So this is what happens when the Texans put together a full-game effort?
It's euphoria day in Houston as ChronBlog pundits tell us that the Texans have turned a corner, that Kubiak is a genius and that the defense is a group of world-beaters who've just been misunderstood until now.
Uh..OK. I'm not buying it, but OK.
The facts are that the Texans are still on pace to finish around .500, and that they're behind schedule with the hard part of their 2009 season still to play. The defense played better, but hey, it's the Bengals....
On to grades...
Quarterback A-
Easily Matt Schaub's best game of the year. He still gets careless under heavy pressure (he had one interception, and one that should have been a pick/six which was dropped) but he's got a decent arm and is usually fairly accurate. Still checks down too quickly for my taste, but a good game this week.
Running Backs C+
Steve Slaton finally got going, in the passing game. The running game is so bad that Kubiak finally gave up on it and implemented a short passing game to take its place.
Wide Receivers A
I've said it before and I'll say it again: It's too bad that Andre Johnson is stuck playing for the Texans. If he were on a winning team there would be no debate as to who is the best receiver in the NFL. Owen Daniels had a good game, as did Kevin Walter and Jacoby Jones. All around good effort from this unit.
Offensive Line C-
Still not able to open up anything in the run game, and giving them a high grade ignores the fact that Schaub was under pressure almost all game. That being said, this unit played about as well as they are capable of playing.
Defensive Line B+
Consistent pass pressure is still a concern, but they did a good job in run defense taking up blockers and allowing the LB's to stuff Benson time and again. That doesn't show up on the stat sheet, but it shouldn't be overlooked. Conner Barwin had his best game to date.
Linebackers A+
Easily the best unit on the field when Texans are on defense. Brian Cushing should get consideration for Defensive Rookie of the Year if he can stay healthy, and DaMeco Ryans is making a strong case for a Pro Bowl berth. Add to that Cushing's game-clinching INT and you have the makings of a good grade.
Defensive Backfield C+
Coverage is still spotty. As a matter of fact, the CB's couldn't cover if you handed them a blanket. What made up for it was hustle. Running to the receiver after the fact and forcing turnovers. Against the Bengals that paid off, against a better WR corps that could come back to bite them.
Coaching A
Give Kubiak his due: He finally made the decisions he needed to make in order to put the players in a position to win. For that alone he deserves an A. For finally winning a challenge? Well....
Full disclosure: Next week I'll be rooting against the Texans as the 49'ers come calling. I grew up a 49'ers fan and remain one today.