13 Days Until Kickoff: The Ultimate Fan Guide to Houston's Opener

Houston Cougars football is about to return to television screens across the Lone Star State and elsewhere. In 13 days, UH hosts Oregon State at TDECU Stadium. For the second time in this millennium, the Coogs will start the season as a ranked team in the AP Poll.

What should fans expect from Houston as a non-conference opponent from the rebuilt Pac-12 comes to town to kick off the 2026 season?

Let's take a look...

Know The Enemy: Oregon State isn't Projected to Win Much in Pac-12

Even in a rebuilt Pac-12 that took five teams from the Mountain West, the Beavers aren't expected to be a contender. Granted, Arizona State was picked last in the Big 12 before winning the conference and making the CFP two seasons ago. Still, Oregon State has floundered the past two seasons, going 7-17. The Beavs are expected to land near the bottom of the conference.

First-year head coach JaMarcus Shephard comes from Kalen DeBoer's Alabama coaching staff, and he hasn't minced his words about what Oregon State fans should expect this fall in Corvallis.

"I'm letting you know, just so you know, guys, there's gonna be some adversity this year. I'm letting you know. Now I need you guys to help us get through that adversity. We gotta do it together," Shephard told Oregon State Reporters in early August.

Most sportsbooks have the Coogs as a three-touchdown favorite against the Beavers. Across the board, there's been a talent exodus. In the trenches, Oregon State should be particularly overwhelmed. There's no way back from losing Power 4 status and the drop in resources that follows.

Maybe Shephard could have the Beavers back one day. That day probably won't be September 5 in Space City.

How to Watch: Houston vs Oregon State

Date: Saturday, September 5, 2026

Time: 11:00 AM CT

TV Channel: ESPN

What to Watch For: Houston vs Oregon State

Conner Weigman enters year five with major expectations. His first season in Houston was a major success, and in year two, he should be even better if the Cougars can experience enough team success around him.

Weigman's success will be tied to his elite receiving corps, which features Beavers transfer Trent Walker, as well as potential 1,000-yard receiver Amare Thomas. Oregon transfer Makhi Hughes ties the offense together. Oregon State's defense is weak in the secondary, which should make for a major day for Houston's receivers. If the Coogs run into any trouble, it'll be against the Beavers' linebackers.

Defensively, Houston's biggest challenge with Oregon State's offense is quarterback Maalik Murphy. He struggled with the Beavers last season, but is still extremely talented. Vanderbilt transfer AJ Newberry has potential in the run game as well.

Look out for a major statement in Week 1 from Willie Fritz's Houston football program. This team has Big 12 title dreams and now has the resources to make serious moves on a national scale.

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