Ryan Mallett will start at quarterback against the Panthers.
Bill O'Brien made the announcement during a Thursday press conference at NRG Stadium. Brian Hoyer started in Week 1 against the Chiefs, but was relieved by Mallett with 6 minutes to go in the game.
Mallett led the Texans on a pair of drives, which resulted in a touchdown and a field goal. "We're looking forward to seeing him play well," O'Brien said of Mallett.
The fifth-year signal caller out of Arkansas completed 8-of-13 passes for 98 yards against Kansas City.
"When Ryan went into the game, he added a spark to our team," O'Brien said. The head coach also said the move was "not an indictment" of Hoyer, and that the veteran has practiced well so far this week.
For Mallett, the preparation remained the same as if he was still the backup, and the goal isn't complicated.
"I think the first thing is get a win, that's all that matters right now," Mallett said. "I'm just going to go out there and try to help my team."
The Texans practice again on Friday, and will leave for Charlotte on Saturday.
