I sat down with DeMarquis Gates today to get to know him more and preview some of this week's upcoming game. In case you missed it, Gates had the amazing game winning play last week against the Dallas Renegades.
Many players view the XFL as a stepping stone back to the NFL. How has this league helped you?
"It's helped me get exposure, more film and have time to work on my technique, nail down the things I need to work on. Exactly what you said, try to get back into the NFL."
How are you liking the defensive scheme here in Houston?
"It's wonderful. Coach Cottrell and the rest of the defense staff put up a good game plan, a good defensive scheme. We just try to get in and make the plays that we can."
Seattle looked a lot better when they changed QBs. What do you judge them on? The prior three three games or what you saw late against St. Louis?
"You can take all games into account. We feel like they're going to use both quarterbacks. Both QBs have played so we're just going to be ready for both of them."
Preparing to go 5-0 is a big deal. Is there added pressure being the last unbeaten team in the league? Does that add a target?
"It definitely adds a target on our back but I don't think it's any pressure. We just have to take it one day at a time, play by play and come out with the W."
Game at a glance
The Roughnecks' defense had five big turnovers last week. This week they're expected to face both QB's from the Dragons, BJ Daniels and Brandon Silvers. The last time a team switched up QB's on Houston, it caused some confusion. The standards are set high for your Houston Roughnecks this week as they come back home to face the Seattle Dragons Saturday at 1 p.m. Make sure you purchase your tickets here. Let's get TDECU Stadium rockin' to welcome the 4-0 team home!
Derek Stingley Jr. snagged two crucial interceptions against Miami. Photo by Alex Slitz/Getty Images.
The Texans defense came through once again on Sunday, as they were able to hold the Dolphins to just twelve points, helping to secure a 20-12 win for Houston.
Sunday's victory, paired with a Colts loss, also clinched another division title for Houston, which guarantees they'll host a home playoff game. This is significant because Houston has played much better at home, and given some of the NFL's best quarterbacks fits.
However, the offense just hasn't clicked consistently this year, for a variety of reasons.
With all this in mind, how far can this defense take the Texans?
Be sure to watch the video above as the crew from ESPN Houston's Gallant and George weigh in.
