Updated

Excitement about the Houston Texans generated by the franchise's appearance on Hard Knocks has gotten dashed following an 0-2 start. Here are two things the Texans need to generate some positive buzz once again.

*The return of Arian Foster: Alfred Blue began the season as Houston's starter but Chris Polk played a bigger role in a Week Two loss against Carolina. Neither running back scares defenses like Foster, who is inching closer to playing again after undergoing preseason groin surgery.

*Difference-making play at quarterback: Head coach Bill O'Brien's decision to bench Brian Hoyer after just one start in favor of Ryan Mallett didn't pay immediate dividends. Mallett played better in the second half of last Sunday's loss to Carolina but still finished 27 of 58 passing for 244 yards with one touchdown and an interception. Injuries on the offensive line aren't helping his cause.