{
  "id": 12712429,
  "title": "DeMeco Ryans takes over defensive play-calling for the 0-4 Texans",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/10/07/demeco-ryans-takes-over-defensive-play-calling-for-the-0-4-texans",
  "topic": "culture",
  "section": "Culture",
  "published": "2026-10-07T21:06:27.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "Winnipeg Free Press",
    "slug": "winnipeg-free-press",
    "url": "https://www.winnipegfreepress.com/sports/football/nfl/2026/10/07/demeco-ryans-takes-over-defensive-play-calling-for-the-0-4-texans"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "Houston coach DeMeco Ryans is assuming responsibility for defensive play-calling duties for the 0-4 Texans. The move comes as the team prepares to face the also winless Titans. Ryans announced on Wednesday that he will take over the defensive play-calling from Matt Burke. He emphasized that he will ensure effective communication among the defense.\n\nThe Texans' defense has significantly declined this season. They are allowing an average of 343.75 yards and 27.25 points per game, ranking 28th in the NFL in passing yards allowed. The secondary has been particularly vulnerable, conceding 260 yards per game. In three of their four games so far, the Texans have trailed late in the fourth quarter before conceding a score through the defense.\n\nWhile acknowledging Burke's \"outstanding job,\" Ryans stated that the move is not a reflection of Burke's performance. He explained that the change is necessary to spark a fresh approach, as the team has struggled to close out games defensively during their opening four games. Ryans, who is in his fourth year with Houston following two seasons with San Francisco, acknowledged that making such a decision is challenging but felt it was crucial for the team's success. He emphasized that his decisions are primarily aimed at leading the team in the right direction, even if it is not popular with everyone.",
  "summary": null,
  "key_points": [],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}