Report: Bill O'Brien favourite for Houston Texans job

Penn State Nittany Lions head coach Bill O'Brien is the "overwhelming favourite" to be named head coach of the Houston Texans, according to a report.

The Texans have been without a permanent head coach after Gary Kubiak was fired earlier this month following 11 straight defeats, which has been extended to 13 under interim boss Wade Phillips.

Owner Bob McNair wants another offensive-minded coach and feels that O'Brien is the perfect candidate for leading Penn State to two winning seasons during his tenure, despite taking over in horrendous circumstances from long-standing boss Joe Paterno.

Despite interviewing other prospects, the Texans have decided that O'Brien is the favourite for the job and want to close in on a deal quickly, reports ESPN.

The 44-year-old has previous NFL experience as offensive coordinator and an assistant coach at the New England Patriots.