CINCINNATI - The Cincinnati Bengals face an injury setback ahead of their Sunday matchup against the Houston Texans, with two key players ruled out for the game. Wide receiver Tee Higgins and defensive end Sam Hubbard will miss the game due to their respective injuries, according to head coach Zac Taylor.

Higgins sustained a hamstring injury during Wednesday's practice, forcing him to sit out Thursday and Friday's sessions. His absence will be felt on the offense as he has been a reliable target for quarterback Joe Burrow. Meanwhile, Hubbard's absence in the defensive line will impact the Bengals' pass rush against the Texans.

In more positive news for the Bengals, there is optimism surrounding star wide receiver Ja'Marr Chase. Chase suffered a back injury in the previous Sunday Night Football game against the Buffalo Bills but underwent an MRI that revealed no structural damage, only a bruise. He has been able to participate in practice for the past two days, indicating that he has a chance of taking the field on Sunday.

The Bengals and their fans will be eagerly awaiting a final decision on Chase's availability for the game. If he does play, it will provide a significant boost to the team's offense, adding another dangerous weapon alongside fellow standout receiver Tyler Boyd.

The matchup against the Texans at Paycor Stadium is scheduled to kick off at 1 p.m. on Sunday. With Higgins and Hubbard ruled out, the Bengals will rely on other players to step up and fill their roles, in hopes of securing a victory and maintaining their positive start to the season.