For two NFL teams in different conferences and time zones, the 49ers and their Week 5 opponent do have this in common: They haven't performed as consistently as they would have liked through four games in 2013.
Both at 2-2, San Francisco and the Houston Texans have been felled by seemingly lesser opponents. As they've each shown, however, a lot can change in one week. Take the 49ers, who lost to the Indianapolis Colts at home before throttling the St. Louis Rams on the road in Week 4.
It's worth asking: Does a team become dangerous after a loss?
"I would say (the Texans are) a dangerous team because you can't base it off the simple fact that they've lost a couple games," 49ers tight end Vernon Davis said. "That can be the same team that can come back and win the division and just go far into the playoffs. You have to keep in mind that we can't take these guys lightly because they're a dominant team.
"This is the NFL. You have to be on your toes."
While the Pro Bowler added that he and his teammates learned from the Texans 23-20 Week 4 loss to the Seattle Seahawks, he said their sole focus is now on Sunday night. Davis, who missed the Colts loss due to a hamstring tear but returned to catch a touchdown against the Rams, was a full participant in practice on Wednesday.
"I feel absolutely amazing," the always-upbeat Davis said. "I think this week will be another test for me to see how I really feel."
For more storylines surrounding the team, check out this edition of Morning Tailgate links, presented by State Farm.
Matt Barrows of the Sacramento Bee found that the Houston Texans are read-option ready.
Cam Inman of the San Jose Mercury Newssaid the 49ers need a big game from Colin Kaepernick.
Bill Williamson of ESPN.com covered the Seattle Seahawks waiver claim of ex-49ers rookie B.J. Daniels.
Jeffri Chadiha of ESPN.comfeatured NaVorro Bowman and his play thus far in 2013.
Matt Maiocco of CSNBayArea.comrelived Texans coach Gary Kubiak's 1994 season in San Francisco.
Eric Branch of the San Francisco Chroniclereported on the team's motivation to sign John Skelton.
Taylor Price of 49ers.comhad the scoop on Donte Whitner's forthcoming name change.
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CLIP OF THE DAY:
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TWEET ABOUT IT:
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From the cast to the boot already!!! The Kid comin along! #theReturn http://t.co/lu22uzj4tQ — Ian Williams (@IWilliams95) October 2, 2013
