Houston Football: Preseason game-by-game predictions for 2017 season
By Zach Bigalke
Entering just their sixth season as an FBS program and seventh season of existence, UTSA is a program on the rise. Last year Frank Wilson took over for original program architect Larry Coker. He instantly led the Roadrunners to their first ever bowl appearance in 2016. The team has aspirations of returning to the postseason this year.
UTSA returns seven starters on each side of the ball, including senior quarterback Dalton Sturm. Though he put up pedestrian numbers in 2016, Sturm took over the offense midway through 2015 and has progressed as both a runner and a passer. In the game against Arizona State last year, Sturm put up his finest performance, throwing for 229 yards and three touchdowns and running for another 85 with a score on the ground in a near-upset.
The offensive line won’t be able to protect Sturm, though. UTSA returns four starters from a line that ranked among the worst in sacks conceded last year. Ed Oliver and the Houston line is going to feast on Sturm. On the other side of the ball, UTSA has a decent defense but could have trouble containing a Cougars offense looking to set the tone for the season.
The Roadrunners are going to be decent this year, but they will be starting on their quest for a second straight bowl appearance with a loss. Houston will get an early lead, spread around snaps, and allow their hosts some mercy points at the end.