Dampier's Dual-Threat Power Lifts Utah Past Houston 21-13

A Home Field Advantage Defined by Efficiency

The Utah Utes secured a decisive victory on Saturday, October 24, 2026, defeating the visiting Houston Cougars 21-13 at Rice-Eccles Stadium in Salt Lake City. Before a crowd of 51,864 spectators, Utah utilized a balanced offensive attack led by quarterback Devon Dampier to maintain their undefeated status, while Houston struggled to find consistent rhythm against the home defense.

First Half Stalemate and Early Houston Lead

The contest began with defensive intensity, resulting in scoreless quarters. The first points arrived in the second period when Houston’s kicking game provided a narrow advantage. Jonathan Dimas connected on a 24-yard field goal, giving the Cougars a 3-0 lead at halftime. Neither team managed to cross the goal line during the opening half, setting the stage for a pivotal third quarter.

Third Quarter Shift and Late Fourth Quarter Finish

Utah’s offense ignited in the third period, scoring two consecutive touchdowns to take control. Makhi Hughes broke through for a 2-yard run, followed by a kick from Jonathan Dimas, extending Houston’s lead to 10-0 before Utah responded. Devon Dampier then engineered a 22-yard rushing touchdown, with Dillon Curtis handling the extra point, bringing the score to 10-7.

However, Houston answered back later in the quarter with another Dimas field goal, this time from 47 yards out, making the score 13-7 at the end of three quarters.

The fourth quarter belonged entirely to Utah. Wayshawn Parker capped an offensive surge with a 5-yard touchdown run, assisted by Curtis’s kick, which flipped the scoreboard to 14-13 in favor of the Utes. The game was effectively sealed shortly thereafter when Dampier added his second rushing touchdown on a 9-yard run.

This final score, also converted by Curtis, pushed the margin to 21-13. Despite Houston’s efforts, they could not overcome the deficit.

Statistical Leaders and Final Record

Devon Dampier was the standout performer for Utah, contributing significantly both through the air and on the ground. He completed 18 of 26 passes for 204 yards but threw two interceptions. On the ground, Dampier carried the ball 15 times for 150 yards and two touchdowns. Creed Whittemore provided receiving support with four catches for 53 yards.

For Houston, Conner Weigman directed the passing offense, completing 19 of 35 attempts for 282 yards. Makhi Hughes contributed 52 rushing yards on 19 carries and one touchdown. Amare Thomas was the primary target in the air, recording five receptions for 133 yards.

With this win, the Utah Utes improved their record to 7-0. The Houston Cougars fell to 6-2.

Sources

ESPN