Houston Texans 2010 Season Predictions

July 14, 2010

The Houston Texans finished the 2009 season at 9-7 and second place in the AFC South behind the Indianapolis Colts. It was the first season in franchise history that the Texans finished the year with a winning record. This team doesn’t just want winning seasons though, they want a shot at the playoffs, and should have a very a good chance at that this season. Here is a look at what the Houston Texans are expected to send on the field on both sides of the ball in 2010, plus my prediction on where they finish the year in the AFC South.

Offense: Under quarterback Matt Schaub the Texans finished the 2009 season with the No.1 passing offense at nearly 291 yards a game. It was the first time Schaub played in all 16 games in his three seasons with the Texans, and he will have to play in all 16 if this team wants to make the playoffs.

The Texans need to find a way to get Schaub some help in the running game, as Steve Slaton dropped way off in 2009, and ended up running for only 437 yards and three touchdowns. Ryan Moats and rookie Ben Tate figure to push Slaton this season for the leading role.

There is no question that Schaub’s favorite target is wide receiver Andre Johnson, who has quietly emerged as one of the best at his position. Kevin Walter gives Schaub a solid No.2 threat, while tight end Owen Daniels is one of the best pass catching tight ends in the NFL. Look for big numbers from all three of these guys in 2010.

The offensive line played pretty well in 2009, especially left tackle Duane Brown and right tackle Eric Winston. Things aren’t so set inside. Mike Brisiel figures to battle Chris White for the starting right guard spot, while Wade Smith and Antoine Caldwell will push center Chris Myers and guard Kasey Studdard for the other starting jobs.

Defense: The Texans continue to get better and better on the defensive side of the ball, and that all starts up front with Pro Bowl defensive end Mario Williams, who had a bit of a down year with only 9 sacks in 2009. The Texans are hoping that they will get more out of end Antonio Smith, and defensive tackles Shaun Cody and Amobi Okoye.

At linebacker the Texans will be without 2009 Defensive Rookie of the Year Brian Cushing for the first four games, as Cushing was suspended for using performance enhancing drugs. Demeco Ryans is very good in the middle, and is coming off his second Pro Bowl appearance. Zac Diles will start at the other outside linebacker spot, and Danny Clark figures to play in Cushings place the first four games.

The Texans need to improve in pass defense, as they ranked in the bottom half of the league last season. They are hoping that rookie Kareem Jackson can step in right away and play opposite Glover Quin at the corner position. Bernard Pollard was a very nice addition to the defense last year, and has quickly become the leader of this group. Eugene Wilson figures to start at free safety next to Pollard, but must play well to avoid losing his job to Troy Nolan or Dominique Barber.

Prediction – 2nd AFC South: While I think the Texans have the chance to be a very good football team in 2010, I don’t think they will have what it takes to top the Colts for the division crown.

For a complete look at the upcoming season check out my 2010 NFL predictions. If you plan on betting the NFL this season, be sure to check back each week for our live NFL odds.

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Posted by Jack Jones · Filed Under Football Picks, Football Predictions, Football Rankings 

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