The 2025 season was what many Houston Cougars fans envisioned when the program first received a Big 12 Conference invite back in September 2021. The Cougars debuted in the league in 2023 and after a 2-year acclimation period, they made it clear they’re ready to contend.
In year two under head coach Willie Fritz, Houston successfully strung together a 10-3 season, sweetened by a Texas Bowl victory over LSU in front of a hometown crowd decked in red. The Cougars were rewarded for the efforts with the No. 22 ranking in the final AP Poll, checking in as the fourth-highest ranked Big 12 team — as they concluded a season with a number beside their name for the first time since 2021.
Now the page turns to 2026, and the momentum is palpable. Fritz enters year three at the helm. Starting quarterback Conner Weigman returns. First Team All-Big 12 wide receiver Amare Thomas is back in the fold. Other starters including Alvin Ebosele, McKenzie Agnello, Brandon Mack, Khalil Laufau, and Sione Fotu have committed to running it back, and the Cougars brought in several notable transfers such as running back Makhi Hughes and star guard Shadre Hurst.
On Wednesday, Houston learned the path it must trek in order to take that extra step and qualify for the Big 12 Championship Game. Their full schedule was revealed, along with the rest of the Big 12, and here’s what Fritz and the Cougars must conquer in 2026: