Rookie Sightings Versus Ravens
For the most part what a makes a good team is great players. That means that even if you have good young guys, they won’t get playing time simply because there is a more proven veteran ahead of them on the depth chart, but what makes a good team a great team is when those veterans get hurt, the young guys fill the holes admirably.
Last week against the Ravens the Texans saw production from almost the entire team, especially the rookies and it was something many fans have wanted to see since the preseason began.
Oct 21, 2012; Houston, TX, USA; Houston Texans linebacker Whitney Mercilus (59) celebrates getting a sack against the Baltimore Ravens during the first half at Reliant Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Thomas Campbell-US PRESSWIRE
1st Round- Whitney Mercilus
Whitney Mercilus has been receiving more playing time since the injury of Brian Cushing and last week he made the most of it earning what he said was “the first of many” sack of his career. He had one sack, but also was constantly pressuring Flacco making fans and coaches alike breath a sigh of relief that they have a player closer to the likes of Mario Williams than Amobi Okoye.
3rd Round- DeVier Posey
DeVier Posey didn’t have quite as memorable of a performance as he did against the Packers when he scored his first career touchdown, but he did make a consistent contribution on special teams which is what you have to expect from your rookies.
4th Round- Ben Jones
Ben Jones has been a contribute on the offensive line since week one. That being said, he made his first career start at right guard in place of the banged up Antoine Caldwell and considering how well he played, it will certainly not be the last.
4th Round- Keshawn Martin
Keshawn Martin has been a productive returner since Trindon Holliday’s release two weeks ago. He didn’t have a catch in the game against the Ravens but he has been a staple in the slot thus far this season and will remain our return man for the foreseeable future.
October 14, 2012; Houston, TX, USA; Houston Texans wide receiver Keshawn Martin (82) returns a kick during the third quarter against the Green Bay Packers at Reliant Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Troy Taormina-US PRESSWIRE
4th Round- Jared Crick
Jared Crick saw his first legitimate play time against the Ravens this week thanks to the injury of Tim Jamison and he played well. He chased Flacco down on one play and threw him to the ground with force and authority that would have earned his former Nebraska teammate, Ndamukong Suh, a big fat fine from Commissioner Goodell.
Some teams are lucky to see production from their first round pick, but if the Texans continue to receive this production from their rookies they could bring the Lombardy Trophy to Houston in the very near future.