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Colorado (1-1) at Houston (2-0)
- When: Sep 12 2025, 7:30 PM
- Where: TDECU Stadium, Houston, TX
- Where to watch: ESPN
Colorado vs Houston Preview & Prediction
Spread: Houston -4.0
Moneyline: Houston (-180)
Total: 44.5
Colorado Buffaloes Betting Outlook
Colorado (1-1) heads into its Big 12 opener as a +4 underdog, and the biggest storyline is the mystery under center. Coach Deion Sanders isn’t ready to announce a starter, though Ryan Staub’s performance against Delaware made a strong case.
Staub energized the offense, completing 7 of 10 passes for 157 yards and two scores after entering as the third quarterback. While Sanders praised his work in practice, he’s holding back on a public decision. Regardless of who takes snaps, Colorado’s attack under coordinator Pat Shurmur is designed to keep defenses guessing with a balanced mix of run and pass.
The Buffaloes’ ability to protect the quarterback and sustain drives will be critical against Houston’s stingy defense, which has thrived early this season.
Houston Cougars Betting Outlook
The Cougars (2-0) enter as the -4 favorite, and they’ve been winning games by pounding the football. Dean Connors is off to a blazing start, averaging over 10 yards per carry in last week’s 132-yard, two-touchdown showcase against Rice.
Quarterback Conner Weigman adds balance, throwing for 188 yards and also scoring twice (one passing, one rushing) in that win. Houston’s offensive versatility makes them tough to scheme against, and their defense ranked fourth nationally adds another layer of confidence.
Coach Willie Fritz emphasized preparing for Colorado’s overall system rather than just one quarterback, and Houston’s defense has the depth and discipline to handle multiple looks.
Prediction & Betting Angle
With Houston’s running game rolling and a top-5 defense in the nation, the Cougars look well-positioned in this Big 12 opener. Colorado’s uncertainty at quarterback creates more questions than answers.
The Cougars lean on Connors and a stout defense to cover the spread and hold serve at home.
Final Score: Houston 27, Colorado 20
Lean: Houston -4.0
Total: Over 44.5
- NCAA Football Odds source: Bovada Sportsbook
- Get real-time live scores & latest betting odds here!
