Houston Cougars 2023 Season Preview

The Houston Cougars are poised for an eventful 2023 football season as they embark on a transition to the Big 12 Conference. Houston looks to build off its past AAC success as one of several new members to join the Big 12. The Cougars had a decent 7-5 year in 2022, but head coach Dana Holgorsen looks to lead the team to higher achievements in the coming season.

The Cougars must deal with departures of key offensive players such as quarterback Clayton Tune and wide receiver Tank Dell. Transfer quarterback Donovan Smith from Texas Tech is expected to fill the void left by Tune. The wide receiver corps, including Matthew Golden, Joseph Manjack IV, and Samuel Brown, is bolstered by promising additions via the transfer portal. The Cougars were one of the most proflific offenses in 2022, averaging 36.1 PPG (13th in the country). The fresh faces in Houston will have big shoes to fill on offense.

Houston will rightfully spend a significant amount of time and resources on revamping its 108th ranked defense from a season ago. Houston's defense gave up an average of 32.2 PPG to opponents, making it difficult to win with much consistency. Noteworthy additions through transfers, such as safety Adari Haulcy and cornerbacks Isaiah Hamilton and Brian George, are expected to help fortify the defensive side of the ball in 2023.

A move to the Big 12 brings about many challenges for the Cougars, including a more difficult schedule. Houston will face the likes of TCU, Texas, Kansas State, and Texas Tech, all of which are ranked in the preseason Top 25. Houston finds itself at #63 to start the year. Needless to say, the Cougars will have some stiff competition in their inaguaral Big 12 season.