Austin Howard Stays Cool After Debut

July 29, 2012; Cortland, NY, USA; New York Jets tackle Austin Howard (77) walks out to the practice field prior to the start of training camp at SUNY Cortland. Mandatory Credit: Rich Barnes-US PRESSWIRE

Despite Mario Williams’ assertion that he put his hands in his face, Austin Howard did an outstanding job in his Jets regular season debut on Sunday. He took Mario Williams out of that game. Super Mario became invisible Mario, you didn’t hear his name unless they were talking about how Austin Howard took him out of the game.

Is Austin Howard going to let his success get to his head? If you listen to him talk, the answer is a resounding no. Take a look at some excerpts from his meeting with the media yesterday. First, about how he felt after watching the film:

Well, overall still happy to be sticking that (win). We watched the film today and learned a lot. Went over the positives, went over the negatives, and we’re going to be prepared this week just like we did last week, if not harder.

About whether or not it’s easier to point out negatives after a win:

It really comes to the point when you want to keep building on the win. So the focus and the intensity of practice become arguably a little harder because you’re supposed to keep building on everything and continue to be more successful week in, week out.

And here is what he said about building after the win:

It’s just extra film work, extra work after practice. D’Brickashaw Ferguson has been taking all the tackles after practice and doing band work and stuff like that. (There are) still extra things we can do to make sure that you’re prepared for the game. Just watching the film and practicing at the high level you know how to.

See how he isn’t looking back on his success of last week? He is looking forward, talking about how he can get better for next week, like a seasoned veteran would. Always a good sign.

Aug 10, 2012; Cincinnati, OH, USA; New York Jets center Nick Mangold (74) on the sidelines during the game against the Cincinnati Bengals at Paul Brown Stadium. The Bengals beat the Jets 17-6. Mandatory Credit: Matthew Emmons-US PRESSWIRE

If Austin Howard ever thinks about letting things go to his head, he has Nick Mangold who is going to keep him in line:

I would like to believe so. As an offensive lineman, everyone believes that you will stay level-headed. With the daunting task of a fantastic Pittsburgh defense coming up, I would expect him to stay level-headed.

The Jets certainly have a tough task up ahead of them taking on Pittsburgh, in Pittsburgh. That defense always plays tough, and Austin will have his hands full. I think he will keep things in perspective getting ready for this one.