Ben Tate Injury: Will Texans Lean on Matt Schaub, Passing Game More?

According to Paul Kuharsky, Ben Tate suffered a groin injury and is questionable to return. Groin injuries are usually troublesome for running backs, as they impact ability to cut. The fact that Tate is listed as questionable likely means the injury isn't very serious.

Tate was drafted last year to come in and compete for a starting spot. However, he suffered a knee injury and missed the entire season. Tate's injury was accompanied by some run-ins with his head coach, bringing some questions about his future.

However, Tate got an opportunity to prove himself due to an injury to Arian Foster. Entering today's game, Tate was among the league leaders in rushing.

Foster made his return, but Tate did enough to remain in the rotation. This injury could provide Foster with the opportunity to reclaim the bulk of the carries.

Without Tate, the Texans need Foster to remain healthy. Otherwise, Matt Schaub will be asked to do more though the air. Schaub is used to throwing a ton of passes, but they need balance in order to be successful.

Tate's success tells me that the Texans have a good offensive scheme. Both Tate and Foster were not considered candidates to be big-time rushers. However, they have found success in Houston, thanks to the scheme.

If Tate and Foster are unable to remain healthy, the Texans will rely on Schaub. However, they will continue to feature the running game. It seems as though they will just plug in the next running back and have success. 

Don't forget the success Steve Slaton had a few years ago. At this point it seems like a scheme success.

Jon Dove is a featured columnist at Bleacher Report, covering the NFL and NFL draft. Check him out on Twitter @Jon_Dove42.