner at 27.4 yards per return. Head coach Gary Kubiak said that Sherrick McManis will get an opportunity to return, with newly signed Quintin Demps possibly getting a chance. Both returned kicks during the preseason. Still, the Texans defense has shined and surrendered 300 total yards to opponents only once in its past four games. Consider Houston a No. 1 Fantasy DST for Week 8.
News: The Texans made the most of a Week 7 matchup against a Titans offense that has struggled to gain yards and put up points. In a 41-7 rout, the Texans' defense held Tennessee to just 148 net yards of total offense. They also picked off Titans QB Matt Hasselbeck two times, and DB Brice McCain ran his fourth-quarter interception back 38 yards for a touchdown. The Titans sacked Hasselbeck and backup QB Jake Locker one time apiece for a total loss of 21 yards.
Analysis: The Texans were dominant on both sides of the ball in Week 7, the owners of Houston's DST were richly rewarded for the defensive unit's performance. They could stay on a roll in Week 8, as they will face a Jaguars team that has struggled every bit as much as the Titans to move the ball. The Texans DST is worth a start in the coming week.
News: The Texans' defensive unit is coming off one of its worst performances of the season. In Week 6 against the Ravens, they gave up their second-highest totals of points and yardage for the season, but in Week 7, they should have an easier time containing their opponent. They will face the Titans, who rank 19th in the league in total offensive yardage and in points scored on a per-game basis. However, only the Browns, Lions and Vikings have turned the ball over fewer times than the Titans.
Analysis: Despite a couple of poor outings this season, the Texans DST enters Week 7 as the fifth-ranked unit in terms of Fantasy points. Though they'll face a Titans squad that doesn't turn the ball over often, they should still have one of their more successful weeks. Owners should view the Texans DST as a low-end No. 1 option for this upcoming matchup.
News: The Texans had a hard time slowing down the Ravens' offense in Week 6. Houston gave up 402 yards of total offense in the 29-14 loss. Baltimore ran for 113 yards and QB Joe Flacco threw for another 305. Despite losing their second straight game, the Texans were able to pick off Flacco once and sacked him twice.
Analysis: The Texans were able to get a pass rush even without Marion Williams but they could not bring Flacco down as often as they would have liked. Houston entered Sunday ranked sixth in the league against the pass, but got exposed a bit by some big plays downfield. Hopefully they will be able to iron things out before taking on the Titans next week so consider the Texans DST as more of a No. 2 option for Week 7.
News: The Texans enter Week 6 against the Ravens without a key member of their defense. LB Mario Williams will miss the remainder of the season due to a torn pectoral muscle. He recorded five sacks in five games. Houston enters Sunday ranked sixth in the league against the pass and 12th in run defense while Baltimore ranks ninth and 18th in rushing and passing, respectively.
Analysis: The Texans have recorded 15 sacks so far this season with five interceptions and a defensive touchdown. But the loss of Williams will definitely hurt their pass rush, which will give QB Joe Flacco more time in the pocket on Sunday. While Houston has been better on defense so far this season, consider the DST as more of a No. 2 option for Week 6.
News: The Texans DST could not stop the Raiders in the fourth quarter as Oakland scored 10 points in the final frame to win 25-20 at Houston in the Week 5 game. The Texans DST gave up just 278 yards of offense to the Raiders, but that was enough for Oakland to pull the win. The Texans DST forced just one turnover on an interception of Jason Campbell by Jason Allen, who also led the DST with 10 tackles. Houston sacked Campbell three times in the game.
Analysis: The Texans DST has recorded double-digit Fantasy scoring efforts in three of five games this season. They remained stout on Sunday of Week 5, but did give up too many points. The Texans have forced just two turnovers in the last two games and that could continue heading into Baltimore in Week 5. Still, consider the Texans DST a low-end No. 1 Fantasy unit.
News: The Texans DST enters Week 5 with a home game against the Oakland Raiders. Oakland has been excellent running the football this season, and opposing DST units have struggled facing the Raiders thus far on the year. In fact, Raiders QB Jason Campbell has only been sacked twice on the season and the Raiders have only lost five turnovers all year in four games.
Analysis: While the Raiders pose a tough test in Week 5, the Texans DST has been a very solid unit this season. Houston racked up five sacks against Pittsburgh Week 4, and limited the Steelers to just 10 points and 296 yards of offense. With 12 sacks in four games, we feel that Campbell may be running for his life against Marion Williams and Houston in Week 5. We believe the Texans DST will win the battle and can be active as a solid No. 1 Fantasy DST for the Week 5 game.
News: The Texans DST was solid Sunday against the Steelers. They had five sacks and an interception in a 17-10 victory. On special teams, the Texans had two kickoff returns for 34 yards from Danieal Manning and three punt returns for 17 yards from Jacoby Jones.
Analysis: The Texans DST has been a pleasant surprise so far this season, and they have another quality matchup in Week 5 against Oakland. Consider the Texans DST a low-end No. 1 Fantasy option against the Raiders.
News: Entering its Week 4 clash against Pittsburgh, Houston is aware of its top priority on defense: create pressure on Steelers QB Ben Roethlisberger. The struggling signal-caller leads all quarterbacks with four lost fumbles and is responsible for nine of Pittsburgh's 10 turnovers this year, part of the reason the team's minus-nine turnover margin is the worst in the league. "He's probably the best in the league at escaping plays and then making something happen," Texans DL Shaun Cody said about the 6-foot-5 Roethlisberger.
Analysis: Limiting Roethlisberger's time on the field could certainly have benefits for Houston on Sunday. In its first three games this season, the Texans defense has allowed just one drive of longer than five minutes -- a 7:19 march by Miami that resulted in a missed field goal during Week 2. In addition, Houston has permitted just two drives out of its opponents' 35 total this season to last longer than 10 plays, both by the Dolphins. Consider the Texans a decent No. 2 Fantasy DST for the Week 4 matchup with the Steelers.
News: The Texans defense, which entered the game ranked first against the pass, will rank substantially lower after allowing 40 points on 454 yards to the hosting Saints in Week 3. The Texans recorded two sacks and two interceptions in the contest.
Analysis: The Texans DST took advantage of some nice matchups in Weeks 1 and 2 but had some trouble against the high-scoring Saints offense. It doesn't mean the Texans DST is useless in Fantasy -- after all, most defenses struggle against the Saints -- but it does suggest it's not a top-notch, every-week option in Fantasy. With another tough matchup against the Steelers in Week 4, the Texans DST remains more of a No. 2 Fantasy unit.
News: The Texans defense has gotten off to a great start this season, allowing a league-low 271.0 yards and 10.0 points per game -- a vast improvement from the 442.0 yards and 25.5 points through two games last season, when the Texans ultimately finished with the NFL's 30th-ranked defense. The defense will face its toughest test yet, though, when Texans travel to New Orleans in Week 3. The Saints rank fifth offensively, averaging 429.5 yards and 32.0 points after beating Chicago 30-13 last week. They also put up 34 points and 477 yards against the Super Bowl champion Packers in Week 1. The Saints have outscored their opponents 128-78 in winning four of their last five home games, averaging 25.6 points during that stretch.
Analysis: The Texans DST, which has offered a handful of standout individual players in recent years, seems to have come together under new defensive coordinator Wade Phillips. "We're surprised at how quickly the process has taken place, with no offseason and Wade really just having those guys for just seven or eight weeks," coach Gary Kubiak said. "When you watch the work that's taking place every day, the energy we're playing with, how hard we're playing, you know why you're getting much better results." Phillips, a proponent of the 3-4 defense, has a good track record as a defensive coordinator, making the Texans DST a unit on the rise in Fantasy. This week isn't the week to take a chance on it, however.
News: The Texans surrendered 13 points on 306 yards of total offense during Week 2 against the Dolphins. The unit held Miami to just 153 yards passing on the afternoon while holding the Dolphins to just 4 of 12 on third-down attempts. Houston's DST did allow 153 yards rushing but only allowed one touchdown and blocked a field goal. The unit also held Miami to just 1 for 4 in the red zone and racked up a pair of sacks and two turnovers in the 23-13 win.
Analysis: The Texans DST once again impressed on Sunday as the unit looks light years better than it did last season. Wade Phillips has done a nice job changing the defensive culture in Houston, although the unit has yet to be truly tested. That will happen for the first time next week, as Houston will head to New Orleans to play the high-flying Saints. The Saints can put up points in a hurry, so this could be a tough matchup for the unit. While Houston's DST is much improved, owners should consider the unit merely a No. 2 DST heading into Week 3.
News: The Texans DST will be looking to slow down the Dolphins in Week 2. The until allowed 236 yards of offense to the Colts in Week 1, but only surrendered seven points while racking up three sacks and a pair of turnovers. The Dolphins put up 488 yards and 24 points during their Week 1 loss to New England. Houston's DST also accounted for a touchdown in Week 1 on Jacoby Jones' 79-yuard punt return and finished as the third highest scoring DST, in terms of Fantasy points during Week 1.
Analysis: The Texans DST entered Week 1 as a much-improved unit and they proved that on Sunday against the Colts. However, there are still some that are a bit skeptical about the unit and Miami looks to be a bit more dangerous on the offensive side of the ball than the Colts do at the moment. Still, the Dolphins don't seem to have much of a running game and could be forced to rely on Chad Henne to move the chains once again. Consider the Texans a low-end No. 1 Fantasy DST on Sunday in South Florida.
News: Fantasy owners would assume the Texans DST had a great day Week 1 on Sunday against the Colts. Considering the Texans won the game 34-7 and had a 34-0 lead at halftime, it would seem that the Texans DST had an awesome game. The DST did limit the Colts to just 236 total yards and seven points, but only forced two turnovers in the game. Kerry Collins fumbled twice and both times it lead to Houston scores. Still, the Texans DST did most of its damage on a 79-yard punt return for a touchdown by Jacoby Jones in the second quarter. They finished with three sacks as well.
Analysis: The Texans DST entered Week 1 as a much-improved unit and they proved that on Sunday against the Colts. That said, they could have been better as Collins was shaky all game. Jones is not going to return a punt for a TD every game, so the Texans will need to force some more turnovers. The Texans DST must play at Miami in Week 2. They will be considered a borderline usable unit for that one.
News: The Texans DST is coming off a very nice preseason in which the team generated far more sacks and turnovers than would have been expected a season ago. Now, heading into Week 1 at home against Indianapolis, the Texans DST gets an unexpected break. Peyton Manning won't be playing with Kerry Collins quarterbacking the Colts. That changes a lot in favor of the defense for the Texans.
Analysis: The Texans DST is certainly a much-improved unit from a season ago. Houston signed CB Johnathan Joseph and S Danieal Manning to bolster a secondary that struggled in 2010. They also went out an drafted J.J. Watt and Brooks Reed and moved Mario Williams to linebacker, but most importantly the Texans hired defensive guru Wade Phillips, whose 3-4 scheme seems to be working in Houston. The Texans DST is still not a must-have Fantasy option, but they are a No. 2 for Week 1 against a weaker Colts team.
News: Houston has 11 sacks from eight players and has generated four turnovers in its two exhibition games. All of last season, the Texans got only 30 sacks and 18 takeaways. "I'm pleased with the progress," head coach Gary Kubiak said. "The thing I'm excited about is I think we have more playmakers than we've probably ever had around here. Like I said, we are getting our hands on the football with the emphasis of turnovers and stripping the ball. You can see that showing up on the field."
Analysis: The Texans signed free agent cornerback Johnathan Joseph and safety Danieal Manning to bolster a secondary that struggled in 2010. Joseph intercepted nine passes across his past two seasons in Cincinnati. They also went out an drafted J.J. Watt and Brooks Reed and moved Mario Williams to linebacker, but most importantly the Texans hired defensive guru Wade Phillips, whose 3-4 scheme seems to be working in Houston. The Texans DST is still not a must-own Fantasy option, but definitely an intriguing sleeper pick on Draft Day.
News: Houston Texans defensive backs coach Vance Joseph offers words of encouragement after almost every practice snap, even if one of his players is beaten on a route. Joseph may have the biggest challenge of any position coach on the staff -- fixing a secondary that ranked as the league's worst in 2010. "You've got to stay positive, because it's a hard assignment and bad things happen, even when you're playing good," Joseph said Sunday. "Somebody's got to be there supporting them, and it's got to be me, as their coach. This is a young group, they want to do well, they want to be great, so there's no reason not to be positive." The Texans allowed 267.5 yards passing per game and 33 touchdown passes last season. They drafted cornerbacks Brandon Harris (Miami) and Roc Carmichael (Virginia Tech), then picked up free agents Johnathan Joseph and Danieal Manning to bring experience that the group lacked in 2010.
Analysis: Vance Joseph, hired in the offseason after six years in San Francisco, says the main issue for Kareem Jackson, last year's first-round pick who often took the sharpest criticism for the secondary's problems, and Houston's other defensive backs last year was faulty technique. He's focused on footwork and fundamentals through the first few days of practice, and never misses a chance to point out improvement. Both Josephs weren't the only key additions to the Texans defense. Defensive guru Wade Phillips is now running the defense and is switching Houston to a 3-4 scheme. He has had great success as a defensive coordinator in the NFL and now Houston has the personnel to perhaps right the ship. The Texans DST is still not a must-own Fantasy option, but definitely an intriguing sleeper pick on Draft Day.
News: The Texans overhauled their defense in the 2011 draft, selecting Wisconsin DE J.J. Watt, Arizona OLB Brooks Reed and Miami CB Brandon Harris among others. That's welcomed news to Wade Phillips' defense, and so is this: The Texans are planning to move Mario Williams to linebacker to take advantage of his pass-rush skills. Phillips envisions using Williams much like he used DeMarcus Ware in Dallas.
Analysis: The Texans made some nice moves this offseason, but it remains to be seen how they'll translate to the field. Remember, Phillips' defense was exposed in Dallas last season and Houston's defense -- especially its secondary -- was equally ripped apart. As Houston moves to the 3-4 scheme, Fantasy owners shouldn't run the risk of owning this DST for more than as a one-week replacement. You should be able to snag them off the waiver wire if needed in 2011.
News: The Texans took Wisconsin defensive end J.J. Watt with the 11th overall pick in the 2011 NFL Draft. Phillips is hoping that the 6-foot-5, 290-pound Watt develops into a solid complement for Mario Williams, the No. 1 overall pick in 2006 and Houston's all-time sacks leader. Watt made 43 tackles behind the line of scrimmage, including 11 1/2 sacks, in 26 games at Wisconsin. He led the Badgers with seven sacks in 2010, and also broke up eight passes, a statistic that caught Phillips' attention. He ranked second on the team with 62 tackles, intercepted a pass and blocked three kicks in 2010. "Passes defensed for a defensive lineman and tackles for a defensive lineman at that position are rare," Phillips said. "This guy makes a lot of plays."
Analysis: Watt will help the front seven, but that Texans secondary is still a wreck. No one should use the Houston DST in 2011 Fantasy play.
News: Wade Phillips reported to work Monday for his first day as the Houston Texans' defensive coordinator, meeting with coach Gary Kubiak to talk about staff vacancies. Phillips says he'll implement a 3-4 defensive front, a change from the 4-3 that Houston has been playing. Phillips has been a defensive coordinator for 20 seasons and at his last five stops, the team made the playoffs in his first year. Phillips also stressed that pass rusher Mario Williams will be used in a number of ways, much like how he used Bruce Smith in Buffalo. "I've been successful in playing a 3-4 for a long time," Phillips said. "I've gone into situations where they've played a 4-3 before, and we've been successful very quickly."
Analysis: While Phillips' defenses have been mostly successful everywhere he's been as a coordinator, the reality is that it's tough to expect a scheme switch to work seamlessly. The Packers did it last year but the Redskins faltered with it this year. Tack on Houston's young secondary -- the worst in the league in 2010, and it makes the DST a longshot to be solid next season. No one outside of the Houston area should consider the Texans DST as a draft-worthy Fantasy choice.
News: With Wade Phillips signed on to be the defensive coordinator, the Texans are switching back to the 3-4 defense for 2011. The team went to the 4-3 in 2006 when they drafted DE Mario Williams, but Phillips thinks they're ready for the switch, even if fans and analysts don't. "They've said the same thing just about everywhere I've gone," Phillips said according to the Houston Chronicle. "I just don't believe that based on what I've seen on film."
Analysis: Phillips' version of the 3-4 is a little different than your standard format, and he sees a big opportunity for Mario Williams to play well as a one-gap end. While Phillips' defenses have been mostly successful everywhere he's been as a coordinator, the reality is that it's tough to expect a scheme switch to work seamlessly. The Packers did it last year but the Redskins faltered with it this year. Tack on Houston's young secondary -- the worst in the league in 2010, and it makes the DST a longshot to be solid next season. No one outside of the Houston area should consider the Texans DST as a draft-worthy Fantasy choice.
News: Head coach Gary Kubiak will return for a sixth season in Houston, and ex-Cowboys coach Wade Phillips is coming with him. Following the exit of defensive coordinator Frank Bush, Phillips takes over a defense that lost eight of their last 10 games and had the league's 30th-ranked unit. Phillips prefers a 3-4 defensive alignment, which would be a change from the 4-3 that the Texans have played the past two seasons. Kubiak said Monday that he didn't care what scheme his new coordinator runs as long as it works. A 3-4 scheme would require Mario Williams and fellow defensive end Antonio Smith to adjust their techniques and attack more to the inside of the line than the outside, something Smith expressed some trepidation over.
Analysis: The Texans DST could become a shipwreck if Phillips tries to convert it to a 3-4 scheme. But if Phillips plans to rebuild in the 4-3 mold and the team adds good talent this offseason, there's a shot they improve. At the very least the addition of Philips will help their young secondary. Still, no one outside of the Houston area would consider the Texans DST as a draft-worthy Fantasy choice.
News: The Texans defense allowed 14 points on 322 yards of total offense against the Jaguars in Week 17. Then unit held Trent Edwards to just 140 yards passing in the 17-14 win and forced two turnovers and racked up two sacks. The Texans defense held Jacksonville scoreless in the second half and held the Jaguars to just 1of 10 on third-down conversions in the victory.
