News Summary
Ethan Sanchez demonstrated remarkable kicking skills in the Cougars’ 39-17 win over Oklahoma State, making four field goals and moving closer to breaking a long-standing record. Sanchez’s performance reinforces his status as a vital player this season, as he aims for bowl eligibility. The Cougars face upcoming challenges with key injuries and a focus on their next game against Arizona State.
Houston, Texas – Ethan Sanchez Shines Again as University of Houston Kicker
Ethan Sanchez showcased his exceptional kicking abilities once again, nailing four field goals in the University of Houston’s convincing 39-17 victory over Oklahoma State. Sanchez successfully converted field goals from distances of 29, 30, 46, and 48 yards, solidifying his role as a key player for the Cougars this season.
Sanchez’s impressive performance has propelled him up the school’s record books and puts him on pace to break a 26-year-old record for field goals, which currently stands at 22, set by Roman Anderson in 1989. He was recognized as the Big 12 Special Teams Player of the Week for the second time this season, a testament to his consistent excellence on the field.
This season, Sanchez has established himself as a standout kicker, boasting a field goal success rate of 14-of-16. His 14 field goals made are tied for second nationally with Eastern Michigan’s Rudy Kessinger, while Hawaii’s Kansei Matsuzawa leads the pack with a perfect 19. Sanchez remains the only FBS kicker with multiple games featuring at least four field goals in the 2023 season, having previously set a career-high with five field goals against Colorado on September 12.
Head Coach Willie Fritz noted Sanchez’s confidence, highlighting that successful kickers often possess a strong belief in their abilities. During a TNT broadcast, Sanchez expressed his ease in executing kicks from any spot on the field.
While Sanchez continues to shine, the Cougars face challenges with injuries. Running back Stacy Sneed will be sidelined for 2-3 weeks due to a right leg injury sustained in the game against Oklahoma State. Initially concerning, Sneed received a more positive diagnosis that alleviated fears regarding the severity of his condition. Meanwhile, wide receiver Devan Williams remains week-to-week after missing three games due to an undisclosed injury.
The Cougars’ depth on the offensive line has been apparent, as they utilized a six-man rotation during games. The starting offensive line against Oklahoma State included left tackle Alvin Ebosele, left guard Jason Brooks Jr., center Demetrius Hunter, right guard McKenzie Agnello, and right tackle Dalton Merryman. Left guard Matthew Wykoff contributed by playing various positions during the game.
In a roster change, linebacker Jesus Machado has departed from the team after recording seven tackles in four games this season.
With a record of success, the University of Houston is on the brink of bowl eligibility, needing just one more win to reach this goal for the first time since 2022. Their next challenge will be a matchup against Arizona State, scheduled for October 25 at 7 p.m. (Houston time). This encounter will mark the first meeting between UH and Arizona State since their last matchup in 1990, which concluded with a 62-45 victory for UH in Tokyo.
As the season progresses, all eyes will be on Sanchez and his efforts to continue breaking records and leading the Cougars toward postseason play.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Houston Cougars Suffer Loss Against Texas Tech
Houston Looks to Maintain Undefeated Streak Against Texas Tech
Houston Cougars Set to Face Texas Tech in Rivalry Matchup
Houston Cougars Secure Overtime Win Against Oregon State Beavers
Colorado Buffaloes Fall Short Against Houston Cougars
Houston Cougars Deliver Strong 27-0 Shutout Victory
Houston Cougars Achieve Dominant Season Opener Victory
Additional Resources
- Houston Chronicle: Ethan Sanchez Shines Again
- Wikipedia: Ethan Sanchez
- University of Houston: Sanchez Earns Player of the Week
- Google Search: Ethan Sanchez Statistics
- Sports Illustrated: Ethan Sanchez Puts Team on His Back
- Encyclopedia Britannica: College Football
- ABC News: Houston Beats Oregon State
- Google News: University of Houston Football
Author: STAFF HERE HOUSTON TX WRITER
The HOUSTON STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREHouston.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Houston, Harris County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo, Art Car Parade, and Chevron Houston Marathon. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Houston Partnership and Houston Area Urban League, plus leading businesses in energy and healthcare that power the local economy such as ExxonMobil, Schlumberger, and Houston Methodist. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAustinTX.com, HERECollegeStation.com, HEREDallas.com, and HERESanAntonio.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Texas's dynamic landscape.
