Houston Cougars Triumph Over Oklahoma State: Key Insights from a Dominant Game Performance

Houston Cougars football (5-1) dominated over the Oklahoma State Cowboys 39-17 Saturday afternoon at Boone Pickens Stadium in Stillwater, OK to improve to a 5-1 record for the first time since 2021. It was a much-needed bounce-back game and business trip for Houston, who put up 485 yards of total offense. Houston has already eclipsed their previous win total of four from the last two seasons with their fifth win in six games.

Junior quarterback Connor Weigman put together a great performance after suffering a concussion last weekend, with 306 yards and three total touchdowns on 70% completion.

Here are four takeaways from the comfortable road win.

Houston Cougars quarterback Conner Weigman (1) throws a pass during a college football game between the Oklahoma State Cowboys (OSU) and the Houston Cougars at Boone Pickens Stadium in Stillwater, Okla., Saturday, Oct. 11, 2025. / BRYAN TERRY/THE OKLAHOMAN / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images

This is an issue the Cougars have faced every game this season, but finally somewhat overcame their early struggles in Stillwater, OK. Houston had their first touchdown on opening drive this season. It was a nine-play, 78-yard march that took almost five minutes. The drive ended in a three-yard touchdown run by Weigman, his fifth rushing touchdown of the season of the season, building on a career high.

While it was a short second drive, UH did add on three points with a 46-yard field goal by senior kicker Ethan Sanchez. The Cougars defense had a big stop on fourth and 1 that allowed the short field at the Cowboys 44-yard line. They were not able to take full advantage as Houston could only muster 16 yards on eight plays.

There were encouraging signs as UH ultimately did not punt in the first frame.

Many expected Houston to come out with an extra sense of motivation and something to prove. However, that was not the case in the first quarter. Oklahoma State came out of the gate ready with a trick play as quarterback Sam Jackson V threw a lateral pass to wide receiver Shamar Rigby who then threw to a wide-open Rodney Fields Jr for a 63-yard touchdown on the opening drive.

It was likely the Cowboys would go deep into their playbook, but going to it right at the start of the game definitely caught Houston’s defense off guard with a blown coverage.

This was the first offensive touchdown in 82 minutes for Oklahoma State and their first lead vs an FBS opponent since Oct. 26, 2024.

Right at the start of the second quarter, Houston was unable to take advantage of great field position after a missed 53-yard field goal from the Cowboys. To make matters worse, it was a fumbled snap by punter Liam Dougherty who was unable to get a kick out that allowed Oklahoma State to start their drive at the Houston 22-yard-line. Ultimately, that gave them the early 10 points.

The running game continued to struggle early as well with just 20 rush yards on nine attempts.

After a sack and holding penalty on their last two third downs of the previous drives, the Cougars offense exploded as they took control of the game. It was a great second quarter for Houston all around with close to 150 total yards. UH won the quarter 14-3 and were in a commanding position at halftime up 24-10.

After the Cowboys tied the game at 10 on a field goal, the Cougars stepped up. Houston went on a fast four-play, 67-yard drive that resulted in a remarkable one-handed six yard touchdown catch from senior running back Dean Connors.

That incredible snag will definitely make the highlight reel for this Saturday. It was the first receiving touchdown of the season for Connors, who showed his multi-talented ability with a block for Weigman’s rushing touchdown in the first quarter. That drive also included a 39-yard reception to junior wide receiver Amare Thomas.

Right after forcing a quick three and out from OSU, Houston cruised right down the field, this time on a three-play, 63-yard drive that took just over a minute. Junior wideout Harvey Broussard III has his first signature moment and marked his presence with a tough contested one-handed catch for his first touchdown as a Cougar. It was a 14-yard pass from Weigman to Broussard III. Right before that, senior tight end Tanner’s Koziol had a nice 29-yard reception down the sideline.

A transfer from Louisiana, Broussard III had a 29-yard catch on a jump ball in the first quarter and gave his quarterback another target. As for Weigman, it was the most passing yards in a half for him in two years (Sept 2023). The Cypress native went 14/20 for 177 yards and 2 touchdowns, along with his rushing score.

Connors flew into the end zone for his second touchdown of the game towards the end of the third quarter. The transfer from Rice had 15 carries for 83 yards besides the score.

Thomas has become a great go-to target on key plays, especially third down for Weigman. Thomas was Houston’s leading wide receiver with seven total catches for 157 yards, a career high. The former UAB product gave chunk plays to the Cougar offense with 22 yards on third down in the first quarter. He also had receptions of 43 yards, 39 yards and 30 yards.

Weigman spoke to his offensive line after their early second-quarter struggles and told them that we score on every drive from now on. The Cougars did not punt the rest of the way. He lived up to his word.

The Cougars went 5/5 in red zone and scored on five out of their next six possessions, besides right before halftime. A key for that was the great protection Weigman had to step up and make good throws. A clean pocket for Weigman has not been common so far this season, but it was great this afternoon in Stillwater with only one key sack allowed in the second quarter. Additionally, the running game got back on track after the first frame with 166 total yards on the ground.

