The University of Houston Cougars opened their 2025 campaign with a decisive 33-20 victory over Oregon State, a performance that highlighted a potent offensive showing and reinforced the team’s early-season momentum.
Season Opener Highlights
Quarterback Conner Weigman drove the attack with 305 passing yards and a touchdown through the air, while also adding a rushing score, illustrating his dual-threat capability that has become a cornerstone of the Cougars’ offense.
Wide receiver Amare Thomas contributed eight receptions for 133 yards and a touchdown, marking his fourth career 100‑yard receiving game and underscoring his role as the primary target in Houston’s passing attack.
The ground game added depth, as running back Re’Shaun Sanford II broke free for a 56‑yard touchdown run and Makhi Hughes contributed a one‑yard rushing score, helping the Cougars build a 26‑7 lead midway through the second half.
Houston’s total offense reached 533 yards, the highest output in a season opener since 2015 and the most prolific since a 577-yard performance in 2018, reflecting a resurgence of productivity after a 10‑win 2024 season.
Oregon State answered with a strong showing from quarterback Braden Atkinson, who threw for 376 yards and a touchdown, while receiver Jesse Legree recorded five catches for 136 yards and a score, keeping the Beavers within striking distance until the final quarter.
The win extended a notable streak, as the Cougars have now secured six victories in their last seven season‑opening games, a run broken only by a 38‑21 loss to Texas Tech in 2021.
Looking forward, the Cougars are slated to host Southern at TDECU Stadium on September 18 before embarking on a road trip to Lubbock, Texas, for a showdown with Texas Tech, a matchup that will test the early-season momentum.