If there's a line forming to hire Bill O'Brien & give him full control he'd be gone already.
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Save us Savage!!!!!!!
- Thread starter PockyAF
- Start date
If there's a line forming to hire Bill O'Brien & give him full control he'd be gone already.
McNair said during the playoffs he wasn't going to let BOB out of his contract in the 2017 season.
You better believe there are more than a few owners that would love to have the success that the Texans have had in the last 3 years with the issues they've had. OB won't be without a job for long.
Texansballer74
The Marine
The quarterback issue is also on O'Brien shoulder as well. They went after Brock because of the way Bill O'Brien has handled the quarterbacks he hand picked. Remember he suppose to be this QB whisper/guru. As far as the winning record, are we going to go all Vince Young. I mean look at his record and call him a winner. Come brother let's be real. If it wasn't for Romeo, Bill wouldn't have a winning record. I do however credit him for hiring Romeo Crennel. Oh and this weak Division has helped out a lot as well.
Bill O'Brien's offense has regressed every year since he's been here. I believe Mr. McNair wants to win right now. We can win it all, if BOB gets his side of ball up to speed. If that side of the ball doesn't produced like they expected it to, it's a good chance Coach is out of here.
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OptimisticTexan
2024 / Rebuilding Block 4 After Playoffs / Texans
If McNair and RS were so sure that this team was just a QB (Rookie) away from making real SB noise...then they're light bulbs going dim. If McNair prides himself on his football acumen, then he should have been all over RS for failing to do a better job in FA / Draft to upgrade an OL that's been just mediocre at best for the last 3 seasons.
To give an example of the oil (RS) and water (O'Brien) situation that McNair is still trying to stir and just doesn't understand that oil and water do not mix.
When McNair wanted O'Brien, he got O'Brien as the Texans HC. Maybe McNair liked the idea of implementing a successful system like Beli's and hired O'Brien who in turn hired quite a few of ex-Patriots coaches/players. O'Brien is definitely running an offensive system that would emphasize using the run to set-up the passing game. In order for this type of system to be successful...you'll probably need a better to much better than average OL, depending on the stable of RB's. To date the running backs have been average at best and horrid in the Red Zone for the last 3 years, hopefully Foreman finally changes this for the team, but their success also depends on what the OL. The TE's have been a big letdown for the past 3 seasons and that could be pin-pointed to them just being....bad or spending most of their field time covering for a weak OL. I'm sure O'Brien has enjoyed the receiver (Hopkins) since he's been the primary target for the past 3 years to the point that the QB's will blatantly throw a pass his even if the entire defense was surrounding him. So, getting faster receivers was going to solve this issue and that became RS's focus in 2015, never mind the fact that the QB's just didn't have enough pocket time to really let that new speed (less the ability to catch) exploit defenses. In summary; with RS fully aware of the type of offensive system O'Brien desires to employ...he's added everything but an OL and better TE's. I'm going to say this once again...that photo/image of O'Brien and everyone in the Draft Room just sitting there with blank expressions on their faces...while RS is standing and practically peeing his pants is absolutely priceless! Those looks did not give me the feeling of a unified room on the selection or what was given up in the process.
As for RS, it was as simple as he didn't push for O'Brien. But, RS has done a good job with Romeo's input in assembling a dominant NFL defense. I think RS had another HC in mind and possibly a totally different idea as to what type of offense he wanted to see on the field...bottom-line McNair wanted Patriots South and since he possesses the money, he gets his way. Based on the offensive talent RS has assembled, I would absolutely be led to believe he would like to run some NFL form of a Spread Offense with a Zone-Blocking scheme up front. It seems like the OL talent assembled would be a better fit in a Zone system. The TE's are not Gronk types but more like heavy receiver hybrids except for Fiedorowicz. The signing of Miller with the idea that he would gain 15-20 pounds of muscle to become a between the T's type of back while remaining quick enough to get around the edge was bad and miscalculated but they have more than a few backs who can catch out of the backfield which is another point in the Spread. As for the QB...O'Brien pushed for and got a traditional Pocket-Type of QB with a strong NFL arm. RS drafted Watson who would be much better served in a Spread offense where he can use his legs outside the pocket or keep defenses honest with the idea that he could pull the ball down and run at any time. If O'Brien is forced out don't be surprised if RS gets a new HC that has a vision closer to his own and can utilize the existing talent to make it happen.
This comes down to the possibility of two different ideologies trying to exist under one roof...it might run its course before O'Brien gets 2018 season in the books. Or, it could be O'Brien riding high if he proves that his system would be successful once everyone fully understood the system and how it operates. There will be 16+ games to determine how this whole thing concludes.
To give an example of the oil (RS) and water (O'Brien) situation that McNair is still trying to stir and just doesn't understand that oil and water do not mix.
