Houston Cougars at Oklahoma Sooners Player Props, Picks and Predictions - 9/7/2024 7:45 PM EST

We have your Houston Cougars at Oklahoma Sooners prop betting and game preview needs covered as the Houston Cougars hit the road to face the Oklahoma Sooners.

Houston Cougars at Oklahoma Sooners Odds Info

Best Moneyline Odds: Houston Cougars +2200 (FanDuel) / Oklahoma Sooners -6600 (Bet365)
Best Spread Odds: -30.0 - Houston Cougars -115 (ESPN BET) / -29.0 - Oklahoma Sooners -110 (Caesars)
Best Total Odds: 49.5 - Under -108 (BetRivers) / 49.0 - Over -115 (BetMGM)

Game Info

Date: 9/7/2024
Time: 7:45 PM EST
Location: Memorial Stadium (Norman, OK)
TV: SEC Network

Houston Cougars at Oklahoma Sooners Preview

The Oklahoma Sooners are set to host the Houston Cougars in what promises to be an intriguing matchup at Memorial Stadium. The Sooners, coming off a commanding 51-3 victory over the Temple Owls, are looking to build on their early season momentum. With a strong performance in their opener, Oklahoma has climbed to No. 15 in the latest AP Top 25 rankings, showcasing their potential as they prepare for their SEC debut later this season.

Oklahoma's defense, under the guidance of new defensive coordinator Zac Alley, was particularly impressive against Temple, forcing six turnovers and stifling the Owls' offense. Defensive end Ethan Downs, one of the team's captains for the upcoming game, will be crucial in maintaining this defensive prowess. The Sooners' offense, led by running back Jovantae Barnes and tight end Jake Roberts, will aim to exploit a Houston defense that struggled in their season opener against UNLV, allowing 198 rushing yards.

Houston, on the other hand, is looking to rebound after a disappointing 27-7 loss to UNLV. The Cougars' offense, led by quarterback Donovan Smith, was held to just 209 total yards, and Smith will need to improve his accuracy and decision-making to challenge the Sooners' defense. Despite the setback, Houston is a well-coached team under Willie Fritz, and they will be eager to prove themselves against a ranked opponent.

Injuries could play a significant role in this matchup. Oklahoma is dealing with several key injuries, particularly on the offensive side. Wide receiver Nic Anderson and offensive tackle Jake Taylor are both questionable, and their availability could impact the Sooners' offensive efficiency. However, the potential return of center Branson Hickman could provide a boost to the offensive line, which struggled at times against Temple.

As the Sooners prepare to face the Cougars, they will need to stay focused and not overlook their opponent. With a challenging schedule ahead, including a highly anticipated matchup against Tennessee, Oklahoma will aim to continue their strong start and solidify their position in the rankings.

Houston Cougars at Oklahoma Sooners Pick: Oklahoma Sooners Against the Spread

The Oklahoma Sooners are poised to cover the spread against the Houston Cougars in their upcoming matchup. Coming off a dominant 51-3 victory over the Temple Owls, the Sooners have demonstrated their ability to perform at a high level on both sides of the ball. Their defense, under new coordinator Zac Alley, was particularly impressive, forcing six turnovers and stifling Temple's offense. This defensive prowess will be crucial against a Houston team that struggled offensively in their season opener, managing only 209 total yards and suffering a 27-7 defeat to UNLV.

Oklahoma's offense, led by running back Jovantae Barnes and tight end Jake Roberts, will look to exploit a Houston defense that allowed 198 rushing yards against UNLV. Barnes, who showed flashes of brilliance against Temple, will be a key player in maintaining the Sooners' offensive momentum. Additionally, the potential return of center Branson Hickman could bolster an offensive line that faced challenges in their opener, providing more stability and protection for the Sooners' playmakers.

While the Sooners are dealing with some injuries, particularly to wide receiver Nic Anderson and offensive tackle Jake Taylor, their depth and talent across the roster should allow them to overcome these setbacks. The Sooners' ability to adapt and perform despite these challenges was evident in their season opener, and they will be motivated to continue their strong start as they prepare for their SEC debut.

On the other hand, the Houston Cougars, under head coach Willie Fritz, are still finding their footing after a disappointing loss to UNLV. Quarterback Donovan Smith's struggles with accuracy and decision-making were apparent, and the Cougars' inability to generate offensive momentum could be a significant hurdle against a formidable Oklahoma defense. Given these factors, the Sooners are well-positioned to cover the spread and secure a convincing victory at home.

Houston Cougars at Oklahoma Sooners Top Player Prop Picks

Jovantae Barnes Over 100.5 Rushing Yards Rushing Yards -110 (Caesars)

Jovantae Barnes is poised for a standout performance against the Houston Cougars, making the over on his rushing yards a compelling pick. Barnes showcased his explosive potential in the Sooners' season opener against Temple, where he demonstrated speed and the ability to break tackles. With Houston's defense having allowed 198 rushing yards to UNLV in their opener, Barnes is in a prime position to exploit their vulnerabilities. The Sooners' offensive line, potentially bolstered by the return of center Branson Hickman, should provide Barnes with ample opportunities to surpass the 100-yard mark, especially given the Cougars' struggles to contain the run.

Ethan Downs Over 1.5 Sacks Sacks +150 (FanDuel)

Ethan Downs, one of Oklahoma's defensive captains, is set to be a disruptive force against Houston's offensive line. Downs has been a consistent performer for the Sooners, and his leadership on the defensive front will be crucial in maintaining the pressure on Houston's quarterback, Donovan Smith. Smith's struggles in the season opener, where he completed just 15-of-30 passes and threw two interceptions, suggest that the Cougars' offensive line may have difficulty protecting him. With Downs' ability to penetrate the backfield and Houston's offensive line showing signs of weakness, the over on 1.5 sacks is a strong proposition.

Donovan Smith Under 200.5 Passing Yards Passing Yards -120 (BetMGM)

Donovan Smith faces a daunting challenge against a formidable Oklahoma defense that forced six turnovers in their opener against Temple. Smith's performance against UNLV, where he managed only 135 passing yards and threw two interceptions, indicates potential struggles against a more robust Sooners defense. Oklahoma's defensive coordinator, Zac Alley, has already demonstrated his ability to craft a game plan that stifles opposing offenses, and with Ethan Downs leading the charge, Smith is likely to find it difficult to surpass the 200-yard passing mark. The Sooners' defensive prowess, combined with Smith's need to improve his accuracy and decision-making, makes the under on his passing yards a prudent choice.