The Halfback Pass vs. the Jags

[popanot]

Originally Posted by barrett

Every coach I have ever talked to, listened to an interview from, or worked for has said the same thing about being down two scores in the 4th quarter. The most important thing is scoring because if you don't the game is over. The 2nd most important thing is leaving enough time on the clock to get the ball back. The Texans accomplished both. They scored a TD on that drive, and they left themselves plenty of time to get the ball back. That means they did exactly what they needed to. This was one of the only bright spots of yesterday's game (the only other one I can think of was the goalline stand in the 1st).

Sure, they did what they needed to and had time left on the clock. My point is, this team has time and time played it like they can win a game if they just "play the clock" - whether its the first half of a game or the second half. And time and time again they've failed and lost (did it again yesterday). They pretty much sucked yesterday save for maybe one drive. Why not try something different (not HB pass different, but different) to get them off balance or leave even more time available? Somehow or another I think the good teams like the Colts, Pats, Vikings, Saints, etc. would have either been in a no-huddle or at least had a bigger sense of urgency.

[barrett]

Originally Posted by popanot

Sure, they did what they needed to and had time left on the clock. My point is, this team has time and time played it like they can win a game if they just "play the clock" - whether its the first half of a game or the second half. And time and time again they've failed and lost (did it again yesterday). They pretty much sucked yesterday save for maybe one drive. Why not try something different (not HB pass different, but different) to get them off balance or leave even more time available? Somehow or another I think the good teams like the Colts, Pats, Vikings, Saints, etc. would have either been in a no-huddle or at least had a bigger sense of urgency.

Actually, the Pats opened the season with an almost identical situation against the Bills. They had played terrible and found themselves down 2 TDs with short time left. They calmly marched down field with short passes. They did not rush. They made sure they scored. And when they did, they had even less time left then the Texans. But then when they had a chance to make a play, they made it (fumble on the ensuing kickoff). The Colts are even less urgent when they are behind. They simply go about business as usual, assuming they will make every play they need to make.

The Texans played that drive Just fine. They gave themselves a great chance to get the ball back and win. They just failed to make plays at the most crucial spots of the game (like they always do). Even Cushing and Ryans, their surest tacklers let MJD slip through key tackles. Once again they made plenty of plays to get into position for a win, they just spit the bit when it counted.