Isn't it a little early for bold statement columns? Well, I guess we're all just used to the regular NFL schedule. Anyway, CBS' Clark Judge has filed his bold statement column a few months early, and we are now to believe that Wade Phillips shall improve the Houston defense by "15 notches" and that will lead to a Texans playoff birth:
↵↵↵Wade Phillips improves the Houston defense at least 15 notches in the rankings
↵A year ago, the Texans ranked 30th in team defense and 32nd against the pass, surrendering 24 or more points in 14 of their 16 games. You wonder why they failed to make the playoffs? Start there. Before Phillips started in San Diego in 2004 the Chargers ranked 31st in team defense and were last in their division. A year later, they vaulted to 11th, and the club won its first AFC West title since 1994. Say what you want about Phillips as a head coach, but there are few better defensive coordinators. With his addition, the Texans make the playoffs for the first time in their history.
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This is hardly controversial, I just love when old school football writers use terms like "notches" and go by the yardage rankings as gospel.
↵Anyway, sure, the Texans could improve 15 notches with Phillips. I'd like to see some proven defensive backs on the roster before I go along with that, but it's not crazy.
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