Arian Foster Not Playing: Texans RB Doesn't Start Due To Coach's Decision

Houston Texans running back Arian Foster is not playing in their game against the Oakland Raiders. According to CBSSports.com's Dave Richard, it's because head coach Gary Kubiak has made a decision to not start him.

Foster is not injured, is on the active roster, and has even suited up for the game. However, it appears as if he may have violated some sort of team rule. 

Foster is the NFL's leading rusher with 406 yards and three touchdowns, and is an integral part of the Houston Texans offense. Moreover, he's ranked as the No. 1 producer in most fantasy leagues.

Obviously, this is a big disappointment especially because there were absolutely no reports leading up to the game that Foster wouldn't play. 

So far, Derrick Ward and Steve Slaton have picked up the load and the Texans haven't suffered because of it. Only midway through the 2nd quarter, Ward has already rushed for 52 yards on five carries including a 33-yard touchdown score, while Slaton has registered 35 yards on the ground. Of course, this performance is against the porous Raiders run defense.

However, since then Arian Foster has come in and amassed 187 yards from scrimmage and a pair of touchdowns. 

The Texans won the game 31-24, despite being without star WR Andre Johnson (ankle injury) and OLB Brian Cushing (suspension). Considering that Foster sat out the first quarter as well, it's a relatively impressive feat.   

Of course, if they lose the game, Gary Kubiak will be blamed for his questionable decision. 

Note: All the details of this story haven't been released yet, but should emerge shortly.