Tempe, Ariz. — Conner Weigman put on a clinic of toughness and leadership, accounting for three touchdowns and rushing for over 100 yards as Houston outlasted No. 24 Arizona State 24–16 on Saturday night at Mountain America Stadium.
The win marked a statement moment for the Cougars (7–1, 4–1 Big 12), who notched their third straight victory and their first road win over a ranked opponent since 2017. With the victory, Houston is poised to re-enter the AP Top 25 for the first time since 2022.
Weigman Leads by Example
Weigman — a transfer from Texas A&M — did a bit of everything for the Cougars, throwing for 201 yards and a touchdown while rushing for a career-high 111 yards and two scores. His poise under pressure and willingness to take hits energized Houston’s sideline all night.
“I saw an absolute dog out there,” said tight end Tanner Koziol, who led all receivers with 100 yards and a touchdown. “He’s doing it both ways — taking hits, extending plays, and never quitting. He’s one of the best in the country, no question.”
Houston Dominates Early
The Cougars built a commanding 24–0 lead early in the fourth quarter, powered by a balanced offensive attack and a defense that overwhelmed Arizona State’s backfield. Defensive lineman Eddie Walls III was a force, registering two sacks and several key pressures.
Houston’s first-half drives were deliberate and efficient, capped by Weigman’s 7-yard touchdown strike to Koziol midway through the third quarter that pushed the lead to 17–0. Weigman later scored twice on the ground to extend the margin.
Sun Devils’ Rally Falls Short
Arizona State (5–3, 3–2 Big 12) struggled through a frustrating night marred by penalties and missed opportunities. The Sun Devils turned the ball over once, missed two field goals, and committed 12 penalties, derailing any rhythm they managed to find.
Starting quarterback Sam Leavitt left the game early after a hard fall on a 14-yard scramble but later returned. Still, backup Jeff Sims provided the late spark, connecting on a 27-yard touchdown pass to Chamon Metayer to cut the deficit to 24–16 with 5:12 left.
Arizona State got one final possession with just over two minutes remaining but couldn’t advance past its own 20-yard line as Houston’s defense held firm.
“We’ve built a great home environment here,” Sun Devils coach Kenny Dillingham said after the game. “But we just didn’t play well enough for the first three quarters. You can’t spot a team like that four touchdowns and expect to come back.”
Fritz Keeps the Cougars Grounded
For second-year head coach Willie Fritz, the victory was another milestone in his steady rebuilding of the Houston program.
“It’s all good,” Fritz said. “But we don’t get too high or too low. We’ll review it on Monday, flush it, and move on to the next one. That’s how you build consistency.”
The Takeaway
Houston: The Cougars’ physicality and discipline continue to separate them in Big 12 play. With a veteran roster and a confident quarterback, they look like a legitimate contender down the stretch.
Arizona State: The Sun Devils’ 10-game home win streak is over, and so is their Big 12 momentum. Without injured star receiver Jordyn Tyson, the offense lacked explosiveness and protection for its quarterbacks.
Up Next:
Houston: Hosts West Virginia next Saturday.
Arizona State: Travels to Iowa State for another critical conference test.
Houston’s performance in Tempe wasn’t just about a win — it was about identity. The Cougars played hard, smart, and fearless football, and their leader, Conner Weigman, made sure everyone noticed.
