San Francisco 49ers DC feels Patrick Willis has better than 50/50 chance to play Sunday

Sep 22, 2013; San Francisco, CA, USA; San Francisco 49ers inside linebacker Patrick Willis (52) reacts after making a tackle against the Indianapolis Colts in the third quarter at Candlestick Park. The Colts defeated the 49ers 27-7. Mandatory Credit: Cary Edmondson-USA TODAY Sports /

Although San Francisco 49ers linebacker Patrick Willis won’t have his status for Sunday’s game against the Houston Texans determined until 90 minutes before kickoff, defensive coordinator Vic Fangio thinks Willis has a pretty solid chance to play.

According to CSN Bay Area’s Matt Maiocco, Fangio thinks the Pro-Bowl talent has a better than 50/50 chance to play:

"Defensive coordinator Vic Fangio said Thursday he believes the chances are “better than 50-50” that Willis will be able to play. If Willis is not available, Michael Wilhoite will receive his second NFL start."

Fangio’s prognosis for Willis was a bit better than that of head coach Jim Harbaugh, who was a bit more non-committal in regards to Willis’ status. Of course, Harbaugh isn’t ever very straight forward in regards to injuries, so we likely won’t know as to Willis’ availability until the Niners are required to provide it by NFL rule.

Willis, who broke his arm in the preseason is now dealing with a grain strain which he suffered in the Niners Week 3 loss to the Indianapolis Colts.

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