Spooky Express Sports Betting News & More

College Football Betting Preview: TCU Horned Frogs vs. Houston Cougars

September 16, 2023



The TCU Horned Frogs (1-1) and Houston Cougars (1-1) are both looking for their second wins of the season. Who will come out ahead of this explosive matchup?


  • Date: September 16, 2023 at 8:00 PM ET

  • Location: TDECU Stadium in Houston, Texas

  • Coverage: FOX

TCU Horned Frogs Betting Preview

The Horned Frogs recently got their first win against the Nicholls Colonels, which was a 41-6 blowout. Their stats on both ends of the field were much better in comparison to their first game, which was a 45-42 defeat against the Colorado Buffaloes.

They maintain an average of 491.5 total yards per game, with 296 of those derived from passing plays. However, their defensive performance is less than impressive, permitting a total of 414 yards, with 343.5 attributed to passing plays. To contend with the Horned Frogs, they need to step up their defensive game.

In terms of scoring, they consistently put up 43 points per game while allowing 24. With more games under their belt and potentially wider victory margins, their defensive statistics should gradually improve over time.

The Horned Frogs finished on top of the Big 12 last year with a 13-2 record and were runner-ups in the championship game against the Georgia Bulldogs. They have a long way to go and need a perfect season to chase their previous success.

Houston Cougars Betting Preview

The Cougars almost won two straight games to start the season strong, but came up short against the Rice Owls in overtime 43-41. The Cougars’ defense has been an issue lately and it will likely show through here.

In terms of their offensive performance, they typically generate 388.5 total yards, with a significant portion of 246.5 yards attributed to passing plays. On the defensive side, they tend to concede an average of 443.5 total yards, with 305 of those yards resulting from opponent passing plays. Slowing down the Horned Frogs is imperative to avoid the game slipping away.

Their average scoring record stands at 29 points per game, while they permit an average of 28.5 points. This narrow margin does not leave much room for comfort, which may raise concerns as they gear up for this upcoming match.

They are coming off of an 8-5 season in the American Athletic Conference last year. They have a solid opportunity to do better, assuming they win tough matchups like this.

Game Odds, Series Trends and Free Pick

MyBookie is showing odds for this matchup, as the TCU Horned Frogs are slight favorites by a little more than a touchdown to win. According to market analysis, the Horned Frogs have a 62.9 percent chance to win.


  • Houston Cougars +7.5 (-110)

  • TCU Horned Frogs -7.5 (-110)

The Horned Frogs will need a perfect season to get back former success. Look for them to regroup and take care of business on the road.

Final Pick: Take the TCU Horned Frogs -7.5 (-110)