Analysis: Houston was not very good on defense this season as the unit struggled to force turnovers or come up with big stops when needed. Some of that can be blamed on the loss of a few of their key defensive stars such as Mario Williams, DeMeco Ryans, but the unit clearly has some issues they need to address in the offseason. Unless a plethora of talent is brought in during the offseason, the Texans DST will be a unit worth avoiding on Draft Day next season.
News: The Texans have been eliminated from playoff contention but will look to finish the season strong in Week 17 against the Jaguars. With QB David Garrard (finger) and RB Maurice Jones-Drew (knee) out for Sunday's matchup, Houston's 10th-ranked run defense and 32nd-ranked pass defense will have an easier time. When the division foes met earlier in the year, the Texans gave up 31 points and 491 yards of total offense to the Jaguars.
Analysis: Houston has given up an average of 30-plus points in their last four contests but Jacksonville has been playing equally as bad and will be without two of their top options on offense. The Jaguars won the previous meeting on a last-second Hail Mary but should not be able to put up much of a fight on Sunday. Even though the Texans DST as been inconsistent this season, they have a solid matchup in Week 17 and should be considered a low-end No. 1/high-end No. 2 Fantasy option.
News: The Texans defense played well in Week 16 against the Broncos, but were unable to make a big play down the stretch. After keeping Denver off the scoreboard in the first half, Tim Tebow lead Denver to 24 points in the second have, including 14 in the fourth quarter. The unit was only able to force a single turnover in the contest and only sacked Tebow once in the 24-23 loss.
Analysis: The Texans DST didn't play bad on Sunday, but was far from good. The unit continues to struggle to record sacks and force turnovers and once again was unable to come up with a big stop at the end of the game. Things won't get any easier for the Texans as they wrap up their season against Jacksonville next Sunday. The Jaguars scored 31 points in the team's first meeting this season and won on a Hail Marry with no time left on the clock. Houston's DST has not been very good this season and we do not recommend starting them in Week 17.
News: The Texans defense will be looking to slow down Tim Tebow and the Broncos in Week 16. Denver boasts the league's seventh best passing offense and are averaging 20.9 points per game. The Texans DST are ranked 32nd in pass defense, allowing 279.9 yards per game with 24 touchdowns. Houston's DST is ranked 32nd in terms of Fantasy points and has racked up 27 sacks and forced 15 turnovers on the season.
Analysis: The Texans DST is last in terms of Fantasy points and has yet to score a touchdown this season. The unit has surrendered over 400 total yards in seven of their 14 games this season and have struggled to create turnovers as well. While the Broncos have Tim Tebow under center this week, they still have a ton of weapons on the offensive side of the ball and can put up points in a hurry. We do not recommend starting the Texans DST against Denver.
News: The Texans defense, which limited the Ravens to 253 yards last week, went back to struggling Week 15 at Tennessee. It allowed 31 points on 359 yards, recording three sacks and one interception. The Texans defense has allowed 350 yards or more in all but two games this season.
Analysis: Even worse, the Texans DST has allowed 24 points or more in every game but one. The unit has a few playmakers, but it's not dominant as a whole, making it not all that valuable in Fantasy. It could have a better performance than usual Week 16 on the road against a Broncos team in disarray, but it's still too risky to use in standard Fantasy leagues.
News: The Texans, who rank dead last against the pass, allowing 279.9 yards per game, will be visiting a run-heavy Titans team in Week 15. The combination worked pretty well for the Texans back in Week 12, when they shut out the Titans on only 162 yards. Of course, the Titans had rookie Rusty Smith under center then. They have veteran Kerry Collins under center now. Plus, the Texans no longer have top pass rusher Mario Williams, who is out for the year with a groin injury.
Analysis: The Texans thrived in Week 12 because they were able to load the box against star running back Chris Johnson, limiting him to a season-low 5 yards on seven carries. Now that the Titans have the threat of the passing game, Johnson should find more running room, giving the Titans a chance to have a respectable showing against the Texans. The Texans have allowed over 400 total yards in seven of 13 games this year, so their DST normally isn't a Fantasy force. You can leave it on waivers for what should be a much more balanced matchup in Week 15.
News: The Houston Chronicle reports the Texans have placed DE Mario Williams on injured reserve. Williams has been dealing with a hernia. He will now miss the rest of the season.
Analysis: The Texans DST has struggled this season with Williams. Without him the unit has minimal Fantasy value. Ignore the Texans DST in all leagues in Week 15 at Tennessee.
News: The Texans defense did a solid job of limiting the Ravens in Week 14. Despite allowing QB Joe Flacco to throw for 235 yards and two scores, Houston held Baltimore's running game to just 63 yards in the 34-28 overtime loss. The Ravens were helped out by scores on both special teams and a pick-six in overtime that gave the Texans the defeat. Houston was unable to pick off Flacco but sacked him five times.
Analysis: The Texans have given up 34 points in each of the last two games and have allowed opponents to score 30-plus points seven times this season. While their front-seven has done a solid job, their secondary continues to give up big plays. They will face off against the Titans next week. When the division foes met earlier in the year, Houston blanked Tennessee 20-0. The Titans have not made an announcement on who will be starting the game at quarterback in Week 15 but either way, continue to view the Texans DST as a No. 2 Fantasy option.
News: The Texans enter Week 14 against the Ravens ranked dead-last in the NFL in pass defense. Houston has allowed an average of 287.4 yards through the air this season, while Baltimore ranks 15th in the league at throwing the ball. The Texans could hold the Ravens running game in check though, as they rank 11th in the league against the run while Baltimore have averaged 108.4 yards on the ground, good for 16th in the NFL.
Analysis: The Texans pitched a shutout two weeks ago but they have not been able to slow many teams down this season. Their pass rush is decent enough but their secondary has not been able to contain wideouts and running backs coming out of the backfield. Baltimore has some serious weapons in the passing game and should be able to move the ball against Houston. Considering the matchup, Fantasy owners should view the Texans DST as a low-end No. 2 option for Week 14.
News: The Texans defense allowed two fourth-quarter scores and helped Houston squander a 24-20 third-quarter lead in a 34-24 loss to Philadelphia in Week 13. "I would say we didn't tackle very good, especially in the fourth quarter," coach Gary Kubiak said. The Houston defense appeared to be in for a long night when QB Michael Vick marched Philadelphia down the field for an 88-yard touchdown drive to open the game. Philadelphia jumped out to a comfortable 20-10 halftime lead. Then, the Texans defense woke up and shut out Philadelphia in the third quarter as Houston took the lead. But Vick then led two more touchdown drives in the fourth quarter as the Eagles pulled out the win. Philadelphia finished with 416 yards (115 rushing). Houston got one sack and one interception.
Analysis: It's funny how much difference a week makes. Last week, the Texans looked like the best defense in the NFL as they faced rookie QB Rusty Smith. But when they went up against a very good NFL QB, they looked like the suspect Texans defense we have come to know. Kubiak said he has been impressed with the improvement the defense has made, but he can't be happy with it's fourth-quarter collapse Week 13. The Texans DST is still too tough to trust in Fantasy. Houston plays Baltimore in Week 14.
News: Since Texans defensive coordinator Frank Bush moved to the sidelines to call plays two weeks ago, the defense has allowed an average of 281.5 yards per game. Before the move -- in nine previous games -- the unit allowed an average of 409.7 yards per game, second-most in the league. In Week 13, the improvement will be tested against the explosive Eagles offense, led by QB Michael Vick. Bush will likely integrate some of the complex looks that the Giants and Bears threw at Vick into Thursday's gameplan. He leads the league with a 106.0 QB rating but has an average of 88.5 over his last two games. But it's the RB position -- LaSean McCoy -- that the team is more concerned with initially. "We have to get a lot of guys around him and keep him contained," Bush said.
Analysis: The Texans did a good job shutting down Chris Johnson last week, but with rookie QB Rusty Smith at the helm, the passing threat was not as great as it will be Thursday night against Philly. Even if they mirror the approach the Giants and Bears took, by using the defensive line to generate most of the pressure, Houston does not have the secondary to slow the WRs down. It's also important to note that the Eagles realize they have been somewhat limited in the last two weeks, so they will adjust too. Even with the Texans improvements, we see the Eagles moving the ball more times than not against the Houston defense. Utilize the Texans DST as a reserve Fantasy option in Week 13.
News: Texans coach Gary Kubiak has insisted his defense was improving, even as opponents continued to pile up big plays and points. Houston finally backed him up Week 12, beating Tennessee 20-0 for the franchise's first shutout since 2004. There's no time to relax, though. The Texans (5-6) have a quick turnaround before facing Michael Vick and high-powered Philadelphia (7-4) on Thursday night (Week 13). Vick leads the NFL with a 106.0 passer rating, and Philadelphia ranks second in total offense (399.3 yards per game) and points per game (28.2). That would seem to be another mismatch for a Houston defense giving up 386.4 yards and 286 yards passing per game.
Analysis: Lately, though, a few changes have produced a subtle turnaround for the Texans defense and Kubiak is encouraged. Kevin Bentley has moved into the middle linebacker position, allowing Brian Cushing to go back to his more familiar spot on the outside. Kubiak has reduced the work load for rookie cornerback Kareem Jackson, who's allowed long passes in Houston's losses. And defensive coordinator Frank Bush has moved from the press box to the sideline, improving communication with his players. Although, the Eagles will be a real test since Vick is a much better QB than Rusty Smith, the rookie who made his first start for Tennessee in Week 12. Before we jump on the Houston bandwagon we need to see consistency out of the defense. The Texans DST is still a low-end Fantasy option for Week 13.
News: No one saw this coming: The Texans not only slammed the door on rookie QB Rusty Smith in his first NFL start, but they also held stud RB Chris Johnson to seven total yards. Not seventy -- SEVEN. Houston upended Tennessee 20-0 in Week 12 thanks in big part to the defense cutting down Johnson and the Titans' playcalling putting the ball in Smith's hands hoping for him to make a play. He didn't as he was picked off three times, all by Texans CB Glover Quin, who played with a broken right hand. Mario Williams also had a sack of Smith.
Analysis: This was a tremendous, amazing performance by one of the league's doormat defenses. Now, forget about it. Houston has a three-day turnaround before a Week 13 matchup at Philadelphia against Michael Vick and the Eagles. Don't expect them to limit the Eagles, both on the ground and through the air. Consider another option before trusting the Texans DST in Week 13.
News: The Texans last-ranked pass defense must remain just as aware of Chris Johnson as they are of Randy Moss heading into the Week 12 game against the Titans. Opposing defenses had stuffed the box with eight or nine men in “80-90 percent” of running situations before Moss’ arrival, Johnson said, but just “50-60 percent” since.
Analysis: The Texans defense has struggled all season, allowing five different teams to score at least 30 points through 11 games. Still, against a team likely starting a rookie at QB, Week 12 could be a good time to turn it around. Normally, the Texans DST is a very low-end Fantasy option.
News: The Texans didn't lose on a Hail Mary touchdown in Week 11 against the Jets. They just lost on a touchdown in the waning moments. After losing to Jacksonville on a Hail Mary pass in Week 10, the Texans allowed QB Mark Sanchez to march the Jets offense down the field in 45 seconds with no timeouts and score the winning touchdown on a 6-yard pass to Santonio Holmes. New York won 30-27. "We deserve better in these last three games," Texans defensive end Mario Williams said. "We were there. Everything is there and we're doing great and all of a sudden, we let the big play go. It's unheard of. We just keep having it happen to us." New York rolled up 401 yards (103 rushing), while the Houston defense forced two turnovers and three sacks.
Analysis: It's been another real trying year for the Texans defense. The Jets became the fifth opponent to break 30 points against Houston this season. In fact, they haven't held an opponent under 24 points. The Texans DST is not worth using in Fantasy while the defense can't stop anyone. The Texans play the Titans in Week 12.
News: The Texans defense gets back to work in Week 11 against the Jets after Week 10's devastating loss to the Jaguars on a Hail Mary pass. "Our standard as a team is not being met right now," coach Gary Kubiak said. "That's all of us. We've got to find a way to meet our standards in all three phases of the game. We're going to have to do a better job across the board." The results may not be much better against the Jets, whom the Texans have not beaten in four meetings since entering the league in 2002. Houston ranks last in the NFL with 409.7 yards allowed per game, and the Jets outgained the Texans 462-183 in a season-opening 24-7 victory in 2009.
Analysis: Even if you take back the Hail Mary touchdown, the Texans defense put on another awful display in Week 10. They have now allowed the opposition to score 24 or more points in all nine games this season. The Jets are averaging 23.1 points per game, so it could be another rough week for the Texans defense. Look to other options before using the Texans DST in Fantasy Week 11.
News: The Texans defense was punched in the gut in a Week 10 loss to the Jaguars. Mike Thomas hauled in a 50-yard touchdown pass from David Garrard that Houston cornerback Glover Quin batted into his hands on the final play in regulation, giving the Jaguars a 31-24 win over the Texans. The game looked as if it was going to overtime, but Garrard heaved a pass toward the end zone with no time on the clock. Quin, who was burned all afternoon, tried to bat the ball to the ground. Instead, he knocked it right to the 5-foot-8 Thomas. "It's just sad," Texans coach Gary Kubiak said. Houston was burned in the second and fourth quarters, giving up two touchdowns in each frame. Jacksonville finished with 491 yards (165 rushing). Houston came up with two sacks and forced no turnovers.
Analysis: No football team deserves to lose the way Houston did, but it has happened before and it will happen again. Glover did everything he is taught -- bat down the football -- but the ball just ricocheted into the receiver's hands. Although, one bad play isn't the reason Houston lost. It was another poor effort from the defense. They have not held an opposing offense under 24 points this season. The Texans DST is a bad Fantasy start. Houston takes on the Jets in Week 11.
News: In Week 10, the Texans defense will face a Jaguars offense coming off a bye and one of their best performances of the season. The Jaguars rolled to a 35-17 win in Week 8 against the Cowboys behind four passing touchdowns from QB David Garrard. The Jaguars rolled up 387 yards (149 rushing). Although, Houston has revenge on the mind after Jacksonville swept them in 2009. The Jaguars totaled 54 points and 722 yards in two games.
Analysis: Even if the Jaguars weren't coming off a good offensive game, we wouldn't be so sure the Texans would be able to stop them. Houston is dead last in total defense (399.5 ypg) and third to last in scoring defense (28.2 ppg). Unless you are stuck with the Texans DST as a bye-week Fantasy replacement, then they are not a recommended option for Week 10.
News: The Texans DST continues to do nothing for Fantasy owners this year. On Sunday in Week 9 against San Diego, the Texans DST had one interception, one forced fumble. one fumble recovery and one sack. Kareem Jackson had the interception of Philip Rivers, Glover Quin had the fumble recovery from Ryan Mathews and Mario Williams had the sack on Rivers. On special teams, Jacoby Jones had five kickoff returns for 122 yards.
Analysis: The Texans DST is not worth using in the majority of leagues. Keep the unit reserved in Week 10 at Jacksonville. Aside from Williams creating sacks and the occasional turnover or return from Jones, the Texans DST just isn't consistent enough to count on for most owners on a weekly basis.
News: The Texans DST has a tough matchup for Week 9 against San Diego. The Chargers come into this game with a standout QB in Philip Rivers, the No. 1 TE in Antonio Gates and an improved running game with Ryan Mathews and Mike Tolbert. Houston, meanwhile, has been beat up in the secondary and is playing without standout LB DeMeco Ryans (Achilles' tendon). In a standard-scoring league, the Texans DST has just one game with double digits in Fantasy points, and they are not creating enough turnovers or sacks. They rank No. 32 in pass defense and No. 14 in run defense.
Analysis: The Texans may get a break with Gates dealing with foot/toe injuries. The Chargers are also missing Malcom Floyd (hamstring) and Legedu Naanee (hamstring). But San Diego should be able to move the ball against the Texans, and the DST should not be considered a starting unit in the majority of formats. Ignore them in Week 9 based on the matchup.
News: The Texans DST did not have one of their finer performances in Week 8 against the Colts. Houston could not force a turnover for the second consecutive game and allowed 366 yards of total offense in the 30-17 loss. QB Peyton Manning threw for 268 yards with two touchdowns and Indianapolis added another 107 yards on the ground against the Texans. DL Mark Anderson was the only player to bring down Manning in the defeat.
Analysis: The Texans DST allowed Indianapolis to throw for 433 yards in the season opener but scaled down that number a bit in Week 8. Still, not forcing turnovers and giving Manning ample time to throw is a recipe for disaster. Monday marked the fourth time this season that Houston was unable to force a turnover, and that puts a lot of pressure on their offense. With the way their pass defense has played lately, Fantasy owners would be wise to stay away from the Texans DST in Week 9 as they will host San Diego and their No. 1 ranked passing attack.
News: The Texans defense will go up against a familiar foe in Week 8 -- the Colts. The two teams faced off in the season opener, where Houston gave up 433 passing yards to QB Peyton Manning but was able to limit their lead rusher to just 44 yards. The Texans enter Sunday's matchup ranked 13th in the league against the run, but dead last against the pass, giving up over 306 yards passing per game.
Analysis: The Texans DST got the better of the Colts in Week 1, but only on the scoreboard. Indianapolis was able to carve up Houston's secondary and should be able to do so again in Week 8. There have been three games in which the Texans have failed to force a turnover or pick up a sack this season, which doesn't bode will against the Colts. Fantasy owners would be wise to stay away from their DST on Sunday.
News: The Texans DST made the only stop that really mattered in the Week 6 win over Kansas City. Houston managed to sack QB Matt Cassel on the game's final play and that ended the threat as Houston completed a come-from-behind victory to win over Kansas City, 35-31. The sack came from Amobi Okoye and was his first of the season. Otherwise, the Texans DST did not perform very well, allowing 417 yards of total offense and not forcing a single turnover. Houston could not stop the run and Kansas City imposed their will on almost every drive until the end. That final sack was the only sack of the game for the Texans. Houston also lost an important player to injury in the game as star LB DeMeco Ryans was lost for the season with a torn Achilles'.
