"Wow." That is pretty much the only word that can describe the game that the Texans played against the Washington Redskins in Week 2. It was a game that had Texans fans running the gamut of emotions. At halftime, everyone watching was left with a dirty feeling in their stomach, thinking, "Damnit. I thought the Colts win was a step in the right direction, but these guys look just like the old guys." During the second half, the Texans completely flipped the tables and showed that not only did they have the fight and the heart within them, but yes...they had the ability to close.
The second half wasn't all roses. The game certainly had it's bad points - including a scary call by Gary Kubiak in overtime where he should have either gone for it on 4th down or kicked the long field goal, but instead chose to punt. I almost vomited. Then there were the stupid blocks in the back and personal fouls that nearly gave up the game too. In the end however, despite the bad stuff, the Texans showed their true colors and three great things by pulling out a tough win.
1 - The ability to close - this has been repeated over and over again as something the Texans would need to show in order to have a successful season. Last week against the Colts and them this week against the Redskins, they showed it. This one was a little more muddled, but it was there. If they can do it a third week in a row against the Cowboys - this team will be the real deal.
2 - The Passing Game - I have to admit that against the Colts I was a little worried that we weren't going to see the flashes of brilliance in the passing game that we saw from the Texans in 2009. I'm glad to say that after the Redskins game, I am comfortable knowing we will. Schaub looked sharp throwing for 497 yards and 3 touchdowns, splitting most between Andre Johnson and Kevin Walter - who both had top fantasy performances of the week. The pass protection could improve a little, but I consider nearly 500 yards and 3 scores to 3 different receivers a BIG WIN.
3 - Clutch Kicker and A Game Breaking Safety - These are two elements that the Texans needed to have a successful team and although should be split into separate bullet points, I think deserve to both be in the top 3. The Texans have never won a game in overtime before this one. Could it have been because they didn't have a clutch kicker? Possibly. Regardless, it's nice to know that they can put the game in the hands of Rackers and he will take us home. AND...then there is safety Bernard Pollard. This guy is a BEAST. He comes through every time we need him in the clutch. Last night it was the blocked punt that helped the Texans come back and then blowing up the backfield and receivers in overtime to keep the Redskins away from scoring position. Whatever he is doing, he is helping lead the Texans to victory - by example.
Overall this was an incredible game and I cannot wait to see what they can do against the Cowgirls next week! Go Texans
Additional note: For all the haters out their saying, "The Texans better learn how to stop the pass!" You are right to a point, but things will change when we get Cushing back. McNabb wouldn't have been nearly as effective if Cushing had been in their to match up better with Chris Cooley.
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