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By Matt Levine
Contributing Sports Writer
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As the Houston Texans prepare for their upcoming Week 6 matchup with the New England Patriots, they may be getting back a key piece to their team. Star running back Joe Mixon practiced again on Friday and looks to be trending toward playing on Sunday.
Getting Mixon back for this game would be massive and could help the Texans' offense get back into shape. The running game has sputtered since Mixon went down with an injury in Week 2 against the Chicago Bears.
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Having Mixon practice multiple days in a row is a big sign of major improvement in his injury. The veteran running back brings an element to the Texans offense that they haven't had in a few weeks.
In his lone healthy week of the season, Mixon racked up 159 yards on the ground and one touchdown. Houston took down the Indianapolis Colts in Week 1 before he suffered the injury the following week.
His presence in the backfield allows the Texans to use their other strong playmakers all over the field. It also keeps the opposing defenses on their toes, forcing them to know where Mixon is at all times. Assuming he can give it a go, the Texans will be gaining a big boost in this game.
Since he went down with an injury, the Houston running game has suffered. Over the three games that he has missed, the Texans are averaging just 78 yards on the ground.
Backup running back Cam Akers has taken the brunt of the carries due to others in the backfield being injured as well. It is a welcomed sight to see Mixon back on the practice field ahead of this crucial game.
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While the Texans should take down the Patriots easily, anything can happen on any given Sunday in the league. New England will be trying out their rookie quarterback, Drake Maye, for this matchup, leaving the Texans with very little game film to scout Maye on.
This matchup with New England can also be seen as a trap game for Houston. Following this contest, Houston has a tough schedule. They have matchups against the Green Bay Packers, Colts, New York Jets, and Detroit Lions.
Making sure they come away with the win this week could go a long way for the Texans. If they can execute and play their game plan, Houston should have no issues and move to 5-1 on the season.
For more Texans and NFL news, make sure to head over to Newsweek Sports.
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