Houston Texans: D’Onta Foreman’s health important after Lamar Miller’s injury

Houston Texans running back, Lamar Miller suffered an ankle injury in Saturday’s win over the Jets. D’Onta Foreman’s health is not more important than ever.

The Houston Texans pulled off yet another gritty win on Saturday in New York against the Jets. Though the defense struggled and allowed Sam Darnold to put on his best performance of the season, they were able to gut out a 29-22 to victory.

Deshaun Watson was sacked six times but he was able to make some excellent throws that he wasn’t able to against the Colts. 10 of those throws were caught by DeAndre Hopkins who turned in a magnificent performance going for 170 yards and two touchdowns.

Unfortunately, for the second week in a row, the running game was unable to get going. Watson led the team with 26 rushing yards on four carries while the running backs, Lamar Miller and Alfred Blue, ran the ball twelve times combined for only 14 yards.

Miller ran the ball three times for eight yards prior to injuring his ankle early on in the game. He never re-entered the game and Blue took over after that. Blue displayed why he is much better off as a bruiser behind a more balanced back as he was never able to get it going and rushed at a clip of 0.7 yards per carry.

Fortunately, Miller’s injury is not considered serious and there is even a shot he can step on the gridiron next week against the Eagles. But, ankle injuries can linger a long time and with the playoffs on the near horizon, they should take it slow with Miller to ensure his health when they’ll need him most.

About two weeks ago, the Houston Texans were able to establish a contingency plan for the running game. They activated D’Onta Foreman off of the PUP list and he has been practicing with the team for nearly a month now. The Texans have taken it slowly with Foreman up to this point, keeping him inactive on game days the past two weeks.

Now is the time to unleash the second-year pro in the rushing attack. He has been practicing about a month with the team now and so he needs to start being incorporated into the offense so he, too, is ready to contribute in the playoffs.

More from House of Houston

• Are you the 2021 FanSided Sports Fan of the Year?
• Houston Texans: 4 reasons Romeo Crennel is right coach right now
• Astros-Twins Wild Card Series: 5 things to know as MLB postseason begins
• Houston Texans: The Most Underrated Sports Drought Ever
• Houston Texans: J.J. Watt’s early case for NFL Hall of Fame

Foreman’s return can accomplish two things to ensure the running game returns prior to the Houston Texans eventual playoff birth and quest for a Super Bowl. The Texans bringing him into the fold now will help get him up to game speed where he functions as a complete back with a nice blend of power and speed. Additionally, it would allow the Texans to rest Miller to make sure he is ready for the playoffs.

Miller and Foreman were a capable tandem last season for the struggling Texans. Miller has since returned to top form this season, showcasing elite elusiveness and decisive cuts. With Miller on form, he and Foreman could turn into an elite tandem that could carry the Houston Texans to a Super Bowl.

Now, the only question remains is Foreman’s health. He’s been a full practice participant but has yet to appear in a game. Miller’s injury could change that but time will tell if he is able to perform at his pre-injury levels. Regardless, Foreman’s health and return are more important than ever for the playoffs, a first-round bye, and Super Bowl contention.

If Foreman could get healthy and perform at a high level, the Houston Texans rushing attack could easily return to tops in the league after two weeks dwelling in the bottom of the league’s rushing attacks.