Football Overtime

Cougars display creativity on offense

Sophomore quarterback David Piland said UH has injected creativity into the Cougars’ program with the inclusion of offensive coordinator Travis Bush.
“(Bush) has done a great job of utilizing players and putting them in positions where they can excel,” Piland said. “He knows his X’s and O’s and he’s here all of the time.”
After opening the season with a 30-13 loss to Texas State, former offensive coordinator Mike Nesbitt resigned.

Since Bush inherited the reins of the offense, Piland is having a big statistical year as fifth in total offense and passing yards per game in the nation.

Piland said he and Bush have a good connection.

“He has a great relationship with me, we’re trying to always be on the same page,” Piland said.

UH has found different ways to get Charles Sims involved. In Bush’s first game calling offensive plays Sims received 32 touches and was a threat out of the backfield, catching 11 balls.

The Cougars have utilized their young offensive players. Sophomore Daniel Spencer is their leading receiver. Freshmen wide receivers Larry McDuffey and Deontay Greenberry have also made an impact.

Head coach Tony Levine said Bush’s inclusion has allowed UH to confuse its opponents.

“Coach Bush has brought a lot of creativity to our offense. We are able to use a lot of misdirections and be multiple with our formations and things of that nature,” Levine said. “It’s a compliment when people say the flow of the play was going left and the ball ends up going right. He is very good at keeping defenses off balance and being unpredictable. He, as well as our entire offensive staff, have done a great job this season.”

With a more explosive offense, UH could compete in Conference USA, despite the 0-3 start. The Cougars are undefeated in conference play, and set for second in the West division behind Tulsa, who has had more opportunities. Tulsa is 3-0 in conference with a 5-1 record.

UH has a date with Tulsa on Nov. 10 for its homecoming, which could have conference implications.

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