It's a simple proposition for the Texans: win and you lock up home field advantage for the playoffs. They'll be playing a motivated Minnesota Vikings team who, although they hold the final playoff spot in the NFC, still has work to do to distance themselves from a muddled playoff race.

Only one Texan missed practice on Thursday. Defensive back Alan Ball watched from the sidelines with a foot injury. But nine Texans weren't able to go full speed ahead of Sunday's game.

Defensive tackle Shaun Cody (back), linebacker Tim Dobbins (shoulder/thumb), cornerback Johnathan Joseph (groin), offensive tackle Derek Newton (knee), strong safety Glover Quin (hip), outside linebacker Brooks Reed (groin), inside linebacker Darryl Sharpton (toe), offensive guard Wade Smith (knee/ribs) and defensive end Antonio Smith (ankle) were all limited in Thursday's practice session. All nine of them have been limited for two consecutive days.

The Texans and Vikings kick off Sunday at noon CT.