The esteemed Houston sports media personality John McClain had some really interesting tweets on Friday. He basically suggested that for the first time since the Texans' inaugural season in 2002 (before the days of Andre Johnson), the team's defense is better than its offense.

That's not throwing shade on an offensive unit with one of the league's best running back combinations in Arian Foster and Ben Tate, and of course what Texans fans hope is a healthy Matt Schaub-Andre Johnson duo. But the defense made dramatic progress from 2010 to 2011 under Wade Phillips' new philosophy and the emergence of young players like Brooks Reed and Connor Barwin (but perhaps no move more significant than signing Johnathan Joseph) has set this group apart.

Schaub and Johnson are both coming off injury-riddled season, and the Texans let go veterans on the offensive line as well. Even with Mario Williams leaving for the Bills and the loss of DeMeco Ryans, Houston's defense doesn't have nearly as many question marks going into the season.

Here's McClain:

This is the first time since their inaugural season of 2002 when the Texans have boasted more talent on defense than offense.

— John McClain (@McClain_on_NFL) July 27, 2012

ILB Bradie James is only new starter on D. He plays strong side and makes calls. Brian Cushing, who teammates voted MVP, plays weak side.

— John McClain (@McClain_on_NFL) July 27, 2012

No kidding. This is first time they've had this kind of pressure entering a season.

— John McClain (@McClain_on_NFL) July 27, 2012

Read more on the Texans at the Battle Red Blog and SB Nation Houston.