Cougars Open 2025 Season at Home Against Stephen F. Austin

HOUSTON, Texas (TXAN 24) – College football is back in the Bayou City. The Houston Cougars kick off their 2025 campaign Thursday night with a home opener against East Texas neighbor Stephen F. Austin at TDECU Stadium. Kickoff is set for 7 p.m. and will stream live on ESPN+.

Houston enters Year 2 under head coach Willie Fritz, who has leaned on transfer quarterback Conner Weigman (Texas A&M) and returner Zeon Chriss-Gremillion to anchor an experienced offense. The Cougars also unveil their new $130 million Memorial Hermann Football Operations Center, a state-of-the-art facility housing players, coaches, and premium seating.

On the defensive side, first-year coordinator Austin Armstrong takes over a unit that finished last season ranked among the nation’s top 25 in total defense. Houston’s emphasis this fall is simple: avoid mistakes and play disciplined football under the mantra “Coogs don’t beat the Coogs.”

Stephen F. Austin comes in off a 7-5 season, highlighted by wins over ranked Southland Conference opponents Lamar and Abilene Christian. The Lumberjacks, led by seventh-year head coach Colby Carthel, were slotted in the preseason FCS Top 25 and are looking for their first win over Houston since 1948.

Fans heading to the game can enjoy Coog Fest outside the stadium beginning at 4 p.m., with family-friendly activities, a student tailgate, and the popular “Coogs on Parade” marching event down Cullen Blvd.

Houston holds a 20-0 all-time record against FCS opponents. A win Thursday would also mark the Cougars’ first over SFA since the series began in 1946.