Houston Texans 2002

[xjayex]

The Houston Texans 2002 was the franchise's first-ever season and the city of Houston's first NFL season since the Houston Oilers left in 1997 to move to Tennessee to become the Titans.

Rules:
-Injuries: 75
-Can only use 30 of my 60 rookie interviews.
-Salary Cap Increase:15 - 25
-Can only sign two UDFA rookies per year.
-No draft pick stocking aka: New England Patriot trades.
-5 Year initial "safe net", unless fired by cpu. After that, will step down for prolonged bad years.
-Have fun!

[xjayex]

January 21, 2001

According to ESPN.com's George Willson, the Houston Texans hired Dom Capers to head coach. Capers will begin his new duties immediately.

Former Jacksonville Jaguars defensive coordinator Dom Capers was introduced at University of Houston on Sunday afternoon, and when questioned about his second chance with a fresh team, Capers explained that his only concern was getting started at his new job.

"I am excited to get things moving" Capers said. His first priority will be to hire coordinators -- a process that Capers believes needs to be handled thoughtfully.

"I'd rather be slow and right than quick and wrong," Capers said.

He described a "Cover 7 style" wish list of coaches he had in mind for his staff. Now the concern for both Capers and Houston fans will be how long till they see results.

[xjayex]

Here is a look at the history of Houston Texans first coach, Dom Capers.

1992 - 1994 Pittsburgh Steelers Defensive Coordinator

1995 - 1998 Carolina Panthers Head Coach (30-34 regular season, 1-1 playoffs)

1999 - 2000 Jacksonville Jaguars Defensive Coordinator

2002-???? Houston Texans Head Coach

Dom Capers won Coach of the Year in 1996 as he and the Panthers made it to the NFC championship game. Riding the second most stingy defense of the year only allowing 218 points.

[xjayex]

February 2, 2001

The Houston Texans hire Chris Palmer as Offensive Coordinator. Palmer spent the previous two seasons as the Head Coach of the Cleveland Browns.

January 14, 2002

The Houston Texans hire former Indianapolis Colts Defensive Coordinator Vic Fangio as the Texans first Defensive Coordinator.

April 20th, 2002

The Texans with the first overall selection of the 2002 NFL Draft pick Fresno State quarterback David Carr.

[xjayex]

Houston Gets to 53.

The Texans sign 8 players including undrafted free agent rookies, quarterback Jonathan Ingalls from Oregon and Center Dean Buckner from North Carolina State. While cutting 6 to get to league standard of 53 players on the roster. Of the cuts, wide receiver Avion Black was the most notable.


Roster Cuts:
Moran Norris Fullback
Avion Black Wide Receiver
Atnaf Harris Wide Receiver
Pat Dennis Cornerback
Jason Simmons Cornerback
Jason Bell Cornerback


Free Agent Signings:
Scott Covington QB 1 year $380,000 with $10,000 signing bonus ($330k vet min)
Jonathan Ingalls UDFA QB 1 year $220,000 with $10,000 signing bonus
Autry Denson RB 1 year $380,000 with $10,000 signing bonus ($330k vet min)
Jared Tomich LDE 1 year $430,000 with $10,000 signing bonus ($330k vet min)
Jay Williams RDE 1 year $520,000 with $10,000 signing bonus ($330k vet min)
Jeff Kelly MLB 1 year $380,000 with $10,000 signing bonus ($330k vet min)
Ryan Kuehl LDT 1 year $430,000 with $10,000 signing bonus ($330k vet min)
Ernest Grant RDT 1 year $320,000 with $10,000 signing bonus
Dean Buckner UDFA Center 1 year $220,000 with $10,000 signing bonus

Position Changes:
Steve McKinney LG to Center
Ryan Schau RT to LT

[xjayex]

From the desk of Charley Casserly:

Dom, you're going to have to groom David Carr quickly this preseason. With any luck, we will have a franchise quarterback to build around. At least he has a decent offensive line in front of him. While the tackle position is weak, we do have some guys that have NFL experience and are more than warm bodies. Also, Kippy says Jabar Gaffney is struggling to grasp the playbook but has the ability stretch the field.

Well, that's it for now. I'll check back later.

Senior Vice President and General Manager,
Chuck Casserly

[xjayex]

2002 Houston Texans Preseason Depth Chart:

QB:
David Carr (r), Scott Covington, Jonathan Ingalls (r)

RB:
James Allen, Jonathan Wells (r)

FB:
Jarrod Baxter (r)

TE:
Billy Miller, Rod Rutledge

Flankers:
Jabar Gaffney (r), Jermaine Lewis

Split Ends:
Jajuan Dawson, Frank Murphy

5th Reciever:
Jonathan Wells (r) RB

LT:
Chad Overhauser, Ryan Schau (r)

LG:
Cameron Spikes, Chester Pitts (r)

Center:
Steve McKinney, Dean Buckner (r)

RG:
DeMingo Graham, Fred Weary (r)

RT:
Char-ron Dorsey, Ryan Young


Kicker:
Kris Brown

Punter:
Chad Stanley

Punt Returns:
Jermaine Lewis WR

Kickoff Returns:
Aaron Glenn CB

LDE:
Corey Sears, Jared Tomich

RDE:
Jerry De Loach, Erik Flowers

LDT:
Charles Hill (r), Ryan Kuehl

RDT:
Seth Payne, Ernest Grant

SLB:
Jamie Sharper, Jimmy McClain (r)

MLB:
Kailee Wong, Jeff Kelly

WLB:
Keith Mitchell, Jeff Posey

LCB:
Ramon Walker (r), Kenny Wright (Nickle)

RCB:
Marcus Coleman, Aaron Glenn

SS:
Matt Stevens, Chris Carter

FS:
Kevin Williams, Eric Brown (Dime)

Inactive:
Autry Denson RB, Jabari Holloway TE, Corey Bradford WR, Jimmy Herndon RT, Jay Williams RDE, Troy Evans WLB (r), DaMarcus Faggins LCB (r)

[BYU 14]

9 rookies in the two deep on offense, they are going to need to grow up quickly

[xjayex]

2002 Houston Texans Preseason

Week 1: OPEN
Week 2: @ Arizona Cardinals 16-0 loss
Week 3: @ New Orleans Saints 20-17 loss
Week 4: Dallas Cowboys 13-7 loss
Week 5: Tampa Bay Buccaneers 23-8 loss

Injury Report:
Corey Sears LDE - Pulled Calf Muscle, out, 2 weeks.

