College Football: Group of Five Week 7 power rankings

Houston was a popular pick to contend for the American Athletic Conference entering the season. Despite a loss to Texas Tech in September, the Group of Five powerhouse remains undefeated in conference play after taking down SMU over the weekend. The showdown between Texas schools in the AAC West contest ended in a 35-22 victory for the Cougars as they moved to 4-1 on the season.

After a slow start to the season, Cougars running back Duke Catalon finally had a huge game. Catalon broke the 100-yard mark for the first time this season, rushing 22 times for 177 yards and two touchdowns as Houston ran away with the victory over their in-state rivals. It was a solid effort, as the Cougars finished with 265 total rushing yards as a team.

The Cougars also got solid passing from Kyle Postma in his second straight start after taking over for Kyle Allen. Postma went 19-of-27 passing for 176 yards and two scores, added another 26 on the ground, and rebounded from two interceptions to pace the Cougars to victory. Houston’s formidable defense gave up over 500 yards, but came through in the clutch to hold SMU to 22 points.

Now Houston prepares for a trip to Tulsa in Week 7 before closing out the month with tough tests against Memphis and South Florida. If they get out of October at 7-1 in the standings, the November 24 showdown against Navy could serve as a de facto AAC West championship game.