When McNair wanted O'Brien, he got O'Brien as the Texans HC. Maybe McNair liked the idea of implementing a successful system like Beli's and hired O'Brien who in turn hired quite a few of ex-Patriots coaches/players. O'Brien is definitely running an offensive system that would emphasize using the run to set-up the passing game. In order for this type of system to be successful...you'll probably need a better to much better than average OL, depending on the stable of RB's. To date the running backs have been average at best and horrid in the Red Zone for the last 3 years, hopefully Foreman finally changes this for the team, but their success also depends on what the OL. The TE's have been a big letdown for the past 3 seasons and that could be pin-pointed to them just being....bad or spending most of their field time covering for a weak OL. I'm sure O'Brien has enjoyed the receiver (Hopkins) since he's been the primary target for the past 3 years to the point that the QB's will blatantly throw a pass his even if the entire defense was surrounding him. So, getting faster receivers was going to solve this issue and that became RS's focus in 2015, never mind the fact that the QB's just didn't have enough pocket time to really let that new speed (less the ability to catch) exploit defenses. In summary; with RS fully aware of the type of offensive system O'Brien desires to employ...he's added everything but an OL and better TE's. I'm going to say this once again...that photo/image of O'Brien and everyone in the Draft Room just sitting there with blank expressions on their faces...while RS is standing and practically peeing his pants is absolutely priceless! Those looks did not give me the feeling of a unified room on the selection or what was given up in the process.
As for RS, it was as simple as he didn't push for O'Brien. But, RS has done a good job with Romeo's input in assembling a dominant NFL defense. I think RS had another HC in mind and possibly a totally different idea as to what type of offense he wanted to see on the field...bottom-line McNair wanted Patriots South and since he possesses the money, he gets his way. Based on the offensive talent RS has assembled, I would absolutely be led to believe he would like to run some NFL form of a Spread Offense with a Zone-Blocking scheme up front. It seems like the OL talent assembled would be a better fit in a Zone system. The TE's are not Gronk types but more like heavy receiver hybrids except for Fiedorowicz. The signing of Miller with the idea that he would gain 15-20 pounds of muscle to become a between the T's type of back while remaining quick enough to get around the edge was bad and miscalculated but they have more than a few backs who can catch out of the backfield which is another point in the Spread. As for the QB...O'Brien pushed for and got a traditional Pocket-Type of QB with a strong NFL arm. RS drafted Watson who would be much better served in a Spread offense where he can use his legs outside the pocket or keep defenses honest with the idea that he could pull the ball down and run at any time. If O'Brien is forced out don't be surprised if RS gets a new HC that has a vision closer to his own and can utilize the existing talent to make it happen.
This comes down to the possibility of two different ideologies trying to exist under one roof...it might run its course before O'Brien gets 2018 season in the books. Or, it could be O'Brien riding high if he proves that his system would be successful once everyone fully understood the system and how it operates. There will be 16+ games to determine how this whole thing concludes.
Carr Bombed
Hall of Fame
The TEs were not a "big letdown" last season. Last season the TE group was one of our strongest and most productive position groups on the team. C.J. Fiedorowicz and Ryan Griffin combined for 104 catches, 1,001 receiving yards, and 6 TDs with each player having atleast 50 receptions... How in the hell and in what world is that a "big letdown"? I'll take that all day long. Especially considering what we had at QB last year... and the only "heavy receiver hybrid"TE we have on the team is Stephen Anderson.. C.J. is 6'5 and 265 pounds, Ryan Griffin is right behind him at 6'6 and 255 pounds, both are legit TEs... not "heavy receiver hybrids".
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JWLCASPER
Waterboy
I've noticed that we as Texans fans sometimes get in funks where we carry over past years team performances to another year and state that as fact. There are quite a number of intelligent football minds on this forum, but preconceived notions blur reality. Our TE group wasn't great for 2 years, 2014 and 2015. We were spoiled because Kubiak focused on the TE and the drop off we all watched was significant. In 2016 the TE group was quite good on many different occasions, but to many they were awful because they had been awful the two years prior.
Sometimes we follow our team so close that we don't see the "flower bloom" or the "flower wilt" per se. Each year the dynamic changes somewhat, but we can't bring our notions from the previous year into this year.
Belichick is the master of the reset. His team from last year, though it won the Super Bowl, won't play identical this year, because it's impossible to recreate the same results. He knows that, and won't try to do it in the first place.
Uncle Rico
Ur apology should be as loud as Ur disrespect was
Rick Smith is reading from the "How to be a general manager" for dummies script.
"Hi (insert player name) would you like to be a Houston Texan ... We don't know what the hell we're doing but who cares we're getting filthy rich har har har"
"I'll overpay for marginal talent and over the hill vets, but if you ever develop into a good football player ... I'll screw ya over! What's not to like?"
I thought Smitty was going to move on to other roles within the organization? I guess he asked Daddy for more time.