The Texans have struggled offensively thus far. Scoring only 32 points in 4 games. Rookie quarterback David Carr has looked the part going 17 for 25 108 yards and 1 touchdown pass and 1 interception in the run first offense.

Other rookie, wide receiver Jabar Gaffney also has struggled. Making 7 catches for 67 yards.

The projected starters on defense looked strong while playing. Allowing 24 points in 4 games.

Two major issues going into the season are:
1. The Texans have not had the lead in any game.
2. Despite being a “ball control” offense, the Texans have averaged only 23:30 minuets of possession per game. With a high of 26:06 and a low of 19:28.

[britrock88]

Dom Capers running a 4-3? Whaaa?

[xjayex]

He's having a tough time with personnel at this time.

[xjayex]

From the desk of Charley Casserly:

Dom, things seem a little rough on offence. I know it’s the first year, you have time to build your team. Speaking of building a team, I noticed you’re running a 4-3 and I know you wanted to be a 3-4 base team. Do you want me to scout out talent suited for a 3-4? Let me know.

We’ve got Peyton Manning and the Colts coming for week 1 and it’s at home. Hope we can “shock the world”. Would be a great start, I would think.


Senior Vice President and General Manager,
Chuck Casserly

[xjayex]

News and Notes: Week 1: Colts (0-0) @ Texans (0-0)

“Will Brady and the Patriots repeat?”
“…Atlanta Falcons RDT Ellis Johnson will miss the season with shoulder surgery…”
“… Miami veteran wideout Cris Carter will miss first 4 weeks…”
“… Fred Taylor still out at least one more week with knee injury…”
“… Steelers will miss Plaxico Burress for season opener…”


“David Carr will start over Scott Covington…Houston Texans make some changes to the starters… Jermaine Lewis will start in place of Jabar Gaffney… Corey Sears still out… Jay Williams activated…”

The Game:
The Texans' defensive unit cannot be expected to carry the team to victory if the offense cannot do its part. While the Colts scored on two of it’s first four possessions, the Texans was able to muster a total of 152 yards, 3 punts and an interception in the end zone on it’s longest drive of 73 yards to open the game.

While the Texans outscored the Colts 14-13 in the second half and played very well against Manning, it wasn’t enough to overcome the 14-0 hole from the first half. Colts go on to win 27-14 in Houston.

Texans Stats:
David Carr QB 17 for 36, 333yrds, 2 tds 3 ints
Jermaine Lewis WR 6 rec, 144 yrds, 0 td
Jeff Kelly MLB 0 tkls, 1int

Colts Stats:
Peyton Manning QB 30 for 41, 302yrds, 2tds 1int
Reggie Wayne WR 8rec, 126yrds, 1td
Marvin Harrison WR 6rec, 78yrds, 0td

Week 2: Texans (0-1) @ Redskins (1-0)

From: Personnel Department

Injury Report:

Corey Sears, LDE - Pulled Calf Muscle, Questionable, full strength in about 1 week.
Jermaine Lewis, FL - Knee Tendonitis, Probable, full strength in about 4 weeks.


News and Notes:
“…Despite putting up great numbers against the Colts, wideout Jermaine Lewis will not start versus the Redskins. He will see time but will be limited…” - ESPN.com

“… Texans defensive end Corey Sears will not suit up in the up coming game in Washington…” - NFL.com

“… Dan Wilkinson will play against the Colts this Sunday. The elbow while not 100% it isn’t restricting the Redskins nose tackle…”

The Game:
David Carr may get benched after this outing. Wildly inaccurate most of the night, the young quarterback had still has things to learn about the NFL. Washington controlled the game for the first three quarters going up 24-3. Then in the 4th the Texans defense forced three turnovers, including a pick six by corner back Marcus Coleman sparking a 14 point late game explosion. Despite the late game heroics, the Texans offense couldn’t help the defense out at all. Texans lose 24-17 and fall to 0-2. The Texans will host the 1-1 Dallas Cowboys next week.

“I'm sure that our offense is not real confident coming out of this game, but they'll recover. David was under duress a lot and I don't think our offensive performance was really what we were looking for out of our total offensive team.” - Dom Capers

Texans Stats:
Marcus Coleman CB, 3tkl, 1int (returned for td)
Kailee Wong MLB, 5tkl, 2asst, 0sack
David Carr QB, 7 for 28, 74yrds, 1td 1int

Redskins Stats:
Tony Banks QB, 28 for 41, 243yrds, 2td 1int
Stephen Davis RB, 18att, 65yrds, 1td
Sam Shade S, 4tkl, 1int

[xjayex]

Week 3: Cowboys (1-1) @ Texans (0-2)


From: Personnel Department

Injury Report:

Corey Sears, LDE - 100%
Jermaine Lewis, FL - Knee Tendonitis, Probable, full strength in about 3 weeks.


News and Notes:
"... David Carr gets the start after last weeks debacle..." - The Houston Chronicle
"... Corey Sears returns to the lineup... not starting..." - ESPN.com
"... back up right tackle Ryan Young says he can help offensive woes..." - NFL.com
"... Dallas safety Darren Woodson out with broken arm..." -NFL.com
"...Cowboys offense needs a spark..." -ESPN.com

The Game:
Even with 4 turnovers the Dallas Cowboys crushed the expansion Houston Texans by the score of 31-9. The Cowboys confused and beat up David Carr the whole game till Dom Capers had no choice but to pull him in favor of Scott Covington.

The Texans defense was also abused by the Cowboys rushing attack most of the night. As Emmitt Smith and Michael Wiley combined for 116 yards and 2 tds.

