Houston Texans fans might not like Cam Akers sitting on the sidelines, but it’s a prove-it moment for Dameon Pierce.
Akers, the breakout star of the preseason, is on the inactive list as Houston takes on the Indianapolis Colts at Lucas Oil Stadium. Overall, he was the top back for August with Joe Mixon sidelined.
Pierce, who totaled nine yards on eight carries, still appears to be the top back entering 2024. That could change with a rocky outing on Sunday before the Texans head back to NRG Stadium to face the Chicago Bears on Sunday Night Football.
What was the problem with Pierce? Was it the offensive line’s inability to open running lanes? Was it the third-year running back’s lack of consistency in Bobby Slowik’s offense?
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Perhaps. Texans coach DeMeco Ryans said the offensive line has to do a better job of blocking. Pierce also showed enough in practice to warrant playing time.
While Mixon will be the feature back, Pierce offers speical teams value. He’s listed as the No. 2 kick returner behind Steven Sims and could see reps on punt return if Tank Dell and Sims were to exit with injuries.
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The Texans inked Mixon to a three-year extension this offseason to be the workhorse runner. He’ll be that Sunday. Pierce will be the change-of-pace option and could see better results with Pro Bowl left tackle Laremy Tunsil blocking one side of the field.
Pierce has an opportunity to show progress and leave the preseason in the past. If not, his rep count on Sunday might be a season-high heading into the next 17 outings.