News Summary
The University of Houston football team achieved a decisive 35-9 victory over Rice in the latest Bayou Bucket rivalry match. Highlighted by Dean Connors’ impressive 132 rushing yards and two touchdowns, the Cougars showcased their dominance, especially in the second half with 28 points. The defense also excelled, forcing multiple punts and securing three sacks. As the rivalry appears set to pause until at least 2030, UH celebrates its ninth win in the last ten matchups, looking forward to their upcoming Big 12 game against Colorado.
Houston – The University of Houston (UH) football team triumphed over crosstown rival Rice with a commanding 35-9 victory in the latest edition of the Bayou Bucket rivalry at Rice Stadium on Saturday night. This win marks the Cougars’ second straight victory over the Owls and their ninth win in the last ten matchups.
The Cougars’ performance was bolstered by Dean Connors, who rushed for 132 yards and scored two touchdowns. Connors made a significant impact when he broke through for a 54-yard touchdown run just before halftime, which helped put UH in the lead at 7-3.
In a game that is set to be the last Bayou Bucket matchup until at least 2030, the rivalry showcased the dominance of the Cougars, especially in the second half where UH scored 28 points, significantly improving from a sluggish start. Overall, the team accumulated 231 of their total 392 yards during this period.
On the defensive side, UH was relentless, forcing Rice to punt four times, causing a fumble, and recording three sacks and eight tackles for loss. Cornerback Will James made a notable contribution by scoring a pick-six, returning an interception 37 yards for a touchdown.
Quarterback Conner Weigman demonstrated his skills by throwing for 188 yards and completing 15 of 22 passes, while also contributing with a rushing touchdown. Meanwhile, Rice’s offensive efforts amounted to 228 total yards, with quarterback Chase Jenkins managing a late 2-yard rushing touchdown to reduce the deficit to 21-9.
UH’s defense was particularly impressive in the third quarter, where they held Rice to just one yard of total offense throughout the entire quarter. The Cougars also executed a strong 15-play, 76-yard opening drive to the second half, which was instrumental in maintaining momentum.
Receiving leader for the Cougars, Tanner Koziol, established himself as a key asset by catching six passes for 52 yards. On the defensive front, Latrell McCutchin Sr. made significant contributions with a team-high 11 tackles, further emphasizing the strength of the UH defense.
Connors reflected on his unique position in the rivalry, having played for both teams, and expressed pride in celebrating the victory, which adds to the rich history of this matchup.
The Bayou Bucket trophy, symbolizing the fierce rivalry between UH and Rice, will be proudly displayed at the newly constructed football operations center at UH. Following this game, UH will shift their focus to their upcoming match against Colorado as they open Big 12 play on Friday at TDECU Stadium. Conversely, Rice will be gearing up for their next game against Prairie View A&M.
This significant win reinforces the University of Houston’s strength in the Bayou Bucket rivalry and highlights the competitive spirit between these two Houston-based teams, now looking forward to the next chapter in their football programs.
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Author: STAFF HERE HOUSTON TX WRITER
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