Stephen A. Smith and Jeff Saturday clash over latest concerns facing Houston Texans
HEATED DEBATE!
09 October 2024
HEATED DEBATE!
The Houston Texans will reportedly be without superstar receiver Nico Collins for at least the next four games due to a hamstring injury.
Over the next four weeks, the Texans will face the Patriots, Packers, Colts, and Jets.
Wednesday on First Take, Stephen A. Smith downplayed the significance of the injury, saying this will give CJ Stroud the opportunity to get Stefon Diggs more involved in the offense during Collins' absence.
Smith also made the point that the AFC South is a weak division, and the team should go at least 2-2 over the next four games based on the schedule.
However, ESPN analyst Jeff Saturday doesn't see things the same way. He believes this injury is a big deal for Houston, because he views CJ Stroud and Nico Collins as the best QB/WR duo in the NFL. Something that can't be easily replaced, even with Stefon Diggs and Tank Dell ready to step up in Collins' place.
Who's right?
Be sure to watch the video above for the full heated debate!
As we begin another week of MLB free agency, we still haven't seen any movement when it comes to Alex Bregman. Several reports are indicating that the market for Bregman is being impacted by Orioles outfielder Anthony Santander.
The thought being, Santander is expected to command less than Bregman, and teams are waiting to see how his market shakes out before making an offer to Breggy.
Which is interesting, because we're seeing reports about Santander softening his stance on demanding a four or five year deal. It appears he's willing to consider a shorter contract with a high yearly salary.
If that is indeed the case, should the Astros consider moving some salary if they can come to an agreement on a short-term deal with Santander?
In theory, trading Pressly's $14 million contract along with Victor Caratini's $6 million dollar deal could allow them to pay Santander $20 million. Of course finding a club to take on all of Pressly's money may not be realistic, but if they could pull it off, should they do it?
This move would weaken the bullpen and the depth at catcher, but the team still has Caesar Salazar to back up Yainer Diaz. And both Pressly and Caratini aren't likely to be back with the Astros anyway after their contracts expire after the 2025 season.
Should we be worried about the Rangers?
MLB Network's Robert Flores (huge Astros fan) joined the Locked on Astros YouTube channel last week and said he likes the Rangers chances to win the AL West this year, despite Vegas giving Houston better odds to win the World Series. Does he have a point?
Farewell to Justin Verlander
Verlander signed a one-year deal with the Giants last week, so it appears he's played his last game in an Astros uniform. But should we close the door on him being traded to Houston again if the 'Stros need another starter and the Giants are looking to move him at the deadline?
Plus, we share some of our favorite Verlander moments from the team's dynastic run!
Be sure to watch the video above as the guys from Stone Cold 'Stros break it all down! And be sure to share your favorite Verlander memories in the comment section on YouTube.