our running back situation

[baba ganoush]

why does kubiak want another running back when we already have 4...we have our best runner in DD, then you have 3rd down back in Antwion Smith, you have a good speed guy in Morency which i think kubiak is trying to get rid of him and we got a solid looking rookie in Wali Lundy, why should there be any speculation between our backs?

 

[Runner]

why does kubiak want another running back when we already have 4...we have our best runner in DD, then you have 3rd down back in Antwion Smith, you have a good speed guy in Morency which i think kubiak is trying to get rid of him and we got a solid looking rookie in Wali Lundy, why should there be any speculation between our backs?

Simply because we might get one that is better than one of the four listed.

 

[TheOgre]

why does kubiak want another running back when we already have 4...we have our best runner in DD, then you have 3rd down back in Antwion Smith, you have a good speed guy in Morency which i think kubiak is trying to get rid of him and we got a solid looking rookie in Wali Lundy, why should there be any speculation between our backs?

1. DD's health is in question entering the season
2. Antwain Smith has never been explosive, but is a nice backup in a pinch. Not to mention he is old and might break down if pressed into full duty.
3. Morency is too much of an East-West runner and they want someone that makes one move then heads North. He also is rather green.
4. Lundy is a rookie

That is why they want Bennett.

 

[Texan in Japan]

1. DD's health is in question entering the season
2. Antwain Smith has never been explosive, but is a nice backup in a pinch. Not to mention he is old and might break down if pressed into full duty.
3. Morency is too much of an East-West runner and they want someone that makes one move then heads North. He also is rather green.
4. Lundy is a rookie

That is why they want Bennett.

Agree, but I'd add...Kubes wants maximum competition in camp. He wants guys fighting for time and showing they want it more. The more experience and talent he can add to the pool the tougher the comp and the better for our team. That's why we're looking at Jamel and Gordon.

 

[Bobo]

why does kubiak want another running back when we already have 4...we have our best runner in DD, then you have 3rd down back in Antwion Smith, you have a good speed guy in Morency which i think kubiak is trying to get rid of him and we got a solid looking rookie in Wali Lundy, why should there be any speculation between our backs?

Especially when he decided not to bring back Wells. You add in the mysterious waiving of Ragone and you have to wonder about this guy. Seriously.

 

[HeartofHouston]

He's shaking things up.. like somebody said adding much needed competition to the position..

DD is a injury waiting to happen and if he goes down who's up next?? Smith we'll he's too old to be tryin to carry a full load in my opinion next.. Morency I like this guy but I dont know if he fits our system..next Lundy he's a rook and never really carried a full load at Virgina and has a injury history as well.. Gordon is a big strong tough runner with good speed (not great but good).. White is a strong runner as well.. Bennett is a great back but has injury written all over him.. so in my opinion I dont know if have a person yet could step up if DD goes down..

 

[DominickDavisFan76]

Simple Answer Michael Bennett.

Hes very quick, I feel he can have a fresh start in Houston and I think that he will fit the 2 running back system.

EX.

T.J. Duckett-Warrick Dunn
Priest Holmes-Larry Johnson
Willie Parker-Jerome Bettis (retired now)

Is it a coincidence that those teams are very successful.....
So I think that the pieces to the puzzle are finally fitting into place....

 

[Bobo]

Smith we'll he's too old to be tryin to carry a full load in my opinion.

Then why did they sign him? Remember, Wells did very well as a backup last year. When Davis was out, Wells did well as his sub. Isn't that all you should expect out of a backup RB?

 

[HeartofHouston]

i think they signed smith as more of a relief is DD was to get hurt again.. then i dont think he would have what it takes to be the one leading off for our team..

 

[HeartofHouston]

Dont forget..

Tatum Bell/Mike Anderson (AFC West Champs)
DeShaun Foster/Stephen Davis (They went to the super bowl not too long ago)

 

[Bobo]

i think they signed smith as more of a relief is DD was to get hurt again.. then i dont think he would have what it takes to be the one leading off for our team..

If Davis gets hurt and Smith is the #2 guy, then Smith becomes the #1 guy and is the one leading off for the team until Davis gets back.

 

[Bobo]

Dont forget..

Tatum Bell/Mike Anderson (AFC West Champs)
DeShaun Foster/Stephen Davis (They went to the super bowl not too long ago)

Now, you aren't comparing the Texans RB situation with these guys, are you?

