Dampier's 150-yard dual-threat performance caps 21-13 win over Houston

Dampier Drives Utes to Undefeated Season

Devon Dampier’s 150 rushing yards served as the cornerstone for Utah’s 21-13 victory over Houston on Saturday at Rice-Eccles Stadium. The Utes held off the Cougars in a defensive struggle that saw the first two quarters scoreless before Utah erupted in the second half. With the win, Utah extended its unbeaten streak to seven wins this season.

The game drew an attendance of 51,864 fans to Salt Lake City, where the home team controlled the tempo in the decisive fourth quarter.

Second-Half Shift in Momentum

Houston struck first in the second quarter when Jonathan Dimas kicked a 24-yard field goal, giving the visitors a 3-0 lead. The Cougars extended their advantage early in the third quarter, with Makhi Hughes running for a two-yard touchdown. However, Utah responded immediately.

Dampier broke free for a 22-yard run, and Dillon Curtis kicked the extra point to cut the deficit to 10-7. Dimas restored a two-point margin with a 47-yard field goal, leaving Houston up 13-7 entering the final period.

Dampier’s Dual-Threat Performance

Dampier was the engine for Utah’s offense, finishing with 15 carries for 150 yards and two touchdowns. He also connected on 18 of 26 passes for 204 yards, though he did throw two interceptions. Creed Whittemore was the primary target, catching four passes for 53 yards.

In the fourth quarter, Wayshawn Parker scored a five-yard rushing touchdown to make it 13-14. Dampier sealed the game with a nine-yard run, followed by Curtis’s kick, to put the Utes ahead 21-13.

Cougars’ Effort Falls Short

Houston’s Conner Weigman threw for 282 yards on 19 of 35 completions, providing a strong aerial presence. Makhi Hughes contributed 52 yards on 19 carries and a touchdown, while Amare Thomas hauled in five passes for 133 yards. Despite these individual efforts, the Cougars could not overcome Utah’s late-game surge. The loss drops Houston to 6-2, while Utah remains perfect with a 7-0 record.

Sources

ESPN