"Hi (insert player name) would you like to be a Houston Texan ... We don't know what the hell we're doing but who cares we're getting filthy rich har har har"
"I'll overpay for marginal talent and over the hill vets, but if you ever develop into a good football player ... I'll screw ya over! What's not to like?"
I thought Smitty was going to move on to other roles within the organization? I guess he asked Daddy for more time.
Who the he** is Ronnie Crennel?
Fantasyland is thinking the Texans are better than the Pats in the playoffs this yr.
Texansballer74
The Marine
I don't believe that rumor. IIRC, that rumor came from Jay Glazer who has never been anything but a rumor monger/click bait guy. Adam Schefter is the only talking head whose news bites I put any stock in. It wouldn't surprise me if Glazer made that whole thing up from vapors.
What has he done lately?
Getting rehired as a head coach someplace and getting an owner to give him carte' blanche (i.e., you, Mr. Owner can NEVER tell me what to do) are two very different things.
The former could happen.
But three 9-7 years - in the weakest division in the league mind you - and an offense that has been less and less productive each and every year is not enough street cred for an owner to give O'Brien complete control.
Did I mention complete control somewhere? I don't believe so. I said he wouldn't be out of work for long. I know complete control was mentioned but not by me. He hasn't quite earned that yet imo, but then Pete Carroll didn't appear to have earned that either. Nor did BB during his days at Cleveland. Owners will give up a lot for winning tho.
No. You didn't. But you responded to this.
So "full control" was part of the discussion.
If you initially had answered TK as you responded in post 2513, I would have agreed with you and not bothered to respond.
...probably given you a 'like'.
I agree that O'Brien might get another head coaching job - or he might have to first re-prove himself, as Kubiak did in Baltimore, by showing himself to be a competent OC with another team. The fact that O'Brien's offenses have produced less and less the three years he's been here won't exactly make him a 'hot property'.
So "full control" was part of the discussion.
If you initially had answered TK as you responded in post 2513, I would have agreed with you and not bothered to respond.
...probably given you a 'like'.
I agree that O'Brien might get another head coaching job - or he might have to first re-prove himself, as Kubiak did in Baltimore, by showing himself to be a competent OC with another team. The fact that O'Brien's offenses have produced less and less the three years he's been here won't exactly make him a 'hot property'.
adama51
Walk-on
How would this OL be a better fit at Zone? Like you most people say, they are average at best. Or is it their size you're referring to?
im genuinely asking
TexansBull
Hall of Fame
Found this. Funny.
You can't say we want a system where the run sets up the pass & be like the Patriots.
The Patriots start with Brady, quick passing game & being able to run when they need to. Our OL would look stout with Tom Brady under center.
& the only offensive coach O'Brien poached from New England was fired at the end of last season.
OptimisticTexan
2024 / Rebuilding Block 4 After Playoffs / Texans
I agree in regards to how the system is deployed but the Texans shortcomings on the OL may have forced O'Brien to modify this attack to lead with the run instead of using the pass game like the Patriots. This could reiterate my argument as to why I wanted Savage to be named the starter. He possesses the most complete knowledge of O'Brien's playbook to have gone under center over the past 3 seasons. Not to mention, he has the physical talent to execute every throw required by O'Brien while working from the pocket. This could be the first season that we see O'Brien deviate from the way he (wink...OC) has called this (predictable) predictable over the past 3 seasons. The next biggest step for this ofense will come down to the OL and receivers.
TexansBull
Hall of Fame
To add to this -
I agree with Savage playing QB we finally get to see if OBs offense will work. Savage is the most capable at running it at this point and time, and we need to see if it works. If it is just too complicated we will know a promotion is in order for Vrabel. You don't want your future QB set up for failure.
Texansballer74
The Marine
Lol we finally get to see O'BRIEN'S offense works. Man please, Savage couldn't make it work last year either. When he came im for Brock, Coach went hurry up. The following week against the Bengals, Savage couldn't even set up his protection in Bill O'Brien's supposedly offensive scheme.
TexansBull
Hall of Fame
Savage was just dealing with nerves in his first NFL start. He still protected the ball. No interceptions.
But it doesn't matter Brian. Two wins, Brian.
Texansballer74
The Marine
That was not his first NFL start.
Texansballer74
The Marine
Oh you forgot to add no Touchdowns
Just because the Bengals manhandled our OL doesn't mean Savage couldn't set protections.
You think our OL was good or something?
Texansballer74
The Marine
TexansBull
Hall of Fame
Regular season
TexansBull
Hall of Fame
W's are the things i am most focused on
BTW, he did lead a comeback WIN if I remember correctly.
Lets talk about the OL. Couldn't run block/couldn't pass block. Clark/Allen were terrible, but that's all on Savage. Some of these MB posters are truly amazing.