 

[mexican_texan]

If Davis gets hurt and Smith is the #2 guy, then Smith becomes the #1 guy and is the one leading off for the team until Davis gets back.

Actually, I would say that in this system, he is the primary #2 back. No matter what, I don't think he would be the guy getting more carries unless we're constantly in 3rd and short situations.

 

[TexanFan881]

Then why did they sign him? Remember, Wells did very well as a backup last year. When Davis was out, Wells did well as his sub. Isn't that all you should expect out
of a backup RB?

He will be a situational back. When we signed him we were not planning on using him incase DD got hurt, we planned on using him for short yardage situations.

 

[Bobo]

He will be a situational back. When we signed him we were not planning on using him incase DD got hurt, we planned on using him for short yardage situations.

Wait a minute now. Then who WERE they going to use if Davis got hurt? I believe Morency was demoted to #3. I do believe they are planning to use Smith as Davis's backup if he gets hurt. If not him, then who?

 

[Bobo]

Actually, I would say that in this system, he is the primary #2 back. No matter what, I don't think he would be the guy getting more carries unless we're constantly in 3rd and short situations.

That makes him the #1 back if Davis gets hurt.

 

[Brandon420tx]

Wait a minute now. Then who WERE they going to use if Davis got hurt? I believe Morency was demoted to #3. I do believe they are planning to use Smith as Davis's backup if he gets hurt. If not him, then who?

The way I understand it, Morency backs up DD, and Lundy backs up Smith.

 

[Bobo]

The way I understand it, Morency backs up DD, and Lundy backs up Smith.

Like I said, I do believe Morency has been demoted.

 

[mexican_texan]

The way I understand it, Morency backs up DD, and Lundy backs up Smith.

Yeah, that's what I meant.

 

[TexanFan881]

This is how I see it as of now. Morency has probably fallen down like Bobo said because he has not fit the system very well so far and he has some work to do. I see it this way. Morency backs up Lundy who backs up DD. Smith gets the short yardage carries. That's why we need Bennett.

 

[Brandon420tx]

Like I said, I do believe Morency has been demoted.

When you look at the two back system on the depth chart you have, correct me if I'm wrong.

1st Back #1 ---------- Second Back #2
His replacement #3--- His replacement #4

 

[TexanFan881]

When you look at the two back system on the depth chart you have, correct me if I'm wrong.

1st Back #1 ---------- Second Back #2
His replacement #3--- His replacement #4

I'm sure you can do that and I'm sure it could be like that...but wouldn't you just want to have the best backup out there instead of a certain type of runner?

 

[Bobo]

When you look at the two back system on the depth chart you have, correct me if I'm wrong.

1st Back #1 ---------- Second Back #2
His replacement #3--- His replacement #4

Um, I don't believe that's how it works. For example, even in Denver, when Anderson or Bell were hurt, the other guy replaced him and played the entire game. The best second guy gets the most work and becomes the #1 guy if the top guy gets hurt.

 

[HeartofHouston]

Now, you aren't comparing the Texans RB situation with these guys, are you?

No Not comparing them.. but i'm just helping the case in the fact that 2 back systems are what helps a offensive rushing attack out.. you keep fresh legs in..

 

[Bobo]

No Not comparing them.. but i'm just helping the case in the fact that 2 back systems are what helps a offensive rushing attack out.. you keep fresh legs in..

There is a huge, huge difference between Davis and the rest of them. Until any of the backups can string together a series of good games, the Texans will be a one-back team. Or should be.

 

[HeartofHouston]

There is a huge, huge difference between Davis and the rest of them. Until any of the backups can string together a series of good games, the Texans will be a one-back team. Or should be.

Well guess what!??! We're NOT gonna be a 1-back team.. Kube even said it in a interview himself.. and even if he didnt say it.. come on..we know its gonna be a 2 back system.. why else would we have 4 running backs on the roster and possible looking at another 3??..

 

[baba ganoush]

Simple Answer Michael Bennett.

Hes very quick, I feel he can have a fresh start in Houston and I think that he will fit the 2 running back system.

EX.

T.J. Duckett-Warrick Dunn
Priest Holmes-Larry Johnson
Willie Parker-Jerome Bettis (retired now)

Is it a coincidence that those teams are very successful.....
So I think that the pieces to the puzzle are finally fitting into place....

