As Utah prepares to take on Houston, both teams face significant milestones in their seasons. The Utes, after entering their first Big 12 season with high hopes, now look to snap a three-game losing streak and make a bowl appearance. Utah was once ranked No. 11, but a string of losses has them struggling to keep their first four-game losing streak since 2017.
The focus for Houston is keeping their slim postseason hopes alive. With three home games left on the schedule, the Cougars have a chance to turn their season around after losing three of their last four games. Here are three keys to Utah’s success in H-Town on Saturday night.
Make Isaac Wilson comfortable early
The key matchup in this game will focus on Utah freshman quarterback Isaac Wilson and Houston’s pass defense. Wilson showed flashes of talent, passing for 1,029 yards and seven touchdowns. However, he also struggled with consistency, completing just 54.8% of his passes while throwing eight interceptions. Houston’s pass defense, which ranks 19th nationally with 173.9 yards allowed and five interceptions per game, could pose a tough challenge for Wilson, who will have to make smart decisions and limit turnovers for Utah to have a chance to win.
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Offensive struggles have plagued both teams throughout the season. Houston’s offense has been particularly stagnant, averaging 303 yards per game, which ranks them at the bottom nationally. That lack of production was evident in conference play, where they were outscored 115-33 in four Big 12 games. Utah’s offense has also struggled, especially in recent games, scoring fewer than 14 points in two of its last three games. For fans of high-scoring, dynamic football, this game may not live up to their expectations as both teams faltered in attack.
Shutting down Houston’s offense early is not an option
Key players to watch include Utah defensive end Van Fillinger and Houston wide receiver Mekhi Mews. Fillinger has been a force on Utah’s defense, leading the team with 7.5 tackles for loss and 5.5 sacks this season, along with a critically blocked field goal against Baylor that set up a 77-yard field goal. His ability to disrupt the backfield will be crucial, especially if Houston starts sophomore Zeon Criss, whose dual threat offers Houston a dynamic option. Chris Houston threw for 141 yards, ran for 97 yards and showed his ability to make plays with both his hands and feet in Houston’s win over TCU two weeks ago.
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For Utah’s defense, this game presents a prime opportunity to take advantage of Houston’s offensive struggles. The Cougars have surrendered 14 touchdowns and allowed 24 sacks this season, with Utah’s defense ranking first in the Big 12 and fifth nationally in third-down conversion rate. If the Utes can force turnovers and pressure Houston’s defenders, they can create opportunities for their offense to gain momentum.
Run all night and make it count
Offensively, Utah running back Micah Bernard is another player who could make an impact. Bernard was a bright spot for the Utes, averaging 6.3 yards per carry. However, until Wilson and the passing game are more effective, defenses will likely focus on stopping the run, making it difficult for Bernard to find running lanes. Houston’s defense, which ranks No. 66 in points allowed and No. 72 in rushing yards allowed per game, will give Bernard a chance to shine if Utah can develop a balanced offense.
Saturday’s matchup will test Utah’s resilience and Houston’s adaptability. While both teams have struggled offensively, at the end of this game which team can capitalize on the other’s weaknesses and find enough offense to get the win they need. Utah travels to Houston for first series in 46 years (7pm ET on ESPN).