2022 Houston Cougars Football Predictions and Betting Odds

Houston really turned it around in 2021, going 12-2 and winning 11 straight after losing the season opener to Texas Tech. With key players returning, like quarterback Clayton Tune and wide receiver Nathaniel Dell, in 2022, the Cougars could repeat last year’s success. A big factor to that success was Houston’s defense.  They ranked 18th in Defensive SP+ and allowed 318 yards per game in 2021. Bringing back 6 starters from that D is huge and could limit teams to under 20 points per game. Moving to the Big 12 next season will be fun, and it will be even better if they have a strong last dance in the AAC. With the talent, coaching, and favorable schedule, this season may be very special for Cougars.

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Offense/Defense

Minimalizing mistakes and keeping the chains moving last season for Houston was huge. QB Clayton Tune passed for 3,546 yards and 30 TDs, while his top target, Nathaniel Dell, brought in 90 catches for 1,329 yards and 12 TDs, averaging almost 1.0 touchdown per game. Some reporters are considering Tune as a “longshot” Heisman Trophy contender. Only 2 players return to the offensive line this season, but transfer right tackle Tyler Johnson from Texas adds a sense of comfort to Houston’s front line. With the experience and new addition on the line, room for the backs in Houston should allow for a solid year. Alton McCaskill suffered a torn ACL this offseason, but the other options are above par, with former Texas Tech back Ta’Zhawn Henry returning and USC transfer Brandon Campbell joining the squad.

Houston’s defensive line “Sack Avenue” posted 34.5 of the team’s 45 total sacks in 2021. D’Anthony Jones and Derek Parish will be the leaders on D, while sophomores Nelson Ceaser and Chidozie Nwankwo look to live up to their hype come 2022. This defense allowed 3.6 yards per carry and 112.5 yards per game in 2021. Having to replace both their starting cornerbacks may bring caution to the naked eye. However, with solid safeties and Alex Hogan’s transfer from Texas Tech, they may be fine.

Keys to the 2022 Season

Another strong year from Tune and wide receiver Dell. If these two can connect like they did in 2021, this offense has so many options. The coaching staff is top tier. And with threats like this duo, it really opens for a creative playbook. We know Houston’s defense will be above par, if not stellar, and will need the offense to put up points. Essentially, if the Cougars can put up 21+ points per game, they will be likely to win.

Houston is 1-11 in its last 12 games when giving up more than 4.4 yards per carry. Yikes! Being effective in stopping the run will pay dividends this season as it has in the past.

Key 2021 Stats

– Time of Possession: Houston 33:26 – Opponents 26:21

– 1st Quarter Scoring: Houston 147 – Opponents 52
– Fumbles: Opponents 22 (lost 8) – Houston 13 (lost 2)

2022 Betting Odds and Trends

The Houston Cougars Over/Under this season is at 9 wins. Their odds to win the 2023 College Football Championship are at +25000. Their odds to win the AAC are +250. They are 6-point favorites against the UTSA Roadrunners on September 3, 2022. The Over/Under total is 61.0 points.

Heisman Contenders & Odds

Clayton Tune (QB) +8000

Nathaniel Dell (WR) +10000

2021 Houston Cougars Betting Results

ATS: 8-6

O/U: 8-6

ATS as Underdog: 2-1

Predictions

After taking a big step forward in 2021, the Cougars look to maintain momentum and have another successful season. Not playing Cincinnati or UCF in the regular season is a big plus. With their over/under sitting at 9 games tied into a lack-luster schedule, the Cougars could easily have a double-digit win season while challenging for an AAC Title and New Year’s Six bowl in their final season before joining the Big 12.

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