Five Most Effective Players For Houston Texans In 2008

(Photo by Andy Lyons/Getty Images)

NFL football teams win games through the utilization of strengths while capitalizing on mistakes, creating turnovers, managing ball control and exploiting opponent’s weaknesses

When determining a team’s five most effective players during a season, several evaluation tools come into play. Basically, one looks for a player’s ability to add a new dimension to the game. It’s more than just saying that a player is a great quarterback, receiver, running back or records a substantial amount of interceptions, sacks or tackles on defense.

Sometimes, the player who doesn't get the recognition is the key component for a successful play. Also, it takes dedication on the player's part to execute the playbook within the particular offensive or defensive schemes. For the Houston Texans, the following were the five most effective players on the 2008 squad:

1) Andre Johnson

Pound for pound, the best wide receiver in the NFL. He led the league in receptions (115) and receiving yards (1,575 yards). Johnson recorded his first 200-yard game of his career Dec. 14 at home against the Tennessee Titans.

He tied a career high with eight touchdowns while thriving in the Texans' traditional XYZ formation.

Johnson lines up on the opposite side of tight end Owen Daniel and No. 2 receiver Kevin Walter. Can overpower most top cover corners with his ability to beat "bump and run" coverage.

Even when defensive backs cut off his routes, he finds a way to get open. Creates double and triple teams, allowing QB Matt Schaub to spread the ball around the field.

If Johnson draws a triple team and either TE Owen Daniels or No.2 receiver Kevin Walter makes the reception, the former University of Miami standout did his job.

2) Steve Slaton

The 2008 third-round draft pick excelled in Gary Kubiak’s offensive scheme last season. Slaton led all rookies with 1,282 rushing yards (a franchise record) on 288 carries, averaging 4.8 yards per carry.

He added another 377 yards on 50 receptions. The Texans intended to make Slaton a third-down back back, but he emerged as the team’s No. 1 back after an injury to Ahman Green.

Finished sixth in the NFL in rushing. Lacks prototypical size (5-foot-9, 203 pounds), but makes up for it with blazing speed. Ideal running back for the team’s zone blocking scheme. Can slash and cut back to find the open hole.

Slaton expects to get hit hard based on head coach Gary Kubiak's offensive scheme. The success of the Texans depends on him staying healthy over the course of the regular season. Currently, Houston still lacks an adequate backup.

3) Mario Williams 

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