Beavers Fall Short in Houston
The Oregon State Beavers entered TDECU Stadium with high hopes, but their season-opening effort ended in a 33-20 defeat against the Houston Cougars on Saturday, September 5. Despite a strong offensive showing from their own backfield, the visiting squad could not overcome the efficiency and firepower of the home team.
The final score reflected a dominant performance by Houston, who improved their record to 1-0, while Oregon State dropped to 0-1. The game drew an attendance of 28,742 fans, creating an electric atmosphere that the Beavers struggled to match.
Houston Builds Early Lead
The Cougars struck first, with Amare Thomas catching a 31-yard pass from Conner Weigman for a touchdown. Although the extra point attempt failed, Houston maintained momentum. Braden Atkinson of Oregon State answered with a three-yard run, but the home team quickly reasserted control.
Jonathan Dimas kicked a 42-yard field goal to end the first quarter with Houston leading 9-7. In the second quarter, Re'Shaun Sanford II ran for a 56-yard touchdown, extending Houston's advantage. Dimas added a 32-yard field goal before halftime, leaving the Beavers trailing 19-7.
Second-Half Battle
The third quarter saw a shift in momentum for Oregon State. Makhi Hughes rushed for a one-yard touchdown, narrowing the gap. However, Jesse Legree caught a seven-yard pass from Braden Atkinson for a touchdown, though the two-point conversion failed.
This put Oregon State within striking distance at 26-13. In the fourth quarter, AJ Newberry ran for a four-yard touchdown to bring the Beavers back to 26-20. But Conner Weigman sealed the victory with a one-yard rushing touchdown, giving Houston a 33-20 lead that they held until the final whistle.
Statistical Performance
Conner Weigman was the standout performer for Houston, completing 20 of 30 passes for 305 yards with one touchdown and one interception. Amare Thomas led the receiving corps with eight catches for 133 yards and a touchdown. Makhi Hughes contributed on the ground with 17 carries for 98 yards and a score.
For Oregon State, Braden Atkinson threw for 376 yards on 29 of 48 attempts with one touchdown. Jesse Legree was the primary target, hauling in five passes for 136 yards and a touchdown. Despite these efforts, the Beavers left Houston without a win.
Sources
https://www.espn.com/college-football/game/_/gameId/401856778
