Three keys to a Utah Utes win over the Houston Cougars

As Utah prepares to face Houston, both teams are at crucial points in their seasons. After entering their first Big 12 season with high expectations, the Utes now hope to end a three-game losing streak and become bowl eligible. At one point, Utah was ranked 11th, but a string of losses now has them fighting to avoid their first four-game losing skid since 2017.

For Houston, the focus is on keeping its postseason hopes alive. With three home games remaining 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.

Getting Isaac Wilson comfortable early is a must

The most important matchup in this game revolves around Utah’s freshman quarterback Isaac Wilson and Houston’s pass defense. Wilson has shown talent, passing for 1,029 yards and seven touchdowns. However, he has also struggled with consistency, completing just 54.8% of his passes while throwing eight interceptions. Houston’s pass defense, which ranks 19th with 173.9 yards allowed per game and five interceptions, will likely pose a tough challenge for Wilson, who will have to make smart decisions and limit turnovers before Utah has a chance the victory.

What Utes players said about Mike Bajakian as offensive coordinator

Offensive struggles have plagued both teams all season. Houston’s offense is particularly stagnant, averaging just 303 yards per game, which ranks them at the bottom nationally. This lack of production was evident in conference play, where they were outscored 115-33 in four Big 12 games. Utah’s offense has also faced issues, especially in recent games where they have scored fewer than 14 points in two of their last three games. For fans of dynamic, high-scoring football, this game may not meet their expectations as both teams failed on the attacking side.

Stopping Houston’s offense early is not an option

Key players to keep an eye on include Utah’s defensive end Van Fillinger and Houston’s wide receiver Mekhi Mews. Fillinger was a force on Utah’s defense, leading the team with 7.5 tackles for losses and 5.5 sacks this season, along with a crucial blocked field goal against Baylor that set up a 77-yard touchdown. His ability to disrupt the backfield will be key, especially if Houston starts second-year quarterback Zeon Chriss, whose dual-threat ability gives Houston a dynamic option. Chriss led Houston to a win over TCU two weeks ago by throwing for 141 yards and rushing for 97, demonstrating his potential to create play with both his arm and legs.

Utah’s Cam Calhoun says Utes will face adversity before Houston

For Utah’s defense, this game provides an excellent opportunity to take advantage of Houston’s offensive struggles. The Cougars have given the ball away 14 times this season and allowed 24 sacks, vulnerabilities that Utah’s defense, which ranks first in the Big 12 and fifth nationally in third-down conversion rate, will want abuse. If the Utes can force turnovers and pressure Houston’s quarterbacks, they can create opportunities to grow their offense.

Run all night and make it count

On offense, Utah running back Micah Bernard is another player who can make an impact. Averaging 6.3 yards per carry, Bernard was a bright spot for the Utes. However, until Wilson and the passing game become more effective, the defense will likely focus on stopping the run, making it harder for Bernard to find running lanes. Houston’s defense, ranked No. 66 in points allowed per game and No. 72 in rushing yards allowed, presents an opportunity for Bernard to shine if Utah can mount a balanced attack.

Saturday’s game will test Utah’s resilience and Houston’s ability to adapt. While both teams face offensive obstacles, this game could ultimately come down to which team can take advantage of the other’s weaknesses and find enough offense to secure a much-needed victory. Utah travels to Houston for first series meeting in 46 years (7pm ET on ESPN).