A Defeat for the Road Warriors
The Houston Cougars entered Rice-Eccles Stadium on Saturday, October 24, 2026, with a chance to spoil the Utah Utes’ perfect season. Instead, they left with their first loss of the campaign, falling 21-13 in front of 51,864 spectators. The Cougars (6-2) fought valiantly but could not contain Utah’s dual-threat attack in the decisive moments of the fourth quarter.
Early Struggles and a Slim Lead
Houston controlled the early tempo, relying on the arm of Conner Weigman to keep pace with the home team. Weigman finished with 282 passing yards on 19-of-35 passing, doing his part to keep Houston in the contest. The Cougars’ ground game was led by Makhi Hughes, who carried the ball 19 times for 52 yards and a crucial touchdown in the third period.
The first half ended with Houston holding a narrow 3-0 advantage, thanks to a 24-yard field goal by Jonathan Dimas. Utah had yet to find the end zone or generate significant offensive rhythm, leaving the visitors with momentum but only a single-point buffer.
The Third Quarter Shift
Utah broke through in the third period when Devon Dampier connected with his rushing game. Dampier, who finished with 150 rushing yards on 15 carries and two touchdowns, also contributed through the air, completing 18 of 26 passes for 204 yards despite throwing two interceptions.