If you look at the Falcons, they have another threat the defense has to worry about in Michael Vick, not to mention they had a very good defense....The Chiefs have the best offensive line in the league, maybe thats why their two outstanding backs are great along with a solid passing game....The Steelers have a very good offensive line and and had the threat of Ben Roethlisburger to Hines Ward and Antwan Randle 'El with the best defense last year...im not trying to say those tandums are bad, but they were surronded with some of the best talent out there

 

[Bobo]

Well guess what!??! We're NOT gonna be a 1-back team.. Kube even said it in a interview himself.. and even if he didnt say it.. come on..we know its gonna be a 2 back system.. why else would we have 4 running backs on the roster and possible looking at another 3??..

Last year, the Texans had Davis, Morency, Wells and Hollings on the roster. But when Davis was healthy, they were a one-back team. And since when do "we" know it's going to be a two-back system? I don't recall a two-back system when Terrell Davis was playing in Denver.

 

[TexanFan881]

Last year, the Texans had Davis, Morency, Wells and Hollings on the roster. But when Davis was healthy, they were a one-back team. And since when do "we" know it's going to be a two-back system? I don't recall a two-back system when Terrell Davis was playing in Denver.

Because Kubiak specifically said teams now a days-not back when Terrell Davis played-need 2 RBs, why else do you think we're looking at some solid RBs so far. He's used 2 RBs the last couple of years too. It's obvious it's going to happen.

 

[MorKnolle]

Last year, the Texans had Davis, Morency, Wells and Hollings on the roster. But when Davis was healthy, they were a one-back team. And since when do "we" know it's going to be a two-back system? I don't recall a two-back system when Terrell Davis was playing in Denver.

Key point, last year under Capers staff. Doesn't mean much of anything now. When Davis is healthy he will likely be our main RB with Antowain Smith and maybe Wali Lundy seeing time in certain situations (short yardage, etc.), but in order to keep Davis healthy Kubiak is going to use all of his available RBs as long as he feels they can also be successful in the system. He isn't going to run Davis to until his knee gives out like Capers' group did last year.

 

[Bobo]

Key point, last year under Capers staff. Doesn't mean much of anything now. When Davis is healthy he will likely be our main RB with Antowain Smith and maybe Wali Lundy seeing time in certain situations (short yardage, etc.), but in order to keep Davis healthy Kubiak is going to use all of his available RBs as long as he feels they can also be successful in the system. He isn't going to run Davis to until his knee gives out like Capers' group did last year.

I don't think any of the reserve backs have the ability that Davis does. If you go to Morency, Smith or the rookie for any real significant carries, then you will be dropping off greatly in ability and quality. Reminder: This isn't the Denver offensive line you have here. This is an unproven Texans line -- a line that only Davis has shown any ability to penetrate somewhat effectively on a consistent basis.

 

[newtexfan]

I have been following this MB for a few weeks and I got to say you guys and "chicks" know your football.I would also like to say I think Mario looks to be a great pick.This team and city seem to have everything going in the right direction.All that being said I would ask you guys to take a good look at Rhodes.There is alot of competition for TB and I know he is a UDFA but trust me when I tell you don't count this kid out of anything.

 

[MorKnolle]

I don't think any of the reserve backs have the ability that Davis does. If you go to Morency, Smith or the rookie for any real significant carries, then you will be dropping off greatly in ability and quality. Reminder: This isn't the Denver offensive line you have here. This is an unproven Texans line -- a line that only Davis has shown any ability to penetrate somewhat effectively on a consistent basis.

This certainly isn't as good as the Broncos' OLine, but it's not bad either. They were decent in run blocking last year with our crappy zone scheme then and Pendry calling the plays, and we've upgraded personnel and have a better system and better coaches teaching the system. I think our offense as a whole and especially our running game will be fine. That said, Morency is the same type of RB as Davis and I think he has the potential to be better. He is a little bigger and a little faster although not as good of hands, and he has no chronic injury problems. Then you have Smith as a bigger, short yardage back (along with Hill and Cook) and Lundy as a little more of a speed back. And Kubiak's system has shown that you can plug most any RB into it and they can be successful, so I'm not at all worried about it. They aren't going to split the carries evenly among all four of them, but they're also not going to give Davis the ball 25 times a game since he has clearly shown in the past that he can't handle that load. They will give Davis ample rest time rather than wearing him out early in the year.

