HOUSTON (AP) - Houston offensive lineman Mike Brisiel spent last season on the practice squad.
He's now competing with third-year Texan Drew Hodgdon and rookie Kasey Studdard for a backup role on the final roster.
Brisiels says he's fighting for his life -- and every play
matters to him.
The offensive line has taken flak from fans and the media since
the franchise's inception, blamed for high sack totals and an
anemic rushing attack.
Center Steve McKinney, the Texas A&M product who played four seasons in Indianapolis before coming to the Texans in 2002, said the criticism is often unfair.
McKinney, entering his 10th season, says the line continues to
show improvement in training camp.
Also:
-- Brisiel played right guard today in place of Fred Weary, who
rolled his right ankle in practice on Monday.
-- Chester Pitts, the expected starter at left guard, also
missed today's practice with back spasms.
McKinney moved over from center to fill in.