Hanging in there: Houston goes down to No. 25 in the AP Poll

Houston had a strong start in the college football landscape recently and the Associated Press has taken note of the Cougars’ new breakthroughs. The Cougars have been ranked in the polls since the offseason and remained stable throughout the first two weeks of the season.

However, their week three game against Texas Tech has changed the rankings with the AP Poll now having Houston at No. 25. After a close 28-26 loss against the Red Raiders, the Cougars have been able to keep a spot in the polls. 

With this sudden change in ranking, how does it affect Houston’s perception to their opponents and what does it mean to stay ranked after a close loss?

Houston’s new rank

The AP poll has put Houston at No. 25. This puts them below Big 12 opponents like No. 11 Texas Tech and No. 15 Utah. 

Heading into week four with two other Big 12 opponents in the AP poll already, Houston’s upcoming matchup against Utah later this year will be a major test. 

The next game on Houston’s schedule should be an opportunity to bounce back from their loss against the Red Raiders, with the Georgia Southern Eagles being the last non-conference opponent on the Cougars’ schedule.

Houston’s game against the Eagles will give insights if this team is ready to take on the remaining opponents in the Big 12. 

With their game against Utah happening in week eight of the season, Houston has many chances to prepare themselves before the big game. With teams like UCF in week five and Oklahoma State in week seven, Houston will have time to practice against the conference. 

What’s next?

With the college football season beginning to knock on the door of weeks four and five, Houston will need to stay ready if they want to keep their spot in the AP Poll. While the new ranking may not be favorable, the Cougars still have a chance to bounce back.

With year three of the Willie Fritz era underway in Houston, can the Cougars hold on to Top 25?

sports@thedailycougar.com