"What do you want me to say?" - David Carr

Texans Stats:
Kailee Wong MLB, 11tkl, 0sack
Jonathan Wells RB, 10att, 62yrds, 0td
David Carr QB, 4 for 16, 48 yrds, 0td 2int

Cowboys Stats:
Emmitt Smith RB, 17att, 74yrds, 1td, 7rec, 42yrds, 0td
Kevin Hardy SLB, 6tkl, 1int (returned for a td)
Flozell Adams LT, 5key blocks, 2 pancakes

Week 4: Texans (0-3) @ Raiders (0-3)


From: Personnel Department

Injury Report:


Jermaine Lewis, FL - Knee Tendonitis, Probable, full strength in about 2 weeks.
Jerry De Loach, RDE - Sprained Knee, Questionable, full strength in about 4 weeks.
Jared Tomich, LDE - Hyperextended Knee, Questionable, full strength in about 4 weeks.

News and Notes:
"David Carr is benched." - ESPN.com
"Texans will start Covington." -NFL.com
"Capers put the Carr in the garage." -The Houston Chronicle
"David Carr SUCKS!!!1!one!" -some user on a football forum

The Game:
In the game against the resistible force (Houston) and the moveable object (Oakland) one of these 0-3 teams had to come out on top, right? Other than it was the Texans first win this was a very forgettable game. The Houston Texans blanked the Oakland Raiders 13-0 and move to 1-3.

Scott Covington played very well and has earned the start for next week.

Texans Stats:
Scott Covington QB, 13 for 24, 217yrds, 1td 0int
Kris Brown K, 2/2fg (long 45yrds) 1/1exp
Matt Stevens S, 5tkl, 1sack

Raiders Stats:
Rod Coleman DT, 10tkl, 0sack
Tim Johnson MLB, 6tkl, 3asst
Rich Gannon QB, 18 for 32, 161yrds, 0td 2int

[xjayex]

Week 5: Giants (3-1) @ Texans (1-3)

From: Personnel Department
Injury Report:
Jermaine Lewis, FL - Knee Tendonitis, Probable, full strength in about 1 week.
Jerry De Loach, RDE - Sprained Knee, Questionable, full strength in about 3 weeks.
Jared Tomich, LDE - Hyperextended Knee, Questionable, full strength in about 3 weeks.

News and Notes:
“…Ryan Young will start at right tackle…” - The Houston Chronicle
“… Rookie tightend Jeremy Shockey says the Giants will put up 35 on the Texans…” -ESPN.com
“… David Carr still on the bench…” - NFL.com
The Game:

The Texans upset the New York Giants with a 19-16 win. It was a back and forth defensive struggle all day long. James Allen ran very well for Houston and had a long of 31 yards. Quarterback Scott Covington did enough to not lose the game. Kerry Collins struggled at times and was frustrated.

The key to game was in the 4th quarter. Down 16-13 the Texans put together a 17 play 9 minuet drive. While they didn’t get a touchdown, Kris Brown hit a 37 yard field goal to tie the game. Then, Giants running back Tiki Barber fumbled the ball giving the Texans good field position with only 2:19 to go. 6 plays and 50 yards later, Brown hit a chipshot field goal with :03 left on the clock to seal the deal and give Houston their second win in a row.

Texans Stats:
James Allen RB, 25att, 149yrds, 0td
Scott Covington QB, 12 for 25, 126yrds, 1td 1int
Jay Williams RDE, 3tkl, 1sack

Giants Stats:
Amani Toomer WR, 5rec, 68yrds, 0td
Tiki Barber RB, 21att, 91yrds, 0td
Ron Dayne RB, 2att, 8yrds, 1td

Week 6: Chiefs (3-1) @ Texans (2-3)

From: Personnel Department
Injury Report:
Scott Covington, QB - Sprained Ankle, Probable, full strength in about 1 week.
Jermaine Lewis, FL - Knee Tendonitis, Probable, full strength in about 1 week.
Jerry De Loach, RDE - Sprained Knee, Questionable, full strength in about 2 weeks.
Jared Tomich, LDE - Hyperextended Knee, Questionable, full strength in about 2 weeks.
Chris Carter, SS - Strained Hamstring, Questionable, return to full strength unknown.

News and Notes:
“… Covington continues to win, Carr to stay on bench…” - ESPN.com
“… Not everyone is happy in Houston. Carr speaks…” Yahoo.com
“…Covington wont miss game with sprained ankle…” NFL.com
“… Texans prepare for Trent Green and Priest Holmes…” The Houston Chronicle

The Game:
Another close game but with different results. Houston loses a tight game 13-10 in overtime. The Texans took the lead into the second half 10-7. Then in the second half the Texans punted the ball on all 4 positions in regulation. Meanwhile the Chiefs had similar struggles but managed to squeak out a 53 yard field goal late in the game to tie it up.

In overtime Houston punted it the two times they had it before Kansas City won the game off of a 39 yard Husted kick.

Going into the bye week the Texans fall to 2-4.

Texans Stats:
James Allen RB, 27att, 116yrds, 0td
Scott Covington QB, 11 for 20, 93yrds, 1td 0int
Matt Stevens SS, 8tkl, 1asst, 0sack 0int

Chiefs Stats:
Trent Green QB, 22 for 33, 263yrds, 1td 0int
Tony Gonzalez TE, 4rec, 109yrds, 1td
Priest Holmes RB, 19att, 79yrds, 0td

[Autumn]

I love the format, especially the News and Notes. Good read.

[xjayex]

Thanks!

[Izulde]

Originally Posted by Autumn

I love the format, especially the News and Notes. Good read.

This.

And it looks like Carr... *put on sunglasses* ...is the Wong choice for the Texans. YEAH!!!

[xjayex]

Week 7: Bye Week

From: Personnel Department
Injury Report:
Scott Covington, QB, is now 100%
Jermaine Lewis, FL, is now 100%
Jerry De Loach, RDE - Sprained Knee, Probable, full strength in about 1 week.
Jared Tomich, LDE - Hyperextended Knee, Probable, full strength in about 1 week.
Ernest Grant, RDT - Sprained Knee, Questionable, full strength in about 4 weeks.
Chris Carter, SS - Strained Hamstring, Questionable, return to full strength unknown.

