Oregon State vs Houston Picks and Predictions for Saturday, September 5th, 2026

By: Cameron Ross Published 09/04/2026, 11:18 PM ET

Oregon State vs Houston Game Information

The Oregon State Beavers open the 2026 season Saturday on the road in Houston at 12:00 PM inside TDECU Stadium against the Houston Cougars. Oregon State had an abysmal 2025, finishing with just 2 wins after opening the season with 7 straight losses and ending on a 3-game skid. The Houston Cougars open the 2026 year Saturday ranked inside the top 25 after a strong showing last year. Houston finished last season with 10 wins after a 3-point victory in the Kinder’s Texas Bowl against the LSU Tigers. Stay in the news with our College Football Picks.

Oregon State Preview

Despite last year's starter, Maalik Murphy, still being on the Oregon State roster, transfer Braden Atkinson will start the season under center for Oregon State on Saturday. In his lone collegiate season, Atkinson threw for 3611 yards and 34 scores on 268 completions a year ago. Cornell Hatcher Jr. is the top ball carrier from a year ago, as his role will likely be increased this season after 292 yards and 2 scores on 52 carries. Gabe Milbourn is the top receiver for Oregon State this season after 185 yards and 1 touchdown on 17 catches a year ago.

Houston Preview

Connor Weigman returns this season for Houston after compiling 2705 yards and 25 scores on 232 completions, along with 700 yards and 11 touchdowns on 171 carries in 2025. DJ Butler is the top running back returning this season for Houston with 301 yards and 68 carries a year ago. Amare Thomas led all Houston receivers last season with 966 yards and 12 scores on 67 catches and will return this year as the likely number one option

Oregon State vs Houston Pick

Houston enters this matchup with the more talented roster and a significant home-field advantage. Oregon State could struggle to generate consistent offense against a physical Cougars defense, allowing Houston to control the tempo throughout. Look for the Cougars to take command early and steadily increase their lead in game 1 of the year, leading to a comfortable home victory and cover.

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  • Pick: Houston Cougars -20.5
  • Secondary: Under 49.5

Final Score Prediction: Houston Cougars win and cover 35-3.

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