The Houston Texans have been one of the most consistent teams in the NFL over the past few years and with Matt Schaub as the established starter, head coach Gary Kubiak is using this offseason to test the backup position and it has been a battle between T.J. Yates and second-year layer Case Keenum.
According to the Houston Culture Map, Keenum is pushing Yates for the backup position after coming out of Houston before last year and coach Gary Kubiak has noticed his improved play. Kubiak is known as a quarterback's coach and so far he has been impressed with Keenum, as has the quarterback's teammates, as third-year receiver Lestar Jean said Keenum has been playing much better and looks as if he has a true grasp of the offense.
Schaub has dealt with injuries in the past and the Texans do not want to be unprepared if it happens again, much like when he was out for the playoffs two years ago and Yates started and won a game before losing in the next round. Keenum is a winner from college and Kubiak likes how he is throwing the ball this offseason and that is why he has a chance to get the backup position on the depth chart over Yates. Keenum went 37-14 during his time in college and he set numerous records with Houston, including in passing yards and touchdowns.
Keenum has been all over the Texans minicamp and Kubiak said he has looked good in the shotgun offense and that his confidence level is high. He came into the league undrafted with a chip on his shoulder after putting up such great numbers and now he may have the chance to make an impact on the roster. Last season the Texans went 12-4 and won against the Bengals in the playoffs before losing to the Patriots. The team looked like it was going to get the number one seed before faltering late in the year and now they have the chance to win the division again in 2013.
"That's just kind of part of my identity," Keenum said. "Coming out of high school, I had one scholarship offer. I said that before the draft that all I need is one chance, and I got my one chance here, with a great organization and great coaches."