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Texans game news could bring a major change to the New York Giants’ backfield. Cam Skattebo is expected to resume his role as the team’s lead running back Sunday against the Houston Texans, according to sources cited by NFL Network.
The development follows a surprising Week 6 decision in which Skattebo received zero touches during New York’s loss to the New Orleans Saints. Giants coach John Harbaugh indicated Friday that the second-year running back would receive a significantly larger workload against Houston, although the team has not confirmed which player will officially start.
Texans Game Could Mark Skattebo’s Powerful Return
Skattebo’s expected return to the top of the running back rotation comes after the Giants released veteran Najee Harris on Tuesday. With Harris no longer in the picture, New York appears ready to return to its original plan for the 2026 season.
- Cam Skattebo: Expected to handle the lead running back role.
- Tyrone Tracy Jr.: Likely to contribute in a complementary capacity.
- Devin Singletary: Expected to receive situational work.
Skattebo acknowledged that his lack of involvement against New Orleans was a difficult lesson. He said he had a “good week” of practice and appeared focused on earning back the coaching staff’s trust.
The running back has shown explosive potential, but ball security remains a concern. Skattebo has lost five fumbles in 13 career games, including a costly overtime fumble during the Giants’ tie against the Washington Commanders. That mistake was followed by his complete absence from the offensive game plan the next week.
J.J. McCarthy Faces a Critical Test Against Houston
Skattebo will operate behind J.J. McCarthy, who is scheduled to start at quarterback for the Giants. Sources told NFL Network that Sunday’s matchup with the Texans is not being treated as a one-game audition for the former Minnesota Vikings first-round pick.
McCarthy was traded to New York last month and is expected to remain the team’s QB1 beyond the Giants’ Week 8 bye. Harbaugh has avoided making permanent declarations, emphasizing that football decisions can change quickly.
“Life is day-to-day, minute-to-minute,” Harbaugh said. “There’s really no guarantees. I would never say that anything is permanent in football or life. That’s the plan going forward.”
Despite spending only four weeks with the Giants, McCarthy had a strong week of practice and is familiar enough with the offensive system to execute the game plan against Houston’s highly regarded defense.
His fourth quarter against the Saints offered an encouraging glimpse of what he can provide. McCarthy finished that period with 243 passing yards and added 26 rushing yards. His mobility and ability to attack defenses deep could give New York’s offense a different dimension.
Why the Giants’ Offensive Plan Matters
The Texans game presents a challenging environment for both McCarthy and Skattebo. Houston’s defense is expected to test the Giants’ protection, quarterback decision-making and ability to sustain drives. A reliable running game could help reduce pressure on McCarthy and create more opportunities for play-action passes.
Skattebo’s workload will therefore be closely watched. If he receives consistent early-down carries, New York may be signaling renewed confidence in his role. If Tracy and Singletary remain heavily involved, the Giants could instead favor a committee approach designed to limit mistakes and keep the backfield fresh.
For Skattebo, the matchup is about more than statistics. It is an opportunity to respond after a frustrating week, rebuild trust and show that his previous mistakes will not define his season.
For McCarthy, the contest represents an important step in his development with New York. A composed performance against Houston could strengthen the belief that he is capable of leading the offense beyond the upcoming bye week.
What to Watch in the Texans Game
- Whether Skattebo receives the majority of the Giants’ running back touches.
- How New York protects McCarthy against Houston’s defensive pressure.
- Whether McCarthy continues to use his legs as a weapon.
- How the Giants respond to Skattebo’s recent fumble troubles.
- Whether Tracy and Singletary maintain meaningful situational roles.
The Giants’ offensive identity could begin to take shape in this matchup. With Skattebo expected to return to lead-back duties and McCarthy making another start, the Texans game offers New York a chance to establish momentum before its Week 8 break.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will Cam Skattebo play against the Texans?
Cam Skattebo is expected to play and resume his role as the New York Giants’ lead running back, according to sources cited by NFL Network.
Why did Skattebo receive zero touches the previous week?
Skattebo was left out of the Giants’ offensive plan after a costly overtime fumble against the Washington Commanders. He described the experience as a lesson.
Who will start at quarterback for the Giants?
J.J. McCarthy is expected to start at quarterback against Houston and remain the Giants’ QB1 beyond the Week 8 bye.
Which other Giants running backs could contribute?
Tyrone Tracy Jr. and Devin Singletary are expected to receive situational opportunities behind Skattebo.
