Heading into playoffs: Houston Texans aim high level of preparedness – NFL News
The Houston Texans said they will target the Indianapolis Colts’ game this Sunday (Dec. 30) as preparations for the playoffs, although their priority is to win and claim the home-field advantage and a bye week.
Quarterback Matt Schaub, who will be playing his first second round game this year, said they want to build a momentum while heading into the playoffs, and the Colts’ game provides them with an opportunity to re-evaluate and consolidate their strength at
key positions.
He said:
"This is like a playoff game for us. This is a team that is in the playoff themselves and we're in their building. With all that we can gain from playing well and getting a win on the road, it's definitely a playoff-type game."
Schaub missed the playoffs last season, when the Texans reached the second phase for the first time in their franchise history, with a foot injury. He has led the team to the next round this year again and appears keen on playing in the phase.
Offensive coordinator Rick Dennison agrees with Schaub that they can target the game as confidence booster and put things in the right way.
According to Rick:
"I think that's the biggest thing is to get the confidence. We have a very confident team when we get things going in the right way. I think we will. I think our guys will respond."
A win nevertheless is important for the Texans to claim the much-needed home-field advantage and a week bye as, according to coach Gary Kubiak, these two positives will help the team for progression in the second round.
The Texans being an inexperienced team can face certain difficulties in the competitive nature of the playoffs without the home-field advantage. They might find it easier to face oppositions in front of home crowd, although their road record in the regular
season has also been impressive.
As far as health and fitness of the players is concerned, the Texans are hundred percent. They are not making any changes in the squad but will have the options to rotate players at key positions to test their abilities and durability.
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