Wade Phillips comments after first practice as interim head coach
Dec 1, 2013; Houston, TX, USA; Houston Texans defensive coordinator Wade Phillips on the sidelines against the New England Patriots at Reliant Stadium. The Patriots beat the Texans 34-31. Mandatory Credit: Matthew Emmons-USA TODAY Sports
The Houston Texans held their first practice since the firing of Gary Kubiak on Monday, where Wade Phillips spoke about the team, his future in Houston and where the team will go from now until the end of the regular season.
"“It’s obviously a lot different than when Gary (Kubiak) was sick. I tried to keep just things going in order the way they were and wait until he got back, keep the seat warm, like I said. This is a different situation. We’ve got to finish the year and we know there’s been a change and so we’ve got to go for it from there.”"
Phillips also spoke about a possibility of being the next head coach.
"“I’m going to do the very best job I can do at what I’m doing. That’s what I’ve always tried to do. This is a situation, I have been a head coach before and an interim head coach before. So I’m familiar with the situation. You have to come in and try to mold the team the way you feel like it ought to.”"
Another change for the final three games will be Phillips having more influence on the offensive side of the ball.
"“I’m going to try to influence some things offensively that I feel can help us. I’m not going to take over the offense. I’ll probably delegate more duties defensively. Also, I have to help with special teams. I’m going to try to be a well-rounded head coach.”"
The interim head coach just wants to win.
"“A win for this team would be big. That’s our first goal is let’s be ready to play and play tremendously hard, which I think we have. But loosen up and play a little better than we have. The team’s a little bit uptight to me and you say … but I think you can loosen up a little bit. All of the pressure has been on them. They put on themselves.”"
For more comments from Phillips, click here.