Official Texans vs. Vikings Game Thread, 8/31/2009

[coloradodude]

Originally Posted by idymoe

The right tackle basically had him sealed, and it appeared Mario was pretty content just to hold his position.

And my comment was not even about the first play because the LB's were responsible for making that tackle, not to mention a safety.

This quote does though sum up my feelings about Mario's play when it comes to the run. He excels at getting to the QB when he's told to go...and he better because he sucks at the run.

Another poster mentioned that the Texans lack a mean streak which I agree with. That starts with Mario. Reminds me of one of those 180 lb Rottweiler's that anyone can walk up to and pet. Sure he'll get his 10 to 14 sacks this year but I don't anticipate many double team situations on him.

Teams will have to account for Barwin though. He's coming every single play. And because of that, people are gonna think Mario is the best thing since sliced bread.

[papabear]

Originally Posted by coloradodude

Teams will have to account for Barwin though. He's coming every single play. And because of that, people are gonna think Mario is the best thing since sliced bread.

I have no problem holding the stars to a higher level, but saying Mario sucks against the run and then pimping Barwin makes no sense at all. Barwin has a great motor, but he's getting taken out of the play on the run pretty often. I think he's going to be very good, but he's still got to prove it...and he has a lot of work to do first.

I'm not saying Mario doesn't make mistakes against the run. He does. He clearly said "my bad" after one run play, but saying he sucks is taking it way too far in my opinion. I think some of Mario's problem is he feels like he has to do everything instead of just taking care of his own stuff. Barwin could help change that. Compared to other elite pass rushers Mario is better than most against the run.

[dalemurphy]

Originally Posted by papabear

I have no problem holding the stars to a higher level, but saying Mario sucks against the run and then pimping Barwin makes no sense at all. Barwin has a great motor, but he's getting taken out of the play on the run pretty often. I think he's going to be very good, but he's still got to prove it...and he has a lot of work to do first.

I'm not saying Mario doesn't make mistakes against the run. He does. He clearly said "my bad" after one run play, but saying he sucks is taking it way too far in my opinion. I think some of Mario's problem is he feels like he has to do everything instead of just taking care of his own stuff. Barwin could help change that. Compared to other elite pass rushers Mario is better than most against the run.

I'm sure some habits developed with Mario since he was literally the only player on the team that could provide pressure. As this season continues and other guys prove to be playmakers, I don't doubt we will see Mario play more disciplined against the run.

Regarding the Mario to Barwin comparison, certainly Mario is the better player. But, it is clear that Barwin has an intensity, motor, and tenacity that is very rare. Barring injury, that guy is going to be a special player and there are about 50 guys on the team that could learn a few things watching that guy play. He and Demeco are at the ball every single play, regardless of where the play goes... His backside pursuit is something we've never had here.