Analysis: While you could say the defense came up big when it mattered most in Week 6, the Texans DST played terribly as a unit for Fantasy owners. In fact, the Houston DST already has three games in which they have failed to force a turnover or pick up a sack. They are not normally a recommended Fantasy unit and are on bye in Week 7 anyway.
News: The Texans DST has not been a successful unit this season. Week 4 at Oakland was the DSTs only moderately good game as they managed four sacks and two interceptions in that contest. Otherwise, the Texans DST is averaging just 5.8 Fantasy points per game with their measly four picks, nine sacks, two fumble recoveries and staggering 2,046 yards allowed on the season. In fact, only the Redskins have given up more yardage and only the Bills DST has been a worse Fantasy unit this year as the Texans face the Chiefs at home in Week 6.
Analysis: We know the Texans DST has been abysmal this season. How have opposing DSTs performed this year against their Week 6 opponents, the Chiefs? Actually, Kansas City has afforded opposing DSTs the fourth-fewest amount of average Fantasy points per game this season. Kansas City has only turned the ball over four times in four games and has only given up three sacks. Largely how they've been able to win, it doesn't seem like the Texans DST stands much of a chance against the Chiefs. Expect another low-end effort and use a different Fantasy DST for Week 6.
News: The Texans DST could not stop the Giants in a Week 5 34-10 loss. Houston allowed 414 yards of total offense to Eli Manning and the Giants as New York did pretty much anything it wanted to in the red zone. The Texans DST forced two turnovers, both coming on Manning interceptions. Kareem Jackson and Sherrick McManis came up with the picks. The Texans failed to sack Manning in the game.
Analysis: While the Texans managed four sacks with four turnovers forced Week 4 at Oakland, Dallas destroyed them Week 3 and the Giants did whatever they wanted on Sunday. Also pretty dismal Week 1 against the Colts and Week 2 in Washington, the Houston DST can overall be considered pretty poor this season. The Texans play against the Chiefs in Week 6 and might be a unit worth starting if you have no other viable options. That said, we really cannot recommend the Texans as one of the top 12 DSTs for Week 6.
News: As they search for their first postseason berth, the Houston Texans are ecstatic about their franchise-best 3-1 start. The best part is that it has come without last year's rookie defensive player of the year, Brian Cushing. Cushing will make his season debut for the Texans when they host the New York Giants in Week 5. Coach Gary Kubiak was concerned about how Houston would fare without Cushing, who started every game last year and led the team with 133 tackles. The linebacker was handed a four-game suspension for taking a performance-enhancing drug. The Texans are glad to have him back. "He's a leader by his play, he's a very fiery guy," Kubiak said. "Brian helps us rush the passer, when we're in nickel, he gives us flexibility moving around. Obviously, he's a big, big part of our team and getting him back is important to a lot of players."
Analysis: The Texans have the second-best rushing defense in the league, yielding 62.2 yards per game. The addition of Cushing should only make the unit better, especially with the Giants featuring Ahmad Bradshaw, who is fifth in the league with 382 rushing yards. While the Texans have been proud of their rush defense, their pass defense has been another story. Houston is dead last against the pass, allowing 337.8 yards per game. The Giants have the league's ninth-best pass offense (235.5 ypg) behind Eli Manning, but if Houston can shut down the run game, then they can take away the Giants' play-action pass, which is a strength of Manning's. Getting Cushing back is a huge boost, but the Texans DST is still at best a No. 2 Fantasy option for Week 5.
News: The Texans will be tested in Week 4 by Raiders RB Darren McFadden, who ranks third in the NFL in rushing with 345 yards. "He's running with a lot more confidence this year," LB Zac Diles said. "He's injury-free now, so he's doing what got him drafted." The defense held the Raiders to 45 yards rushing in last year’s 29-6 win, as McFadden had just six carries for minus-3 yards. “We created downhill football, attacked the gaps and attacked the line of scrimmage,” Diles said. “We were hungry.”
Analysis: The Texans might have dominated Oakland last season, but this year is a different story. While Houston is a contender in the AFC, its defense has been atrocious. The Texans are 31st in total defense (423.7 ypg) and dead last in pass defense. The Texans have recorded five sacks on the season, but have yet to force a turnover. They now take on a Raiders team that ranks 10th in total offense. Houston might be in a lot of shootouts in 2010, so consider other options before the Texans DST in Week 4.
News: The Texans DST, which currently ranks 31st in total defense, will be looking for a much better effort in Week 4 against the Raiders. Houston is allowing an average of 423.7 yards per game over the first few weeks of the season and ranks dead last in pass defense. The Texans have recorded five sacks on the season, but have yet to force a turnover. The take on a Raiders team that ranks 10th in total offense and turned the ball over five times.
Analysis: The Texans defense has been very good against the run this season and has struggled against the pass. They seem to have a favorable matchup against the Raiders this week, but should only be considered a low-end No. Fantasy DST. The fact that they haven't forced any turnovers and allowed numerous big plays through the air makes them hard to trust at this point.
News: The Texans DST did little Sunday against the Cowboys in Week 3. Houston had no sacks or turnovers, and the highlight for the Texans DST was Steve Slaton with five kickoff returns for 117 yards and Jacoby Jones with two punt returns for 12 yards. The Texans gave up 27 points.
Analysis: The Texans DST will continue to be considered a No. 2 Fantasy option going forward. They do have a good matchup in Week 4 at Oakland, but it's too hard to trust them as a starting option. If anything, they are worth using as a starting option in deeper leagues with the hope that Mario Williams can create havoc with Raiders QB Bruce Gradkowski.
News: The Texans DST has allowed the second most total yards (442 yards per game) and the most passing yards (411 yards per game) through two weeks. Week 3 does not get any easier with the Cowboys coming into town; they have more pass attempts than any team in the NFL. Coach Gary Kubiak expressed concern specifically at the tight end position against the Cowboys, after TEs Dallas Clark and Chris Cooley scored touchdowns against Houston in the first two weeks.“Anytime you have guys like that, it presents problems for you defensively matchup wise with linebackers and safeties. They (Dallas) got as good of a tandem as there is in the league that present a lot of formations for us also,” Kubiak told the team's official website Thursday.
Analysis: The matchup against Dallas in Week 3 will be yet another test for the Texans' pass defense. The Cowboys come in with the third fewest rushing attempts in the league. However, Dallas has lost their first two contests after being forced to throw it while playing catch-up late in both games. Unless the Texans can attack QB Tony Romo (Dallas has only allowed one sack), it could be more of the same for Houston. Consider the Texans DST a No. 2 Fantasy option for Week 3.
News: The Texans DST allowed 27 points on 421 yards of total offense in Week 2 against the Redskins. The Texans defense was very good against the run, limiting Washington to just 18 net yards rushing. However, Houston was again burned through the air, as Donovan McNabb threw for 426 yards and a touchdown in the 30-27 victory. The Texans DST recorded three sacks, but failed to force a turnover. They also forced Washington to miss two fields goals. Bernard Pollard blocked a Graham Gano 29-yard attempt the fourth quarter to keep it a one possession game. The Texans DST also forced Gano to miss wide right from 52-yards in overtime.
Analysis: While the Texans have been very good against the run, there is a somewhat disturbing trend developing in the secondary. They allowed over 400 yards passing on Sunday for the second straight week still have yet to force a turnover. While the Texans have a ton of talent on the defensive side of the ball, they are still allowing too many big plays and need to get better pressure on the quarterback. The Texans DST has another tough task in Week 3 as they take on the Cowboys. Tony Romo threw for 374 yards on Sunday, so it could be another long day for the Texans if they don't fix their problems. Consider them more of a low-end DST heading into Week against the Cowboys.
News:Peyton Manning was flustered, the Indianapolis Colts' offensive line was confused and Joseph Addai went nowhere in Houston. The Texans' defense mostly had its way with Indianapolis and continued its progress from last season in a 34-24 victory in Week 1. The Colts converted only two third downs and mustered 10 points through three quarters, losing to Houston for the second time in 17 meetings. "We are a confident bunch, and we're not going to let anybody take that away from us," Houston safety Bernard Pollard said. "I think we did make a statement." The Texans (1-0) play at Washington (1-0) in Week 2. Washington put up 250 total yards of offense during Week 1 against the Cowboys.
Analysis: Houston has a five-game winning streak dating to last season, and the improvement of the defense is a big reason why. Through the first three games of 2009, Houston ranked at or near the bottom in most defensive statistics, giving up an average of 437 yards and 29 points. The acquisition of the hard-hitting Pollard in the first month of the season started the steady turnaround. The unit came together over the final 13 games, allowing only 19 points and 84.3 rushing yards per game in that span. Houston gave up only 44 yards rushing to the Colts by controlling the line of scrimmage. Defensive end Mario Williams sacked Manning once, and defensive tackles Antonio Smith and Amobi Okoye shored up the middle. The Texans were very stout against the run during Week 1 and face a Redskins' team that isn't exactly known for lighting up the scoreboard. Still, until the Texans can force a few turnovers and limit some of the big plays they surrendered against Indianapolis, consider them a low-end No. 1/high-end No. 2 Fantasy DST for Week 2.
News: The Texans DST will be looking for a much better effort in Week 2 against the Redskins. the unit surrendered 463 yards of total offense against the Colts in Week 1. While the Texans allowed just 44 yards on the ground they surrendered 433 yards through the air.The Texans DST allowed 25 first downs and did not force a single turnover in the 34-24 victory. Washington put up 250 total yards of offense during Week 1 against the Cowboys.
Analysis: While the Texans allowed over 400 yards through the air on Sunday to Payton Manning and the Colts, Fantasy owners should note that some of those numbers may be a bit skewed. First, keep in mind the Manning is arguably one of the best quarterbacks in the league and has the ability to pick apart almost any secondary. And second, the Colts were playing from behind all game, which led to Manning attempting 57 passes. The Texans were very stout against the run during Week 1 and face a Redskins' team that isn't exactly known for lighting up the scoreboard. Still, until the Texans can force a few turnovers and limit some of the big plays they surrendered against Indianapolis, consider them a low-end No. DST heading into Week 2 at Washington.
News: The Indianapolis Colts and Houston Texans played an exciting game at Reliant Field in Houston on Sunday of Week 1. In the end, it was Houston which came away victorious, 34-24. That said, the Texans DST could not stop Peyton Manning, who threw for 433 yards, as the Colts offense put up a total of 463 yards in the game. The Texans DST gave up 25 first downs and did not force a single turnover in the entire game. Houston only managed two sacks of Manning in the game.
Analysis: By the scorecard, it was an ugly performance by the Texans DST on Sunday. That said, they still beat one of the NFL's best teams. Playing at Washington in Week 2, we do not expect the Redskins to put up nearly the amount of offense that the Colts managed. The Texans DST has sleeper capabilities, but we do not believe they are ready to be used in Fantasy play just yet.
News: The Texans DST was a middle-of-the-pack unit last season as they finished seventh in the AFC in takeaways with a total of 27. Houston finished 14th in the NFL in total defense with 324.9 yards per game allowed and was 17th allowing 20.8 points per contest. The maturation of some younger players has this defense as an up-and-coming unit this season but Week 1 at home against the Colts could prove highly difficult. Indianapolis finished in the top 10 in the NFL in total offense with 363.1 yards per game behind Peyton Manning and was the second-best team in the NFL in passing. Houston was, again, middle of the pack against the pass, allowing almost 218 yards through the air per game.
Analysis: All signs point to Houston and the Colts playing a very competitive ballgame from Reliant Stadium in Week 1. That said, there can be few tougher defensive matchups than Manning's Colts and Peyton has always torched the Texans as he's 15-1 against them in his career. That, plus the fact that Brian Cushing will miss the game -- and the three subsequent games -- means we wouldn't plan on using the Texans DST in most formats for Week 1. They are not a No. 1 unit but can definitely be considered a sleeper unit for later in the year.
News: The NFL has upheld the suspension of Texans LB Brian Cushing, who will will miss the first four games of the regular season. Cushing, who is dealing with a sore foot, was hoping that a meeting between team owner Bob McNair and NFL commissioner Roger Goodell would yield better results. "The club and Cushing were notified today that after carefully considering all the information, including a review by outside medical experts, the commissioner finds no basis for changing the decision and that Mr. Cushing's suspension for the first four games of the regular season remains in place," the NFL said in a statement on Thursday.
Analysis: Cushing was and is considered a top outside linebacker. He is one of the reasons why the Texans DST is considered a sleeper unit for 2010. Think of them as a No. 2 option -- don't reach for them with a draft pick in standard formats. Only a late-round flier in the deepest of drafts should be used on the Texans DST.
News: Texans DE Mario Williams returned to practice for Tuesday's morning session. The former first overall draft pick had not practiced since Aug. 1 after suffering a hip flexor that was later determined to be an injury to his groin/pelvic region.
Analysis: If you're one of the folks considering the Texans DST for Fantasy this year, feel free to exhale. The Texans need Williams' pass rush if they want to be a force defensively. Between their promising unit and their special-teams game, they have a chance to make some noise this season and be a decent Fantasy option. Consider them a nice No. 2 choice -- not a Top 10 or 12 DST.
News: The Houston Texans' young cornerbacks better learn quickly at training camp. Rookie Kareem Jackson and second-year pro Glover Quin are the frontrunners to start, ahead of more experienced veterans on the depth chart. If they secure their jobs, they'll face difficult tests immediately -- Houston plays Indianapolis and Dallas, two high-powered passing offenses, in two of the first three weeks of the season. Quin started 12 games as a rookie in 2009, and led the team with 11 passes defended. Jackson, a star at Alabama, was Houston's first-round draft pick and is expected to take over the role vacated when veteran Dunta Robinson signed with Atlanta in the offseason. Quin said the duo needs to consider their inexperience more motivating than intimidating. "I don't try to look so much into we're so young, this and that," Quin said. "But I do feel that, being that we are young, we need to study more, we need to watch more film and try to speed up the learning curve."
Analysis: The 5-foot-10 Jackson said his transition to the pros has been eased because of the Texans' defensive scheme resembles what the Crimson Tide run under Nick Saban, a former NFL coach. Now, Jackson needs to adjust to the increased speed of the pro game and learn the complexities of NFL offenses. Quin has tried to help Jackson make the transition from college, but Quin hardly sees himself as a seasoned veteran who's seen it all. "I don't ever look past the fact that I'm just a second-year player myself," Quin said. "I tell him and teach him the things that I've experienced. At the same time, I'm still looking to veterans for things to help me out. There's a whole lot of stuff that I need to learn." Quin and Jackson entered training camp with the edge for the top spots over veterans Jacques Reeves, Fred Bennett and Antwaun Molden and another youngster, second-year player Brice McCain. Defensive backs coach David Gibbs said Quin and Jackson separated themselves during summer workouts with their physical approaches to the position. Still, the inexperience factor is a scary thing for Fantasy owners. The Texans defense also has to adjust to playing without LB Brian Cushing, who will miss the first four games serving a suspension. The Texans DST remains at best a No. 2 Fantasy option on Draft Day.
News: Texans linebacker Brian Cushing was suspended for four games on Friday for violating the NFL's policy on performance-enhancing substances. The 2009 Defensive Rookie of the Year will miss the first four games of the upcoming season and be eligible to return before Week 5 vs. the Giants. "We were disappointed to learn that Brian has been suspended for the first four games of the 2010 season," Houston general manager Rick Smith said in a statement. "Brian is a productive member of our team and this is a significant loss, but we have to be prepared to win without him." The Houston Chronicle suggests that starter Zac Diles will move to Cushing's starting spot while veteran Xavier Adibi and rookie Darryl Sharpton will battle in camp for the spot Diles is leaving behind.
Analysis: Disappointing news since Cushing was and is considered a top outside linebacker. He is one of the reasons why the Texans DST was considered a sleeper unit for 2010. They still are, but don't reach for them with a draft pick in standard formats. Only a late-round flier in the deepest of drafts should be used on the Texans DST.
News: The Houston Texans need a cornerback to start immediately. Alabama's Kareem Jackson is ready for that challenge. The Texans selected Jackson with the 20th overall pick in the NFL draft Thursday night and said they plan to plug him right in on the right side of their defense. "I think I can step in," he said. "I'm a quick learner." The Texans needed a cornerback with the offseason departure of Dunta Robinson to the Falcons. Jackson is the first cornerback taken in the opening round by Houston since Robinson was chosen 10th overall in 2004. The departure of Robinson, who was the best player in Houston's secondary, left a big hole to fill for a team that faces Peyton Manning and Indianapolis twice a year and has only beaten the Colts once.
Analysis: ackson started each game last season for the Crimson Tide and finished with 49 tackles. He appeared in all 41 games in his three-year career at Alabama and finished with 159 career tackles and had 29 pass deflections. Jackson should help the Texans replace Robinson, which is a glaring need for a defense on the rise. With Mario Williams, DeMeco Ryans and Brian Cushing, there is plenty of talent for the Texans DST. If Jackson can improve the secondary then the Texans DST should be considered a No. 1 Fantasy option. We like them with a late-round pick as a starting unit on Draft Day this year.
News: The Texans will not use their franchise tag on CB Dunta Robinson, according to the Houston Chronicle. He will be allowed to test free agency as an unrestricted player.
Analysis: Robinson will be a popular player in free agency, but his departure makes the Texans' secondary a problem once again. This unit is close to being one of the best in the NFL, so if they can solidify their secondary we might see them emerge as a Top-12 option in Fantasy play. For now, consider the Texans DST a sleeper choice.
News: The Texans DST had two sacks, one interception, one forced fumble and a fumble return for a touchdown Sunday against the Patriots. Bernard Pollard, who also had the interception, recovered a fumble for a touchdown. Andre Davis had five kickoff returns for 141 yards, and Jacoby Jones had one punt return for 31 yards.
Analysis: The Texans DST played well against the Patriots and hopefully can continue to play at this level going forward. Consider the Texans a solid No. 2 Fantasy option in all scoring formats.
News: The Texans DST gave up 20 points and 363 yards to the Dolphins in a Week 16 loss to Houston. They made one interception and tallied three sacks.
Analysis: Houston has been racking up the sacks lately, but they remain just a low-end Fantasy unit in deeper leagues. They will have their work cut out for them in Week 17 when they host the Patriots.
