Houston dominated cross-town rival Rice 35-9, fueled by Dean Connors' explosive rushing performance that included touchdown runs of 54 and 42 yards. The Cougars seized control after trailing 3-0 early, with quarterback Conner Weigman contributing both a rushing touchdown and a 74-yard scoring strike to Stephon Johnson. Will James' 37-yard pick-six early in the fourth quarter highlighted a defensive effort that held the Owls to just one touchdown despite playing in Rice Stadium.