News and Notes:
“… Favre and the Pack try to stay unbeaten…” - NFL.com
“… Pittsburgh heads to Miami without Lee Flowers…” -Pittsburgh Post Gazette
“… Busted? David Carr’s status with the Texans…” - The Houston Chronicle


From the desk of Charley Casserly:

Dom, you may want to give David a vote of confidence. We drafted him #1 overall. Maybe he just has to sit and learn a year before he adjusts. Like Pennington in New York or Daunte Culpepper in Minnesota. Covington is doing alright now but he’s not the answer. Do you think he would be starting on any of the other 31 teams?

I know we’ve been playing pretty solid defense the last few games but maybe we could get DaMarcus Faggins some game time in a back up role? He has some potential.

Senior Vice President and General Manager,
Chuck Casserly

Quarterback Comparison:
David Carr: 3 starts, 28 for 80, 455yrds, 3td 6ints, 36.2 rate
Scott Covington: 3 starts 4games played, 40 for 77, 456yrds, 3td 1int, 77.6 rate
Jonathan Ingalls: 0 games, 0 for 0, 0yrds, 0td 0int

Post Week 7 standings attached.

[xjayex]

Week 8: Texans (2-4) @ Colts (4-2)

From: Personnel Department
Injury Report:
Jerry De Loach, RDE - Sprained Knee, is now 100%
Jared Tomich, LDE - Hyperextended Knee, is now 100%
Ernest Grant, RDT - Sprained Knee, Questionable, full strength in about 4 weeks.
Chris Carter, SS - Strained Hamstring, Questionable, return to full strength unknown.

News and Notes:
"... Green Bay is unbeatable..." NFL.com
"... the Pack is back..." ESPN.com
"... De Loach and Tomich return to active duty..." - The Houston Chronicle
"... Jeff Saturday will miss Sunday... James Mungro also out..." - NFL.com

The Game:
Another hard fought game by the Texans only to fall short at the end. If Peyton Manning wasn't Peyton Manning and Jonathan Wells didn't fumble, the Texans would have won. But, as fate would have it, Wells did fumble late in the game, in field goal range on 2nd down. Then it was all Manning as he marched his team down the field with a minuet twenty left and score the winning touchdown. Dom Capers said "This one stings. We had them on the ropes".

Colts win 20-13.

Texans Stats:
Kevin Williams S, 4tkl, 3asst, 1sack
Scott Covington QB, 17 for 30, 216yrds, 0td 1int
Jonathan Wells RB, 15att, 58yrds, 0td

Colts Stats:
Peyton Manning QB, 26 for 39, 332yrds, 2td 0int
Marvin Harrison FL, 7rec, 113yrds, 0td
Chad Bratzke DE, 2tkl, 1sack

Week 9: Chargers (4-4) @ Texans (2-5)

From: Personnel Department
Injury Report:
Ernest Grant, RDT - Sprained Knee, Questionable, full strength in about 3weeks.
Chad Overhauser, LT - Sprained Thumb, Probable, full strength in about 4 weeks.
Chris Carter, SS - Strained Hamstring, Questionable, return to full strength unknown.

News and Notes:
"...low flying Jets soar over unbeaten Pack..." -ESPN.com
"... Favre throws 4 ints in loss to the Jets..." -NFL.com
"1972 Dolphins can Celebrate!" - Miami Herald
"...David Carr not happy but understands situation..." -The Houston Chronicle
"... Covington talks about the Chargers defense and NFL int leader Keith Lyle..." - ESPN.com
"... Bears still looking for answers..." -NFL.com

The Game:
The Texans played a sloppy game offensively. Quarterback Scott Covington was bruised and bloodied. Playing the worst game of his NFL career. Still, Houston was in a position to win until Drew Brees converted a 3rd and 16 putting the Chargers into field goal range late in the 4th. San Diego converted the field goal giving them the 16 - 13 win.

Capers commenting on a question about his switch to the 4-3:
"I think what it comes don to, no matter what defense you're in, it's a matter of players going out and making plays. I think many time the scheme is overrated". -Dom Capers

Texans Stats:
James Allen RB, 24att, 86yrds, 1td
Matt Stevens SS, 3tkls, 1asst, 1int
Scott Covington QB, 7 for 20, 87yrds, 0td 2int

Chargers Stats:
Drew Brees QB, 29 for 38, 258yrds, 0td 2int
Curtis Conway WR, 8rec, 91yrds, 0td
LaDainian Tomlinson RB, 17att, 57yrds, 1td

[xjayex]

Week 10: Texans (2-6) @ Jaguars (5-3)

From: Personnel Department
Injury Report:
Eric Brown, FS - is now 100%
Ernest Grant, RDT - Sprained Knee, Questionable, full strength in about 2weeks.
Chad Overhauser, LT - Sprained Thumb, Probable, full strength in about 3 weeks.
Chris Carter, SS - Strained Hamstring, is now 100%.

News and Notes:
"...Power Ratings are in: Tampa Bay #1..." NFL.com
"...Raiders release Rod Woodson..." ESPN.com
"...Texans to tryout Rod Woodson..." NFL.com
"...Houston sign quarterback Shane Matthews..." ESPN.com
"...Woodson signs deal with Texans..." NFL.com
"...Meet your new teammates Houston..." The Houston Chronicle
"... Texans release quarterback Jonathan Ingalls and strong safety Chris Carter..." The Houston Chronicle
"... Woodson to be inactive against the Jaguars. Activate DaMarcus Faggins..." The Houston Chronicle

The Game:
Another late loss for the Texans. Tying the score late at 21 with a Matt Stevens fumble return, the Texans defense allowed the opponent for the second week in a row to put together a late game winning drive. This time it was Mark Brunell who gave Richie Cunningham a great opportunity.

Texans lose 24-21.


