Brian Cushing: The New Face of The Houston Texans

When you think of the Houston Texans, what's the first thought that comes to mind? 

If you're an optimist, maybe you think of Andre Johnson or the explosive offense.  Maybe you think of Mario Williams and Demeco Ryans becoming foundational pieces of the defense. 

If you're a little less optimistic, maybe you think of missed opportunities and mediocrity.  And if you're one of those wacko Texans fans, and I know you're out there, you still think the team dropped the ball by not taking Vince Young.

You know my first thought when I think of the Texans?  Linebacker Brian Cushing.  Forced fumbles.  Big hits.  And even a soaring interception against the Bengals.  And this is only one game in Cushing's rookie season.

I think that Cushing is quickly emerging as the face of the defense.  Don't laugh. 

How many points have the Texans given up in the second half of three straight games?  Zero.  How many yards rushing have the Texans given up in each of the last three games?  Less than 50 in each game?  Cedric Benson, former NFL leading rusher, was held to less than 45 yards in Week 6 when the Texans beat the favored Bengals on the road. 

Cushing has led the team in tackles in 4 of 6 games.  Imagine what could have happened had Cushing not missed the preseason. I'm not saying we should start carving a bust in Canton just yet, but Cushing is on the verge of greatness.

I was initially less than thrilled with the selection of Cushing in the draft.  I thought maybe Percy Harvin could help the Texans' offense go from great to off the charts and have the Texans win shoot out after shoot out. 

I also thought fellow Trojan Clay Matthews might have been a good selection for both his ability to rush the passer as well as cover tight ends.  After seeing Cushing cover Andre Caldwell and intercept a bullet from Carson Palmer, it's clear Cushing can cover.

I will readily admit that Cushing has been, at least so far, the best choice the Texans could have made.  He's already one of my favorite players.

Cushing is physical on a team that has been called the dreaded "F" word: finesse.  Cushing plays with an attitude on a team that has too often lacked identity. 

Most importantly, Cushing plays mean.  He relishes punishing opposing players.  He loves smacking people in the mouth.  And he will tell players after he crushes them.  Hey, this is football.  There's absolutely nothing wrong with a little intimidation.

Andre Johnson is arguably the best receiver in football.  Owen Daniels is emerging as a top tight end in the league.  Steve Slaton is electric with the football in his hands.  Mario Williams and Demeco Ryans are top notch defenders.  All of these players are good or better, but none are as fiery and intense as Cushing.

Too many times over their history, the Texans have laid down and played soft.  Those days are over.  Brian Cushing will make sure of that.  He is the new leader and face of the Houston Texans.