UTSA vs. Houston Short Report | Sep 2, 2023
TDECU Stadium
Houston, TX
Sep 2, 2023
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Game Recap
The Houston Cougars edged out the UTSA Roadrunners 17-14 in a thrilling season opener that went down to the wire. Houston set the tone early with Donovan Smith's 8-yard touchdown pass to Joseph Manjack IV. The Roadrunners didn't lag behind, responding swiftly with Kevorian Barnes' 4-yard rushing touchdown that tied the game at 7-7.
Houston managed to regain a slight advantage before halftime with Jack Martin's 31-yard field goal, giving the Cougars a 10-7 lead heading into the break. In the third quarter, Donovan Smith found Matthew Golden for another 6-yard touchdown, pushing the lead to 17-7. Despite a determined late-game effort from the UTSA Roadrunners, highlighted by Frank Harris' 20-yard touchdown pass to Joshua Cephus, the Cougars' defense held firm, preserving their narrow victory.
Key Plays:
Donovan Smith (Houston Cougars)
Smith orchestrated a swift drive down the field, ultimately connecting with Joseph Manjack IV for an 8-yard touchdown, providing Houston a crucial early lead. This play set the tone for Houston's offensive strategy throughout the game.
Kevorian Barnes (UTSA Roadrunners)
Barnes showcased impressive agility and power on a 4-yard run, weaving through defenders to tie the game at 7-7. This score underlined UTSA's ability to answer back quickly and keep the game competitive.
Jack Martin (Houston Cougars)
As the first half drew to a close, Martin nailed a 31-yard field goal, giving Houston a 10-7 edge and vital momentum heading into the locker room. This kick would prove to be crucial in such a closely contested game.
Donovan Smith (Houston Cougars)
Smith continued his impressive form, launching a precise 6-yard touchdown pass to Matthew Golden. This play extended Houston's lead to 17-7, putting pressure on UTSA to mount a comeback in the later stages of the game.
Donyai Taylor (UTSA Roadrunners)
Taylor halted Houston's advancing drive with a decisive sack on Donovan Smith, causing a significant 10-yard loss. This defensive stop was key in giving UTSA's offense a chance to rally.
Frank Harris (UTSA Roadrunners)
Harris found his reliable target, Joshua Cephus, for a critical 20-yard touchdown. This score pulled UTSA back within three points, intensifying the final moments of the game and highlighting Harris’ composure under pressure.
Standout Players:
Donovan Smith (Houston Cougars, QB)
Smith was pivotal, completing 22 of 34 passes for 233 yards and two touchdowns. His accurate passing under pressure showcased his leadership, guiding Houston to the season-opening win.
Joseph Manjack IV (Houston Cougars, WR)
Manjack IV consistently found separation from defenders, hauling in six passes for 67 yards and a touchdown. His ability to execute when it mattered most was crucial for Houston's early scoring.
Kevorian Barnes (UTSA Roadrunners, RB)
Barnes was dominant on the ground, rushing for 103 yards on 16 carries, including a vital touchdown. His performance kept UTSA's offense balanced and maintained pressure on the Houston defense.
Joshua Cephus (UTSA Roadrunners, WR)
Cephus was a reliable target for Frank Harris, making nine receptions for 123 yards and a touchdown. His late-game contribution narrowed the deficit and kept UTSA in contention till the end.
Donyai Taylor (UTSA Roadrunners, LB)
Taylor was impactful on defense with four solo tackles, three tackles for loss, and one sack. His timely sack in the third quarter disrupted Houston’s offensive rhythm, giving UTSA a fighting chance.
Jack Martin (Houston Cougars, K)
Martin's 31-yard field goal just before halftime was pivotal, ensuring Houston held a slim lead at the break. His consistency under pressure added vital points in a closely contested match.
References:
UTSA Roadrunners vs. Houston Cougars - Final Score - September 02, 2023 | FOX Sports
UTSA Roadrunners vs. Houston Cougars Live Score and Stats - September 2, 2023 Gametracker - CBSSports.com
University of Houston Athletics
UTSA Roadrunners vs. Houston Cougars Box Score and Stats - September 02, 2023 | FOX Sports
University of Houston Athletics
Frank Harris finds Joshua Cephus for a 20-yard touchdown as UTSA trims Houston's lead | FOX Sports
Team
1
2
3
4
T
UTSA Roadrunners
7
0
0
7
14
Houston Texans
7
3
7
0
17
