Houston Texans running back Arian Foster could have a dramatically increased role Thursday night against AFC South rival the Indianapolis Colts, according to Aaron Wilson of the Houston Chronicle.
The Atlanta Falcons crushed the Texans last week 48-21, and the return of a dominant running back is likely what they need. Foster made his season debut Sunday after returning from a groin injury. He had eight carries for 10 yards, and was never able to get a rhythm. While Foster struggled in his first game back, some think he will perform much better against the Colts.
"He's a very talented guy. He can do a lot of different things obviously as a runner. It's hard for anyone to expect him to come into that first game and just be totally back to normal. He hasn't played in a long time, it's a significant injury that he had," said head coach Bill O'Brien, via blog.chron.com. "He's going to have a good week here, he's had two good days here, and I think as we work him back into the offense, he'll really help us."
Last season, Foster rushed for 1,246 yards with eight touchdowns in just 13 games, and the Texans organization would likely be happy if he could duplicate those numbers this season. The running game is a concern for the Texans, but after switching quarterbacks back and forth this season, Houston may have other concerns.
Starting quarterback Ryan Mallett was 12 for 27 throwing 150 yards with an interception Sunday. Quarterback Brian Hoyer came in for Mallett last week and threw two touchdowns in relief for the starter, although Atlanta's defense was likely playing conservative with such a large lead.
Mallett will retain his starting job Thursday night against the Colts, and he will likely need to play well or could lose the spot again. The Texans will likely look to rely on their running game to elevate pressure on the quarterback, and that likely means Foster will get plenty touches in hopes of returning to his old form.