Houston will look to keep this positive momentum next weekend for homecoming against Arizona.

How did Donovan Smith‘s performance against Oklahoma State contribute to his overall trajectory as a college football player?

Offensive Explosion: Quarterback Donovan Smith Leads the Charge

The Houston Cougars delivered a stunning performance against the Oklahoma State Cowboys on October 11th, 2025, securing a decisive victory. A key factor in this win was the exceptional play of quarterback Donovan Smith. Smith completed 28 of 35 passes for 385 yards and four touchdowns,showcasing remarkable accuracy and command of the cougars’ offence. This performance solidifies Smith’s position as a rising star in college football and a potential NFL prospect.

* Passing Efficiency: Smith’s passer rating exceeded 160, a testament to his efficiency and decision-making.

* Target Distribution: receivers Matthew Golden and Joseph Manjack IV were heavily involved, combining for 18 receptions and 250 receiving yards.

* Play-Action Success: The Cougars effectively utilized play-action passes, keeping the oklahoma State defense off balance and creating opportunities for big plays. This was a notable advancement from previous games where the run game struggled to establish itself.

Defensive Dominance: Shutting Down the Cowboys’ Attack

Beyond the offensive fireworks, the Houston Cougars’ defense played a pivotal role in the victory. they limited Oklahoma State to just 17 points, forcing three turnovers – two interceptions and a fumble. The defensive line consistently pressured Cowboys quarterback Alan Bowman, recording five sacks and numerous quarterback hurries.

Key Defensive Players

* Linebacker Patrick Ross: Led the team with 12 tackles and one forced fumble. Ross’s aggressive play and sideline-to-sideline coverage were instrumental in containing the Cowboys’ running game.

* Cornerback Jalen Davis: Recorded two interceptions, including a crucial pick in the end zone that prevented a potential Oklahoma State score. Davis’s ball-hawking ability was a game-changer.

* Defensive End David Ugwoegbu: Registered 2.5 sacks and consistently disrupted the Cowboys’ offensive line. Ugwoegbu’s performance highlighted the cougars’ improved pass-rushing capabilities.

Special Teams Contributions: A Complete Team Effort

The Houston Cougars’ victory wasn’t solely reliant on offense and defense. Special teams played a crucial role, contributing to field position and momentum shifts. Punter Luke McCuller averaged 45 yards per punt, consistently pinning Oklahoma State deep in their own territory. Kicker Jack Scates was perfect on field goal attempts, adding to the Cougars’ scoring output.

* Kickoff coverage: The Cougars’ kickoff coverage team limited Oklahoma State’s return yardage,preventing any significant gains.

* Punt Returns: While not explosive, the Cougars’ punt return team secured clean catches and avoided any costly turnovers.

Game-Changing Moments: Turning Points in the Victory

Several key moments shifted the momentum in favor of the Houston Cougars.

1. Early interception: Jalen Davis’s first interception in the first quarter set the tone for the game, giving the Cougars’ offense an early scoring opportunity.
2. Donovan Smith’s 65-Yard Touchdown Pass: A perfectly thrown deep ball to Matthew Golden in the second quarter extended the Cougars’ lead and demoralized the Oklahoma State defense.
3. Fourth-Quarter goal Line Stand: The Cougars’ defense stopped Oklahoma State on a fourth-and-goal attempt,preserving their two-touchdown lead and effectively sealing the victory. This showcased the team’s resilience and determination.

Looking Ahead: Implications for the Cougars’ Season

This dominant win over Oklahoma State has significant implications for the Houston Cougars’ season. It boosts their conference standing, improves their bowl game prospects, and builds confidence within the team. The Cougars now face a challenging schedule ahead, but this victory demonstrates their potential to compete for a conference championship. Analysts are now predicting a strong finish to the season, potentially leading to a New Year’s Six bowl appearance. The team’s performance against Oklahoma State serves as a blueprint for success – a combination of explosive offense,stifling defense,and reliable special teams play.

Houston Football: Recent History & Program Growth

The University of Houston football program has experienced a resurgence in recent years, marked by significant investments in facilities, coaching staff, and player growth. Joining the Big 12 Conference in 2023 presented both challenges and opportunities.This victory over Oklahoma State represents a major step forward in establishing the Cougars as a legitimate contender in their new conference. Prior to this game, the Cougars had a 4-2 record, with wins against UTSA and TCU. The program’s commitment to recruiting top talent from the Houston metropolitan area and beyond is paying dividends,as evidenced by the emergence of players like Donovan Smith and Patrick Ross.

Fan Experience at TDECU Stadium

For fans planning to attend a Houston Cougars game at TDECU Stadium, several amenities and features enhance the game-day experience.

* Tailgating: Extensive tailgating areas are available surrounding the stadium, offering a vibrant atmosphere before kickoff.

* Concessions: A wide variety of food and beverage options are available throughout the stadium.

* Student section: The “Shatter” student section provides an energetic and enthusiastic atmosphere, creating a home-field advantage for the Cougars.

* Stadium Capacity: TDECU Stadium has a seating capacity of approximately 45,30