News: The Texans had one of their better defensive performances Week 15 at St. Louis. They allowed 13 points on 237 yards, recording three sacks and one interception. They also recovered one fumble.
Analysis: The Texans DST now has three sacks or more in three straight games after recording less than three in each of its first 11. It feasted on a weak opponent this week and won't have that luxury Week 16 at Miami. Think of it as just a No. 2 Fantasy option.
News: On Friday the St. Louis Rams, thhe Week 15 opponent of the Houston Texans, have returned to the practice field, a day after an undisclosed number of swine flu cases on the team forced them to cancel a workout. Running back Steven Jackson and quarterback Kyle Boller were among four players who missed Friday's outdoor workout due to flu-like symptoms. The team canceled practice Thursday because of a H1N1 virus scare. The Rams are almost certain to go with rookie Keith Null for a second straight week and might be without Jackson. Wide receiver Brandon Gibson might also be out.
Analysis: If there was ever a week to trust the Texans DST, this is at. True, they're on the road, but their matchup against a depleted, banged-up and thin St. Louis offense is as good as it gets in the NFL. They're easily a Top-5 DST option this week -- check to see if they are on your league's waivers, and if they are, get them in your lineup.
News: Houston absolutely decimated the Seattle Seahawks during their Week 14 matchup, 34-7. The Texans DST limited Seattle to just 282 yards in the game but only forced one turnover as Matt Hasselbeck threw one interception. Hasselbeck fumbled three times but recovered all three. The Texans sacked him four times in the game. The big play for the Texans DST came when Bernard Pollard returned the Hasselbeck INT 70 yards for a defensive touchdown.
Analysis: The Texans limited the points and yards and scored the defensive touchdown but did little else in what could have been a huge game for the DST. The Texans DST is a low-end Fantasy option most weeks but the team plays at St. Louis in Week 15. We still only like them as a low-end option but if you are desperate and have only poor options to choose from in Week 15, the Texans could be the team to pick.
News: The Texans DST had four sacks and a fumble recovery Sunday at Jacksonville in a 23-18 loss. Andre Davis led the team on special teams with five kickoff returns for 105 yards, and Glenn Martinez had one kickoff return for 6 yards and three punt returns for 13 yards.
Analysis: The Texans DST is a low-end Fantasy option and should not be used in the majority of leagues in Week 14 against Seattle.
News: The Texans DST had two interceptions Sunday against the Colts but did little else. They also added two sacks in a 35-27 loss. Andre Davis had two kickoff returns for 44 yards, and Jacoby Jones had one kickoff return for 29 yards and two punt returns for 8 yards.
Analysis: The Texans DST is a low-end unit in Fantasy leagues. Don't plan on using them in Week 13 at Jacksonville.
News: Houston Texans safety Eugene Wilson will have season-ending surgery to repair a pair of broken toes on his left foot. Wilson has started eight games for the Texans this season and has 29 tackles, a forced fumble and two interceptions. He will be replaced in the lineup by John Busing, who will be backed up by Brian Russell, who signed with the Texans. In other injury news, linebacker DeMeco Ryans (ankle) missed practice Wednesday with minor injuries. Coach Gary Kubiak said he's listed as day to day for Sunday's game against the Colts.
Analysis: Losing Wilson hurts the Texans pass defense just in time for Peyton Manning to come to town. Obviously, the Texans DST isn't worth starting this week since there's a decent chance Manning will throw all over them.
News: Houston gave up 344 yards to Vince Young and the Tennessee Titans at home on Monday night as they lost the decision, 20-17, in front of their own fans. The Texans DST managed to force just one turnover on a fumble by Vince Young. Houston could not sack Young once in the game.
Analysis: Aside from the fumble recovery, the Texans DST did absolutely squat in Week 11 on Monday night. Houston plays a much better offensive opponent in Week 12 at home against the Colts and you should probably go in another direction for your Fantasy DST unit for that game.
News: The Texans DST did its job in Week 9 at the Colts, totaling two sacks, two interceptions and a forced fumble while holding Peyton Manning & Co. to 20 points. Manning did throw for 318 yards and hit TE Dallas Clark 14 times for 119 yards, but the rest of the Colts offense was held in check.
Analysis: The Texans DST typically isn't worth using because there are better options out there, and by the time they'll play the Titans in Week 11 all of their NFL counterparts will have had their byes. Consider them a low-end option off waivers when the matchup is right going forward.
News: Houston had little trouble going into Buffalo and beating the Bills in Week 8, 31-10. The Texans DST limited Buffalo to just 204 total yards in the game as it was a pathetic showing for QB Ryan Fitzpatrick and company. Fitzpatrick was forced into throwing two interceptions and was sacked twice as well.
Analysis: The Texans limited the points and yards of the Bills but didn't do much in the way of sacks and turnovers forced. The Texans DST is normally worth a flier as a bye-week replacement but never has much more value than that. Houston plays at Indianapolis in Week 9 and we can't see using them being a good idea for that matchup.
News: The Texans DST totaled two sacks and an interception vs. the 49ers in Week 7, shutting out QB Shaun Hill in the first half but getting smacked by QB Alex Smith in the second half. They allowed three touchdowns to TE Vernon Davis, all from Smith. The unit did have a kickoff return for a touchdown by Jacoby Jones called back by a penalty.
Analysis: The Texans DST is worth a look as a flier in Week 8 when they play at Buffalo against the lowly Bills. Consider them off waivers for next week's action.
News: The Texans DST recovered two fumbles with one sack and an interception in Sunday's 28-17 victory at Cincinnati. LB Brian Cushing had nine tackles, one interception and two forced fumbles, and DE Connor Barwin had the sack. Jacoby Jones had five punt returns for 47 yards, and Andre Davis had three kickoff returns for 57 yards.
Analysis: The Texans DST is usually not a good Fantasy option and should not be used in most leagues. Ignore the Texans DST in Week 7 against San Francisco.
News: The Texans defense, which was coming off a dominant performance against the Raiders in Week 4, wasn't nearly as impressive Week 5 at Arizona. The Texans finished with one sack and one fumble recovery, allowing 28 points on 340 yards.
Analysis: Considering the explosive nature of the Cardinals offense, the Texans DST could have done much, much worse. Still, you can't expect it to perform the way it did against the hapless Raiders. The Texans visit the Bengals in Week 6, but considering the way the Bengals have played this year, that's not such a good matchup. Leave the Texans DST on waivers.
News: Pro Bowl DE Mario Williams missed his second consecutive practice Thursday with a bruised shoulder. "Obviously, you don't practice Wednesday or Thursday, there's a concern there," coach Gary Kubiak said. "I feel good about it, but I would've liked to see him take a little bit today."
Analysis: Williams finished Week 4 with four tackles and a sack and remains a must-start Fantasy DL for IDP leagues when healthy. Hopefully he's able to play Week 5 at Arizona. He should be able to get to stationary QB Kurt Warner often. His presence is vital toward anything the Texans hope to accomplish on defense.
News: Texans DE Mario Williams (bruised shoulder) did not practice Wednesday. Coach Gary Kubiak said Williams is day-to-day and could play Sunday at Arizona even if he didn't practice this week.
Analysis: Keep an eye on Williams and hope he can play against the Cardinals. When healthy, he is a No. 1 DL in IDP leagues, and his presence is vital toward anything the Texans hope to accomplish on defense.
News: The Texans defense got to celebrate its best performance since 2004 as the Texans beat the Oakland Raiders 29-6 on Sunday. The 165 yards Houston allowed was the second fewest in team history and the fewest since giving up 126 in a win over Jacksonville almost five years ago. "Everybody was having fun," defensive end Antonio Smith said. "When you're having fun you have confidence in what you do. You don't second-guess. You don't pull up when you can [go full speed] and that's when you make big plays." Jacoby Jones returned a kickoff for a score to help out in the win. They also forced a safety in the game.
Analysis: The Texans were active in just nine percent of CBSSports.com leagues due to the fact they entered the game with the worst running defense in the NFL. But the matchup against a horrible Raiders offense proved to be fruitful. The kickoff return by Jones helped make this a huge game. They remain just a matchup defense and will be up against a tough offense at the Cardinals in Week 5.
News: Jaguars RB Maurice Jones-Drew tore up the Houston defense Week 3 in a 31-24 Texans loss. MJD carried the ball 23 times for 119 yards and three touchdowns. The Texans allowed a total of 184 yards on the ground and gave up 214 yards to David Garrard through the air. The Texans recovered a fumble but failed to get a sack or interception in the game.
Analysis: The Texans defense is not good this season and the fact that the Jaguars scored 31 points on them is proof of that. Keep thinking of the Texans DST as a low-end option despite a good matchup with the Raiders in Week 4.
News: The Texans DST allowed 31 points and 449 yards, 284 of which came from the legs of Titans RB Chris Johnson, in a Week 2 win over Tennessee. They did make one interception, one fumble recovery and one sack.
Analysis: The Texans have allowed over 400 yards in each of their first two games, but this week they didn't get a defensive touchdown to make up for their sieve-like performance. In Week 3, Houston will host Jacksonville. That's a decent matchup, but after these first two games you'd be crazy to start Houston in anything but super-deep formats.
News: Texans cornerback Jacques Reeves should be back and safety Eugene Wilson could play at Tennessee in Week 2. But will their return and an extra week of practice for Dunta Robinson improve a Houston secondary that allowed 272 yards passing by a rookie quarterback in a 24-7 loss to the Jets last week? Reeves has been out since early in training camp with a broken leg. He says getting all the starters back would be a boost to a team trying to avoid an 0-2 start at Tennessee on Sunday. Reeves and Wilson both practiced on Wednesday. Coach Gary Kubiak says he'll decide later in the week if the pair are ready to play.
Analysis: Both might help the Texans' secondary improve -- they'll definitely add quality depth -- but Houston's defense is a long way away from being useful in Fantasy action.
News: The Texans DST allowed 24 points and 462 yards to the Jets in a Week 1 loss, but saved some face by scoring on a Dominique Barber fumble return. They also made an interception.
Analysis: The Texans weren't supposed to be more than a bye-week replacement option this season, but Sunday's poor effort has that status in jeopardy now. In Week 2, Houston will visit Tennessee, and while the Titans aren't the most explosive offensive team, you should ignore the Texans for the time being.
News: It's less than two weeks from the regular season opener and the Houston Texans defense is far from set. At least two starting spots remain up for grabs. Rookie first-round pick Brian Cushing, who was scheduled to start at strongside linebacker, still hasn't played because of a knee injury. Coach Gary Kubiak says he has no doubt Cushing will be ready to play Week 1 against the Jets. The Texans are also trying to decide who will start alongside Amobi Okoye at defensive tackle and the second cornerback position is up in the air as Dunta Robinson continues his holdout.
Analysis: These roster conundrums are consistent with the Texans' place among Fantasy DSTs. Ultimately, the Texans unit is no better than a one-week replacement off the waiver wire during the season, so don't reach for them in drafts.
News: Texans linebacker Brian Cushing won't play in Saturday's preseason opener against the Chiefs because of a left knee injury. Cushing missed Wednesday morning's practice when his knee started bothering him and he was taken for an MRI, according to head coach Gary Kubiak. Kubiak says he expects Cushing to miss some time, but is unsure how much.
Analysis: Cushing, the 15th overall pick in the draft, was expected to start at outside linebacker for the Texans. He was and will be a big part of what the Texans do on every down as he's both a solid tackler and good pass rusher. Ultimately, the Texans DST is no better than a one-week replacement off the waiver wire during the season, but it will sting if Cushing misses significant playing time.
News: Cornerback Fred Bennett has never lacked confidence, exuding it from the moment he was drafted by Texans in 2007. It helped that his friend and college mentor Dunta Robinson was already starring in the Texans secondary when he arrived in Houston. With Robinson skipping camp in a contract holdout and six-year veteran Jacques Reeves out with a broken leg, the Texans are counting on Bennett to use that confidence and lead this shaky group. Coach Gary Kubiak said Bennett's more mature this year. He also said the absence of Reeves and Robinson creates an opportunity for the 25-year-old Bennett, who struggled a bit last season after a solid rookie year. "All those young guys are looking at him, basically six young guys watching Fred," Kubiak said. "That's unusual to be in year three and be the big veteran in the group. That's another challenge for him."
Analysis: Bennett started eight games as a rookie, filling in when Robinson was injured, and led the team with three interceptions, but started just six games last year with Robinson healthy and Reeves playing well. "That's part of the NFL," Kubiak said. "It's not easy. It's tough, and it's hard to get to the top and even harder to stay on top if you're a starter. I think he's figuring out how fragile that opportunity is." The Texans added veteran Deltha O'Neal on Thursday, but he's not even practicing with the team yet as he works to get into shape. So that leaves Bennett as the starter on one side and a bevy of young players competing to play opposite him. "It's a little bit of a scary situation for us as a team but we'll see what happens," Kubiak said. "Sometimes you find players that way." Bennett said he talks to Robinson often, but tries to avoid talk of his contract situation and just be a friend. Robinson is skipping camp because he's unhappy the Texans used the franchise tag on him. The Texans weren't exactly a stout defense in 2008 with Robinson and Reeves in the lineup, so there is clearly some cause for concern with such a young secondary. The Texans DST remains at best a No. 2 Fantasy option. As for Bennett, he is more of an in-season Fantasy addition in the event his numbers jump off the page.
News: The Texans are minus four cornerbacks less than a week into training camp as Jacques Reeves (broken fibula), Glover Quin (knee bruise), Antwaun Molden (PUP list) are out with injuries and Dunta Robinson is holding out over a contract dispute.
Analysis: Once Robinson signs the defensive backs will have more depth, but for now continue to monitor what happens with the Texans DST, which is a solid No. 2 option for Fantasy owners.
News: Houston Texans starting cornerback Jacques Reeves and starting center Chris Myers will miss time from injuries sustained in practice. Both were injured Tuesday morning. Reeves fractured his left leg in a collision with receiver Andre Davis when both were going for a pass in the end zone. Reeves, who signed as a free agent in 2008, is expected to be out 6 to 8 weeks.
Analysis: Reeves is not expected to be a big contributor as far as Fantasy IDP leagues go so this injury hurts the Texans DST more than his own Fantasy value. He should not be drafted at this point. Ultimately, the Texans DST is no better than a one-week replacement off the waiver wire during the season.
News: KRIV-TV in Houston reports that Texans DT Travis Johnson underwent sports hernia surgery in St. Louis three weeks ago. Johnson has been hindered by a rash of injuries and thinks this ailment is his last for now. "It feels good. I finally got a lot of this pain out of my mid-section," Johnson said. "[I'm] just trying to hurry up and get back so I can help the team out and be super-productive. This is an important year for the whole franchise."
Analysis: Johnson hasn't been a huge part of the Texans' defense, but that might be why their defense hasn't ranked high in the first place. If he's healthy and ready to roll, then the Texans' run defense might have a chance to be effective. Ultimately, the Texans DST is no better than a one-week replacement off the waiver wire during the season.
News: NFL Network reports that the Texans have given CB Dunta Robinson the franchise tag. As such, Robinson will be offered a one-year guaranteed deal for nearly $10 million, the average salary of the five highest-paid cornerbacks. He can still shop himself around, but if he signs with another team and the Texans don't match, the club will receive two first-round picks as compensation. That's an unlikely scenario as Robinson came off an ACL tear suffered in '07 that limited him to just 11 games in 2008. He totaled 35 tackles, six passes defensed and two interceptions in those 11 games (six starts) in '08.
Analysis: Robinson was once considered a top NFL cornerback and could reclaim that notoriety by earning his salary in 2009. The Texans' secondary has long been a weakness, and he could help stop that. Expect the Texans to continue addressing their secondary this offseason. Consider the Texans a No. 2 DST option worth using only as a one-week replacement off the waiver wire next year.
News: The Texans promoted Frank Bush to defensive coordinator Tuesday. Bush replaces Richard Smith, who was fired along with two other defensive assistants after the Texans finished 8-8 for the second consecutive season. Houston ranked 22nd in total defense (336.6 yards per game) and 23rd against the run (122.6 yards per game). The Texans also finished minus-10 in turnover margin after forcing only 22 turnovers, third lowest in the AFC. The 46-year-old Bush just finished his second season as the Texans' senior defensive assistant, working mostly with the line. He joined coach Gary Kubiak in 2007 after serving three seasons as linebackers coach in Arizona. Before that, Bush spent nine seasons in Denver, when Kubiak was the offensive coordinator there. "We're going to be aggressive. We're going to attack. You'll see more passion in our play," Bush said.
Analysis: Bush certainly has a lot of talent to work with up front with DE Mario Williams, DT Amobi Okoye and LB DeMeco Ryans. The Texans are lacking in the secondary, and it's a safe bet that the club will try to improve their talent there this offseason. Consider the Texans a No. 2 DST option worth using only as a one-week replacement off the waiver wire next year.
News: The Houston Chronicle reports that the Texans have fired defensive coordinator Richard Smith and two assistants. Houston ranked 22nd in defense, 23rd against the run and 17th against the pass. The club is expected to hire an experienced coach well-versed in the 4-3 defensive scheme. Assistants Frank Bush and Ray Rhodes are candidates to replace Smith.
Analysis: This isn't shocking news considering the Texans' defensive play. Houston's defense has never been a powerhouse unit (not since the Oiler days, anyway) and is still probably a year-plus from being a decent Fantasy option. Consider them a No. 2 choice unless the club adds some talent this offseason.
News: In the Texans' 31-24 win over the Bears in Week 17, the DST totaled two sacks and two forced fumbles.
Analysis: The Texans would need to take some huge strides to make their DST a viable option in 2009. Consider them no better than a waiver-wire pickup as a bye-week replacement next season.
News: The Texans DST allowed 362 yards total to the woeful Raiders in Oakland Week 16. 223 of those yards came through the air while 140 came on the ground. They gave up 27 total points in the 27-16 loss.
Analysis: The Texans have not been great defensively this season, and giving up this kind of yardage to the Raiders does little to improve that. Do not have them active Week 17 against the Bears who will probably have a lot to play for.
News: In the Texans' 13-12 win vs. the Titans in Week 15, the DST totaled an interception and two forced fumbles.
