For starters, there’s no QB controversy
Texans coach Bill O’Brien reiterated in no uncertain terms that Tom Savage is his starting quarterback following a convincing start to the preseason.
Midway through the preseason, Savage has completed 17 of 20 passes for 167 yards, one touchdown and no interceptions for a 118.1 passer rating.
While complimentary of rookie Deshaun Watson, O’Brien has no intention of implementing a rotation or special packages involving the team’s first-round pick at this time.
“That’s not the approach that we’re taking,” O’Brien said. “Tom’s the starter. Tom has really had a good camp. He’s only thrown three incompletions in two games. He’s really got good command of our offense.”
Watson has completed 18 of 35 passes for 281 yards, no touchdowns and no interceptions. He has rushed for two touchdowns, gaining 34 yards on seven carries.
“Deshaun is a very, very good young player who has a bright future in this league,” O’Brien said. “Let’s put the cards on the table. Tom has been here for four years. The way we want to play, the style that we need to play relative to getting guys lined up, relative to cadence, relative to protection points and route reads and putting guys in the right spots — Tom’s ahead of Deshaun on that.”
Referencing the Miami Dolphins’ Wildcat plays with Ronnie Brown and Ricky Williams, O’Brien said that’s not his plan for Watson.
“I’m not going to do that,” O’Brien said. “Tom’s the No. 1, and Deshaun right now is the No. 2, and we’re going to go from there. It (working in a second quarterback for a play package) can be done. It’s not going to be done here.”