They might as well say I want Watson to start 1st game and I dont care how well Savage plays 85% completion %, or how bad Watson plays 51% completion %. What I would like to see is what this MB would look like if Watson was completing 85% of his passes against 2nd/3rd stringers, unlike what Savage is doing against 1st stringers. (Yes, I know it's only preseason)
CloakNNNdagger
Hall of Fame
Running the scout team before getting called in prepared him so well to run O'Brien's system for those few games.
So far Savage has played against
Colts- would've had the 1st win in franchise history in Indy if not for a bogus holding call on a Foster TD run. Hurt knee because of a dirty hit by Mathis (I think.) Here's hoping the Colts feel the karma this yr for being a bunch of cheapshot artist. The team I hate the most.
Jags- Lead 4th qtr comeback win after Os stunk for 3 qtrs. No he didn't throw a TD but he got the team down there allowing short TD runs.
Cincy- Lead a comeback win that got the Texans into the playoffs. (Thanks Fat Randy)
Tacks- Bogus concussion
Not a bad resume' for a guy who's only played in 4 regular season games.
Texansballer74
The Marine
He did not lead us to a comeback win against Cincy. Stop it, he started that game. The defense won us that game.
Were they behind in the middle of the 4th qtr? Did Savage complete about a 20 yd pass to Nuk just before the Blue TD run?
Did the offense even play that game? Did Cincy's defense lose that game? As far as that goes did Cincy's offense lose that game? I ask because the defense allowed the Cincy offense to drive the field and the Texans got lucky that Fat Randy did things Fat Randy does.
Seems as though you may need to get your facts together before asking/commanding me to stop it. I get that you're a WOF. But that doesn't change the fact that Savage came thru in the clutch last yr despite a terrible OL.
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TexansBull
Hall of Fame
Savage was officially credited for 2 4QC (4th quarter comeback) last year.
https://www.pro-football-reference.com/play-index/comeback.cgi?player=SavaTo00
https://www.pro-football-reference.com/play-index/comeback.cgi?player=SavaTo00
Did you forget about that ~80 yd short pass turned long @$$ TD pass? I guess Savage distracted the Texans DBs on that one?
Just admit that you don't like Tom Savage, he'll never be able to play well enough to suit you and Watson is the savior of this team, regardless of how he plays. We all know your position, just admit it. The truth shall set you free.
CloakNNNdagger
Hall of Fame
Texans QB Tom Savage has made it a point to speed up his thought process
Savage has made ita point to speed uphis thought process
By Aaron Wilson
August 25, 2017 Updated: August 25, 2017 9:15pm
For whatever deficiencies the experts see in Texans quarterback Tom Savage, a lack of arm strength is not one of them. He'll likely get about three quarters tonight to display his wares.
NEW ORLEANS - The clock ticks down fast inside Texans starting quarterback Tom Savage's head while his helmet is on a swivel as he scans the field to find his targets.
Tick, tick, tick. Boom. Savage fires a sharp spiral to wide receiver Jaelen Strong, avoiding the New England Patriots' incoming pass rush.
The internal clock for a quarterback is an instinctive process built around the knowledge that a painful hit or a disrupted throw could happen if he doesn't get rid of the football soon enough. Thinking too long instead of reacting tends to lead to sacks and potential turnovers.
Being too deliberate and indecisive has made Savage vulnerable to big hits in the past. It has become less of a problem this preseason despite some uneven pass protection without three-time Pro Bowl left tackle Duane Brown along with a rotating cast of receivers due to injuries.
"You have to know what the defense is doing," Savage said. "In this league, if you are reacting out there, it's too late. You have to know and you have to expect what this defense is doing and what their blitzes are and what their coverages are and be on the same page with your receivers and throw it on time."
Savage's ability to read defenses and go through his progressions are key factors in him holding off the challenge from talented rookie backup Deshaun Watson.
"I like Savage a little better right now," an NFL scouting director said. "From a consistency standpoint, he's got the edge. But it's close and Watson can make things happen with his legs. I can see why they named Savage as the starter. He gives them their best chance to win right now."
The faster the better
Savage has made it a special point to speed up his delivery, upgrading his decision-making and recognition of defenses and becoming more confident.
It has been a major emphasis for Savage in his work with coach and offensive coordinator Bill O'Brien and quarterbacks coach Sean Ryan.
"That's the key, that's his deal," NFL Films analyst Greg Cosell said. "The ability to throw is not the issue. He needs to continue to get quicker with pretty much everything he does - drop back, set, decision-making, eliminating what's there and isolate quicker. He's a pure pocket player. He's not going to make a lot of plays out of the structure by moving around.
"He's a good thrower of the football, but sometimes he lacks the desired timing. Sometimes, he waits too long and gets sacked. It's a really fine balance. We know he can throw the ball. He's just got to get quicker."
Heading into the Texans' third preseason game Saturday night against the New Orleans Saints, Savage has only been sacked twice. He has completed 17 of 20 passes for 167 yards and one touchdown. Savage has yet to throw an interception this preseason. He has only thrown a couple of interceptions in practice.
