Dampier’s 150-yard rush anchors Utah’s 21-13 win over Houston

A Dominant Ground Attack

Devon Dampier’s 150-yard rushing performance served as the centerpiece for the Utah Utes, who secured a 21-13 victory over the Houston Cougars on Saturday, October 24, 2026. Playing in front of a crowd of 51,864 at Rice-Eccles Stadium in Salt Lake City, the Utes extended their undefeated season to a 7-0 record.

The result dropped the Cougars to 6-2, marking a significant setback for the visiting team despite a competitive effort in the second half.

Second-Half Momentum Shift

The game remained scoreless through the first quarter, with both offenses struggling to find early rhythm. Houston struck first in the second quarter when Jonathan Dimas connected on a 24-yard field goal, giving the Cougars a 3-0 lead. However, Utah responded decisively in the third quarter. Makhi Hughes opened the period for Houston with a 2-yard run, but the Utes immediately retook the lead.

Dampier found the end zone on a 22-yard run, followed by a successful kick from Dillon Curtis. Houston reasserted its lead with a 47-yard field goal by Dimas, making it 13-7. The fourth quarter saw a flurry of Utah scoring.

Wayshawn Parker ran for a 5-yard touchdown to give Utah the lead, and Dampier sealed the game with a 9-yard run, extending the margin to 21-13 with no further scoring from Houston.

Statistical Breakdown

Dampier was the clear standout, finishing with 15 carries for 150 yards and two touchdowns. He also contributed from the passing game, completing 18 of 26 attempts for 204 yards, though he threw two interceptions. Creed Whittemore provided a reliable target for Dampier, catching four passes for 53 yards.

For Houston, Conner Weigman threw for 282 yards on 19 of 35 completions. Makhi Hughes rushed for 52 yards on 19 carries and scored one touchdown. Amare Thomas was the primary receiving threat for the Cougars, hauling in five passes for 133 yards. Despite these efforts, the Utes’ balanced offensive execution proved too much for Houston to overcome in the final stretch.

Sources

ESPN