Utah vs Houston Picks and Prediction – 10/26/2024

The Utah Utes (4-3, 1-3 in conference) face the Houston Cougars (2-5, 1-3 in conference) on October 26th. The Utes are coming off a tough 13-7 loss to TCU, while Houston suffered a blowout 42-14 loss to Kansas. Both teams are looking to bounce back in this conference clash. Dominate the college scene with our College Football picks.

Utah’s offense has struggled recently, averaging just 13.5 points per game over the last two contests. Quarterback Isaac Wilson has thrown for 1,029 yards with 7 touchdowns but has also tossed 8 interceptions. The run game, led by Micah Bernard (731 yards, 2 TDs), has been solid, but the offense needs more consistent production through the air. Wide receiver Devaughn Singer (486 yards) has been a key target but has yet to find the end zone. Utah will need to get more out of the aerial attack to complement the rushing attack to spark the offense.

Defensively, the Utes have been respectable, allowing 20.5 points per game. Safety Tao Johnson leads the team with 43 tackles, while the defensive line, led by Van Fillinger with 5.5 sacks, has applied consistent pressure on opposing quarterbacks. The secondary, anchored by Elijah Davis (2 interceptions), will need to step up against Houston’s passing game. Utah’s defense has kept them competitive, but the lack of offensive support has been a major issue in recent losses.

Houston’s offense has struggled as well, averaging just 17 points per game over the last three outings. Quarterback Donovan Smith has thrown for 867 yards with 4 touchdowns but also 8 interceptions, highlighting the Cougars’ turnover issues. On the ground, Stacy Sneed (245 yards) has been the lone bright spot, but Houston’s offense has lacked consistency. Wide receiver Mekhi Mews (218 yards, 1 TD) has shown flashes but will need a big game to help the Cougars move the ball effectively.

On defense, Houston has been shaky, allowing 30.2 points per game. Linebacker Michael Batton leads the team with 46 tackles, and A.J. Haulcy has 3 interceptions, but the Cougars have struggled to stop both the run and the pass. The defense will be tasked with slowing down Utah’s rushing attack, which could spell trouble for a unit that has given up big yardage on the ground.

Utah’s stronger defense gives them the edge in this matchup, especially against a struggling Houston offense. Expect Utah to control the game with the run game and defense. Final Score Prediction: Utah Utes win and cover 24-14.