Texans Stats:
Scott Covington QB, 12 for 23, 185yrds, 1td 0int
Matt Stevens SS, 5tkl, 2asst, 1 fumble recovery for a touchdown
Jonathan Wells RB, 11att, 77yrds, 0td

Jaguars Stats:
Mark Brunell QB, 20 for 30, 254yrds, 2td, 0int
Damon Gibson WR, 4rec, 82yrds, 1td
Wali Rainer ILB, 6tkl, 3asst, 0sack


Week 11: Texans (2-7) @ Jets (3-6)
From: Personnel Department
Injury Report:
Eric Brown, FS - is now 100%
Ernest Grant, RDT - Sprained Knee, Questionable, full strength in about 1week.
Chad Overhauser, LT - Sprained Thumb, Probable, full strength in about 2 weeks.

News and Notes:
“… Simeon Rice out for season…” NFL.com
“… Arizona will miss Rice for rest of year…” ESPN.com
“… Brad Johnson undergoes back surgery…” ESPN.com
“… Texans keep Woodson inactive…” The Houston Chronicle
“… Carr falls to 3rd on depth chart…” The Houston Chronicle

The Game:
The Texans defense had no answers for Jets running back Curtis Martin as he extended drives all day. Though once in the red zone the defense tightened up and kept the Jets out of the end zone 8 of 9 red zone possessions.

But it was still too much as the Texans offense never found any rhythm. Scott Covington did his best David Carr impersonation and the running game never got moving.

These things lead to a 16-3 win for the Jets.

Texans Stats:
Kailee Wong MLB, 6tkl, 2asst, 1sack
Keith Mitchell WLB, 5tkl, 1asst, 1sack
Jamie Sharper SLB, 11tkl, 1asst, 0sack

Jets Stats:
Curtis Martin RB, 34att, 162yrds, 1td
Chad Pennington QB, 18 for 24, 198yrds, 0td 0int
Ray Mickens CB, 2tkl, 1int

[cubboyroy1826]

Good quick read.

[xjayex]

Week 12: Titans (6-4) @ Texans (2-8)
From: Personnel Department
Injury Report:
Ernest Grant, RDT, is now 100%
Chad Overhauser, LT - Sprained Thumb, Probable, full strength in about 1 week.

News and Notes:
“…Tampa and Green Bays close to division titles already…” NFL.com
“… Randy Moss was great last week: 11 catches, 145yrds and 2 tds…” ESPN.com
“… Dom Capers says Carr is not out of the picture for Texans…” The Houston Chronicle
“… Capers says Woodson will play in a limited role this week…” The Houston Chronicle
“… DeMarcus Faggins deactivated as Woodson suits up…” The Houston Chronicle

The Game:
James Allen got the 62,000 Houston fans into a frenzy with a 65 yard touchdown run on the second play of the game. Then on the next possession Houston makes it 14 -3 off a 9 yard td pass to Frank Murphy. The crowd was slowly silenced as Eddie George, Steve McNair and receivers Dyson and Mason methodically overcame the early deficit. Houston was held scoreless in the last 3 quarters.

Titans win 23-14.

Texans Stats:
Scott Covington QB, 12 for 27, 176yrds, 1td 0int
Frank Murphy WR, 4rec, 57yrds, 1td
James Allen RB, 14att, 87yrds, 1td

Titans Stats:
Steve McNair QB, 20 for 32, 206yrds, 2td 0int
Kevin Dyson WR, 7rec, 75yrds, 1td
Eddie George RB, 16att, 59yrds, 1td


Week 13: Texans (2-9) @ Eagles (9-2)
From: Personnel Department
Injury Report:
Chad Overhauser, LT, is now 100%

News and Notes:
“… Pittsburgh heads to Baltimore for a big AFC North Game…” ESPN.com
“…Jacksonville and Tennessee battle it out for playoff positioning…” NFL.com
“… Green Bay at 10-1 can win division with win…” NFL.com
“… Woodson to see more snaps…” The Houston Chronicle

The Game:
Philadelphia controlled the game. Scoring on their first 3 drives. Texans scored 10 in garbage time to make it seem closer than it was. Jajuan Dawson had a great day.

Eagles win 28 - 16.

Texans Stats:
Jajuan Dawson WR, 7rec, 101yrds, 1td
Scott Covington QB, 15 for 31, 209yrds, 1td 0int
Jamie Sharper SLB, 7tkl, 3asst, 0sack

Eagles Stats:
Duce Staley RB, 13att, 80yrds, 2td, 4rec, 56yrds, 1td
Donovan McNabb QB, 21 for 35, 271yrds, 1td 0int
N.D Kalu DE, 2tkl, 1sack

[xjayex]

Week 14: Ravens (8-4) @Texans (2-10)
From: Personnel Department
Injury Report:
No injuries.

News and Notes:
"...Green Bay wins NFC North..." NFL.com
"... Tampa Bay can clench division with win..." NFL.com
"...Seattle can get in with win..." NFL.com
"...NFC is just about wrapped up with 5 games to go... AFC still wide open..." NFL.com

The Game:
Baltimore steam rolls Houston 23-6. Scott Covington was erratic and eventually pulled in the 4th quarter. Shane Matthews comes in and goes 2 for 4 with 32yards. Lead the team to a field goal.

Texans Stats:
Kailee Wong MLB, 9tkl, 2asst, 0.5sack, 1int
James Allen RB, 9att, 57yrds, 0td
Kris Brown K, 2 for 2 fg,

Ravens Stats:
Jamal Lewis RB, 28att, 140yrds, 1td
Brandon Stokley WR, 6rec, 86yrds, 1td
Chris McAlister CB, 3tkl, 1int

Week 15: Texans (2-11) @ Titans (9-4)
From: Personnel Department
Injury Report:
Jonathan Wells, RB - Knee Contusion, Probable, full strength in about 1 week.

News and Notes:
"... Tampa Bay wins NFC South..." NFL.com
"... with Seattle loss and a Vikings win, Vikings still alive for post season..." NFL.com
"... Chiefs win AFC West..." NFL.com
"... 3 way tie in AFC East: Buffalo, New England and Miami at 7-6..." NFL.com
"... Shane Matthews to start as Houston starts looking at off season..." The Houston Chronicle

The Game:
Titans take early lead and go into second half with 20-0 lead. Second half James Allen and Shane Matthews take over. Mixing runs with passes the Texans offense looked like a fine tuned machine. Texans steal this game 28-26.

