Rams’ Sean McVay Speaks Honestly About Challenging Week One Matchup
LOS ANGELES – WOODLAND HILLS, CA – The Los Angeles Rams are set to open their season at SoFi Stadium with a tough matchup against one of the AFC’s rising powers: the Houston Texans. Head coach Sean McVay didn’t shy away from acknowledging the challenge ahead and shared his thoughts on the Texans.
McVay’s Take on the Texans
“They’re a really strong team,” McVay said. “You can see how they reflect the identity of their head coach, DeMeco Ryans. He’s built a team that’s tough, physical, and plays with discipline. That mindset shows up across offense, defense, and special teams.”
McVay praised the Texans’ stability on defense and special teams, noting their consistent performance in those areas. While their offense may have dipped slightly, he credited Texans offensive coordinator Nick Caley and senior offensive assistant Jerry Schuplinski with keeping things on track.
“They’ve kept a lot of their coaching staff intact, which is huge,” McVay continued. “There’s a clear identity to how they play. They’ve been a top-eight team for the last couple seasons, winning their division and making it to the Divisional Round. It speaks to how good they are. We had joint practices with them last year, and I have a lot of respect for how they operate. It’s going to be a great test—exactly the kind of challenge that makes this league so exciting.”
Handling a Defensive X-Factor
The Texans added former Eagles standout and Super Bowl champion C.J. Gardner-Johnson this offseason. McVay is fully aware of the threat he poses.
“You definitely feel his presence,” McVay said. “Last year with Philly, he made clutch plays in high-pressure moments. He’s productive in every phase of the game and plays with an edge that fits the Texans’ style. His awareness and toughness are exactly what that defense thrives on.”
McVay vs. Ryans: Coaching Clash
The season opener will also be a strategic battle between two young coaching stars—McVay, known for his offensive prowess, and Ryans, a defensive mastermind who’s turned the Texans into a competitive force.
The two coaches have history. Ryans faced McVay’s Rams as defensive coordinator for the 49ers, and McVay acknowledged that familiarity may play a role.
“I think it helps to have that background,” McVay said. “But every year brings new challenges. There’s definitely a mutual respect. His teams always play with great effort and discipline. There’s a strong core philosophy, but they’re creative enough to keep you on your toes.”
McVay concluded by saying he expects the Texans to be excellent in all three phases of the game, just as they’ve shown the past two seasons.
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