When there's nothing downfield, Savage will throw it away or use one of his safety valve options and dump it off short.
"I think I'm doing a good job," Savage said. "Obviously, we just have to keep working at it. Just have to keep preparing and knowing the looks that you are going to see and knowing where you need to go and understanding where your checkdowns are."
No doubting his arm
A strong-armed, 6-4, 228-pound former fourth-round draft pick from Pitt, Savage will line up Saturday for his final action of the preseason since starters don't traditionally play in the final preseason game.
Savage will do so without the benefit of having Brown in the lineup due to a lengthy contract dispute or injured Pro Bowl alternate wide receiver DeAndre Hopkins (hand), wide receiver Will Fuller (broken collarbone), wide receiver Braxton Miller (ankle) and tight end C.J. Fiedorowicz (quadriceps).
Savage has yet to throw an NFL touchdown pass. Last season, the Philadelphia native completed 63 percent of his throws for 461 yards and no interceptions in three games and two starts for an 80.9 passer rating.
Savage has a history of durability issues. He has been hurt every year since the Texans drafted him, but he's healthy now.
During a nomadic college career that included stops at Rutgers and Arizona, Savage passed for 2,958 yards, 21 touchdowns and nine interceptions during his senior year at Pitt.
"He's got a chance, I've always liked the way he throws it," Cosell said. "I'm old-school. I like when a guy throws the ball with juice. I like guys who can drive the football and make throws into tight windows. I like guys who are aggressive throwers.
"I think he's got that mentality. It's an intuitive thing. Experience is a big thing for him. I know he's a Philly kid and has got some toughness to him. That helps."
THE REST OF THE STORY
Savage has made ita point to speed uphis thought process
By Aaron Wilson
August 25, 2017 Updated: August 25, 2017 9:15pm
For whatever deficiencies the experts see in Texans quarterback Tom Savage, a lack of arm strength is not one of them. He'll likely get about three quarters tonight to display his wares.
NEW ORLEANS - The clock ticks down fast inside Texans starting quarterback Tom Savage's head while his helmet is on a swivel as he scans the field to find his targets.
Tick, tick, tick. Boom. Savage fires a sharp spiral to wide receiver Jaelen Strong, avoiding the New England Patriots' incoming pass rush.
The internal clock for a quarterback is an instinctive process built around the knowledge that a painful hit or a disrupted throw could happen if he doesn't get rid of the football soon enough. Thinking too long instead of reacting tends to lead to sacks and potential turnovers.
Being too deliberate and indecisive has made Savage vulnerable to big hits in the past. It has become less of a problem this preseason despite some uneven pass protection without three-time Pro Bowl left tackle Duane Brown along with a rotating cast of receivers due to injuries.
"You have to know what the defense is doing," Savage said. "In this league, if you are reacting out there, it's too late. You have to know and you have to expect what this defense is doing and what their blitzes are and what their coverages are and be on the same page with your receivers and throw it on time."
Savage's ability to read defenses and go through his progressions are key factors in him holding off the challenge from talented rookie backup Deshaun Watson.
"I like Savage a little better right now," an NFL scouting director said. "From a consistency standpoint, he's got the edge. But it's close and Watson can make things happen with his legs. I can see why they named Savage as the starter. He gives them their best chance to win right now."
The faster the better
Savage has made it a special point to speed up his delivery, upgrading his decision-making and recognition of defenses and becoming more confident.
It has been a major emphasis for Savage in his work with coach and offensive coordinator Bill O'Brien and quarterbacks coach Sean Ryan.
"That's the key, that's his deal," NFL Films analyst Greg Cosell said. "The ability to throw is not the issue. He needs to continue to get quicker with pretty much everything he does - drop back, set, decision-making, eliminating what's there and isolate quicker. He's a pure pocket player. He's not going to make a lot of plays out of the structure by moving around.
"He's a good thrower of the football, but sometimes he lacks the desired timing. Sometimes, he waits too long and gets sacked. It's a really fine balance. We know he can throw the ball. He's just got to get quicker."
Heading into the Texans' third preseason game Saturday night against the New Orleans Saints, Savage has only been sacked twice. He has completed 17 of 20 passes for 167 yards and one touchdown. Savage has yet to throw an interception this preseason. He has only thrown a couple of interceptions in practice.
When there's nothing downfield, Savage will throw it away or use one of his safety valve options and dump it off short.
"I think I'm doing a good job," Savage said. "Obviously, we just have to keep working at it. Just have to keep preparing and knowing the looks that you are going to see and knowing where you need to go and understanding where your checkdowns are."
No doubting his arm
A strong-armed, 6-4, 228-pound former fourth-round draft pick from Pitt, Savage will line up Saturday for his final action of the preseason since starters don't traditionally play in the final preseason game.
