Photo credit Andre Brooks/The Venture
Entering the Big 12 this season could pose pressure for the Houston Cougars. Facing the likes of Oklahoma State, TCU, Texas, Texas Tech, and others, make up a conference that’s no stranger to the college football playoff.
The Cougars will look to improve on an 8-5 record over last season, which will be challenging. But attempting to keep paste with the Big 12 may rest in recruiting four and five-star players.
Finding leaders on defense could aid the Cougars. Chidozie Nwankwo and Sedrick Wilson are vital in the middle. Edge rushers Nelson Caesar, Zykeius, and Oklahoma transfer David Ugwoegbu will apply pressure. Brooks supports the Cougars at safety while defensive backs Jalen Emory and Alex Hogan defend the passing lanes. Additional help comes from transfers Brian George (Texas A&M) and Isaiah Hamilton (Texas Southern).
Quarterback Lucas Coley or Donovan Smith will direct the offense. Houston expects running backs Stacy Sneed and Brandon Campbell to establish the running game. Smith and Coley are battling for the quarterback job. Preseason camp should decide the outcome. However, Smith may have the inside track after passing for 2,686 yards and 19 touchdowns in 21 games as a Red Raider.
Now that the Cougars are officially in the Power 5 as of July 01, 2023, it will take on one of the most vigorous schedules in the country.
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