UNLV Rebels vs
Houston CougarsPredictions & Preview

Houston Cougars Favored Over UNLV Rebels in College Football Matchup

The upcoming college football game between UNLV and Houston will see the Running Rebels (9-5 in 2023) facing off against the Cougars (4-8 in 2023). UNLV had a successful season last year, earning their first bowl bid in nearly a decade, while Houston struggled in their first season in the Big 12. The game will take place at 7:00 EST at John O'Quinn Field at TDECU Stadium in Houston, where Houston is currently the betting favorite with a -2.5 point opening line that has not moved.

Betting Odds

• Moneyline: Rebels +115 | Cougars -135
• Spread: Rebels +2.5 (-110) | Cougars -2.5 (-110)
• Total: Over/Under 54.25 (-110)
• Based on the moneyline, the implied probability that Houston will win straight-up is 57%.

UNLV vs Houston Stats

UNLV Rebels

The UNLV Rebels had a successful season last year with nine wins, their most since 1984. They reached the Mountain West title game and a bowl bid but ended the season with a three-game losing streak. The team is heading into the new season with a three-man quarterback competition. The offense ranked third in the Mountain West Conference last season, with an experienced receiving core. The defense was solid but allowed a high number of points in the last three games. The team is looking for redemption this year, led by Mountain West Preseason Defensive Player of the Year, Jackson Woodward. UNLV is currently ranked 22nd in offense, 87th in defense, with a power ranking of 31.

Houston Cougars Analysis

The Houston Cougars faced challenges transitioning to the Big 12 conference, with a new head coach, Willie Fritz, taking over from Dana Holgorsen. Fritz brings a strong defensive background, aiming to improve a defense that struggled last season. The offense was middling in the conference, with QB Donovan Smith leading the team. Despite some improvements needed, the Cougars are eager to prove themselves at the Power Four level. In terms of power rankings, they are ranked 116 overall, with a strong offense ranking of 89, but a weaker defense ranking of 106. Their upcoming game against UNLV will be a test of their progress.

Houston Faces UNLV with New Coach and Players, UNLV Looks to Capitalize on Weather and Strong ATS Record

Houston and UNLV last competed in 2014, with Houston achieving a 47-14 victory at home. In their previous three encounters in September, Houston emerged victorious by at least 28 points each time. Houston enters this match with a new head coach and several new players, presenting an opportunity to observe how quickly they can work together effectively. The return of a senior quarterback who started in the previous season is a significant advantage for Houston. On the other hand, UNLV is still searching for the ideal quarterback among their three upperclassmen. This could pose a challenge against a stronger Houston offense this season. UNLV may rely on RB Jai’Den Thomas to maintain control and wear down the Houston defense. With rain predicted, UNLV's strategy appears even more plausible. Given their strong ATS record last season, taking UNLV to cover is a reasonable choice.

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