When the Houston Texans and New York Jets wrap up the first week of NFL preseason action Monday night, several things will be on display for both teams.
Here are some things to watch from the Jets-Texans matchup from Houston tonight:
Transferring over
One of the standouts from Jets camp has been rookie receiver and kick returner Jeremy Kerley. We'll get our first live look at him Monday night.
An exciting athlete, Kerley has been handed the kick and punt return duties for the Jets. And, with Plaxico Burress out with a sprained ankle, Kerley should get plenty of looks in the Jets passing offense.
Tonight will show if Kerley can transfer over the kind of excitement he's caused in camp to game action.
Quick learner
The Texans are counting on second-rounder Brooks Reed to make an impact in rushing the passer this season, but we'll get a chance to see if Reed has made strides in learning how to be a stand up linebacker.
A defensive end at Arizona, Reed needs to show he play in coverage and in space in the Texans' new 3-4 defense.
Big stage for backups
Both teams have established starters at quarterback, but eyes should be on the backups in this game.
The Texans will feature former first-round pick Matt Leinart in a big role tonight, and he's still fighting to prove to NFL teams that he can be a starter in this league.
The Jets might go with seventh-round rookie Greg McElroy from the second quarter on, as Mark Sanchez only plans to play a quarter and backup Mark Brunell won't play with a hurt finger.
Pressure's on
Two players come to mind with pressure on them to perform this season: Houston's Connor Barwin and New York's Shonn Greene.
Barwin has battled injuries through his short career, but the Texans need him in a pass rushing role. He'll be switching positions again to a 3-4 linebacker.
Greene figures to take most of the carries this season, with LaDainian Tomlinson transitioning into mostly the third down role. In the Jets run-heavy offense, he'll be an important player in 2011.
Both need to show they are ready to take on what their respective teams want from them this season.
Dwayne Wade Brian Wilson Eli Whiteside Mike Fontenot Brett Pill Pat Burrell
Keine Kommentare:
Kommentar veröffentlichen