Late Field Goal Sends Houston Cougars Past Arizona, Clinches Bowl Eligibility

Photo credit: Donovan Bridgeforth

HOUSTON, Texas (TXAN 24) — Senior kicker Ethan Sanchez came through in the clutch, drilling a 41-yard field goal as time expired to give the University of Houston a 31-28 win over Arizona at TDECU Stadium on Saturday. The win makes the Cougars bowl-eligible for the first time since 2022.

Junior quarterback Conner Weigman had another standout performance, going 15-of-23 passing for 164 yards and three touchdowns while rushing for 98 yards and a touchdown. He connected on touchdown passes of 52 and 15 yards and added a 10-yard rushing score in the first half to help Houston take a 21-14 lead into halftime.

Running back Dean Connors also made his mark, rushing for 100 yards on 20 carries as the Cougars outgained Arizona 396-381 yards overall. Houston took control late, with Weigman hitting Amare Thomas on a 2-yard touchdown pass in the third quarter to go up 14. Arizona answered with two fourth-quarter touchdowns to tie it at 28, but Sanchez’s game-winner sealed the victory.

Houston’s defense recorded four sacks and six tackles for loss while finishing 10-of-16 on third and fourth downs. Arizona struggled to stop Houston’s rushing attack and get off the field, losing three of their last four games.

The Cougars return to action next Saturday, October 25, against Arizona State in Tempe, Ariz., before hosting West Virginia at Fertitta Center on November 1. All Houston games are broadcast on 950 AM KPRC and the Varsity Network app.

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