Patriots eying Texans' missing pieces from Round 1

BY DAN BEGNOCHE

As the New England Patriots look to the game tape this week during preparations for Sunday’s playoff rematch with the Houston Texans, they're taking note of who is absent from it.

In a 42-14 Monday night thrashing at the hands of the Pats, the Texans were without two talented youngsters: linebacker Brooks Reed and tight end Garrett Graham. The pair will be making an appearance this time around. (photo: The Britt_2, Flickr)

“[Reed’s] certainly been disruptive when he’s been in there,” offensive coordinator Josh McDaniels told reporters via conference call on Monday. “... I think Reed just comes in and really provides some explosiveness off the edge. [He’s] a guy that can pass rush, can really play in the running game, has a great playing style about him.”