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Houston coach Willie Fritz emphasized the need to move forward after the Cougars' 28-26 loss to Texas Tech, a game that ended with a failed two-point conversion in the final minute. Fritz stated, "We have to move on," and added that the team must "turn the page" as they conclude non-conference play before entering a stretch of eight Big 12 games in nine weeks.
The Cougars (2-1) will face Georgia Southern (1-2) at Allen E. Paulson Stadium in Statesboro, Georgia. The matchup is part of a home-and-home series announced in 2016, when Houston was still in the American Athletic Conference. Houston is the first Power Four program to ever play at Georgia Southern.
Georgia Southern coach Clay Helton, who played quarterback at Houston under his father, Kim Helton, and later served as an assistant, highlighted the significance: "Introducing a Top 25 team and Power Four team to Paulson Stadium for the first time in history makes it a special game." Kim Helton, who guided the Cougars to a Conference USA title in 1996, is expected to attend.
Fritz has deep ties to Georgia Southern, having coached the Eagles from 2014-15. In his first season, he led them to a 9-3 record, a Sun Belt title, and a transition to FBS. Georgia Southern became just the third team to win a conference championship in its first FBS year, joining Nevada (1992) and Marshall (1997). Fritz called his time there "plenty of good memories" but described this weekend as a "work trip" and "a business trip."
On the field, Houston's rushing attack, led by Makhi Hughes and Re'Shaun Sanford II, averages 264 yards per game (11th nationally). Quarterback Conner Weigman has completed 70% of his passes for 707 yards, seven touchdowns, and one interception. Receivers Amare Thomas and Koby Young share the team lead with three touchdown catches, while tight end Patrick Overmyer has 15 receptions and two scores. The Cougars are also looking to involve receiver Trent Walker, who has only six catches for 64 yards after leading Oregon State in receiving last season.
Georgia Southern's defense poses a challenge, ranking in the top 35 nationally in total defense (255.3 yards per game), rushing defense (88.7), and passing defense (166.7), while allowing 17.7 points per game. Fritz noted similarities to Texas Tech's defense: "They're talented. They've got some good players."
Georgia Southern quarterback Max Johnson, in his seventh college season, previously started at Texas A&M in 2022 before a hand injury sidelined him. He regained the starting role in 2023 after Conner Weigman suffered a season-ending foot injury. Weigman is now Houston's starting quarterback.
Fritz reflected on the Texas Tech game, calling it a "good test" where the Cougars "learned something about ourselves." Despite competing for four quarters, Houston settled for two field goals in the red zone and allowed big plays in the second half. Fritz regularly reviews games with his staff, asking, "What would you have done different? What would you have done the same? What would you have done more of? What would you have done less of?"
Key Analysis
Houston's ability to rebound from a heartbreaking loss will hinge on their rushing attack and Weigman's efficiency against a stout Georgia Southern defense. The game carries extra meaning due to the coaching connections and the historic nature of Houston's visit. A win would provide momentum before the Cougars dive into Big 12 play.
Originally reported by yahoo.