Bill O'Brien's goals for running back Lamar Miller are simple.
"Keep him healthy until Week 1, that's the key," O'Brien said Thursday. "Keep him healthy, get him some work, make sure he gets some good work."
It's not an easy task in training camp, especially with joint practices with 49ers and the Saints in back-to-back weeks.
On Thursday, Miller practiced against New Orleans despite feeling under the weather. The Texans starting running back is not wasting any opportunities to carry the ball.
"He had a little head cold and fought through it," O'Brien said. "That says a lot about him and what a pro he is. I tell those guys up front, let's not allow any penetration and let's give this guy some room to run, and he'll make some yards. He's showing that."
The fifth-year veteran back is also showing his toughness and versatility. Running behind a new offensive line and in a new system, Miller is acclimating to his new surroundings. While he admits he still has room for improvement, Miller is finding his rhythm with the increased workload in this year's training camp.
"I'm pretty sure every running back wants the ball in their hands, so I feel like the more opportunities that you get, you get comfortable and you start feeling it," Miller said Tuesday. "Once you start feeling that as a running back it makes your job easier and obviously the offensive line, they make your job easier as well."
Miller rushed for 30 yards on four carries, averaging 7.5 yards per attempt, in Sunday's 24-13 preseason win over the San Francisco 49ers.
The Texans will host the New Orleans Saints in their second preseason game. Kickoff is set for Saturday at 7 p.m. CT on ABC-13 and SportsRadio 610.
Check out the best fan photos from Thursday's joint #TexansCamp practice with the Saints.
