FORT WORTH, Texas — TCU is coming off a strong road win against Big 12 opponent Kansas last weekend and looks to carry that momentum into Friday’s matchup against another Big 12 foe, Houston. TCU has won the last nine meetings between the two teams, evening the all-time series at 13-13.
The Horned Frogs boast one of the top passing offenses in the country, led by quarterback Josh Hoover. Hoover ranks third in the FBS with 1,774 passing yards and is tied for fourth in touchdown passes with 14. He’s on pace to set TCU single-season records for completion percentage, passing yards, and touchdown passes. Hoover has thrown at least two touchdowns in eight consecutive games.
Wide receiver Jack Bech has been a key contributor, coming off a standout performance against Kansas where he recorded 131 yards and two touchdowns. Bech ranks second nationally in receiving yards (647), is tied for third in touchdown receptions (6), and is seventh in total receptions (35). He has surpassed 100 yards in four of five games this season, including a 200-yard effort against UCF — the third-highest total among Power Four Conference players.
Houston’s defense poses a challenge, ranking 19th in success rate and 45th in EPA/pass, despite facing tough competition this season.
The main test for TCU will be stopping Houston quarterback Donovan Smith. The Cougars have been shut out in their last two games, creating an opportunity for TCU’s defense to step up. Last week, in Houston’s 20-0 loss to Iowa State, Smith was limited to just 71 passing yards and threw one interception. TCU’s defensive key will be pressuring Smith early and shutting down the Cougars’ run game.
Kickoff is set for 6:30 p.m. CT at Amon G. Carter Stadium.