Savage will do so without the benefit of having Brown in the lineup due to a lengthy contract dispute or injured Pro Bowl alternate wide receiver DeAndre Hopkins (hand), wide receiver Will Fuller (broken collarbone), wide receiver Braxton Miller (ankle) and tight end C.J. Fiedorowicz (quadriceps).
Savage has yet to throw an NFL touchdown pass. Last season, the Philadelphia native completed 63 percent of his throws for 461 yards and no interceptions in three games and two starts for an 80.9 passer rating.
Savage has a history of durability issues. He has been hurt every year since the Texans drafted him, but he's healthy now.
During a nomadic college career that included stops at Rutgers and Arizona, Savage passed for 2,958 yards, 21 touchdowns and nine interceptions during his senior year at Pitt.
"He's got a chance, I've always liked the way he throws it," Cosell said. "I'm old-school. I like when a guy throws the ball with juice. I like guys who can drive the football and make throws into tight windows. I like guys who are aggressive throwers.
"I think he's got that mentality. It's an intuitive thing. Experience is a big thing for him. I know he's a Philly kid and has got some toughness to him. That helps."
THE REST OF THE STORY
banned1976
sleeper mode
To begin, I think Savage gives us the best chance of winning a lot of games this year so I'm not wishing this on him. Given his injury history, what are the odds of him getting hurt tonight? I don't know what it is but he has a shelf life of a banana. I always start to worry about him after about this many minutes of him playing, even in preseason. It was the last preseason game against Dallas in 2015 that put him on IR for the remainder of the season.
In 3 starts.
The only one he didn't have a comeback in was the one he got knocked out with a concussion.
Pretty good stuff
I want Savage to get a chance. If he tears it up the Texans have a good QB problem. If Savage sucks so be it. Either way I want Watson to develop well and not feel like he has to be the savior of the franchise. That wouldn't be fair to Watson. IMHO
I completely agree with this.
Hervoyel
BUENO!
All I've ever asked.
TexansBull
Hall of Fame
I think the gap between Watson and Savage got a little wider today.
CloakNNNdagger
Hall of Fame
Tough night for Tom Savage, Texans' offense
By Aaron Wilson
August 26, 2017 Updated: August 27, 2017 12:07am
New Orleans Saints defensive end Cameron Jordan (94) knocks down a pass by Houston Texans quarterback Tom Savage (3) during the first quarter of an NFL pre-season football game at the Mercedes-Benz Superdome on Saturday, Aug. 26, 2017, in New Orleans. ( Brett Coomer / Houston Chronicle )
NEW ORLEANS -- Texans quarterback Tom Savage's eyes darted to his left, his right and over the middle, scanning the field.
Savage was in a serious hurry Saturday night against the New Orleans Saints, a situation exacerbated by a porous offensive line that struggled to provide him with sufficient time.
Playing without Pro Bowl left tackle Duane Brown due to a prolonged contract dispute, the Texans had trouble moving the football with their first-team offense.
Savage avoided turnovers and didn't make any glaring mistakes during a scoreless outing, but held the football too long at times considering the amount of heat the Saints' defensive line was applying.
Savage completed 7 of 10 passes for 79 yards, no touchdowns and no interceptions for a 74.7 passer rating and a series of drives that ended with punts by Shane Lechler before being replaced in the second quarter by rookie backup Deshaun Watson.
"A lot of times we kind of shot ourselves in the foot there with the penalties and stuff," Savage said. "The game's not meant to be 2nd-and-15 and 1st-and-whatever. We've just got to execute the simple basic rules of an offense on first down."
It wasn't a sterling performance by Savage, but it was likely one impacted by a vanilla game plan for the preseason and several injuries on offense. The Texans' starting wide receivers were Dres Anderson and Bruce Ellington with DeAndre Hopkins (hand), Braxton Miller (ankle) and Will Fuller (broken collarbone) all sidelined.
"There's going to be injuries and the good thing is, they're at practice every day, we're watching film together, we're communicating," Savage said. "I'm showing them what I'm seeing on this, even though it's not them. That's the way this league is. There's going to be injuries and I think the guys are doing a good job of stepping up and making plays." Rest of Story
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It gets pretty bad when the media can only criticize Savage for holding the ball too long. Because of the Oline play and only the occasional WR separation, no one could have considered anyone holding onto the ball too long last night...........the time wasn't there to hold the ball "too long."
By Aaron Wilson
August 26, 2017 Updated: August 27, 2017 12:07am
New Orleans Saints defensive end Cameron Jordan (94) knocks down a pass by Houston Texans quarterback Tom Savage (3) during the first quarter of an NFL pre-season football game at the Mercedes-Benz Superdome on Saturday, Aug. 26, 2017, in New Orleans. ( Brett Coomer / Houston Chronicle )
NEW ORLEANS -- Texans quarterback Tom Savage's eyes darted to his left, his right and over the middle, scanning the field.
Savage was in a serious hurry Saturday night against the New Orleans Saints, a situation exacerbated by a porous offensive line that struggled to provide him with sufficient time.
