LSU Football Bowl Game: 3 things to know about the Houston Cougars

LSU football’s bowl game has been set, and its opponent is an intriguing one: the Houston Cougars. The two have faced off just three times since each program's inception, with the Tigers winning two of the three.

This matchup might seem like an easy one, as the Cougars only became a Power Four team in 2023, but this year’s squad may prove to be a tough matchup for the Tigers. Houston, ranked 24th in the US LBM Coaches Poll, finished the regular season with a 9-3 record. They didn’t exactly face a murderer’s row of opponents, with ESPN’s 71st-ranked strength of schedule, but they’re currently favored by 3.5 points over the Tigers.

Here are three things to know about the Cougars.

Houston’s Defense is a Strength

Despite the Cougars' long-standing reputation for elite offense and porous defense, things have flipped under head coach Willie Fritz. The Cougars’ defense has been a strength, ranking 27th in the FBS in adjusted EPA per play allowed and 28th in PFF defense grade this season. LSU’s offense has struggled this year with Michael Van Buren under center, posting just 13 points against Western Kentucky and 23 against Arkansas. The Tigers won both games, but largely because of their talented defense — which could be missing several starters for this matchup.

Houston’s Quarterback is a Familiar Face

You might recognize Houston’s quarterback from his days at Texas A&M. Conner Weigman has been the Cougars’ signal caller this season after leaving College Station following the conclusion of the 2024 season.

He hasn’t exactly had a career revival with the Cougars, throwing for 2,475 yards and 21 touchdowns to nine interceptions, but he’s been serviceable.

LSU’s Pass Rush Needs to Get Home

Weigman has been solid when his offensive line keeps him comfortable, but the struggles show up when opposing defenses are able to get into the backfield. Among 158 possible quarterbacks, Weigman’s PFF passing grade when blitzed ranks 154th. His nine turnover-worthy plays in such situations are tied for the third-most in the country, per PFF.

The Tigers’ pass rush hasn’t been exceptional in 2025, ranking 97th in the FBS in pass-rush grade. Though Houston’s offensive line hasn’t been a great pass-protecting unit this season, LSU will need to have a good night if it wants to keep the Cougar offense in check.

This article originally appeared on LSU Wire: LSU Football Bowl Game: 3 things to know about the Houston Cougars