How latest reports on Texans OC raise critically important continuity questions
PRESENTED BY COORS LIGHT
09 January
As the Houston Texans prepare to host the Cleveland Browns in a wild card clash at NRG this Saturday, reports are beginning to surface about the Commanders and Panthers having interest in Texans OC Bobby Slowik.
If Slowik were to accept one of these head coaching positions, how would that impact CJ Stroud and the continuity of the offense overall? There's no way around it, if Slowik leaves, it's a big concern.
It's also fair to believe Stroud and the offense could show some signs of regression, even with Slowik still in the fold. Teams will have all offseason to watch tape of Stroud, and put together schemes in an attempt to slow him down. Not to mention how the other members of the AFC South could approach free agency and the draft with the idea of loading up on defense to stop Stroud.
The Mario Williams draft pick comes to mind. At the time, Gary Kubiak said they had to find a way to get some pressure on Peyton Manning to give themselves a chance against Indy twice a year.
On the other hand, where would Slowik be without CJ Stroud pulling the trigger in his offense? In the two games without Stroud, the Texans struggled on offense against the Browns and Titans. So that's something to keep in mind.
By comparison, the Browns are on their fourth QB this year in Joe Flacco, and they seemingly haven't missed a beat. Kevin Stefanski's offense has found a way to generate points with two of their best players on IR (Deshaun Watson, Nick Chubb).
Flacco has thrown for over 300 yards in 4 of his 5 games, with multiple TD passes in every contest. There's a reason Kevin Stefanski is getting serious consideration for coach of the year.
But will he win the award over DeMeco Ryans?
Check out the video above to learn more about Slowik's future, and much more!
Presented by Coors Light.
Setting the stage: Astros manager reveals blueprint for Joey Loperfido's initial impact
Apr 30, 2024, 12:58 pm
The Astros have finally decided to add Joey Loperfido to the big league club. One of the attributes he brings to the team is versatility. He's more comfortable in the outfield, but he can also play some first and second base.
We're all aware of the disastrous production the Astros have received at first base from Jose Abreu and Jon Singleton. But that doesn't necessarily mean that's where Loperfido will play initially.
Astros manager Joe Espada said on the Astros flagship that Loperfido will start in the outfield Tuesday night against the Guardians. Espada stated they would like to get Loperfido more comfortable at first base before they decide to start him there.
Joey Loperfido is playing in the outfield today, Espada said. That is where Loperfido is most comfortable, Espada said, and the Astros wanted him there on his first day. https://t.co/dXzFFMDSEs
— Chandler Rome (@Chandler_Rome) April 30, 2024
Also, Chas McCormick is still dealing with a nagging hamstring injury, said Espada. So playing Loperfido in the outfield does make sense on several levels.
But do the Astros have enough time to wait for Loperfido to develop at first base?
Be sure to watch the video above as ESPN Houston's Jeremy Branham and Joel Blank debate how they would use Loperfido moving forward.
