The Colorado Buffaloes (1-1) travel to face the Houston Cougars (2-0) in a highly anticipated Week 3 college football showdown on Friday night. This matchup marks the Big 12 conference opener for both programs and brings with it plenty of intrigue, especially with Deion “Coach Prime” Sanders leading Colorado through a major transition. Kickoff is scheduled for 7:30 p.m. ET at TDECU Stadium in Houston.

With both teams looking to make an early statement in conference play, Friday’s game offers a fascinating contrast: a revamped Colorado squad under a high-profile coach versus a Houston team riding high on two dominant performances to start the season.

Setting the Stage

Colorado enters this matchup fresh off a convincing 31-7 victory over Delaware. After a narrow loss to Georgia Tech in Week 1, the Buffaloes bounced back and will now start sophomore quarterback Ryan Staub, who impressed last week with 157 passing yards and 2 touchdowns. Staub began the season as the third-string QB but has quickly climbed the depth chart after demonstrating composure and accuracy under pressure.

Houston, on the other hand, has been one of the more impressive teams in the early going. The Cougars shut out Stephen F. Austin 41-0 in Week 1 and followed that up with a 35-9 dismantling of Rice. Led by junior quarterback Conner Weigman, Houston has shown balance on both sides of the ball and appears well-positioned to contend in the Big 12.

Key Players to Watch

Colorado Buffaloes

• Ryan Staub (QB): The sophomore gets his first real test against a high-caliber defense. His decision-making and pocket awareness will be under the microscope.
• Micah Welch (RB): An emerging weapon in Colorado’s backfield, Welch is averaging solid yardage per carry and offers a physical presence in the run game.
• Sincere Brown (WR): Currently the team’s top receiver with 120 yards, Brown will be Staub’s primary target against a stingy Houston secondary.
• Reginald Hughes (LB): Leads the team with 14 tackles and is the heartbeat of the Buffaloes’ defensive front.
• DJ McKinney (CB): Already has one interception this season and will be tasked with containing Houston’s big-play threats.

Houston Cougars

• Conner Weigman (QB): Calm, efficient, and accurate—Weigman has been nearly flawless in the Cougars’ 2-0 start.
• Stephon Johnson (WR): A reliable deep threat with the speed to stretch the field. Johnson is expected to be a focal point in the passing attack.
• Kentrell Webb (S): The anchor of the Cougars’ secondary, Webb brings both experience and physicality to the defensive backfield.

What the Experts Say

According to SportsLine expert Jimmie Kaylor, a former college All-American and NFL player, Houston enters this game with a clear edge—not just because of their record, but due to their efficiency and defensive strength. Kaylor, who boasts a career record of 238-158-7 since 2023 and is up over 108 betting units, has analyzed this game extensively.

Kaylor’s take? He’s leaning toward the Under (45.5 total points) due to two defenses that are likely to control the pace early. He also believes there’s a critical X-factor on one side of the spread that makes that team a must-back in this matchup. His full breakdown and betting picks are available exclusively on SportsLine.

Why Colorado Can Cover the Spread

Coach Prime has turned the Buffaloes into a team that plays with swagger and confidence. Despite losing key stars to the NFL, Sanders has instilled a next-man-up mentality, and players like Staub and Welch have stepped up. The defense has shown flashes of toughness and athleticism, and if they can generate a turnover or two, Colorado has the weapons to keep the game close.

Additionally, Coach Sanders is known for getting his players up for big games. Don’t be surprised if Colorado plays far above expectations and tests Houston late into the fourth quarter.

Why Houston Could Dominate

Houston has been dominant through two games, especially on defense. The Cougars held their opponents to just nine total points across two matchups and have forced multiple turnovers. Quarterback Weigman plays with poise, and the offense is efficient and mistake-free. Against a young Colorado defense and a newly promoted QB, Houston has all the tools to control the tempo and pull away in the second half.

Betting Odds (via DraftKings Sportsbook)

• Spread: Houston -4.5
• Over/Under: 45.5 points
• Moneyline: Houston -205 | Colorado +169

How to Watch

• Streaming: Available live via FuboTV (Free trial available)

Prediction and Final Thoughts

This Big 12 opener is more than just a conference game—it’s a measuring stick for two programs in very different places. For Colorado, it’s about finding their identity post-Shedeur Sanders and Hunter. For Houston, it’s about proving that their hot start is sustainable against better competition.

While Colorado has the potential to surprise, Houston’s balance, discipline, and home-field advantage make them the safer pick.

Final Score Prediction: Houston 27, Colorado 20