Can Texans win with Leinart?

Matt Schaub is not a great quarterback, but he is well above average and was having a very effective season for the thriving Houston Texans. Schaub threw five interceptions in Houston's first five games but has thrown just one since then. It could be argued that Schaub played more effectively with Andre Johnson -- who I think is still the best wide receiver in the NFL -- out of the lineup. Schaub's 15-6 touchdown-to-interception ratio is probably the statistic that best shows his effectiveness to this point. He also has an excellent understanding of Houston's offense with plenty of proven game experience. But don't overlook the fact that Schaub still has never started a playoff game.

At USC, Matt Leinart was used to playing with exceptional football players. And he did a very good job of using those superb weapons without taking too many unnecessary risks. That will have to be the formula for Leinart now with Houston after Schaub injured his foot last week and was placed on injured reserve.

To read more about the keys to Houston's success with Matt Leinart under center, sign up for ESPN Insider.

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Matt Williamson

ESPN.com

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• Hosts "Football Today" podcast
• Joined ESPN in 2005
• Was an NFL and college scout for the Cleveland Browns