Playing without Pro Bowl left tackle Duane Brown due to a prolonged contract dispute, the Texans had trouble moving the football with their first-team offense.
Savage avoided turnovers and didn't make any glaring mistakes during a scoreless outing, but held the football too long at times considering the amount of heat the Saints' defensive line was applying.
Savage completed 7 of 10 passes for 79 yards, no touchdowns and no interceptions for a 74.7 passer rating and a series of drives that ended with punts by Shane Lechler before being replaced in the second quarter by rookie backup Deshaun Watson.
"A lot of times we kind of shot ourselves in the foot there with the penalties and stuff," Savage said. "The game's not meant to be 2nd-and-15 and 1st-and-whatever. We've just got to execute the simple basic rules of an offense on first down."
It wasn't a sterling performance by Savage, but it was likely one impacted by a vanilla game plan for the preseason and several injuries on offense. The Texans' starting wide receivers were Dres Anderson and Bruce Ellington with DeAndre Hopkins (hand), Braxton Miller (ankle) and Will Fuller (broken collarbone) all sidelined.
"There's going to be injuries and the good thing is, they're at practice every day, we're watching film together, we're communicating," Savage said. "I'm showing them what I'm seeing on this, even though it's not them. That's the way this league is. There's going to be injuries and I think the guys are doing a good job of stepping up and making plays." Rest of Story
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It gets pretty bad when the media can only criticize Savage for holding the ball too long. Because of the Oline play and only the occasional WR separation, no one could have considered anyone holding onto the ball too long last night...........the time wasn't there to hold the ball "too long."
amazing80
Hall of Fame
Here is the breakdown of every Savage pass
2nd and 4, good protection, nice on time throw to Ellington. First down
Not a pass attempt, but the next play Tom spent a lot of time at the line changing the play. He checked into a poor run play that went for 2 off the left side.
2nd and 9, 5 wide empty set. He made a good read and had Ellington coming open, but Martin (who struggled tonight) let his guy slip off the block last second and batted the pass down. It is worth nothing that this was a stunt. Allen picked up his guy, but Martin didn't get his guy quick enough coming off the switch. Lamm was starting to get beat here too, but Tom would have stayed clean with the throw coming out on time.
3rd and 9, and this is the exact play that Tom has done over and over again and what I think is his biggest flaw. He snapped the ball, locked onto Anderson who was smothered in coverage, but threw the ball to him anyway, even with a clean pocket. Just a terrible decision.
His next pass came on 2nd and 13, after a holding play on a run call (Martin was one of them). Tom had a nice pocket, made a quick read and threw it over the middle to Ervin.
3rd and 9 he throws short again to Ellington, gain of about 4. It's hard to see, but I think he had Anderson open near the first down, the pocket was clean, was just starting to collapse when he threw the ball.
The next series started off with a run, but Ervin got blown up. Both Allen and Martin failed from the start, plus Griffen completely ignored the LB who would have made the play if the DL didn't. That was just a terrible play from everyone, although the tackles looked good on an island.
2nd and 14, completed pass, but once again Savage locked on to Anderson before throwing it to him. He needs to be careful.
3rd and about 10, great throw for the first down. The RT got beat, but Savage uploaded it just in time with great accuracy.
The next play Savage changed the play at the line and checked into another poor run play. Martin got blown off the ball and walked into the backfield.
2nd and 11, Ervin got blown up and allowed the LB to get right into Tom's face. He threw the ball up for grabs to Strong, 50/50 ball, almost picked off the tip. Something of note IMO, his throw up to Strong is no different then Watson's throw ups. One isn't more accurate than the other in that type of throw.
3rd and 11, I noted this play yesterday. This is the exact same play that confused the OL and the QB later in the game that allowed a blind side sack on Watson. No one touched the outside guy and he came free to the QB, the difference here with Savage is his throw was in the middle of the field to Anderson, where Watson's throw was to the right side and he had his back to the defender. The catch was short of the sticks.
1st and 10, nice play action pass to Griffen for the first. Was a two yard pass, but a nice run and gain. Good play that was executed well
1st and 10, quick throw to Ellington on a screen, nice throw and run. We went hurry up right before that.
The next play was a run to the right, Martin and Allen got zero push, might have lost about a yard.
3rd and 2, throws to Griffen on a quick pass, he had a LB cut in front of Griffen, chasing Ervin out of the backfield, Savage was patient enough to wait for it to clear before he threw it. Good pass.
1st and 10, quick out pass to Anderson (TE), the throw was slightly behind Anderson and he dropped it when the LB fell on him during the tackled. Similar off target throw we see occasionally from Watson, should still have been caught.
2nd and 10, Savage recognized the CB blitz and threw it right away to Ellington on the curl for a nice throw and run.
2nd and 7, 5 wide empty set, they blitzed up the middle, bringing 6 with only 5 blockers, Savage got rid of right away to Strong, slightly behind him, but good throw and catch. Illegal formation, 5 yard penalty.
