"The Texans haven't arrived yet, but more evidence that suggests they're getting closer was presented Tuesday. Not only do they still cling to a modicum of postseason hope with one game remaining, they'll be playing for a first-ever winning season against New England on Sunday with a franchise-best four Pro Bowlers on the field.

Although wide receiver Andre Johnson is the lone starter in the group, linebackers DeMeco Ryans and Brian Cushing plus defensive end Mario Williams were also selected to go to Miami for the Jan. 31 matchup between the best players in the AFC and NFC.

And given the unprecedented scheduling of this year's game — it's the week before the Super Bowl, also set for Land Shark Stadium — there's a chance quarterback Matt Schaub will make his way to Florida, too.

Schaub is a second alternate, presumably behind Pittsburgh's Ben Roethlisberger. Should Peyton Manning, Philip Rivers or Tom Brady advance to the Super Bowl, they definitely won't play in the Pro Bowl. And coming off an AFC Championship Game, any of them could beg off, as might Roethlisberger. The Steelers' disappointing season has left him pretty beaten up.

Johnson, who credits the chemistry he has developed with Schaub over the three years they've been together for his statistical explosion of the last two seasons, hopes his batterymate winds up with an invitation to the party.

"Matt deserves it," Johnson said. "