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NFL power rankings: Head coaches from 32-1

By Brad Berreman

HOUSTON, TX - FEBRUARY 05: Head coach Bill Belichick of the New England Patriots speaks to the media after Super Bowl 51 at NRG Stadium on February 5, 2017 in Houston, Texas. (Photo by Larry Busacca/Getty Images)
HOUSTON, TX - FEBRUARY 05: Head coach Bill Belichick of the New England Patriots speaks to the media after Super Bowl 51 at NRG Stadium on February 5, 2017 in Houston, Texas. (Photo by Larry Busacca/Getty Images) /
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Mandatory Credit: Grant Halverson-Getty Images
Mandatory Credit: Grant Halverson-Getty Images /

No. 17: Bill O’Brien, Houston Texans

The Texans have posted a 9-7 record in each of O’Brien’s three seasons as head coach, including back-to-back division titles in 2015 and 2016. But O’Brien’s offensive acumen has not yet come to fruition in Houston, due mostly to not being able to find anything even close to past pupil Tom Brady under center. But this year’s move up to draft Deshaun Watson is a good step in that process, and the two-time Heisman Trophy finalist could start Week 1.

There have been some questions about O’Brien’s job status, with speculation other teams with openings were waiting to see if he became available after last season. Entering the fourth year of his original five-year deal, if O’Brien does not get a contract extension the same speculation about him leaving will surely surface after this season. If he is let go in Houston, O’Brien will not lack for suitors.

O’Brien and the Texans could easily win the AFC South again this year, which would make it tough (but not unprecedented) for him to be fired by owner Bob McNair whenever the team’s season ends. But a playoff win against a non-third string starting quarterback would be nice at some point, and it’s getting toward put up or shut up time for O’Brien to lead the Texans to a legit playoff run.

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