2nd and 12, his first read was covered, he came off it late, the pocket was being pushed back, he drifted and threw up a lob to Ellington on his back foot.The placement was good, Ellington should catch it.
3rd and 12, Ervin with another terrible block attempt, he did a pathetic chip before escaping out the backfield, Savage tried to throw it to him, but it was blocked. This is a play Watson had the ability to run and get a better line of sight, Savage was just too slow. Either way Ervin failed him on the block assist.
That was the end of Savage and the starting oline. I hate that we pulled them all so early. This unit needs more reps than they got, including Savage.
2nd and 4, good protection, nice on time throw to Ellington. First down
Not a pass attempt, but the next play Tom spent a lot of time at the line changing the play. He checked into a poor run play that went for 2 off the left side.
2nd and 9, 5 wide empty set. He made a good read and had Ellington coming open, but Martin (who struggled tonight) let his guy slip off the block last second and batted the pass down. It is worth nothing that this was a stunt. Allen picked up his guy, but Martin didn't get his guy quick enough coming off the switch. Lamm was starting to get beat here too, but Tom would have stayed clean with the throw coming out on time.
3rd and 9, and this is the exact play that Tom has done over and over again and what I think is his biggest flaw. He snapped the ball, locked onto Anderson who was smothered in coverage, but threw the ball to him anyway, even with a clean pocket. Just a terrible decision.
His next pass came on 2nd and 13, after a holding play on a run call (Martin was one of them). Tom had a nice pocket, made a quick read and threw it over the middle to Ervin.
3rd and 9 he throws short again to Ellington, gain of about 4. It's hard to see, but I think he had Anderson open near the first down, the pocket was clean, was just starting to collapse when he threw the ball.
The next series started off with a run, but Ervin got blown up. Both Allen and Martin failed from the start, plus Griffen completely ignored the LB who would have made the play if the DL didn't. That was just a terrible play from everyone, although the tackles looked good on an island.
2nd and 14, completed pass, but once again Savage locked on to Anderson before throwing it to him. He needs to be careful.
3rd and about 10, great throw for the first down. The RT got beat, but Savage uploaded it just in time with great accuracy.
The next play Savage changed the play at the line and checked into another poor run play. Martin got blown off the ball and walked into the backfield.
2nd and 11, Ervin got blown up and allowed the LB to get right into Tom's face. He threw the ball up for grabs to Strong, 50/50 ball, almost picked off the tip. Something of note IMO, his throw up to Strong is no different then Watson's throw ups. One isn't more accurate than the other in that type of throw.
3rd and 11, I noted this play yesterday. This is the exact same play that confused the OL and the QB later in the game that allowed a blind side sack on Watson. No one touched the outside guy and he came free to the QB, the difference here with Savage is his throw was in the middle of the field to Anderson, where Watson's throw was to the right side and he had his back to the defender. The catch was short of the sticks.
1st and 10, nice play action pass to Griffen for the first. Was a two yard pass, but a nice run and gain. Good play that was executed well
1st and 10, quick throw to Ellington on a screen, nice throw and run. We went hurry up right before that.
The next play was a run to the right, Martin and Allen got zero push, might have lost about a yard.
3rd and 2, throws to Griffen on a quick pass, he had a LB cut in front of Griffen, chasing Ervin out of the backfield, Savage was patient enough to wait for it to clear before he threw it. Good pass.
1st and 10, quick out pass to Anderson (TE), the throw was slightly behind Anderson and he dropped it when the LB fell on him during the tackled. Similar off target throw we see occasionally from Watson, should still have been caught.
2nd and 10, Savage recognized the CB blitz and threw it right away to Ellington on the curl for a nice throw and run.
2nd and 7, 5 wide empty set, they blitzed up the middle, bringing 6 with only 5 blockers, Savage got rid of right away to Strong, slightly behind him, but good throw and catch. Illegal formation, 5 yard penalty.
2nd and 12, his first read was covered, he came off it late, the pocket was being pushed back, he drifted and threw up a lob to Ellington on his back foot.The placement was good, Ellington should catch it.
3rd and 12, Ervin with another terrible block attempt, he did a pathetic chip before escaping out the backfield, Savage tried to throw it to him, but it was blocked. This is a play Watson had the ability to run and get a better line of sight, Savage was just too slow. Either way Ervin failed him on the block assist.
That was the end of Savage and the starting oline. I hate that we pulled them all so early. This unit needs more reps than they got, including Savage.
Great post, thanks for taking the time.
I think Ervin was in there blocking out of necessity. I doubt he'll be in that situation in a real game. They'd more likely put a TE in the backfield if Blue or Foreman are out.
amazing80
Hall of Fame
I agree, but it was so bad lol. He needs to improve regardless.
PapaL
Loose Screw
I'd like to think that too but man do we do some dumb **** on offense.