Ryans an early star for Texans

courtesy of The Daily News of Galveston County

HOUSTON — With a 1-4 record to show for their effort, the 2006 season has been anything but pleasing for DeMeco Ryans and the Houston Texans.

That does not keep Ryans, a rookie middle linebacker making his mark as one of the top tacklers in the NFL, from flashing a genuine smile that lets you know he’s having the time of his life.

He’s dealt with adversity before.

“I’ve been through the hard times,” said Ryans, who will lead the Texans against Jacksonville today at noon at Reliant Stadium. “I’ve been through a lot. I know what it takes. It takes guys to keep believing and pushing. It’s a matter of time before we get that win and the wins continue to come.” READ MORE

Battle Red for Jags Game

Last Sunday’s game in Dallas was a tail of two halves. We played pretty well in the first half and took a lead into the dressing room at the half. However, we were unable to put a lid on the Cowboys passing attack in the second half. Just like in college, we’ve got to keep fighting every play, every quarter and settle for nothing but our best.

As we prepare for Jacksonville, we’ve got to forget about the mistakes made last Sunday and work hard to improve ourselves and ultimately the team. We are entering week seven of a sixteen week season. There’s a lot of football to be played which gives me more incentive to play hard and record some more wins.

I appreciate all the well wishes and encouragement you guys are giving me and your compliments on my individual play. As I’ve said before, your encouragement is awesome. As for my individual play, we’re still not winning so my individual play is not enough. Football is a team sport so I’ve got to continue to get better for this team and its fans. No personal accomplishment will measure up to the accomplishment of getting this franchise on a winning roll.

Speaking of roll, my former Bama teammates will be making the trip to Knoxville on Saturday to face Tennessee. I know all the so-called experts are picking the Vols but if Bama plays as well as I know they can don’t be surprised if they go into Neyland Stadium and take a win home. The Bama/UT game is a rivalry, so like they say, you can throw the record books out.

We’ll spend the rest of the week putting in the game plan for Jacksonville. As most of you already know, Sunday’s game against the Jags will be our last at home until we host Buffalo on November 19. So a win against Jacksonville would certainly be a great way to go into a three week travel schedule.

I’ll check back after the game,

 DeMeco