Rookie tight end Cade Stover will be sidelined for the Houston Texans' crucial game against the Miami Dolphins due to an emergency appendectomy performed Saturday night. The Texans announced Stover's status change just hours before kickoff.
Stover, a fourth-round pick from Ohio State, has primarily served as backup to Dalton Schultz this season, starting in eight of his 13 appearances. He has recorded 14 receptions for 132 yards and a single touchdown, which came during a narrow loss against the Tennessee Titans.
The Texans (8-5) face a significant challenge against the Dolphins without Stover, as they strive to maintain their lead in the AFC South. Houston holds a two-game advantage over the Indianapolis Colts. The Texans boast a strong defense, ranking 12th in points allowed and 5th in yards allowed, while their offense ranks 11th in points scored and 18th in yards gained.
The Dolphins (6-7), while out of contention for the AFC East title, are still vying for a wild-card spot. They currently sit ninth in the AFC playoff standings, two games behind the Denver Broncos for the final playoff berth. Their offense ranks 23rd in points and 19th in yards, while their defense ranks 14th in points allowed and 9th in yards allowed.
