Houston announced its preparation for Friday night’s nationally televised matchup against Oregon State in Corvallis. The Cougars enter the game with a 3-0 record after struggling through consecutive shutout losses exactly one year ago.
Willie Fritz has guided the program through a complete turnaround. Last September, Houston was shut out in back-to-back games against Cincinnati and Iowa State by a combined 54-0. The Cougars managed just four wins in Fritz’s first season.
Now they’re preparing for ESPN’s national spotlight.
Jeremy Branham, Houston’s play-by-play announcer, expects Fritz to maintain his standard approach for the trip to Oregon. “Coach Fritz is businesslike, so it’ll be a businesslike approach,” Branham said. “Get in Thursday, meetings, dinner, and then with a late start, don’t allow lethargy to set in.”
The Cougars will have a plan in place Friday to stay energized for the late kickoff.
Branham has called just one previous Houston game in Corvallis – a women’s basketball matchup years ago. This football trip represents something much bigger for the program’s trajectory.
Houston’s offensive transformation has been central to the turnaround. Coach Nagle joined Fritz’s staff with their previous connection from Tulane. The pairing of Nagle with quarterback Conner Weigman has revitalized a unit that ranked among the worst in Power Four football last season.
“Coach Nagle has been tremendous,” Branham explained. “Coach Nagle, along with Conner Weigman, have brought some life to the UH offense. They’ve taken a step in the right direction.”
— Houston Football (@UHCougarFB) September 20, 2025
Fritz has established a pattern of second-year success throughout his coaching career. His track record includes significant improvements in year two at previous stops, built on discipline and attention to detail.
Branham believes the foundation is in place for sustained success.
“Historically Coach Fritz has been outstanding in his second season at programs, and with his discipline, attention to detail, and ability to build a culture, I wouldn’t put limits on him,” he said.
The expectations for this season were modest. A bowl appearance would have represented progress from four wins to six or more. Houston is already halfway to that goal through three games.
Friday’s ESPN broadcast will showcase the program on a national stage. The late kickoff in Corvallis presents challenges, but Fritz’s preparation style should keep the team focused.
“They’ve positioned themselves well,” Branham said. “With Fritz, you know the plan will be disciplined, detailed, and designed to keep the team locked in.”
It’s exactly what’s needed when building something lasting.
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