For the first time since 2018, the bragging rights for the city of Houston were settled on the gridiron. The Houston Cougars traveled less than five miles west within the city limits to prove superiority over the Rice Owls. And the Cougars left no questions on the field, quickly disposing of their rival 44-7 to claim the Bayou Bucket rivalry trophy for the sixth consecutive meeting.
“We all know we needed a win,” Houston head coach Dana Holgorsen said after Houston’s first victory since Nov. 14, 2020. “There’s a lot to play for in the Bayou Bucket. It means a lot to both fanbases.