 

[Bobo]

This certainly isn't as good as the Broncos' OLine, but it's not bad either. They were decent in run blocking last year with our crappy zone scheme then and Pendry calling the plays, and we've upgraded personnel and have a better system and better coaches teaching the system. I think our offense as a whole and especially our running game will be fine. That said, Morency is the same type of RB as Davis and I think he has the potential to be better. He is a little bigger and a little faster although not as good of hands, and he has no chronic injury problems. Then you have Smith as a bigger, short yardage back (along with Hill and Cook) and Lundy as a little more of a speed back. And Kubiak's system has shown that you can plug most any RB into it and they can be successful, so I'm not at all worried about it. They aren't going to split the carries evenly among all four of them, but they're also not going to give Davis the ball 25 times a game since he has clearly shown in the past that he can't handle that load. They will give Davis ample rest time rather than wearing him out early in the year.

How can you say this line isn't bad? Yes, there have been changes, but these folks haven't even taken the field for a useless exhibition game yet! How can you say this line isn't any better than last year's? The comment about "better system and better coaches" is just hopeful speculation -- especially the "better coaches" part when most of these coaches are just as inexperienced at their positions as Kubiak is at his. The Denver line was better than Houston's because they had the horses. That has yet to be proven in Houston. I don't think Davis got 25 carries a game last year since they were behind so much, but I wouldn't be surprised if he did since Kubiak is just as conservative as Pendry or Palmer ever was (see Anderson/Bell total carries/yardage). I'm sorry, but Morency, Smith and the rookie just aren't good enough to shoulder much of the load. Now, I do recall a guy -- yeah! That guy named Wells! I recall he carried the ball more than 20 times in two games last year and in both of them gained over 80 yards! Maybe he ... oops! Gone! Another great "he doesn't fit the style" cut by Kubiak.

 

[Brandon420tx]

How can you say this line isn't bad? Yes, there have been changes, but these folks haven't even taken the field for a useless exhibition game yet! How can you say this line isn't any better than last year's? The comment about "better system and better coaches" is just hopeful speculation -- especially the "better coaches" part when most of these coaches are just as inexperienced at their positions as Kubiak is at his. The Denver line was better than Houston's because they had the horses. That has yet to be proven in Houston. I don't think Davis got 25 carries a game last year since they were behind so much, but I wouldn't be surprised if he did since Kubiak is just as conservative as Pendry or Palmer ever was (see Anderson/Bell total carries/yardage). I'm sorry, but Morency, Smith and the rookie just aren't good enough to shoulder much of the load. Now, I do recall a guy -- yeah! That guy named Wells! I recall he carried the ball more than 20 times in two games last year and in both of them gained over 80 yards! Maybe he ... oops! Gone! Another great "he doesn't fit the style" cut by Kubiak.

How can you say its worse? As for Wells, many people were sad to see him go, your the only one crying about it, also many of us are comfortable with the RB situation its just a few people who are trying to get everyone else to join in their uncertainty and are over-analyzing the moves of the FO, which for the first time is making alot moves, not just 2 or 3 an offseason.

 

[Bobo]

How can you say its worse? As for Wells, many people were sad to see him go, your the only one crying about it, also many of us are comfortable with the RB situation its just a few people who are trying to get everyone else to join in their uncertainty and are over-analyzing the moves of the FO, which for the first time is making alot moves, not just 2 or 3 an offseason.

I never said it was worse, but you can't assume it is any better until it is proven. And since when does it matter how many people "are crying about" a bad move? After all, since when have you heard ANYBODY on this board criticize ANY move made by Kubiak anyway? And where do you get this idea that people "are trying to get everyone to join in their uncertainty?" Hmm, from where I stand ... that's kind of weird.

 

[Brandon420tx]

I never said it was worse, but you can't assume it is any better until it is proven. And since when does it matter how many people "are crying about" a bad move? After all, since when have you heard ANYBODY on this board criticize ANY move made by Kubiak anyway? And where do you get this idea that people "are trying to get everyone to join in their uncertainty?" Hmm, from where I stand ... that's kind of weird.

How many people criticize every move made by Kubiak? Just you.
Alot of people criticized the Gaffney moved, alot of people supported it, (I supported it)
Alot of people criticized not re-signing wells, and alot of people supported it (I supported it)
Its not that people aren't criticizing Kubiaks decision, its just that there is alot of support for them, so are you saying we shouldn't support our current head coach when he hasn't lost a game yet? When he is making changes to a team that went 2-14? hopefully for the better. This is a major rebuilding year, we've hired a new contractor to build the Houston Texans Highway, he wants to use more expensive, proven materials, and he wants to use alot of them.

Then again, we all know what the Houston roads are like, so that might be a bad analogy.