HOUSTON — Gary Kubiak grew up five miles from NRG Stadium. He watched the parade for the Oilers' 'Luv Ya Blue" teams, and later worked as a ballboy for Bum Phillips in training camp.
He was Houston in every way. But life has a funny way of creating interruptions.
Kubiak returns to his offseason home Saturday, leading the Broncos against the Houston Texans. The homecoming provides a nice narrative, but lacks drama. Kubiak came back last season as the Baltimore Ravens' offensive coordinator, suffering a disappointing 25-13 loss that nearly cost Baltimore a playoff spot.
Saturday's contest matters only for evaluation, viewing quarterback Peyton Manning in an important snapshot with his inexperienced offensive line.