Turning Point in the Fourth
The contest remained tightly contested through the first three quarters, but a decisive fourth-quarter surge defined the outcome at Rice-Eccles Stadium. Devon Dampier provided the offensive spark for the Utah Utes, finishing with two rushing touchdowns in the final period to secure a 21-13 victory over the visiting Houston Cougars on Saturday, October 24, 2026.
The game’s momentum shifted after a scoreless first half and a back-and-forth third quarter. Utah trailed 10-7 entering the final frame before Dampier’s 5-yard run tied the game at 14-13. He immediately followed that with a 9-yard touchdown run to extend the lead to 21-13, effectively sealing the win for the home crowd.
Offense Takes Control
Dampier was the focal point of Utah’s attack, showcasing his versatility as both a passer and rusher. He completed 18 of 26 passes for 204 yards but was intercepted twice. More importantly, he controlled the ground game with 15 carries for 150 yards and two touchdowns.
Creed Whittemore contributed in the receiving corps, hauling in four catches for 53 yards to support the passing attack.
Houston’s Passing Attack Struggles to Keep Pace
Houston relied heavily on its aerial offense, with Conner Weigman throwing for 282 yards on 19-of-35 passing. However, the Cougars could not generate enough scoring efficiency to overcome Utah’s defensive pressure.
