Different feel this year for the Bengals

HOUSTON - There's a different feeling in the Bengals locker room than there was at this time last year. 

Little went right for the upstart Bengals during their last trip to Houston in January 2012. But this year’s team has a different feel as it gets set for another wild card matchup with the Texans.

"I think last year was really more excitement of being in the playoffs. I think this year it’s a business trip,” Bengals offensive lineman Andrew Whitworth said. “I think a lot of guys see this as their opportunity to go show the kind of football team we are and the players that we have so I think we're here with one goal in mind and one goal only and that’s to win. We're not satisfied with making the playoffs and really wont be satisfied with anything else."

Whitworth, the Bengals left tackle, grew up just six hours from Houston in neighboring Louisiana. He says having his family in town is great, but it wouldn’t compare to what he would feel if the Bengals pull off a win on Saturday.

"I think its exciting for the guys but they're here for one reason and that’s the same reason I am and it’s to see me win so we're here to get a victory and that’s the business at hand," Whitworth said.

The excitement of the playoffs is different for Kathi Huber, mother of Bengals punter Kevin Huber.

"Very nerve-wracking but I love watching it," said Kathi Huber who plans to be in the stands when her son is punting against the Texans.

As any mother would, Kathi Huber will react nervously every time her son receives a snap on Saturday.

“What is it like when the snap is coming and the ball is going to him? I keep saying, ‘Kevin catch the ball, get it off,' and then 'great punt,'" said Kathi Huber.

She also has a message for the players on the Houston roster.

"Don’t touch my baby," said the proud yet nervous mother.

That is, unless one of those hits results in a first down for the Bengals.