Wade Phillips taking medical leave

Houston Texans defensive coordinator Wade Phillips is taking a medical leave of absence due to a scheduled surgical procedure later this week. According to the Texans, Phillips, who has revitalized the Texans' top-ranked defense, is expected to return later this season. BR> With Phillips sidelined, Linebackers coach Reggie Herring will call the defensive plays.

The Texans defense has made a historical turnaround. The defense is allowing 274.9 yards per game this season as compared to 376.9 in 2010. Houston’s 102.0-yard-average improvement is the best since the 1970 AFL-NFL merger. Houston ranks fourth in rush defense and third in pass defense this season.

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