Houston vs Oklahoma State – Big 12 Week 7 Betting Preview
The Houston Cougars visit the Oklahoma State Cowboys in a matchup between two Big 12 programs struggling with quarterback uncertainty.
Houston, off to a 4-1 start, looks to bounce back from a disappointing loss to Texas Tech, while Oklahoma State searches for its first conference win under interim coach Doug Meacham.
Houston can win if
Quarterback Conner Weigman returns to form and the Cougars reestablish offensive rhythm. Weigman, who left last week’s game due to a concussion, had led Houston’s offense to its best start since joining the Big 12. If cleared, his accuracy and mobility will be key to overcoming Oklahoma State’s defensive pressure.
Backup Zeon Chriss showed flashes in relief with a touchdown drive against Texas Tech, but the Cougars were shut down afterward. Houston’s defense — ranked top 25 in takeaways — will need to create short fields to help an offense averaging 31.4 points per game.
Running back Parker Jenkins, who has 421 total yards this season, must play a big role in keeping the Cougars balanced. If the offensive line holds up against the Cowboys’ front, Houston’s depth and tempo could prove decisive.
Oklahoma State can win if
They can find stability under center and lean on their defense to keep things close. With starter Zane Flores sidelined by a shoulder injury, the Cowboys could turn to Sam Jackson, a converted wide receiver with quarterback experience from his time at TCU and Cal, or freshman Banks Bowen.
Oklahoma State’s offense has sputtered, averaging just 16.8 points per game over its last four, but the ground attack led by Ollie Gordon II remains a strength. Gordon has rushed for 478 yards this season and must be heavily involved to relieve pressure on the quarterback situation.
Defensively, the Cowboys must generate turnovers — something they did not accomplish against Arizona or Kansas State in recent losses. With home-field advantage and a crowd eager for a rebound, Oklahoma State’s best path is to slow the pace, control possession, and let its defensive front dictate the tone.
Line Movement and Odds
Opening: Houston -3 / Oklahoma State +3
Current: Houston -2.5 / Oklahoma State +2.5
Total: 46.5 points
Uncertainty around both starting quarterbacks has made this one of the tightest lines of the week. Houston opened as a short favorite, but line movement has fluctuated as bettors monitor Weigman’s status.
Track live odds and betting percentages on the college football odds page, and compare book performance through the Sportsbook Reviews directory.
NEW YORK GIANTS
vs
PHILADELPHIA EAGLES
Final
vs
Oct 09, 2025 13:15 EST
34
Score
17
+7.5 -110
Spread
-7.5 -110
o+41.5-110
Total
u+41.5-110
+320
Moneyline
-400
SAM HOUSTON ST
vs
JACKSONVILLE STATE
Final
vs
Oct 09, 2025 13:00 EST
27
Score
29
+9 -110
Spread
-9 -110
o+55.5-110
Total
u+55.5-110
+275
Moneyline
-350
GEORGIA SOUTHERN
vs
SOUTHERN MISS
Final
vs
Oct 09, 2025 13:00 EST
35
Score
38
+3 -110
Spread
-3 -110
o+60.5-110
Total
u+60.5-110
+125
Moneyline
-145
Matchup Breakdown
Both teams face quarterback issues, but the difference may come down to who protects the football better. Houston has forced 10 turnovers through five games, while Oklahoma State has committed nine over the same span.
The Cougars average 394.2 yards per game and have outgained opponents in four of five contests. The Cowboys, by contrast, have failed to reach 350 yards in four straight games, largely due to inefficient third-down conversions.
This could become a defensive battle decided by field position and turnovers. For deeper statistical insights, check the college football teams page or the Expert Betting Guide, which outlines key efficiency trends for each matchup.
Injury Report
Houston Cougars
- QB Conner Weigman (concussion) – probable
- WR Joseph Manjack IV (hamstring) – questionable
Oklahoma State Cowboys
- QB Zane Flores (shoulder) – out
- DB Trey Rucker (ankle) – questionable
Weather in Stillwater projects clear skies with mild winds and a kickoff temperature around 67°F.
Best Bets and Prediction
Both teams are navigating uncertainty at quarterback, which leans the edge toward the healthier roster — and that appears to be Houston’s. Expect a conservative approach early, with Houston’s defensive playmaking ultimately proving the difference.
Prediction: Houston 23, Oklahoma State 17
Best Bet: Under 46.5 (-110)
Secondary Lean: Houston -2.5 (-110)
For verified expert picks and real-time ATS trends, visit the Best Handicappers Leaderboard and review trusted capper profiles via the Handicappers Sites Reviews.
ScoresAndStats Handicappers and Betting Resources
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