Analysis: As usual, the Houston defense doesn't put up many points, and they remain no better than a low-end DST option. They should be considered a sleeper unit in Week 16 when they play at Oakland.
News: The Texans DST had two sacks and an interception Sunday at Green Bay. DeMeco Ryans and Tim Bulman had the sacks, and Dunta Robinson had the interception. Jacoby Jones had five punt returns for 20 yards, and Andre Davis had three kickoff returns for 65.1 yards. Jones lost a fumble on a punt return.
Analysis: The Texans DST is not worth using in Week 15 against the Titans. Consider the Texans a No. 2 Fantasy option.
News: The Texans defense had a surprisingly stout performance Week 13 against the Jaguars, thanks largely to defensive end Mario Williams' three sacks and forced fumble. The Texans also had an interception and two fumble recoveries, allowing only 17 points on 388 yards.
Analysis: Even with all of those big plays, the Texans DST still allowed nearly 400 yards. It remains one of the most unreliable units in Fantasy and doesn't have a particularly good matchup Week 14 at Green Bay. Leave it on waivers in Fantasy.
News: The Texans defense had one of its best performances of the season Week 12 at Cleveland, allowing only six points on 240 yards. The Texans also recorded three interceptions and recovered two fumbles, but they went without a sack for the second straight game.
Analysis: The Texans DST had gotten sacks with a fair amount of consistency before Week 11, but Fantasy owners will take this kind of performance instead. It remains one of the shakier units in Fantasy, though, and doesn't have a particularly good matchup Week 13 against the Jaguars, so keep it reserved in standard 10- and 12-team leagues.
News: Houston allowed the Colts to score 24 second-half points as they lost in Week 11, 33-27. The Texans DST allowed 474 yards to the Colts offense as Peyton Manning torched them for 320 yards and Joseph Addai had his first 100-yard rushing game. Houston did not force a single turnover in the game and did not sack Manning, either.
Analysis: Houston remains one of the worst DST units in Fantasy and it looked every bit that in Week 11 against the superior Colts. The Texans play at Cleveland in Week 12 and we don't recommend using them at all.
News: The Texans defense got blown out Week 10 against the Ravens, giving up 41 points on only 333 yards. It finished with three sacks for the second straight week.
Analysis: Even if the Texans DST has started to pile up some sacks recently, it still doesn't know how to limit points. It remains one of the worst units in Fantasy and doesn't have a particularly enticing matchup Week 11 at Indianapolis.
News: Linebacker Zac Diles, who leads the Texans in tackles, broke his left leg and will miss the rest of the season. Diles was injured early in practice Wednesday in what coach Gary Kubiak described as a freak accident. He was scheduled to have a rod placed in his tibia Wednesday night. The second-year player was a 2007 seventh-round draft pick for the Texans. He has started each game this season and has 66 tackles and an interception. Kevin Bentley will start in his place against Baltimore.
Analysis: Diles' absence will only hurt the Texans' ability to slow down the run, which they don't do well already. Avoid this DST in Week 10 when they play vs. Baltimore.
News: The Texans got a defensive touchdown in Week 9 at Minnesota when DB Jacques Reeves returned an interception 44 yards for a score. The interception was the only turnover the Texans forced, though, in a game in which they gave up 28 points and 345 total yards. They had three sacks in the game.
Analysis: The Texans were coming off a game in which they allowed just six points. They are not consistent enough to rely upon in Fantasy, but a matchup against Baltimore's erratic offense in Week 10 could be one of the final times this season that they may be of use as the bye weeks come to an end after that.
News: The Texans DST held Cincinnati to 253 yards in a 35-6 rout during Week 8. They also recorded two sacks, two interceptions and a fumble recovery.
Analysis: One week after failing to do much of anything against the sorry Lions, the Texans beat up another of the league's worst teams on Sunday. While the outing was nice, Houston has a tough task on the road in Week 9 at Minnesota. They will have some value as a low-end bye-week replacement with a matchup like that, but nothing more.
News: The Texans DST gave up 21 points and 326 yards to the sorry Lions on Sunday. They only recorded two sacks and didn't force a turnover.
Analysis: The Texans DST was expected to put up better numbers in Week 7 against the Lions, but failed to deliver. They have a chance to redeem themselves in Week 8 against a just-as-bad Bengals team, so continue to start them as a low-end No. 1 Fantasy DST with that juicy matchup.
News: The Texans DST scored a touchdown Sunday against Miami when Jacoby Jones returned a punt 70 yards for a score. The Texans also had an interception and two sacks against the Dolphins.
Analysis: The Texans are a low-end Fantasy DST but have a solid matchup in Week 7 against Detroit. Consider the Texans a decent sleeper option against the Lions.
News: The Texans DST had two sacks and an interception Sunday against the Colts in 31-27 loss. Mario Williams had two sacks and Zach Diles had an interception. Andre Davis had five kickoff returns for 107.2 yards.
Analysis: The Texans DST is a low-end unit most weeks and should be used in Week 6 against Miami.
News: The Texans allowed 30 points and 375 yards of total offense in an overtime loss in Week 4 at Jacksonville. They did not force a turnover and had just one sack in the game.
Analysis: The Texans have allowed 30 or more points in each game this season and have not been useful in any Fantasy format. They aren't forcing a lot of turnovers and aren't getting to the quarterback enough. Keep them reserved even through the bye weeks until they turn things around. The Texans will play the Colts in Week 5 in a tough matchup.
News: The Texans picked off Titans QB Kerry Collins' first pass Week 3, but it quickly went downhill after that as Tennessee routed Houston 31-12. The Titans posted 343 yards, including 154 on the ground. The Texans got no sacks and just one fumble recovery.
Analysis: In just two games this season, the Texans defense has allowed 70 points. They continue to struggle despite having a decent amount of talent. Until the Texans live up to their potential, consider the Texans DST a bad Fantasy option heading into Week 4 against the Jaguars.
News: The Baltimore Ravens-Houston Texans game was rescheduled to Nov. 9 after Reliant Stadium was severely damaged by Hurricane Ike, meaning both teams will not play in Week 2. The new date also affects the Cincinnati Bengals' schedule. Houston was originally scheduled to play the Bengals on Nov. 9. Now, those teams will play on Oct. 26 and Cincinnati will take its bye week on Nov. 9, when the Texans now play the Ravens.
Analysis: It's all a little confusing, but basically Fantasy owners need to treat Week 2 as a bye week for the Texans and Ravens. So if you have any players or either defensive unit active, get them reserved immediately. The Texans will next play at Tennessee in Week 3.
News: Aside from Texans DE Mario Williams' two sacks and forced fumble, the Texans weren't effective in a 38-17 loss at Pittsburgh. The Texans had Williams' two sacks and two total forced fumbles.
Analysis: If you're looking for a sleeper DST in Week 2, consider the Texans, who will host the Ravens next week. Baltimore's offense isn't that strong and the Texans should come up with some turnovers.
News: The Texans defense allowed the Cowboys offense to rack up 23 points and 384 yards of defense during Friday's preseason loss. Dallas shredded Houston through the air for 273 yards. On a positive note, Houston did intercept Tony Romo in the end zone and kept Terrell Owens from scoring. They also forced four fumbles, recovering two, and had one interception.
Analysis: The Texans defense is expected to be without DB Dunta Robinson for a few weeks and his loss already hurts a weak secondary. They looked pretty vulnerable Friday. Houston is a developing defense, but until they become an elite unit, consider the Texans DST nothing more than a No. 2 Fantasy option.
News: Texans WR Andre Davis led the Houston DST and ST in 2007. Davis, who is a free agent this offseason, had three of the Texans' seven touchdowns on kickoff returns. The Texans also added 31 sacks, 14 fumble recoveries, 18 forced fumbles and 11 interceptions. Resigning Davis should be a priority for the Texans, and they need to upgrade several spots on defense. They have two of the best young players in the NFL in DL Mario Williams and LB DeMeco Ryans. But they need a lot of help in the secondary, which should be a priority this offseason.
Analysis: If the Texans keep Davis, then the DST will have increased value. Otherwise, consider the Texans a low-end option in 2008. Ryans and Williams are solid players, but the two alone won't be enough to make an impact on your Fantasy roster.
News: Texans kick returner Andre' Davis became the seventh player in NFL history to return two kickoffs for touchdowns in the same game on Sunday against Jacksonville. Davis, in his sixth season, had a 97-yard return in the final minute of the second quarter after the Jaguars had tied the game at 14. He ran across the field to elude a pack of defenders, then raced down the sideline for the score. He took the opening kickoff of the second half in the end zone, hesitated a moment, then sprinted straight up the field for a 104-yard touchdown, the longest play in Texans history. Davis was the first player this season to return two kickoffs for scores in the same game. Chicago's Devin Hester did it for touchdowns against St. Louis on Dec. 11, 2006. The Texans also had two sacks.
Analysis: The Texans DST will be a solid unit in 2008 with special teams play like this along with solid young talent in Mario Williams, DeMeco Ryans and Amobi Okoye.
News: The Texans DST had one fumble recovery and one sack Sunday at the Colts. Andre Davis had six kickoff returns for a 27.5 yard average, and Jacoby Jones had one punt return for 12 yards.
Analysis: The Texans DST is not worth using in Week 17 against the Jaguars.
News: The Broncos came riding into a Week 15 matchup against the Texans after just thrashing the Chiefs for 41 points in Week 14. The Houston defense put an end to their fun by limiting Denver to 13 points and 308 yards. The Texans charge was led by Mario Williams, who had 3 1/2 sacks. The team produced five sacks in the game, but failed to record a turnover.
Analysis: The Texans have had some good moments in 2007, including the last two games in which they have allowed a total of 17 points. They are still too erratic of a unit to trust outside of deeper Fantasy leagues. It might be wise to keep the Texans DST reserved in Fantasy Week 16 as Houston tries to stop Peyton Manning and the Colts.
News: The Texans DST held Tampa Bay to 14 points, allowed 305 yards, forced two fumbles and tallied four sacks in Houston's 28-14 win over the Buccaneers in Week 14.
Analysis: The Texans defense didn't have an interception in Week 14, but they did well enough against the Bucs in other departments to please their owners in Fantasy play. They are probably not worth looking at in Week 15, however, against a Broncos team that destroyed the Chiefs in Week 14.
News: The Texans allowed 28 points and 382 yards of total offense in Week 13 at Tennessee. They did record three sacks with an interception in the process.
Analysis: The Texans have good sack potential with Mario Williams, but they have little else to offer Fantasy owners -- especially at this critical stage of the Fantasy season. For Week 14 vs. Tampa Bay, we don't recommend them outside of extremely deep formats.
News: The Texans DST had one sack and one interception Sunday at Cleveland. Jacoby Jones had one kickoff return for 18 yards and one punt return for 16 yards.
Analysis: The Texans DST is not a recommended option in Week 13 at Tennessee.
News: The Texans DST totaled a sack, two interceptions and three forced fumbles while holding the Saints to 10 points and Reggie Bush to 34 rush yards on 15 carries at home in Week 11.
Analysis: The Texans DST still isn't close to being one of the better options in Fantasy play, but the signs are there after watching Mario Williams and a battered secondary play well. The Texans play at Cleveland in Week 12 -- a bad matchup for Houston's defense. Keep them on the waiver wire.
News: The Texans placed DB Dunta Robinson on the injured reserve and signed DB Curome Cox on Tuesday. Robinson tore his right anterior cruciate ligament and injured his hamstring making a tackle against Oakland. Cox was released by Denver by Nov. 6 after playing for the Broncos since 2005. He appeared in seven games this season and had seven tackles and a fumble recovery. Cox has 53 tackles and two interceptions in his three-year NFL career.
Analysis: Even with Robinson the Texans DST is not a recommended option in Week 11 against the Saints. Without Robinson makes them even worse. Keep the Texans DST reserved in all Fantasy leagues.
News: The Buccaneers, Jets, Patriots and Texans are on a bye week in Week 10.
Analysis: The Texans are ranked 15th in total defense (11th against the pass and 21st against the run). Feel free to cut them in 12-team leagues to take advantage of another matchup. The Texans DST will be back in action in Week 11 to host the Saints, who are currently ranked fourth in total offense.
News: The Texans defense harrassed Raiders QB Josh McCown all afternoon Week 9 and forced the gunslinger to throw three interceptions. Oakland managed 310 total yards, including 104 on the ground from Justin Fargas, and 17 points. Houston could only sack McCown once and forced no fumbles.
Analysis: Houston rebounded nicely against the Raiders after the Chargers dropped 35 points on them Week 8. The Texans are a pretty good unit as far as allowing yardage, but some times struggle to keep opposing teams off the scoreboard. The Texans can serve as a viable Fantasy DST when the matchups appear favorable. They are on a bye Week 10 and return to action Week 11 against the Saints, who all of a sudden have discovered an offense. It could pose problems for the Texans.
News: Houston travels to face the Raidernation in Oakland Sunday in Week 9. The Texans DST is anxious to get their Week 8 performance against San Diego behind them. They allowed 35 points in a blowout.
Analysis: The Texans DST is ranked 17th in total defense, but the Raiders offense is ranked 24th. Oakland leads the league in fumbles and they are second in penalties. We say consider the Texans young DST in larger leagues for this matchup.
News: The Texans defense gave up only 237 yards, but also five touchdowns -- two of them defensive -- for 35 points Week 8 at San Diego. The Texans recorded only one sack. Their special teams gained 130 yards.
Analysis: After an impressive start, the Texans DST has fallen on hard times. It ranked 21st in total defense entering Sunday, which should actually rise some despite the overall negative performance, but only has 13 sacks this season and has given up over 26 points a game. Still, the Texans have a solid matchup coming up at Oakland, so we consider their DST a viable Fantasy option for Week 9.
News: San Diego hosts the Houston Texans in Week 8 on Sunday. The Chargers rank 13th in total offense, including 20th in the air and 13th on the ground, although Ladainian Tomlinson has really picked it up recently. He has 354 total yards in his past two games.
Analysis: The Texans DST ranks 21st in total defense, including 20th against the pass and 20th against the run. They have 12 sacks and their young defensive line continues to mature into a solid unit. We don't recommend starting this unit in a 12-team league against the Chargers offense.
News: The Texans DST played well for Fantasy owners in Week 7 thanks mostly to DeMeco Ryan's fumble-return for a touchdown vs. Tennessee. They also had a sack (Ryans) and two fumble recoveries (Ryans got both).
Analysis: However, the Texans allowed 38 points, which is never good. They also allowed a 100-yard day to LenDale White. Just imagine what will happen in Week 8 when they play at San Diego. Stay away from the Texans DST in Week 8.
News: The Texans DST hosts the Tennessee Titans (formerly the Oilers DST) on Sunday. The Titans rank 24th in total offense through six weeks. They are 30th in the passing game and sixth in the rushing game.
Analysis: The Texans DST ranks 16th in total defense (15th against the pass and 19th against the run). They have 11 sacks and four interceptions so far. Consider this unit one to reserve this week. They can be useful as a bye-week replacement.
News: The Houston Texans DST allowed 37 points and 457 net yards in Week 6 at Jacksonville. DB Demarcus Faggins picked up eight solo tackles and a fumble recovery. The Texans managed one sack, two fumble recoveries and no interceptions.
Analysis: The Texans will look to rebound in Week 7 against Tennessee. Avoid them in all Fantasy leagues unless you need a bye-week replacement. They had allowed 17 total points against the Jaguars in two games in 2006, so obviously this is a much lesser unit overall.
News: The Texans DST will have to go on the road to face Jacksonville on Sunday. The Jaguars are ranked 17th in total offense, and they have allowed 14 sacks this season, but no interceptions.
Analysis: The Texans DST have 10 sacks, mostly due to the young stars on their defensive line, Amobi Okoye and Mario Williams. This defense ranks 11th in total defense (15th against the pass and ninth against the run). This defense held the Jaguars to just 17 total points in two games last year. So get them active in Fantasy play.
News: The Texans DST held the Miami offense to 285 yards, knocked their starting QB out the game and grabbed an interception and a sack in Week 5's 22-19 win over the Dolphins.
Analysis: The Texans DST got off to a smoking hot start in 2007, but has regressed in the past three weeks. They will be nothing more than a decent No. 2 unit in Week 6 at Jacksonville.
News: The Houston DST hosts Miami in a Week 5 matchup Sunday. The Texans are 14th in total defense, 21st against the pass and sixth against the run.
Analysis: Miami's offense ranks 17th overall (11th in passing offense and 21st in the rushing game), but it will be tough for them to score on this Texans DST. Consider starting this defensive unit in 12-team leagues this week for this solid matchup.
News: The Texans allowed 26 points at the Falcons in Week 4. They allowed 304 yards and only had two sacks. Their special teams gained 132 yards.
Analysis: After a couple fluky performances to open the season, the Texans DST has come back down to earth. It won't serve as much more than a bye-week replacement the rest of the season. Treat it as such Week 5 against the Dolphins.
News: The Texans DST will travel to Atlanta to face a Falcons team that currently ranks 30th in the NFL after three weeks, with just 10 points scored per game.
Analysis: The Texans DST ranks 13th in the NFL in total defense, and they have seven sacks through three games. That number should rise against an Atlanta offensive line that has allowed 14 sacks -- second in the league. We recommend starting this unit during good matchups -- and this week is certainly one of them.
News: The Texans allowed 30 points to the visiting Colts in Week 3. They allowed 362 yards and only had one sack. They did, however, get a kick-return touchdown from WR Jerome Mathis.
Analysis: Well ... that performance certainly brought the Texans DST back down to earth. At the Falcons in Week 4, though, it deserves a spot start in all Fantasy formats.
News: The Texans DST has been stellar thus far this season. They are No. 4 in scoring defense, No. 3 in run defense and No. 19 in pass defense. They also have two touchdowns, six sacks, three interceptions and four fumble recoveries. But now they face the Colts. Enough said.
Analysis: There's not much more you can say about this matchup really. Without Andre Johnson, the defense could see the field for quite a large amount of time on Sunday, and that's always a recipe for disaster.
