As the Texans host the 49ers Sunday, DeMeco Ryans credits mentor Kyle Shanahan and reflects on coaching lessons, communication and contrasts.

This article was originally published on www.si.com/nfl/49ers as 49ers' Kyle Shanahan has chance to flex greatness at Houston Texans. Ever since Kyle Shanahan took over as the head coach of the San Francisco 49ers, there has been a certain section of fans who have waited for the other shoe to drop.

DeMeco Ryans had instant success as an NFL rookie in Houston. 49ers coaches Kyle Shanahan, Robert Saleh and Johnny Holland got a first-hand look.

The 49ers (5-2) will take on the NFL’s stingiest scoring defense Sunday in Houston while Robert Saleh must patch up another hole in the Niners’ defense.

The San Francisco 49ers may have to find a fourth defensive coordinator in four years if Robert Saleh leaves to be a head coach.

Oct 19, 2025; Santa Clara, California, USA; San Francisco 49ers running back Christian McCaffrey (23) celebrates after a touchdown during the second quarter against the Atlanta Falcons at Levi's Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kyle Terada-Imagn Images / Darren Yamashita-Imagn Images

Left tackle Trent Williams is heading to his offseason home of Houston this week to lead the 49ers (5-2) against the Texans (2-4).

He does not have a game status listed as of now. No other RB is listed on the injury report for the 49ers. McCaffrey has a team-high132 carries for a team-high 465 yards (66.4 ypg). He has scored three TDs on the ground.