When free safety Eugene Wilson suffered a hamstring injury in the loss to Dallas on Sept. 26, Dominique Barber replaced him as the starter against Oakland on Sunday.
Barber, a three-year veteran with a lot of playing time, is more suited for strong safety but knows both positions. Texans coach Gary Kubiak said he wanted to get some playing time for Troy Nolan at free safety, but wasn't sure how much considering Nolan's lack of experience.
After Nolan intercepted two passes in Sunday's 31-24 victory over the Raiders, Kubiak plans to find him more playing time.
"It feels good to know he (Kubiak) feels that way," Nolan said. "It means all that hard work I'm putting in is paying off."
Nolan (6-2, 206) ignited a defensive performance that included four sacks - two by defensive end Antonio Smith - and three turnovers.
"He took full advantage of his opportunity, and that's what this league's all about," strong safety Bernard Pollard said.
Nolan's interceptions couldn't have come at a better time.
"When the ball's in the air, it always seems to come to Troy," linebacker DeMeco Ryans said. "Even in practice, he's got a knack for getting the ball."....