Last Updated on September 10, 2025 2:36 pm by Michael Cash
An early-season Big 12 blockbuster lights up the Friday night schedule as Colorado heads to Houston on September 12. This Colorado at Houston Week 3 college football preview breaks down the odds, public betting outlook, key injuries, and narratives powering one of the most intriguing matchups of Week 3. Both teams are hungry for marked conference momentum—expect a tactical, high-stakes showdown under the lights.
Colorado vs. Houston Date/Time, Location & TV
- Date & Time: Friday, September 12, 2025 – Kickoff at 7:30 p.m. ET
- Location: TDECU Stadium (Space City Financial Stadium), Houston, Texas
- TV/Streaming: ESPN
Betting Odds (via Bovada)
Point Spread
- Houston –5.5 | Colorado +5.5
Moneyline
- Houston –220 | Colorado +180
Total (Over/Under)
- 44.5 points
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Public Betting Snapshot
The public and sharp action leans in favor of Houston covering the 5.5-point spread, while totals money teeters more toward the Under 44.5, signaling expectations of a defensive slugfest.
News, Notes & Storylines
Quarterback Shake-Up 🔄
Colorado is turning heads by naming redshirt sophomore Ryan Staub as the starter. He impressed with multiple touchdown passes last week and now faces his most critical road test yet.
Houston’s Defensive Dominance 🛡️
Houston enters 2–0 and boasting one of the toughest defenses in the conference. Their ability to control third downs and limit explosive plays will dictate how much breathing room Colorado’s offense gets.
First Meeting Since 1971 🔔
This marks the Buffaloes’ first visit to Houston in over five decades—a rare matchup with fresh stakes and heavy Big 12 implications.
Colorado vs. Houston Trends
- ATS (Against The Spread): The line opened near –5 and has settled at –5.5 based on backing for Houston.
- O/U (Totals): The total remains low at 44.5, reflecting expectations of a physical battle.
- Line Movement: Steady along Houston’s side as Saturday news builds.
Previous Meetings (Series History)
These programs have not met since the 1971 Astro-Bluebonnet Bowl, making this a highly anticipated and infrequent showdown. Colorado looks to erase old results with a statement win.
Final Thoughts
This clash may come down to who controls the ball and the tempo. Houston’s home-field presence and elite defense make them the safer betting side, but Colorado’s new quarterback could inject chaos. Expect a tight, strategic game.
Bet Considerations:
- Spread: Lean toward Houston –5.5 given defensive advantage and home crowd.
- Total: Lean Under 44.5, especially if the game remains methodical and turnover-driven.
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Colorado vs. Houston Snapshot
| Detail | Info |
|---|---|
| Date & Time | Friday, Sept 12, 2025 – 7:30 p.m. ET |
| Location | TDECU Stadium, Houston, TX |
| TV | ESPN |
| Spread | Colorado +5.5 / Houston –5.5 |
| Moneyline | Colorado +180 / Houston –220 |
| Total (O/U) | 44.5 |
| Public Betting | Leaning toward Houston to cover |
| Series History | First matchup since 1971 |
| Key Injuries | None reported |