Houston Cougars
Conference USA
For years, Houston has had incredible offenses. Andre Ware, David Klingler, and Kevin Kolb have all been prior beneficiaries of the Cougar offense. After last year’s disappointing 5-7 season, it’s Case Keenum’s turn running the high-flying show. At face value, it would appear that this team cannot be stopped. The biggest problem for Kevin Sumlin’s team is that they are not in a power conference. So despite, their awesome season and clear bowl bid, they had no shot at the national title. And the loss to Southern Miss in the Conference Champinship game put an end to their hope of proving themselves on a national scale this postseason.
2011 Record: 12-1, 8-0
Last Bowl Appearance: 2009 Armed Forces Bowl vs. Air Force (L 20-47)
Big Wins: 11/19 Southern Methodist (37-7), 11/25 Tulsa (48-16)
Bad Losses: 12/3 Southern Miss (28-49)
Coach: Kevin Sumlin (35-17 at Houston, 35-17 overall)
Bowl Record: 1-1 at Houston, 1-1 overall
Offensive Coordinator: Jason Phillips
Defensive Coordinator: Brian Stewart
Strengths:
Everything appears to be a strength for Houston. Case Keenum has returned from injury last year to light up the score board and the record books. He has become the most prolific passer in NCAA history. In 2011 alone, he has 45 touchdowns, 5,099 yards and only five interceptions. His proficiency has been unbelievable. He trails only Robert Griffin III of Baylor in yards accounted for by an offense. As a team, they have the number one passing offense in the nation at nearly 450 yards per game. They lead the country in scoring as well. Such an explosive offense is a nightmare for opposing defenses. In a game against Rice this year, Houston put up 73 points. What should not be overlooked is Houston’s defense. Under former Dallas Cowboys coach Brian Stewart, the defense only gives up 21 points per game. They can also pressure the quarterback. They average about 2.5 sacks per game.
Weaknesses:
It’s hard to come up with weaknesses for an undefeated team that dominates teams on the football field. But as good as that defense has been playing, Houston could improve its rush defense. They give up nearly 170 yards on the ground per game. Against stiffer competition, that would become a problem for the Cougars. Conversely, Houston does not run the ball terribly well. That would be expected for an offense that relies on the pass more than virtually every other team in the country. At 164 yards per game, it doesn’t sound like running is a problem. But they are middle of the pack nationally in that category. One of the most overlooked aspects of Houston’s gaudy numbers has been their schedule. Teams can only play who lines up in front of them, but Houston has not had any games against a big-time opponent outside of UCLA, who they did beat. The Bruins are a 6-5 team though. Against a serious contender, Houston might actually face some adversity.
Statistical Leaders:
Rushing: Charles Sims, RB, 782 yards
Passing: Case Keenum, QB, 5,099 yards
Receiving: Patrick Edwards, WR, 1,524 yards
Tackles: Marcus McGraw, LB, 131
Sacks: Sammy Brown, LB, 12.5
Interceptions: Phillip Steward, LB, 5
2011 Team Stats:
Rushing Offense: 163.58 (55, 4)
Passing Offense: 449.67 (1, 1)
Total Offense: 613.25 (1, 1)
Scoring Offense: 52.67 (1, 1)
Rushing Defense: 168.83 (77, 7)
Pass Defense: 208.83 (44, 3)
Total Defense: 377.67 (60, 5)
Scoring Defense: 20.92 (30, 3)
Turnover Margin: 1.00 (7, 1)
Sacks: 2.42 (26, 1)
Sacks Allowed: 1.25 (26, 1)
