Houston Texans: 5 Reasons To Watch Hard Knocks

Dec 28, 2014; Houston, TX, USA; Houston Texans defensive end J.J. Watt (99) reacts after making a sack for a safety during the second half against the Jacksonville Jaguars at NRG Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Jairaj-USA TODAY Sports

The HBO series “Hard Knocks” has become one of the most popular sports programs going, featuring a new NFL team every year. This time around it will be the Houston Texans who draw the national attention. In case you aren’t a fan of the team, here are five legitimate reasons to watch.

J.J. Watt

NFL Films has put a microphone on superstar defensive end J.J. Watt a number of times before and the one thing people can always say is he’s never boring. The guy is not only a phenomenal player that is so much fun to watch, he also comes across as quite a character who isn’t afraid to have a laugh at the expense of both himself and teammates. This will be the first chance all football fans get an up-close look at why he’s becoming one of the most beloved players in the league.

Brian Hoyer and Ryan Mallett QB battle

There is nothing more fun to watch during training camp and preseason than a good position battle. Certainly the most hyped every year will be the quarterback spot, and the Texans have one of the most intriguing in 2015. Brian Hoyer and Ryan Mallett are each former backups to Tom Brady and have had their attempts at becoming full-time starters undone by a variety of circumstances from injury to erratic franchise decisions.

Now the two will duel once again, this time for the right to captain the Texans offense.

Jadeveon Clowney

Anybody remember the hype machine that followed Jadeveon Clowney when he arrived via the 2014 NFL draft? He was being hailed as the next great pass rusher with athletic ability that was beyond freakish. Then he proceeded to have a lost rookie season that was cut short after four games. He finished with seven tackles and no sacks.

Hard Knocks will get to see his return from that ugly start, either to prove what he can do or begin the slow process of becoming another colossal draft bust.

The Wide Receivers

While the quarterbacks will draw most of the attention, the Texans actually have a very interesting race developing at the wide receiver position. The exit of Andre Johnson has created a vacuum at the top of the depth chart behind DeAndre Hopkins. Now the question is who will step up to seize the moment? Houston has added a number of notable names including veterans Cecil Shorts and Nate Washington along with promising rookie Jaelen Strong.

Should make for an interesting competition with a number of pass catchers who exhibit different qualities from speed and quickness to size and leaping ability.

Bill O’Brien

At the center of every Hard Knocks is the head coach. He runs the show and the entertainment of the series depends on his personality. That is why the New York Jets remain one of the favorites because of Rex Ryan. The good news is Bill O’Brien doesn’t lack for personality. He comes across as a straight shooter who doesn’t have that Bill Belichick automaton style in front of the media.

Don’t look for any controversy, but it’s safe to say O’Brien may come up with a few memorable moments.

Next: NFL Power Rankings: Top Head Coaches 1-32

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