Running backs
On the ground, Carlos Hyde and Duke Johnson failed to have big games. The two combined for 51 rushing yards on 19 attempts against a stout, disciplined run-defense.
Johnson ran nine times for 36 yards. Hyde received 10 totes for 17 yards. Hyde was shut-down running side-to-side, rushing for two yards on three attempts on both sides, per NFL Next Gen Stats. Johnson struggled to rush towards the inside left and outside right.
As a ground attack, there was nothing to brag about.
However, the two, particularly Johnson, did enough to leave NRG Stadium with a Texans win. Johnson acted as Deshaun Watson’s reliable threat out of the backfield, hauling in five receptions for 54 yards, including a 14-yard touchdown reception to spark a 21-point unanswered streak.
Due to Johnson’s productivity as a receiver, the backs get a passing grade.