News: The Texans DST had three sacks, an interception and recovered two fumbles Sunday against the Panthers, including one for a touchdown on special teams by Kevin Walter. Jacoby Jones had two punt returns for 32 yards and Jameel Cook (one for 12 yards) and Jerome Mathis (two for 36 yards) combined for 48 yards on three kickoff returns.
Analysis: The Texans will face the Colts in Week 3, so the DST should not be used in any Fantasy league.
News: Free safety Will Demps has agreed to a one-year contract with the Texans, his agent said Tuesday. The Texans needed another safety after losing starter Jason Simmons for the season with a torn patellar tendon on Sunday. They were already without Glenn Earl, who fractured his foot in the exhibition opener. Demps, the former Giant, dislocated his elbow in a preseason game Aug. 19 and was placed on the injured reserve when New York reduced its roster to 53 players on Sept. 1. He received an injury settlement a few days later and became a free agent. His agent, Tony Agnone, said Demps is already in Houston and has passed a physical. Demps has 334 tackles and six interceptions in his five-year career.
Analysis: Houston recently acquired Michael Boulware in a trade with Seattle, but coach Gary Kubiak said he isn't ready to contribute much on defense yet. Before the addition of Demps, Kubiak said he would go with converted cornerback Von Hutchins in place of Simmons at strong safety. Hutchins has appeared in just seven games the last three seasons. This should help the Texans DST a smidge, but they're still a low-end No. 2 option and not recommended for Week 2 action at Carolina.
News: Texans S Jason Simmons went down with a season-ending knee injury in Week 1 vs. Kansas City. According to the Houston Chronicle, Von Hutchins and newly-acquired Michael Boulware are favorites to replace Simmons in the secondary, while the Texans are also in the midst of talks with veteran safeties to fill the spot on the roster.
Analysis: The Texans have a good, young defensive unit, but they will need to prove they can stop an offense more potent than the Chiefs before they earn respect in the Fantasy world. Carolina on the road in Week 2 will be a good test. Neither Hutchins or Boulware are worth picking up in any IDP leagues.
News: The Texans held the Chiefs to just 219 yards of total offense in Week 1. They forced four turnovers and DL Mario Williams returned a fumble 38 yards for a touchdown. He also had two sacks and N.D. Kalu added another.
Analysis: The Texans DST is only owned in seven percent of CBSSports.com leagues, but that number should be on the rise after Week 1. Sure, a poor Chiefs offense had a lot to do with the production, but the Texans have a solid young core of players, like Williams, to turn into a decent bye-week replacement in Fantasy. They'll face Carolina on the road in Week 2.
News:The Sports Xchange reports the Texans can't decide if it's going to bode well for them or not that Larry Johnson held out for so long. The only thing they agree on is that he is going to challenge what appears to be an improved run defense. "I think he'll be rusty," defensive end Anthony Weaver said. "He hasn't been hit yet. So if we go out there and put the pads on him, hopefully, we can shut him down." Not everyone is quite so confident in that approach. The Texans have been burned by Johnson before. He humiliated them in 2005 on national television when he rushed for a club-record 212 yards en route to a 45-17 victory.
Analysis: Even though Johnson missed most of training camp and the preseason, some defensive players said that could be advantageous for the Kansas City Chiefs, who will open the season against the Texans at Reliant Stadium on Sunday. "I think camp is tough," linebacker Danny Clark said. "It's tough on the body and on the mind, too. He may have gotten a rest and he may be ready to go. We look forward to him running the ball 30-to-40 times. We'll be ready." The Texans want to prove that they are an improved defense from last season, when they ranked 20th out of 32 teams, allowing 122.2 rushing yards per game. Consider the Texans a No. 2 Fantasy DST for Week 1 against the Chiefs.
News: The Houston Texans traded former first-round pick Jason Babin to the Seattle Seahawks for strong safety Michael Boulware on Saturday. The Texans needed depth at safety after losing starter Glenn Earl for the season in the first exhibition game and rookie Brandon Harrison to a hamstring injury. Boulware, a second-round pick in 2004, started eight games last season for the Seahawks and had 39 tackles and two interceptions. He had 73 tackles and four interceptions in 2005 and 63 tackles and five interceptions as a rookie.
Analysis: Boulware is pretty good against the run but is a liability against the pass. This is not the addition the Texans needed to help their secondary keep up with their potential-laden front seven. Although they will produce a nice pass rush with DeMeco Ryans and Mario Williams up front and have some special-teams TDs thanks to rookie return man Jacoby Jones, their DST unit is not worth using unless out of desperation in 2007 Fantasy play.
News: The Houston Chronicle reports that the Texans placed starting safety Glenn Earl on injured reserve with a Lisfranc fracture in his foot. C.C. Brown will move to strong safety and Von Hutchins will play free safety. "That's a big blow to this team because Glenn was having a fine camp and was a big part of this team," coach Gary Kubiak said Sunday. "He'll have surgery on Tuesday. The recovery will take nine to 12 months. He'll go on injured reserve."
Analysis: The Texans' secondary gets worse with this news, but they weren't that formidable to begin with. Although they will produce a nice pass rush with DeMeco Ryans and Mario Williams in the front seven, their DST unit is not worth using unless out of desperation in 2007 Fantasy play.
News: Houston Texans defensive end N.D. Kalu sees a lot of himself in rookie Amobi Okoye. Most of it has nothing to do with football. Kalu and Okoye are the sons of Nigerian parents and descendants of the same tribe, the Ibo. Both were raised by stern disciplinarians who taught that getting an education, not playing sports, was the path to prosperity. Both convinced their parents that football was a noble pursuit - and both managed to be precocious college students anyway. "We have a lot of common - he's just 12 years younger," said the 32-year-old Kalu, starting his second season in Houston.
Analysis: The two instantly bonded when Okoye, the 10th overall pick, walked into the Texans locker room and spotted a Nigerian flag in Kalu's locker, the one next to his. Naturally, Kalu has become a mentor, often pulling Okoye aside for "heart-to-heart" chats. While Okoye is expected to start at defensive tackle, Kalu will back up Houston's defensive ends. Coaches have talked to Kalu about being a leader - the aim this season is to back up his advice with his performance. The Texans have some talent on defense, but their DST is still only worth a look as a bye-week replacement or when the matchup is extremely favorable.
News: Texans defensive end Mario Williams missed Thursday's practice with a tight hamstring, but he and coach Gary Kubiak said it wasn't serious. Williams watched in his jersey and shorts with a large bandage wrapped around the top of his right leg. The problem began Tuesday morning, and he was pulled from the field halfway through the workout. "I just don't want something to happen right now in training camp," he said. "This is a very important season coming up for the team, and I want to be a part of that. So I'm going to try to be as cautious as possible."
Analysis: Coaches have been impressed with his recent work in practice as he makes the transition to playing right defensive end full time after moving around the line last season. He's much more relaxed since arriving in Houston amid the Reggie Bush/Vince Young controversy a year ago. Kubiak was encouraged by Williams' work ethic throughout the offseason. With rookie DT Amobi Okoye coming aboard, the Texans may actually produce a dangerous pass rush. However, their secondary is still hazy, and they play the Colts and Titans twice a year each, which will leave them with big numbers hung around their necks. Consider the Texans DST a reserve unit only suitable for bye-week action.
News: The Texans and rookie DT Amobi Okoye have agreed to terms on a six-year deal, reports the Houston Chronicle. The No. 10 overall pick in the draft is expected to start and play a big role in the club's defensive tackle rotation in 2007.
Analysis: Okoye is a rare breed: He's fast, strong and younger than anyone in the draft (he's 19). Not only will he put up some sacks (and assist Mario Williams in getting sacks), but he'll also be solid against the run and help the Texans corral opposing running backs, and they're in a division with some lethal ones. However, the Texans DST is not worth using in 2007 Fantasy play. Their front seven is solid with Mario Williams and DeMeco Ryans part of the crew, but their secondary has some question marks after CB Dunta Robinson. Don't expect to see them drafted in '07, and be careful using them as a bye-week replacement.
News: With the 10th pick in the 2007 NFL Draft, the Texans selected DT Amobi Okoye from Louisville. Okoye is a rare breed: He's fast, strong and younger than anyone in the draft (he's 19). Not only will he put up some sacks (and assist Mario Williams in getting sacks), but he'll also be solid against the run and help the Texans corral opposing running backs, and they're in a division with some lethal ones.
Analysis: Despite Okoye's presence, the Texans DST is not worth using in 2007 Fantasy play. Their front seven is solid with Mario Williams and DeMeco Ryans part of the crew, but their secondary has some question marks after CB Dunta Robinson. Don't expect to see them drafted in '07.
News: Linebacker Danny Clark, a former Jaguar, Raider and Saint, agreed to terms with the Texans. Clark led Oakland in tackles in 2004 and 2005, but struggled last season in a reserve role after joining the New Orleans. "We are excited about what Danny brings to our defense," said Texans general manager Rick Smith. "He is an experienced guy who has proven that he can be very productive, and he is a leader who will add a veteran presence in the locker room."
Analysis: In two seasons with the Raiders, Clark started all but one game and had 129 tackles his first year and 113 in 2005. That's the potential he brings, but with Houston loaded with linebackers already, Clark will have a hard time finding regular playing time. The Texans DST isn't worth drafting at this point even though they have several pieces in place to make a move as a tough defensive unit.
News: DeMeco Ryans came into the NFL as Houston's second choice to bolster its defense. He leaves his first pro year as The Associated Press Defensive Rookie of the Year. The linebacker, chosen at the top of the second round of last April's draft - 32 spots after the Texans made defensive end Mario Williams the first overall selection - was a runaway winner of the award announced Wednesday. Ryans led the league in solo tackles with 126, and his 156 total tackles were 33 more than the next-best rookie, Detroit linebacker Ernie Sims. "It's always nice to be touted as one of the best and have a big-time stat, but I credit that to the other 10 guys that are around me on defense," Ryans said. "We wouldn't be talking about me without those other 10 guys out there."
Analysis: Ryans emerged as a top linebacker this year and should be a monster in IDP leagues for years to come. Expect him to be a No. 1 Fantasy LB in 2007.
News: The Houston Texans held the Cleveland Browns to six points and 306 yards of total offense in Week 17 vs. Cleveland. They forced three turnovers in the game and picked up one sack.
Analysis: The Texans were impressive in Week 17, but it was because they played the poor Browns offense. In 2007, they likely won't be drafted in most leagues.
News: The Texans allowed 24 points and 319 yards of offense in Week 16 vs. Indianapolis. They forced one fumble in the game, but did not get any sacks.
Analysis: The Texans DST hasn't been a recommended Fantasy unit all season, but a nice matchup against a poor Browns offense could make them a sleeper option for Week 17.
News: The Texans held the Patriots to just 230 total yards in a Week 15 loss, but they gave up a whopping 40 points. The Texans forced no turnovers and had only one sack (Jason Babin).
Analysis: The Texans DST should not be used in Week 16 vs. Indianapolis. Babin is at best a low-end Fantasy DL in IDP leagues.
News: The Texans defense totaled two sacks, one interception and one forced fumble vs. Tennessee in Week 14. They held the Titans to 20 points until Vince Young ran 39 yards for a game-winning touchdown.
Analysis: Never use the Texans defense. Ever. Especially at New England in Week 15.
News: The Texans DST scored a touchdown and got five turnovers against Oakland. DB Demarcus Faggins had three tackles and returned a fumble for a touchdown. LB DeMeco Ryans had 15 tackles, an interception, a sack and a fumble recovery. LB Morlon Greenwood had nine tackles and a fumble recovery. DB Dexter McCleon had three tackles and an interception. DB Glenn Earl had four tackles and a sack. DL Jason Babin had three tackles and a sack. DL N.D. Kalu had two tackles and a sack. DL Lional Dalton had two tackles and a sack.
Analysis: Despite the good outing, the Texans DST should only be used as a low-end No. 2 option against the Titans in Week 14. Use all IDP players as needed.
News: The Texans allowed 304 yards of offense and 26 points in Week 12 at the N.Y. Jets. They could not force any turnovers and sacked Chad Pennington just once.
Analysis: The Texans DST is still not a recommended Fantasy option. Ignore them for Week 13 at Oakland outside of the deepest formats.
News: The Texans defense did not have a good day in Week 11 against the Bills giving up 24 points and 403 total yards. Bills WR Lee Evans had two touchdown receptions of 83 yards in the game. LB Shantee Orr and DB Demarcus Faggins had sacks, while DB Dunta Robinson had an interception.
Analysis: The Texans DST is still not a recommended Fantasy option. Ignore them for Week 12 at N.Y. Jets. Robinson is the only player worth using in IDP leagues as a low-end option.
News: The Houston Texans signed cornerback Von Hutchins, defensive tackle Cedric Killings and offensive lineman Mike Pearson to fill holes on their roster. Defensive tackle Travis Johnson (calf), offensive lineman Zach Wiegert (knee) and cornerback Lewis Sanders (hand) were placed on injured reserve.
Analysis: The signings on defense will not increase the Fantasy value of the Houston defense/special teams. They are not a recommended Fantasy unit in any format.
News: The Texans lost DT Travis Johnson to a torn calf and will miss the rest of the season. The fate is the same for DB Lewis Sanders (hand). Defensive end Antwan Peek will likely be out several weeks with a medial collateral ligament injury in his knee and safety Glenn Earl dislocated a finger, but should play this week.
Analysis: Houston's defense hosts Buffalo in Week 11 in what should be an ugly game. Don't expect the Texans defense to come up big this or any week this season.
News: The Houston Texans allowed just 10 points and 322 yards of total offense in Week 10 at Jacksonville. They picked off four passes and sacked David Garrard twice (both times by Jason Babin).
Analysis: The Texans' great effort likely went un-noticed in Fantasy leagues because they aren't usually a recommended Fantasy option. They could be considered a decent option in larger formats out of desperation when they face the Bills.
News: The Houston Texans allowed 14 points and 285 yards in Week 9 vs. the N.Y. Giants. They forced one turnover and sacked Eli Manning twice in the game.
Analysis: The Texans were able to hold one of the better offenses in the NFL to 14 points. Consider them a decent option in leagues of 12-plus teams for Week 10 at Jacksonville.
News: The Texans gave up two offensive scores in a 28-22 loss against Tennessee. The DST forced no turnovers against the Titans. LB Morlon Greenwood had nine tackles. LB DeMeco Ryans had 10 tackles. DL Mario Williams had four tackles and a sack, the only one for the Texans.
Analysis: The Texans DST has a tough matchup for Week 9 against the Giants. Greenwood, Ryans and Williams, however, are good starts in IDP leagues.
News: Houston got a boost from the return of cornerback Demarcus Faggins and linebacker Kailee Wong, though each saw limited playing time against Jacksonville in Week 7. Wong played about 20 snaps in his return after a year's hiatus following knee surgery, and Faggins was in for 35 plays after recovering from a fractured foot. Faggins forced a fumble that led to a touchdown, and Kubiak said he was impressed with his play. "I just know that Kailee and Petey (Faggins) brought something to our football team last week from a leadership standpoint, and (it) was a big help for our football team," Kubiak said.
Analysis: Neither player is worth adding to rosters in Fantasy IDP leagues just yet. While they boosted morale and helped the Texans to a win against Jacksonville, the Texans still have the second-to-last worst defense in the league. They still have some work to do before becoming a viable Fantasy DST.
News: The Texans defense actually had their first great performance of the season in Week 7 against the Jaguars. They held Jacksonville to 220 total yards and only one touchdown. They had one sack (DE Mario Williams) and forced two fumbles, which they recovered.
Analysis: In a shocker, the Texans defense finally showed up for a game. It could be a sign of things to come, but let's not get ahead of ourselves. They still have a lot to prove. We wouldn't consider using the Texans DST on a regular basis, but Week 8 presents a favorable matchup against the Titans and rookie QB Vince Young. Consider using the Texans DST as a one-week sleeper.
News: The Houston Texans signed veteran defensive tackle Lional Dalton on Tuesday. Dalton started 14 games for Kansas City in 2005, but fell out of favor this season and played just two games for the Chiefs before being released last week.
Analysis: The Texans were in the market for a defensive tackle after losing Seth Payne for the season when he tore a ligament in his right knee on Sunday. He was placed on injured reserve Tuesday. His signing has no affect on the Fantasy value of the Texans DST, which has been terrible. He is also not worth a look in IDP leagues.
News: Phillip Buchanon was released by the Texans on Monday, ending his injury-filled and lackluster stay in Houston. Buchanon, a first-round pick in 2002, was traded to Houston from Oakland before last season in exchange for second- and third-round picks in the 2006 draft. Coach Gary Kubiak said he expected Buchanon to step up when Demarcus Faggins fractured his foot in training camp. That didn't happen. "When Faggins went down, Phillip had the opportunity to become a starting cornerback," Kubiak said. "Unfortunately, he got hurt and missed most of training camp. Then he got hurt in the first game. He had trouble staying on the field. But we wish him well."
Analysis: He rarely played on defense this season after suffering from a laundry list of minor injuries, including a sprained ankle and bruised ribs. He didn't make a tackle until this week, when he had two while briefly filling in for Dunta Robinson, who had cramps. The move clears a roster spot for linebacker Kailee Wong, who has been on the physically-unable-to-perform list recovering from knee surgery.
News: The Texans gave up four touchdowns in a 34-6 loss against Dallas. They only sacked Cowbous QB Drew Bledsoe twice with DB C.C. Brown and LB Demarco Ryans. Brown led the Texans with 10 tackles, and Ryans was second with nine. DB Dunta Robinson had five tackles. And DL Mario Williams had six tackles.
Analysis: Keep the Texans DST reserved in Week 7 along with all these players.
News: It took four weeks, but the Texans defense actually played a good game holding the Dolphins to 15 points and 289 yards in Week 4. The Texans were also able to sack QB Daunte Culpepper five times and only allowed the Dolphins to convert 3-of-12 third downs.
Analysis: Head coach Gary Kubiak voiced his displeasure with his defense earlier in the week and it looked as though they responded. Granted, they were going up against a weak offensive line and an offense looking to find their rhythm, but still a win is a win. The Texans are on a bye in Week 5 but return to action in Week 6 at Dallas. It is not recommended you use the Texans DST when they next take the field.
