SANTA CLARA, Calif. (AP) -During his lengthy contract dispute, Michael Crabtree prepared for this moment by reading defenses in his mind and even getting his buddies out on the field to stand in against him as he ran routes.

Whatever he did in the 71 days he was absent, the San Francisco 49ers believe their talented rookie receiver is ready to handle a big role in his highly anticipated NFL debut Sunday at Houston.

Crabtree plans to ignore the hype as best he can once he hits the field, though he knows there will be some 30 friends and family members there watching. He couldn't have scripted it much better: The former Texas Tech star will play his first game in his home state.