"My hope is we learned from what we did today." -Dom Capers

Texans Stats:
James Allen RB, 21att, 124yrds, 2td
Shane Matthews QB, 11 for 16, 163yrds, 2td 1int
Matt Stevens SS, 2tkl, 3asst, 1forced fumble

Titans Stats:
Steve McNair QB, 32 for 45, 409yrds, 3td 0int
Derrick Mason WR, 10rec, 126yrds, 1td
Justin McCareins WR, 7rec, 101yrds, 0td

[xjayex]

Week 16: Texans (3-11) @ Broncos (4-10)
From: Personnel Department
Injury Report:
Jonathan Wells, RB, is now 100%
Jerry De Loach, RDE - Strained Elbow Tendon, Out, full strength in about 3 weeks.

News and Notes:
"... Eagles win NFC East..." NFL.com
"... Baltimore and Pittsburgh claim playoff spots..." NFL.com
"... Seattle and Minnesota fighting for final NFC spot..." NFL.com
"... Rod Woodson inactive. Faggins reactivated..." The Houston Chronicle

The Game:
While the offence for the Texans kept up what they started last week, the defense played weak and seemingly, uninspired. Matthews made it interesting down the stretch with a 65 yard touchdown run, it just wasn't enough as the Broncos win 30-24.

Texans Stats:
Shane Matthews QB, 16 for 26, 213yrds, 2td 1int, 1att, 65yrds, 1td
Jonathan Wells RB, 14att, 61yrds, 0td
Matt Stevens SS, 6tkls, 2asst, 1forced fumble

Broncos Stats:
Steve Beuerlein QB, 21 for 32, 221yrds, 2td 0int
Ashley Lelie WR, 3rec, 55yrds, 2td, 2punt returns, 84yrds, 1td
Jason Elam K, 3 for 3field goal, 3 for 3exp

Week 17: Jaguars (8-7) @ Texans (3-12)
From: Personnel Department
Injury Report:
Jerry De Loach, RDE - Strained Elbow Tendon, Out, full strength in about 2 weeks.
Kevin Williams, FS - Separated Shoulder, Out, full strength in 2003.

News and Notes:
"...Seattle secures a playoff spot..." NFL.com
"... Buffalo and Pittsburgh win their respective divisions..." NFL.com
"... Cincinnati, Tennessee and Jacksonville all fighting for final wildcard spot in the AFC..." NFL.com
"... with injuries to secondary, Rod Woodson will start in final game of season..." The Houston Chronicle

The Game:
The Texans end their first season with a 29-16 loss to the Jaguars who were fighting for a playoff spot. Despite the win the Jaguars did not qualify as they missed out on the tie breakers.

"We won three games and lost several close ones. Overall, I think we did some good things but there were things we could do much better. We will evaluate several positions this off season. Right now, we will take some time off and prepare for the free agency and the draft." - Dom Capers

Texans Stats:
Shane Matthews QB, 15 for 34, 181yrds, 1td 1int
James Allen RB, 13att, 67yrds, 1td
Jajuan Dawson WR, 4rec, 73yrds, 1td

Jaguars Stats:
Mark Brunell QB, 22 for 36, 268yrds, 1td 2ints
Fred Taylor RB, 27att, 123yrds, 1td
Micah Ross WR, 5rec, 76yrds, 1td

[xjayex]

AFC Playoff Picture:

Pittsburgh 13-3 North Division Champs and Kansas City 12-4 West Division Champs have the bye week.

Baltimore 11-5 @ Buffalo 9-7
Cincinnati 9-7 @ Indianapolis 11-5

NFC Playoff Picture:

Green Bay 15-1 North Division Champs and Philadelphia 14-2 East Division Champs have the bye week.

Minnesota 9-7 @ Tampa Bay 12-4
St. Louis 11-5 @ Seattle 11-5

[xjayex]

WILD CARD ROUND:
vs
Baltimore 35 Buffalo 10
Jeff Blake QB, 26 for 33, 272yrds, 5td 0int


vs
Cincinnati 35 Indianapolis 21
Corey Dillon RB, 27att, 157yrds, 2td
vs
Tampa Bay 35 Minnesota 3
Rob Johnson QB, 18 for 21, 181yrds, 2td 1int

vs
St.Louis 33 Seattle 27
Matt Hasselbeck QB, 33 for 42, 305yrds, 2td 0int

[xjayex]

Divisional Round:


vs
Kansas City 26 Baltimore 3
Priest Holmes RB, 26att, 135yrds, 1td
vs
Pittsburgh 16 Cincinnati 9
Jerrome Bettis RB, 24att, 113yrds, 1td
vs
St. Louis 31 Green Bay 24
Kurt Warner QB, 23 for 33, 337yrds, 4td 1int
vs
Philadelphia 33 Tampa Bay 16
Donovan McNabb QB, 21 for 31, 198yrds, 2td 0int

[xjayex]

AFC Championship Game

Time: 1pm Saturday
Where: Heinz Field


Weather: 28 degrees, wind 7mph


"... Tackle John Tait will miss the AFC Championship game in Pittsburgh..." NFL.com
"... Steelers free safety Mike Logan will not be available..." NFL.com
"... Joey Porter says KC is a speed bump to the Super Bowl..." ESPN.com
"... Chiefs quarterback Trent Green ready..." NFL.com

vs
Pittsburgh 33 Kansas City 10
Tommy Maddox QB, 23 for 31, 260yrds, 2td 0int

"... Steelers Super Bowl bound..." ESPN.com
"... Maddox come back player of the year..." ESPN.com
"... Trent Green sacked 5 times in loss..." NFL.com
"I've got a feeling..." Pittsburgh Post Gazette

[xjayex]