News: According to the Houston Chronicle, Texans head coach Gary Kubiak is extremely displeased with the performance of his defense, especially No. 1 pick Mario Williams. Kubiak cited that Williams, who has yet to record his first sack, has progressed but his play in Week 3's loss was disappointing. Kubiak mentioned the whole defensive unit has been disappointing, a unit that is ranked last in the NFL and on their way to to shatter the league record for most yards allowed in a season. "We haven't played well, and (Sunday) was the worst," Kubiak said. "There's got to be some drastic improvement quickly."
Analysis: Finally, Kubiak has realized the Texans defense is just down right pathetic. Along with Williams, the Texans have former first-round picks Travis Johnson and Jason Babin up front, but no one seems to be putting pressure on the QB. It looks as though the Texans are ready to fix their defensive problems, but they are not a recommended DST yet in Fantasy Football.
News: The Redskins had their way with the Texans defense in Week 3 rolling up 495 yards and 31 points. The Texans D had no sacks, no interceptions and forced only one fumble. A bright spot did come from the play of DB Dunta Robinson who led the team with 11 tackles, all solo. Rookie LB DeMeco Ryans and DB Lewis Sanders also had nice days racking up 10 total tackles a piece.
Analysis: New week, same old story: the Texans defense is horrendous. Continue to stay away from the Texans DST. It doesn't look like anytime soon they are going to improve. Now as far as IDP players are concerned, it is time to turn your attention to Robinson, Ryans and Lewis. All three players have more than 30 tackles on the season, but are liabilities in other statistical catergories. However, if your league rewards heavily for tackles, then these guys are going to get plenty of them as the season moves on.
9/20/2006
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Texans working on improving D
News: For the fifth consecutive season, it looks as though the Texans will have no answer for Indianapolis quarterback Peyton Manning. The Texans' defense was anemic much of the time in a 43-24 defeat -- their ninth-consecutive to the Colts. The Texans will try to avenge that loss on Christmas Eve, but it's clear more than the calendar will have to change if the Texans want to have a chance. The Texans will try to make those adjustments starting Sunday against the Redskins at home. "This game is going to be a hard one to swallow," said cornerback Dunta Robinson. "But you've got to swallow it. (The Redskins) aren't worried about what happened to us (in Indianapolis.) They're going to try to do the same thing. "So we've got no choice except to get better, a lot better, in a hurry."
Analysis: It is a good thing that the Texans have realized their defense is not very productive at this time. But it is uncertain how much a defense can improve in just one week. They are playing a struggling offense in the Redskins in Week 3, but it is still a risky start seeing how the Texans just don't have it together yet from a defensive perspective.
9/17/2006
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Texans D gives up 515 yards
News: The Texans was absolutely horrendous in Week 2 vs. the Colts giving up a total of 515 yards, including 400 passing yards to Colts QB Peyton Manning. The Texans D yielded five touchdowns and only forced one turnover. They did sack Manning twice for a loss of 10 yards. DB Glenn Earl lead all tacklers with nine, CB Lewis Sanders had eight solo tackles, LB Morlon Greenwood had nine tackles and one sack, while Jason Babin had the team's other sack.
Analysis: The Texans defense is not worth the time in Fantasy football. They are just giving up too many yards and have a very weak pass rush. Until they get better, continue to sit them. Don't play them Week 3 vs. Washington.
9/13/2006
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Houston without two CBs at IND
News: Texans CB Phillip Buchanon (ankle) and Demarcus Faggins (foot) are listed as out for Week 2 at Indianapolis.
Analysis: This is a whammy for the Texans since Buchanon is not only a decent DB but also a helper on special teams, plus the Texans need all the secondary help they can get against Peyton Manning, who has never lost to Houston. Don't lean on the Texans' defense in Week 2.
9/13/2006
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Minor moves for Houston's D
News: The Houston Texans placed cornerback Roc Alexander on injured reserve Tuesday, ending his season with a torn anterior cruciate ligament in his knee suffered during Sunday's loss to Philadelphia. Alexander was signed by the Texans last week after being released by Denver. Also Tuesday, the Texans signed cornerback Kevin Garrett and linebacker Roy Manning.
Analysis: The loss of Alexander nor the signings of Garrett and Manning will do anything to help Houston's status of a useless Fantasy defense. Don't use them unless they play the worst offense in the league and would replace another defense on a bye week.
9/10/2006
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One sack, one INT for Texans
News: The Texans defense did not have a good game vs. Philadelphia in Week 1, registering one sack (Anthony Weaver) and one interception (Jason Simmons). Rookie LB DeMeco Ryans led the Texans in tackles with 13 (12 solo); Morlon Greenwood had eight tackles (seven solo).
Analysis: The Texans DST should never be used in Fantasy unless they play the worst offense in the league and would replace another defense on a bye week. Ryans is a promising middle linebacker that should be used as a No. 2 option in IDP league play; Weaver is a decent reserve DL and Morlon Greenwood is a decent Fantasy LB reserve.
9/8/2006
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Buchanon to return kicks?
News: The Texans are still searching for a kick returner, despite the season opener looming just days away. DB Phillip Buchanon was the leading candidate throughout the preseason. He will definitely return punts for the Texans, and it is not ruled out that he will do kick returns. However, the Texans picked up two players on waivers that might also factor into the kick return duties on Sunday against the Eagles. "One of the reasons we picked up (CB) Roc (Alexander) and (WR Edell) Shepherd is because they have the ability to return," coach Gary Kubiak said. "That's a decision we'll have to make towards the end of the week. They're definitely in the mix. That's part of the reason we picked them up."
Analysis: The Texans DST is not a recommended start against the Eagles this week.
8/29/2006
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Texans release seven D players
News: The Houston Texans released DE John Chick, SS Anthony Floyd, LB Barrett Green, CB Earthwind Moreland, LB Saleem Rasheed, DT Devarick Scandrett and SS Ramon Walker on Monday.
Analysis: With or without these seven players, the Texans DST is only worth a look as a reserve unit in Fantasy leagues of 16 or more teams.
8/21/2006
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Houston's D looks improved
News: With the Texans switching to a 4-3 scheme this season, Houston's defense has looked alright this preseason. Houston has allowed 17.0 points per game on average through two games with eight sacks.
Analysis: Drafting the Texans DST would be a mistake since they're not a popular DST unit, but adding them as a reserve squad isn't the worst idea in the world. They could be stronger moving to the 4-3 scheme and could get a boost in sacks thanks to No. 1 overall pick DE Mario Williams (who has had a weak preseason so far). Owners should mostly consider the Texans DST to be a bye-week replacement this season.
8/3/2006
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DE Williams has toe infection
News: Texans top draft pick Mario Williams missed practice Wednesday after a sleepless night dealing with an infection in one of his toes. Head coach Gary Kubiak says the defensive end from N.C. State is OK, but that his toe was "throbbing and really bad" during the night and that he called a team athletic trainer for help. Williams is expected to practice on Thursday. It's the second time Williams has had issues with his toes since being drafted as he had the toenails on both of his big toes removed in June after struggling with infections after having them stomped on. Officials say the current problem is not related to the earlier procedure -- and is on another toe.
Analysis: Houston's DST is on the rise thanks to a scheme change (they're moving to a 4-3) and the addition of DE Mario Williams with the No. 1 overall pick in April's draft. Still, they are at best a bye-week replacement unit for the 2006 campaign.
7/31/2006
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HOU loses Faggins, gets McCleon
News: The Texans signed former Chiefs cornerback Dexter McCleon, adding depth to a secondary depleted by an injury to Demarcus Faggins. McCleon was cut by the Chiefs when it appeared that the team would be several million dollars over the salary cap. The Texans didn't have much experience in their group of cornerbacks before Faggins, whose fractured foot will require surgery. But that injury made adding a veteran even more vital. The star of the group is third-year player Dunta Robinson, who suffered through a sophomore slump after earning runner-up honors for defensive rookie of the year in 2004.
Analysis: Houston's DST is on the rise thanks to a scheme change (they're moving to a 4-3) and the addition of DE Mario Williams with the No. 1 overall pick in April's draft. Still, they are at best a bye-week replacement unit for the 2006 campaign.
News: Mario Williams will be sidelined for the rest of the week after having the toenails on both of his big toes removed. He had struggled with infections because of problems with his toenails. "They were bothering him throughout the camp," said Texans head coach Gary Kubiak. "So instead of trying to fight it, they removed them. We're giving him a few days off to make sure it heals properly."
Analysis: Kubiak said Williams, who signed a six-year $54 million contract the night before the NFL Draft, would probably return to practice on June 9. "We just didn't want it to be a problem when we got to the summer so we took care of it now," Kubiak said.
5/17/2006
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Kubiak impressed with Mario Williams
News: Houston head coach Gary Kubiak was impressed with rookie Mario Williams at a recent minicamp. "He stopped a lot of our plays," the coach said. "He did a good job. To hop in there day one with the starters and go. That's a lot to ask. It looks like he did a fine job to me."
Analysis: The Texans plans to line up Williams against a tight end, a task that might take some getting used to. "I'm just going to the strong side," he said. "Whew. That strong side is exactly that - you got the tight end with the tackle all the time. It's a little different there, but I'll be fine."
4/29/2006
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DE Williams is Houston's top pick
News: The Texans have signed N.C. State DE Mario Williams to a $54 million contract, making him the No. 1 overall pick in the 2006 NFL Draft. Houston continued to focus on its defense, spending their second-round pick on LB DeMeco Ryans (33rd overall).
Analysis: Houston is switching to a 4-3 defensive scheme this season, and these picks combined with all of their offseason signings (N.D. Kalu, Anthony Weaver, Sam Cowart) gives Houston a formidable front seven. Suddenly Houston's DST has become a sleeper unit thanks to this and the presence of KR Jerome Mathis, who hurt himself this offseason but is expected to be fine for training camp. Consider them a No. 2 DST in deeper leagues for now.
3/27/2006
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Texans bolster D-line
News: The Texans have agreed to a deal with DE/DT N.D. Kalu, a former Eagle. The 10-year veteran has posted two five-plus sack seasons and one 40-plus tackle season. He is expected to play DE for Houston.
Analysis: Kalu helps Houston's depth but isn't an impact player by any stretch. The Texans DST is only a valuable unit as a bye-week replacement so long as KR Jerome Mathis is healthy and active.
1/10/2006
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Houston D last in takeaways
News: The Texans DST finished 32nd in the NFL in takeaways with 16 -- seven interceptions and nine fumble recoveries. Only the Saints finished worse among Fantasy DST units.
Analysis: Houston needs loads of help defensively. They will probably not add enough defensive talent to warrant more Fantasy consideration in 2006.
12/24/2005
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Houston D has two sacks
News: The Texans DST had two sacks (both by Shantee Orr) vs. Jacksonville in Week 16.
Analysis: The Texans DST appears to be a sleeper unit since they face San Francisco in Week 17 on the road, but not even the Texans are worth using in Fantasy leagues.
12/18/2005
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Texans DST allows 19 points
News: The Texans DST allowed 19 points and recorded six sacks and two interceptions in Sunday's 30-19 win over the Arizona Cardinals.
Analysis: Solid stat line from the Texans DST, but it's still not a recommended option for Week 16 against Jacksonville.
12/15/2005
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Texans D in OK shape
News: Texans DE Robaire Smith (neck), CB Lewis Sanders (hip) and DE Gary Walker (hip) are probable for Week 15 vs. Arizona. In addition, DE Junior Ioane (calf) is doubtful.
Analysis: The Texans defense is not worth starting against the Cardinals.
12/11/2005
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Texans D allows unlucky 13
News: The Texans DST did a swell job of limiting QB Steve McNair in Week 14, but the Titans still managed to score 13 points and win the game. Still, the Texans didn't record any sacks, fumbles or interceptions in the game.
Analysis: The Texans DST is useless in Fantasy Football.
12/8/2005
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D-line sore for Texans
News: Texans DE Junior Ioane (calf) is doubtful and DEs Robaire Smith (neck) and Gary Walker (knee) are probable for Week 14's game at Tennessee.
Analysis: Houston may be facing the lowly Titans, but their defense isn't strong enough to force several turnovers. Do not use them.
12/4/2005
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Texans DST allows 16 points
News: The Texans DST allowed 16 points and recorded four sacks and four forced fumbles in Sunday's 16-15 loss to the Baltimore Ravens.
Analysis: Despite this decent performance, the Texans DST is still not a recomended starter for Week 14 against the Tennessee Titans.
11/27/2005
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Texans D thwarted again
News: The Houston Texans defense allowed 33 points and 429 yards vs. St. Louis in Week 12.
Analysis: The Texans DST is one of the worst in the league. Do not start them in Week 13 at Baltimore.
11/21/2005
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Mathis returns kickoff for Texans
News: Jerome Mathis returned a first-quarter kickoff 99 yards for a TD in Sunday night's blowout loss to the Chiefs. The defense didn't register a sack of Trent Green but was able to pick him off once.
Analysis: Despite a kickoff return in Week 11, the Texans DST is not a recommended unit in Week 12 when Houston hosts the Rams.
11/13/2005
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Fumbles abound for Texans D
News: The Houston DST registered a sack, one forced fumble and two fumble recoveries at Indianapolis in Week 10.
Analysis: The Texans DST is not a recommended starter any week, including vs. Kansas City in Week 11.
11/10/2005
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Texans DST to face Colts
News: LB Antwan Peek (shoulder), DE Robaire Smith (back) and DE Gary Walker (shoulder) are all listed as probable for the Texans in Week 10.
Analysis: The Texans DST are not a recommended start in any week, but against the potent Indianapolis Colts' offense in Week 10, it's a no-brainer.
11/6/2005
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Texans DST allows 21 points
News: The Texans DST allowed 21 points and recorded two sacks in Sunday's 21-14 loss to the Jacksonville Jaguars.
Analysis: The Texans DST is not a recommended starter for Week 10 on the road against the Indianapolis Colts.
10/30/2005
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Houston's D looks better
News: For the first time this season, the Texans defense didn't get slapped around. Gary Walker registered two sacks, and the team forced two fumbles, recovering both while holding the Browns to 16 points in Week 8.
Analysis: Despite the nice showing, the Texans DST has no value in Fantasy Football.
10/23/2005
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Texans DST allows 38 points
News: The Texans DST allowed 38 points and recorded two sacks, one interception and one forced fumble in Sunday's 38-20 loss to the Indianapolis Colts.
Analysis: The Texans DST has no value in Fantasy Football.
10/17/2005
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Texans DST gets torched
News: Houston allowed 42 points in a blowout loss to the Seahawks Sunday night. They gave up 31 first downs and 459 yards of offense to Seattle while intercepting Matt Hasselbeck once.
Analysis: Houston's DST is not a recommended start in Week 7 when they host the Colts.
10/9/2005
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Texans DST allows 34 points
News: The Texans DST allowed 34 points with no sacks, interceptions or forced fumbles in Sunday's loss to the Tennessee Titans.
Analysis: The Texans DST has no value in Fantasy Football at this point.
10/2/2005
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Texans D slumps
News: The Texans DST held Cincinnati to 16 points but only registered two sacks and one forced fumble.
Analysis: The Houston DST should never start in Fantasy leagues.
9/21/2005
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Phillip Buchanon demoted
News: The Houston Chronicle reports Phillip Buchanon has been demoted. "We ain't winning right now," Buchanon said. "I'm not making any plays. We had no turnovers. We had no plays. We're not winning. There's nothing positive right now, so sometimes you have to make a change."
Analysis: CB Demarcus Faggins will start in place of Buchanon after the team's bye. The Texans DST has no value in Fantasy Football.
9/18/2005
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Texans DST gets run over
News: The Steelers ran over the Houston defense, rushing for 135 yards and catching for 254 yards, scoring 27 points. The Texans had exactly one sack.
Analysis: Houston's DST should not only be shelved in Week 3 because they are on a bye, but also every week because they are not a cohesive, tough defense.
9/11/2005
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Houston's D gets run over
News: Houston's defense allowed 22 points, including five Rian Lindell field goals in their Week 1 loss at Buffalo.
Analysis: Houston's DST should stay on the waiver wire all season.
9/9/2005
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CB Robinson practices, will play
News: The Houston Chronicle reports CB Dunta Robinson (ankle) practiced on Sept. 9 with no limitations and is expected to play in the season opener vs. the Bills. Robinson is listed as probable for the game.
Analysis: The Texans shouldn't be used as a DST unit.
News: The Texans signed Johnson to a five-year contract on Saturday.
Analysis: Johnson's addition will help stop the run. While they still need plenty of help, the Texans are shaping up as an up-and-coming defensive unit.
7/25/2005
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Texans getting faster on D
News: The Texans are getting faster on defense, which will help their cause in 2005. Players like Philip Buchanon, Morlon Greenwood and rookie Travis Johnson will keep the defense quick. In addition, it's been reported that Kailee Wong's move from OLB to ILB is going very well.
Analysis: The Texans' D/ST unit isn't to be trusted until they start shutting opponents down. At best they are a bye-week replacement if they're hosting a weak offense.
4/26/2005
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Texans release CB Glenn
News: The Texans official website reports the team has released Aaron Glenn.
Analysis: Now a free agent, Glenn is expected to sign with the Dallas Cowboys.
4/23/2005
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Texans select DT Johnson
News: The Houston Texans selected Travis Johnson with the No. 16 overall selection in the 2005 NFL Draft.
Analysis: The Texans had a need to improve the middle of their defensive line, so Johnson is a great addition.
4/20/2005
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Texans acquire CB Buchanon
News: The Houston Texans have acquired Phillip Buchanon from the Oakland Raiders in exchange for two draft picks, which are reported to be second- and third-round selections.
Analysis: Last season, Buchanon had 50 tackles and three interceptions, one for a touchdown, in 14 games. He missed the final two games with a bruised tailbone.
4/2/2005
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Texans release Jamie Sharper
News: Houston let LB Sharper go on Friday as they continue to try to make over their bad defense. The team is trying to add more speed to their 3-4 defense.
Analysis: Is this really addition by subtraction? Two weeks ago, they also released LB Jay Foreman and Safety Eric Brown. Don't worry about drafting this defense in 2005.
