Iron Mike gushed about the Texans' team speed on defense, how they fly to the ball, how aggressive their schemes are and how different players keep coming up big. The high praise from a credible source is just another example of the growing appreciation for what the Texans hope they are becoming: a playoff contender.
It's been quite some time since anyone, let alone a Super Bowl-winning coach, had much positive to say about the Texans' defense. Any national buzz about the Texans has focused on a high-powered offense led by quarterback David Carr and wide receiver Andre Johnson. But the Texans have a defensive-oriented head coach in Dom Capers, and as three-time Pro Bowl cornerback Aaron Glenn often says: "We have a lot of talent on offense, but we want to be known as a defensive team."
If their last two games are any indication, Glenn might get his wish.
The Texans allowed just 16 points in victories over AFC South rivals Tennessee and Jacksonville, and they have not allowed a touchdown in their last six quarters. They had six takeaways in the two victories and have held opponents to five plays or fewer in 12 of their last 22 defensive series.
When someone suggested Jacksonville didn't play up to its capabilities offensively, Ditka was quick to add: "Houston had something to do with that."
Earlier in the season, when the Texans were one of the worst defensive teams in the league, it was fair to accuse their approach of being too conservative. But that was by design.
Capers and defensive coordinator Vic Fangio had two rookie starters in cornerback Dunta Robinson and outside linebacker Jason Babin; defensive end Robaire Smith was new to the system; free safety Marcus Coleman was learning a new position after playing cornerback for eight years and nose tackle Seth Payne was still trying to regain his form following knee surgery.
Seven games into the season, those players are more comfortable with his role in the defense, and the coaches feel more confident unleashing more of the scheme. In recent weeks, the Texans have been anything but conservative, and the fact everyone has more experience in the system has a lot to do with it. Capers said he has no regrets about the early-season approach.