NFC Championship Game

Time: 1pm Sunday
Where: The Vet


Weather: 34 degrees wind 8mph

"... Rams defensive end Tyoka Jackson out..." NFL.com
"... Grant Williams out for St. Louis..." NFL.com
"... Starting left defensive tackle Corey Simon will miss the NFC championship with sprained knee..." NFL.com
"... Kurt Warner looking to go to a second straight Super Bowl..." NFL.com
"... McNabb going to play despite shoulder injury..." NFL.com


vs
St. Louis 21 Philadelphia 17
Marshall Faulk RB, 23att, 113yrds, 2tds

"... Final game at the Vet..." NFL.com
"... Rams back to back NFC Champions..." NFL.com
"... Warner MVP?..." ESPN.com

[xjayex]

vs

Pittsburgh Injury List:
Brent Alexander FS
Mike Logan FS
Kendall Simmons RG
Karl Schafer SE

St. Louis Injury List:
O.J Brigance SLB
Chad Cota SS
Tyoka Jackson LDE
Brandon Manumaleuna TE
Grant Williams RT
Zack Dodge LDT

"...Pittsburgh on 10 game winning streak, needs one more..." ESPN.com
"... Wild Card Rams trying not to lose back to back Super Bowls..." ESPN.com
"... In, out and back in again: Maddox and Warner's rise to success in the NFL..." NFL.com
"... The Bus ready to roll in San Diego..." NFL.com
"... Joey Porter has choice words for the Rams..." Yahoo.com
"... Issac Bruce says Rams unphased and ready..." NFL.com


Pittsburgh 35 St. Louis 28
MVP:Jerome Bettis RB, 29att, 139yrds, 4tds

"Super Steelers" NFL.com
"One for the Thumb" ESPN.com
"Champions" Pittsburgh Post Gazette

[xjayex]

2002: End of Year Review, Houston

Awards:
All Pro Second Team Punter: Chad Stanley


Stats:
Passing: Scott Covington, 121 for 268, 1496yrds, 6td 7int
Rushing: James Allen, 274att, 1175yrds, 6td
Recieving: Jajuan Dawson, 50rec, 673yrds, 6td
Tackles: Keith Mitchell 91
Sacks: Corey Sears 3.5
Ints: Eric Brown, Marcus Coleman, Jamie Sharper, Kaliee Wong 2





2002: End of Year Review, NFL

MVP: Steve McNair QB Tennessee Titans
Super Bowl MVP: Jerome Bettis RB Pittsburgh Steelers
Offensive Rookie of the Year: DeShaun Foster RB Carolina Panthers
Defensive Rookie of the Year: Akin Ayodele SLB Jacksonville Jaguars


2002 Standings

[xjayex]

From the desk of Charley Casserly:

Well, our first year is over. We have much to do moving forward. First, we're going to hire a new head of scouting. I don't feel that Frank Upshaw is doing the job that he should. We're going to have to part ways with him.

Next, what direction are we going with David Carr and our quarterback situation? We should give him at least one more year, maybe two. I'm also thinking we should keep Shane Matthews around for a bit.

Finally, let's focus on resigning the guys we feel are going to help us move forward and the up coming free agency period. Then we will focus on the draft.

Senior Vice President and General Manager,
Chuck Casserly

[xjayex]

Houston Texans Offseason News:

"...Texans fire Head Scout Frank Upshaw..." NFL.com
"... Melvin Hampton announced as new Texans Head of Scouting..." NFL.com
"... Ticket prices rise slightly..." The Houston Chronicle
"... Rod Woodson retires..." NFL.com
"... David Carr works with developmental squad this summer..." ESPN.com
"... Houston guard DeMingo Graham signs franchise tag..." NFL.com
"... The Texans set to sign RFA's and scout out this years draft class..." The Houston Chronicle
"... Houston signs RFA's Jajuan Dawson, Char-ron Dorsey and Dean Buckner..." The Houston Chronicle
"... Scott Covington not given a new contract..." NFL.com
"... Dan Wilkinson chooses Carolina over Houston..." NFL.com
"... Tackle Kip Vikers goes to the Giants..." NFL.com
"... Al Harris decides to go with NFC Champs..." NFL.com
"... Jake Delhomme resigns with Saints..." NFL.com
"... Todd Washington resigns with the Bucs..." NFL.com
"... Dre Bly picks Tampa Bay..." NFL.com
"... The Texans bolster receiving corps, sign Johnnie Morton and Frank Sanders..." NFL.com
"... Johnnie Morton and Frank Sanders look to improve Houston offense..." The Houston Chronicle

NFL Offseason News:

"... Jerry Rice says goodbye..." NFL.com
"... John Randle to retire..." ESPN.com
"... It was a great run. Emmitt Smith retires..." NFL.com
"... Rams Aeneas Williams and Ricky Proehl retire from NFL..." ESPN.com
"... Bill Romanowski calls it quits..." NFL.com
"... Prime Time is done..." NFL.com
"... Junior Seau retires...." NFL.com
"... Shannon Sharpe to hold press conference to end career..." ESPN.com
"... Bruce Smith retires. Reflects on time in NFL..." NFL.com
"... Michael Strahan says its time..." ESPN.com
"... 16 players sign franchise tags, Takeo Spikes, Lawyer Milloy, Jason Seahorn and Hugh Douglas most notable..." NFL.com
"... Antonio Freeman signs with Baltimore..." NFL.com
"... Dana Stubblefield signs with Da Bears..." Bill Swerski's Superfans
"... The Ravens sign second wideout, Brandon Stokley..." NFL.com
"... Levon Kirkland signs with Buffalo..." NFL.com
"... Oakland inks Frank Winters..." NFL.com
"... Sam Shade goes to Washington..." NFL.com
"... Pittsburgh adds some speed and grab Quadry Ismail..."NFL.com
"... Rodney Harrison signs with the Broncos..." NFL.com
"... Ravens busy and pick up Brian Cox..." NFL.com
"... Jeff Christy goes to Detroit..." NFL.com
"... Jeff Feagles signs with Tampa Bay..." NFL.com
"...Falcons sign return specialist Eric Metcalf..." NFL.com
"... Walli Rainier goes to Jacksonville..." NFL.com
"... Duane Starks becomes a Bronco..." NFL.com
"... Lorenzo Neil signs 4 year deal with Bengals..." NFL.com

[xjayex]

