The excitement of college football’s return reaches full throttle as the 2025 season kicks off. On Thursday, August 28, 2025, the Houston Cougars host the Stephen F. Austin Lumberjacks at 7:00 PM ET, bringing together two proud Texas-based programs in an early-season non-conference clash. The game — 🏈Stephen F Austin at Houston — will take place under the bright lights of TDECU Stadium, with fans eager to see how both teams launch their seasons.
This matchup offers more than just a tune-up for the Cougars. For Stephen F. Austin, it’s a chance to play spoiler and make national headlines. With conference realignments and a new season of narratives, this game comes at a pivotal moment for both squads.
Let’s dive into the full preview of 🏈Stephen F Austin at Houston, including key players, matchups, game predictions, how to watch, and betting odds.
📅 Game Day Details: 🏈Stephen F Austin at Houston
- Date: Thursday, August 28, 2025
- Kickoff Time: 7:00 PM ET
- Location: TDECU Stadium, Houston, Texas
- TV Channel: ESPN+ (Expected)
- Streaming Options: ESPN App, FuboTV, Hulu + Live TV, YouTube TV
🏟️ Venue Spotlight: TDECU Stadium
Located in the heart of Houston, TDECU Stadium seats over 40,000 fans and is one of the premier venues in the Group of Five. The atmosphere is expected to be lively for this season opener. The Cougars’ fan base will be fired up as the team embarks on what could be a defining season in their continued evolution in the Big 12.
🔍 Team Breakdown: 🏈Stephen F Austin at Houston
Houston Cougars: Eyeing a Big Leap in the Big 12
The Cougars enter their second year in the Big 12 Conference with a new sense of urgency. After a transitional 2024 season, the coaching staff led by Willie Fritz will look to establish consistency and toughness, particularly on defense. Houston has reloaded through the transfer portal and aims to start strong with a commanding Week 1 performance.
🔑 Key Houston Players to Watch:
- QB Donovan Smith – Former Texas Tech quarterback with dual-threat capability. Poised to lead a high-paced offense.
- RB Stacy Sneed – Explosive runner who can break away at any moment.
- WR Matthew Golden – Star playmaker and a future NFL draft pick.
- DE Nelson Ceaser – Defensive anchor, known for pressuring quarterbacks.
- CB Isaiah Hamilton – Ballhawk corner capable of flipping momentum.
Houston’s goal in 🏈Stephen F Austin at Houston is simple: dominate early, get reps for depth players, and avoid injuries before conference play.
Stephen F. Austin Lumberjacks: Hunting for an FBS Upset
Stephen F. Austin has been a strong presence in the FCS ranks and is part of the newly formed United Athletic Conference (UAC). Head coach Colby Carthel has cultivated a winning culture with a fast, aggressive style. The Lumberjacks have nothing to lose — and that makes them dangerous.
🔑 Key Stephen F. Austin Players to Watch:
- QB Brian Mauer – Former Tennessee transfer with strong arm and mobility.
- RB Myles Brooks – Workhorse back who can grind out tough yards.
- WR Xavier Gipson – Electrifying receiver with game-breaking potential.
- LB Jeremiah Walker – Physical, sideline-to-sideline defender.
- S BJ Thompson – Veteran safety who leads the secondary with poise.
Stephen F. Austin must be near perfect to challenge Houston, but don’t underestimate a veteran team with experience in high-pressure environments.
⚔️ Key Matchups to Watch
Donovan Smith vs. SFA Secondary
Smith’s arm strength and field vision will challenge a disciplined but outmatched Lumberjacks secondary. Early completions could open the floodgates.
SFA Offensive Line vs. Houston’s Defensive Front
This trench battle will be pivotal. If SFA can’t hold the line, their offensive rhythm will be thrown off entirely.
Xavier Gipson vs. Houston’s Corners
If SFA gets any explosive plays, they’ll likely come through Gipson. Houston must contain him at all costs.
📈 Betting Odds & Expert Prediction
- Spread: Houston -28.5
- Over/Under: 57.5
- Moneyline: Houston -15000, SFA +2800
Prediction:
- Against the Spread: Stephen F. Austin +28.5 – They’ll keep it closer than expected for at least two quarters.
- Over/Under: Over 57.5 – Expect a high-scoring affair, especially if Houston’s backups play early in the second half.
⭐ Players to Watch: 🏈Stephen F Austin at Houston
Donovan Smith – QB, Houston
Poised for a breakout season, Smith must avoid mistakes and keep the offense humming in this opener.
Matthew Golden – WR, Houston
He’s the Cougars’ best offensive weapon. Expect several big plays and red-zone targets.
Brian Mauer – QB, SFA
Has FBS experience and won’t be rattled. He’ll need a clean game to keep the Lumberjacks in it.
Jeremiah Walker – LB, SFA
If he can slow down Houston’s inside run game, he gives SFA a fighting chance.
🧠 Coaching Comparison
Willie Fritz – Houston
Known for turning around programs with discipline and system consistency, Fritz will want to start strong and test his young talent early.
Colby Carthel – Stephen F. Austin
Brash and passionate, Carthel motivates players well and always has a trick or two prepared for bigger opponents.
📊 2024 Season Recap
Houston Cougars (2024)
- Record: 5–7
- PPG: 29.4
- Yards Allowed: 412.1 per game
- Big 12 Finish: 10th
Stephen F. Austin Lumberjacks (2024)
- Record: 8–4
- Conference: UAC
- FCS Playoffs: First Round exit
- PPG: 32.8
- Defense: 21.9 PPG allowed
🧩 X-Factors in the Game
- Turnovers: If Houston commits early turnovers, it could fuel SFA’s confidence.
- Special Teams: Watch for return plays or blocked punts to swing field position.
- Game Tempo: SFA must slow the pace and limit possessions to avoid a shootout.
🏆 Final Score Prediction
Houston 45, Stephen F. Austin 17
The Cougars will flex their muscles early, then settle into a rotation-heavy second half. SFA will score a few times and compete hard, but Houston’s talent and speed will prove too much in the long run.
- MVP: Donovan Smith – 265 yards, 3 TDs
- Breakout Star: RB Stacy Sneed – 105 rushing yards, 2 TDs
- Defensive Highlight: DE Nelson Ceaser – 2 sacks, 1 forced fumble
❓ FAQs – 🏈Stephen F Austin at Houston
When is the game?
Thursday, August 28, 2025, at 7:00 PM ET.
Where is it played?
TDECU Stadium, Houston, TX.
What TV channel is it on?
Expected to stream on ESPN+.
Is Stephen F. Austin an FBS school?
No. SFA plays in the FCS and is a member of the United Athletic Conference (UAC).
Can SFA upset Houston?
While upsets happen, Houston’s depth and athleticism make them strong favorites.
Who are the key players?
Houston: Donovan Smith (QB), Matthew Golden (WR).
SFA: Brian Mauer (QB), Xavier Gipson (WR).
🏁 Final Thoughts: Why 🏈Stephen F Austin at Houston Is Must-Watch
Even in a lopsided matchup on paper, the opening week of college football always brings surprises, energy, and emotion. 🏈Stephen F Austin at Houston is a chance to see:
- Rising stars in action
- A renewed Houston team beginning its journey under Willie Fritz
- A fearless FCS squad willing to compete against a Power Five opponent
From high-flying offense to gritty defense, expect excitement, even if the score gets lopsided. This Thursday night game will set the tone for both programs in 2025.