3/14/2005
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Texans release Brown, Foreman
News: The Houston Chronicle reports the Texans have released Chris Brown and Jay Foreman.
Analysis: The Texans could release Jamie Sharper next, so their DST will have a new look in 2005.
12/26/2004
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Texans shut out Jags
News: The Houston Texans blanked the Jaguars 21-0 in Week 16. The shutout was the first in team history for Houston and marked the first time the Jaguars have been blanked since a 44-0 drubbing at Detroit on Dec. 17, 1995.
Analysis: The Texans have struggled on defense at times this season but clearly came to play against Jacksonville. Houston could offer some nice value when they host the Browns in Week 17.
12/19/2004
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Texans freeze Bears
News: The Texans defense allowed the fewest points in their three-year history while grabbing two interceptions and recovering two fumbles in a 24-5 Week 15 win over Chicago. Houston linebacker Charlie Anderson capped the victory by returning a fumble 60 yards for a touchdown with 2:37 left.
Analysis: The Texans were able to put a lot of heat on the Bears despite the temperature at kickoff being 9 degrees and the wind chill 10 below zero. Still, despite their nice game, the Texans have little Fantasy value as a D/ST. They travel to Jacksonville in Week 16.
12/10/2004
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Polk now a starter
News: According to the Houston Chronicle, inside linebacker Carlos Polk will start in place of Jay Foreman, who sprained his left ankle and is out for the rest of the season. "I just hope I can fill his shoes," Polk said. "They are going to be some tough shoes to fill." In other news, safety Jason Simmons (head, probable) and DE Gary Walker (foot, probable) are listed on the injury report.
Analysis: Foreman was injured in the second quarter of Week 13. The Texans D/ST has no Fantasy value, especially against the Indianapolis Colts in Week 14.
12/8/2004
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Marcus Coleman out for year
News: Texans safety Marcus Coleman will miss the rest of the season with a sprained right shoulder suffered in Week 11 against Green Bay.
Analysis: The Texans D/ST should be avoided at all costs when they face Peyton Manning and the Indianapolis Colts in Week 14.
12/5/2004
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Texans DST allow 29 to Jets
News: The Houston DST gave up 210 rushing yards and 150 passing yards to the Jets Sunday. They also gave up 29 points.
Analysis: Texans DST is not a useful starting Fantasy unit.
12/5/2004
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Jamie Sharper leaves game
News: Sharper limped off the field in a game at the Jets Sunday.
Analysis: Sharper’s return is questionable. DaShon Polk replaced him in the lineup.
11/28/2004
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Texans allow 21 points
News: The Texans DST allowed 21 points with one sack, one interception and two forced fumbles in Sunday's win over Tennessee.
Analysis: This is not a receommended unit for Week 13 at the N.Y. Jets.
11/26/2004
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Texans D/ST injury update
News: The Texans listed the following defensive players on their injury report for Week 12 against Tennessee: S Jason Simmons (head, doubtful), S Marcus Coleman (shoulder, questionable), LB Jay Foreman (shoulder, questionable), DE Gary Walker (foot, questionable), LB Antwan Peek (ankle, probable) and LB Jamie Sharper (shoulder, probable).
Analysis: The Texans are not a useful unit in Week 12 against the Titans.
11/24/2004
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Texans D banged up
News: According to the Houston Chronicle, free safety Marcus Coleman had an MRI on his sprained right shoulder and will be held out of practice as the team starts to prepare for Week 12. In other news, linebacker Jay Foreman (neck) and defensive end Gary Walker (foot) are questionable for Week 12 and defensive back Jason Simmons (concussion) remains out indefinitely.
Analysis: Coleman was injured in the fourth quarter of Week 11 against Green Bay. The Texans host the Titans in Week 12 and are not a recommended Fantasy D/ST.
11/22/2004
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Houston DST makes two interceptions
News: The Texans DST had two picks and they allowed only 90 yards rushing. That was partially due to the rib injury to Ahman Green. The DST unit also allowed 383 yards passing.
Analysis: Start a different DST than Houston's in Week 12, as they face Tennessee.
11/19/2004
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Texans D/ST injury update
News: According to the Houston Chronicle, Texans defensive end Gary Walker (foot, questionable) and linebacker Antwan Peek (ankle, questionable) were held out of practice again on Thursday, and coach Dom Capers said they would both likely be game-time decisions for Week 11. "We'd like to have them get a little work (Friday)," Capers said. "We'll probably work them both out prior to the game to see if they will be available."
Analysis: The Texans are not a useful unit in Week 11 against Green Bay.
11/18/2004
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Texans D/ST injury update
News: According to the Houston Chronicle, Texans defensive end Gary Walker (foot, questionable) and linebacker Antwan Peek (ankle, questionable) both missed practice on Wednesday and might be held out again Thursday. In other news, defensive back Jason Simmons (concussion) is doubtful for Week 11.
Analysis: The Texans are not a useful unit in Week 11 against Green Bay.
11/16/2004
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CB Bell out for the season
News: The Houston Chronicle reports that CB Jason Bell (broken forearm) underwent surgery on Monday and he will miss the remainder of the season. LB Antwan Peek (ankle), DE Gary Walker (foot) and DB Jason Simmons (concussion) will be held out of practice Wednesday.
Analysis: The Texans DST is not worth starting in any leagues.
11/14/2004
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Texans allow 49 points
News: The Texans DST allowed 49 points with one sack, two interceptions and one forced fumble in Sunday's loss to Indianapolis.
Analysis: This is not a recommended unit in Week 11 against Green Bay.
11/2/2004
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CB Jason Simmons questionable
News: According to the Houston Chronicle, Simmons (concussion) is questionable for Week 9. CB Kenny Wright is also questionable for with inflammation in his knee.
Analysis: In other news, DE Jerry Deloach (ankle) and SS Glenn Earl (right hip pointer) are probable.
10/31/2004
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Texans stop Leftwich
News: Demarcus Faggins intercepted Jacksonville QB Byron Leftwich and returned the pass 43 yards for a touchdown with under a minute left to seal the win in Week 8. The Texans were able to limit the Jaguars to only six points.
Analysis: The Texans held an opponent without a touchdown for only the second time in team history. The last came in a 24-6 win over Pittsburgh on Dec. 8, 2002. This was the first game this season in which Leftwich didn't throw a touchdown. Despite their nice game in Week 8, the Texans are not recommended for Week 9 when they travel to Denver.
10/27/2004
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MLBs lead Texans defense
News: Middle Linebackers Jamie Sharper and Jay Foreman lead the Houston defense in total tackles this season. They'll matchup against the improved Jacksonville Jaguars in a home game in Week 8.
Analysis: Sharper is 14th in the league with 49 tackles and Foreman is 15th with 48 tackles. Consider other options against a hot Jaguars offense.
10/17/2004
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Texans allow 10 points
News: The Texans DST allowed 10 points with one sack and four interceptions in Sunday's win over Tennessee.
Analysis: The Texans have a bye in Week 7.
News: Daunte Culpepper passed for nearly 400 yards against the Texans in a Week 5 victory for Minnesota, 34-28.
Analysis: The Vikings can make a lot of defenses look bad and that was the case today in Houston. The Houston Texans travel to Tennessee in Week 6.
10/4/2004
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J. Sharper gets "trifecta"
News: According to the Houston Chronicle, Jamie Sharper sacked Oakland quarterback Kerry Collins, forced a fumble and returned it for a touchdown in Week 4 against the Raiders. "During the game, I called it a trifecta," said Sharper. "But I was corrected. It's really a quadruple killer. I got the sack, caused a fumble, then recovered it off one bounce and went for the score."
Analysis: It was the second touchdown of Sharper's career and the second touchdown for the Texans defense this season. Despite the touchdowns, they should only be used as a Fantasy defense in larger leagues. The Texans face the Vikings in Week 5.
10/3/2004
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Sharper leads Texans
News: Jamie Sharper returned a fumble return for 16 yards and a touchdown in a Week 4 win over Oakland.
Analysis: Thats two weeks in a row that Houston has scored a defensive touchdown. Still, they should only be used as a Fantasy defense in larger leagues. The Texans face the Vikings in Week 5.
9/26/2004
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Texans make big play
News: Houston's Marcus Coleman returned an interception 102 yards for a touchdown to help win the Week 3 game against Kansas City.
Analysis: The Houston defense is not reliable enough to start in Fantasy formats. The Texans play the Raiders in Week 4.
9/19/2004
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Texans can't tame Lions
News: Houston allowed receiver Roy Williams to catch two touchdown passes in a 16-28 defeat to Detroit in Week 2.
Analysis: The rookie from Texas burned the Texans. Kind of appropriate I guess. Houston shouldn't be considered as a Fantasy option at this point. The Texans play at the Kansas City Chiefs in Week 3.
9/12/2004
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Texans allow 324 net yards
News: The Texans welcomed back DE Gary Walker (groin) to the starting lineup after being sidelined for most of the preseason. He had three solo tackles and assisted on two others.
Analysis: The Texans defense allowed 324 net yards, including 121 rushing yards by LaDainian Tomlinson. They are not worth using in Week 2 at Detroit despite the favorable matchup.
9/9/2004
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Texans defense a good start?
News: The Texans defense might be a solid play in larger Fantasy leagues, as they host the abysmal San Diego Chargers in Week 1.
Analysis: The team might have a difficult time containing LaDainian Tomlinson, but they might be able to take advantage of mistakes by Drew Brees and possibly Philip Rivers if he makes his debut. The Texans are 2-0 in openers and are worth using in most Fantasy leagues when the matchup is favorable such as it is in Week 1.
9/2/2004
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Texans defense injury update
News: DT Seth Payne (knee) was able to return to the lineup for Thursday's preseason finale against the Buccaneers.
Analysis: DE Gary Walker (groin) was unable to play in the game and is questionable for Week 1 against the Chargers. The Texans are only worth using if your primary defensive unit has an unfavorable matchup or bye week.
8/24/2004
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Gary Walker hurts groin
News: According to the Houston Chronicle, Gary Walker hurt his groin in practice on Monday and had to be helped off the field by trainers. "Gary had a little tightness in his groin, so they took him in to check it out," coach Dom Capers said. "It was just out here in team. He turned and cut, and it tightened up on him."
Analysis: The two-time Pro Bowl defensive end is an important part of the Texans defense.
8/23/2004
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Texans banged up
News: According to the Houston Chronicle, Texans corner Vontez Duff (rotator cuff) and linebacker Marcus Bell (shoulder) were both injured in Saturday's preseason game against the Pittsburgh Steelers.
Analysis: Both players are questionable for Houston's next preseason game at Denver. (Aug. 27)
8/19/2004
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Seth Payne getting close
News: According to the Houston Chronicle, Seth Payne is close to returning to practice. Payne has not played since tearing the anterior cruciate ligament in his left knee last season. In other news, the team will use J.J. Moses on kickoff and punt returns in their next preseason game (Aug. 21). "It's time to give J.J. a shot or two," coach Dom Capers said.
Analysis: The Texans are saying he could return for their August 27 preseason game at Denver. Assuming he can come back 100 percent, Payne will really help along the defensive line for Houston.
8/19/2004
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Jamie Sharper thinking big
News: According to the Houston Chronicle, Texans linebacker Jamie Sharper has his sights set on making the Pro Bowl this season. "I felt Jamie should have gone (to the Pro Bowl) last year," said defensive end Gary Walker. "If he has the same year this season, he will go. You have to put in a year to get a year."
Analysis: The Texans have an improving defense but they should still only be considered as a reserve defense in larger leagues.
8/17/2004
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Duff to return for Texans?
News: Rookie Vontez Duff averaged 11.3 yards on three punt returns and 19.5 yards on two kickoff returns in the preseason opener against Dallas.
Analysis: Duff is battling J.J. Moses for the return duties with Houston.
7/25/2004
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Dunta Robinson signs with Texans
News: The Houston Chroncile reports that Robinson signed a six-year deal worth $10.7 million on Saturday. Robinson will start at right cornerback for the Falcons opposite Aaron Glenn. Last season's starter, Marcus Coleman, has moved to free safety.
Analysis: The Texans defense is an improving one and Robinson should be a boost -- just not immediately. Don't draft Houston's defense.
6/28/2004
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LB Babin signs contract
News: The Houston Chronicle reports the Texans have signed Babin to a contract on Saturday. He is expected to start with the Texans.
Analysis: The Western Michigan product will help make the Houston defense a respectable No. 2 Fantasy unit.
6/23/2004
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Houston Texans defense update
News: The team's official website reports the team's strong safety position is up for grabs. Eric Brown, Glenn Earl and Ramon Walker are all vying for the position.
Analysis: Neither of the three are worth using in individual defender leagues. Earl is recovering from a torn ACL suffered last October and he might not be up to full-speed until mid-season.
4/25/2004
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Coleman to move to safety
News: The Houston Chronicle reports Marcus Coleman will move to free safety with the addition of Dunta Robinson with the No. 10 pick overall.
Analysis: Robinson will be an improvement to the cornerback corps. The Texans defense will be much improved in 2003, but they are still considered a second-tier Fantasy defense,
12/11/2003
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Peek back, Glenn gone
News: Antwan Peek (toe) returned to practice on Wednesday. Dom Capers told the Houston Chronicle either Peek or Steve Foley will start at ROLB in Week 15. Peek is considered to have good potential as a pass rusher. Also, CB Aaron Glenn (groin) was placed on injured reserve.
Analysis: Houston's defense has been prone to giving up big passing plays often without Glenn, and should not be used in Fantasy leagues, even if Peek improves the pass rush slightly.
12/8/2003
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Aaron Glenn suffers groin injury
News: Glenn was forced to leave Sunday's game with a strained groin that threatens to end his season, according to the Houston Chronicle. ."It's not good ... I'll just put it like that," he said. "I can't tell you a time limit or what the problem is (until the doctors look at it), but it's not good."
Analysis: Houston's defense continues to suffer from injuries. It doesn't warrant Fantasy consideration in most formats.
12/1/2003
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Ramon Walker out for the season
News: Walker suffered a torn anterior cruciate ligament in his left leg during Sunday's game, according to the Houston Chronicle. He will miss the final month of the season.
Analysis: Walker's absence further hurts a subpar Houston defense.
11/16/2003
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Marcus Coleman suspended by Texans
News: The Texans have suspended Coleman for Sunday's game in Buffalo for a violation of team policy, according to the team's official website. Coleman will be replaced in the lineup by Kenny Wright.
Analysis: Coleman's absence further hurts Houston's poor pass defense. Don't use this unit in Fantasy leagues in Week 11.
10/25/2003
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Aaron Glenn ready to roll
News: Glenn (groin) will play Sunday at Indianapolis after missing the last two games.
Analysis: The Houston defense is still too unreliable to start most weeks.
10/16/2003
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Aaron Glenn doubtful
News: Glenn (groin) is listed as doubtful for Sunday's game against the Jets.
Analysis: The Texans pass defense could be affected greatly this week with an injured cornerback of Glenn's caliber.
10/8/2003
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Glenn is out indefinitely
News: The Houston Chronicle says Aaron Glenn (groin) is out indefinitely. He did not practice during the bye week and there is no timetable for his return. Kenny Wright will likely start at left cornerback in Glenn's place.
Analysis: Houston's defense is not recommended for starting purposes against the Titans on the road in Week 6.
9/15/2003
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Texans DT out for the season
News: Seth Payne has a torn ACL in his left knee and will miss the rest of the season.
Analysis: Gary Walker is also injured, and the problems on the defensive line are making a sometimes respectable Fantasy unit much less useful.
News: The Houston Chronicle reports Gary Walker (shoulder) is now listed as questionable, and Corey Sears might have to start in his place again. "We will see where Gary is and see what he can do (Wednesday)," coach Dom Capers said. LB Antwan Peek is out indefinitely with a sprained ligament in his right knee. LB Troy Evans also will not practice Wednesday after aggravating a groin injury over the weekend. S Travares Tillman (forearm) will practice on a limited basis.
Analysis: The Texans defense is worth starting in larger Fantasy leagues in Week 2.
9/2/2003
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Texans DE battling shoulder injury
News: The Houston Chronicle notes defensive end Gary Walker could miss Sunday's game at Miami with an injured left shoulder. he was able to suit up in full pads on Monday. "He worked on a limited basis," Dom Capers said. "We've got four more days. Then you have to make a decision -- if he is active -- how much would we use him. It could range all the way from not playing at all to pass-rushing on third down to playing on first and second down."
Analysis: Corey Sears might start in Walker's place. Without Walker, the Hosuton defensive line might be much less effective, and will be a risky starting unit in Fantasy leagues.
8/5/2003
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CB Aaron Glenn practicing
News: The team's official website reports Glenn (hamstring) was able to return to practice on Monday.
Analysis: Houston's defense will be a solid pick as a No. 2 unit on Draft Day.
8/4/2003
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Houston defense is hobbling
News: The Houston Chronicle notes FS Travares Tillman will miss three to five weeks with a broken forearm. CB Kenny Wright (knee) is out another week, and rookie DT Keith Wright (knee) won't practice this week.
Analysis: The injuries don't soften the starting defense overall, and Matt Stevens is still available to play free safety. Houston's defense can still be respectable from a Fantasy perspective.
7/31/2003
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Sharper misses practice session
News: The Houston Chronicle reports Jamie Sharper missed Wednesday's practice because of a knee injury, and he will be re-evaluated on Thursday.
Analysis: Houston's defense should be respectable from a Fantasy perspective in 2003. Sharper is part of a solid linebacking corps.
7/29/2003
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CB Aaron Glenn out Monday
News: Glenn (hamstring) missed Monday's practice, according to the team's official website.
Analysis: Glenn is considered day to day. The Texans are a decent choice as a No. 2 Fantasy defense in 2003.
7/28/2003
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CB Glenn tweaks hamstring
News: The Houston Chronicle reports Aaron Glenn tweaked his left hamstring over the weekend.
Analysis: The injury is not considered to be serious, but the Texans will re-evaluate Glenn and hold him out of workouts if necessary. Houston should have a respectable Fantasy defense again this season.
