Cougars Secure Season Opener
The No. 23 Houston Cougars opened their 2026 campaign with a decisive 33-20 victory over the Oregon State Beavers on Saturday at TDECU Stadium. The home team controlled the pace of the contest, outscoring the visitors in every single quarter to secure their first win of the season. With 28,742 fans in attendance, Houston extended its unbeaten record to 1-0, while Oregon State dropped to 0-1 after a tough road effort.
Early Momentum Shifts
Houston established an early lead in the first quarter, taking a 9-7 advantage before the halftime break. The game featured a back-and-forth start, but the Cougars found ways to score in critical moments. In the opening period, Amare Thomas hauled in a 31-yard touchdown pass from Conner Weigman, though the extra point attempt was missed. Oregon State responded with a short run by Braden Atkinson, but Houston’s Jonathan Dimas converted a 42-yard field goal to give the home team the edge.
Second-Half Dominance
The second half saw Houston pull away significantly. In the third quarter, Makhi Hughes punched in a one-yard touchdown run, extending the lead. Although Oregon State’s Braden Atkinson connected with Jesse Legree for a seven-yard score, the Beavers’ two-point conversion failed, limiting their damage. Houston continued to build its advantage in the fourth quarter. Conner Weigman capped off the game with a one-yard rushing touchdown, securing the 33-20 final margin.
Statistical Highlights
Conner Weigman was the engine of the Houston offense, completing 20 of 30 passes for 305 yards with one touchdown and one interception. Amare Thomas was a primary target, catching eight passes for 133 yards and one touchdown. On the ground, Makhi Hughes rushed for 98 yards on 17 carries, adding a touchdown. For Oregon State, Braden Atkinson threw for 376 yards on 29 of 48 attempts with one touchdown. Jesse Legree led the Beavers’ receiving corps with 136 yards on five catches, while Kourdey Glass managed 25 rushing yards.
Sources
https://www.espn.com/college-football/game/_/gameId/401856778
