Bill O'Brien launched a quarterback derby between Brian Hoyer and Ryan Mallett well before training camp began for the Texans. And now he is insisting that the two are still running neck-and-neck for the starting job.
"They both have the quality of leadership; they both have the quality of intelligence," O'Brian told the team website. "So, it's an even battle. And like I said, we'll make a decision at some point. We'll go with one guy to start the season. That other guy needs to be ready to play."
Despite his insistence, O'Brien is leaning toward Hoyer, according to NFL.com, which is claiming that the coaching staff is more comfortable with him. But O'Brien will continue to give Mallett an opportunity to show what he can do.
"If I had the body of knowledge right now, I would probably make the decision," O'Brien said. "I need to see a little bit more and I want to give Ryan a chance to start a game, and put some more thought into it."
Mallett completed 10 of 11 passes for 90 yards and no scores in the first preseason game against San Francisco. Hoyer hit on 2 of 4 for 67 yards and a 58-yard touchdown to Cecil Shorts.