Free Agents Released:
Erik Flowers DE
Ernest Grant DT
Charles Hill DT
Jay Williams DE
Jimmy Herdon RT
Jermaine Lewis WR
Jared Tomich DE
Rod Rutledge TE
Scott Covington QB
Jeff Kelly MLB



Free Agents resigned:
Jajuan Dawson SE
Char-ron Dorsey RT
Dean Buckner C
Ryan Kuehl LDT
Shane Matthews QB
Keith Mitchell WLB
Kevin Williams FS
Ryan Schau LT
James Allen RB
Jeff Posey WLB
Cameron Spikes LG
Chad Overhauser LT
Autry Denson RB
Ryan Young RT

Free Agents Signed:
Frank Sanders SE
Johnnie Morton SE
Darius Holland NT
Richard Jordan WILB

[xjayex]

Scouted Rookies:
QB's:
Rex Grossman
Byron Leftwich
Carson Palmer
Tony Romo

RB's:
LaBrandon Toefield

TE's:
Antonio Gates
Jason Witten

DE's:
Elton Patterson
Osi Umenyiora
Ty Warren
Tyler Brayton

DT's:
Ethan Kelley
Jermaine Brooks
David Paxton

ILB's:
Gary Brackett
Stephen Cooper
Gerald Hayes
Bradie James

OLB's:
Terrell Suggs
Calvin Pace
Pisa Tinoisamoa

CB's:
Charles Tillman
Nnamdi Asomugha
Terrence McGee
Terence Newman
Marcus Trufant

Safety's:
Yeremiah Bell
Eugene Wilson
Chris Crocker
Ken Hamlin

[xjayex]

NFL DRAFT, Houston:
1(3). Nnamdi Asomugha CB California
2(34). Terrell Suggs OLB Arizona State
3(68). Carson Palmer QB Southern California
4(100). David Paxton DT Penn State
5(130). Chad Mustard TE North Dakota
6(164). Michael Haynes DE Penn State
7(195). Mike Furrey WR Northern Iowa

NFL DRAFT, Top 10 picks:
1. Seneca Wallace QB Iowa State
2. Rex Grossman QB Florida
3. Nnamdi Asomugha CB California
4. Tony Romo QB Eastern Illinois
5. Willis McGahee RB Miami
6. Drew Henson QB Michigan
7. Lance Briggs OLB Arizona
8. Domanick Davis RB Louisiana State
9. Charles Tilman CB Louisiana - Lafayette
10. Larry Johnson RB Penn State

NFL News:
"Tampa Bay Quarterback Brad Johnson is suspended for the entire upcoming 2003 season. He was arrested for assault." - NFL.com
"... DeMingo Graham and Jamie Sharper holdouts in Houston..." The Houston Chronicle
"... Holdouts No More: Houston pays Graham and Sharper..." NFL.com
"... All but Palmer have been signed..." The Houston Chronicle
"... Kevin Faulk signs with Minnesota..." NFL.com
"... Charlie Batch sign with Miami..." NFL.com
"... Cory Hall goes to Seahawks..." NFL.com
"... Ki-Jana Carter gets second chance with Browns..." NFL.com
"... Jaguars go big, sign Jumbo Elliott..." NFL.com
"... Dallas adds Adrian Murrell..." NFL.com
"... Ross Verba goes to Houston..." NFL.com
"... Aaron Brooks heads to Detroit..." NFL.com
"... Brian Griese signs with Denver..." NFL.com
"... Carson Palmer continues to holdout..." The Houston Chronicle
"... Titans release Trey Teague..." ESPN.com
"... Arterell Hawkins no longer with Dallas..." NFL.com
"... Trey Teague and OJ Brigance sign with Chiefs..." NFL.com
"... Mike Vrabel released..." ESPN.com
"... Marcus Spears picked up by San Francisco..." NFL.com
"Carson Palmer Signs!" The Houston Chronicle
"... Frank Murphy released..." The Houston Chronicle
"... Last years team leader in receptions Jajuan Dawson let go..." The Houston Chronicle
"... Mike Vrabel signs with Houston..." NFL.com



Position Changes
Ryan Kuehl DT to RE
Troy Evans SLB to SILB
Jeff Posey WLB to WILB
DaMarcus Faggins LCB to SS

[britrock88]

Carson Palmer at 68? That's pretty good value.

[xjayex]

We will see if he can over come his off the field issues and get his head straight. If so, he could be a decent starter in this league.

[xjayex]

2003 Houston Texans Preseason Depth Chart:

QB:
Shane Matthews, David Carr, Carson Palmer (r)

RB:
James Allen, Jonathan Wells

FB:
Jarrod Baxter

TE:
Billy Miller, Chad Mustard (r)

Flankers:
Frank Sanders, Jabar Gaffney

Split Ends:
Johnnie Morton, Mike Furrey (r)

5th Reciever:
Jonathan Wells RB

LT:
Ross Verba, Ryan Schau

LG:
Cameron Spikes, Chester Pitts

Center:
Steve McKinney, Dean Buckner

RG:
DeMingo Graham, Fred Weary

RT:
Ryan Young , Char-ron Dorsey


Kicker:
Kris Brown

Punter:
Chad Stanley

Punt Returns:
Jabar Gaffney WR

Kickoff Returns:
Aaron Glenn CB

LDE:
Corey Sears, Michael Haynes (r)

RDE: Jerry De Loach, Ryan Kuehl

NT:
Seth Payne, Darius Holland

SLB:
Jamie Sharper, Jimmy McClain

SILB:
Kailee Wong, Troy Evans

WILB:
Jeff Posey, Richard Jordan

WLB:
Keith Mitchell, Terrell Suggs (r)

LCB:
Ramon Walker, Nnamdi Asomugha (r) (Nickle)

RCB:
Marcus Coleman, Aaron Glenn (Dime)

SS:
Matt Stevens, DeMarcus Faggins

FS:
Kevin Williams, Eric Brown

Inactive:
Autry Denson RB, Jabari Holloway TE, Corey Bradford FL, Chad Overhauser LT, David Paxton NT (r), Mike Vrabel WLB, Kenny Wright LCB