A major Big 12 matchup takes center stage on Monday night as the Houston Cougars head to Allen Fieldhouse to take on the Kansas Jayhawks. Both teams are coming off defeats, are vying for better conference standings, and have serious hopes for the Final Four – which brings about some interesting #2 Houston vs. #8 Kansas predictions!

While Houston is the higher-ranked team and arguably more consistent overall, the dynamics of this game change significantly due to the venue. The Phog adds a different element — and that’s where the betting potential lies. Houston might be the stronger team, but with Kansas playing at home, there’s value in that.

#2 Houston vs. #8 Kansas Predictions for NCAAB on ESPN, 2/23

Houston has a record of 23-4 overall and 11-3 in Big 12 games. Kansas stands at 20-7 and 10-4 in conference play. The Cougars have lost two consecutive games — which is unusual under Kelvin Sampson — while Kansas aims to bounce back from a disappointing home defeat to Cincinnati. 

The betting market favors Houston. But, when the spread is this narrow in one of the toughest away venues in college basketball, the underdog money line looks very appealing, which is exactly what our #2 Houston vs. #8 Kansas picks will highlight.

#2 Houston vs. #8 Kansas Best Bet: Jayhawks ML (+114 at DraftKings Sportsbook)

Let’s begin with a tough reality: Houston is likely the "better" team on neutral ground. The Cougars have one of the top defenses in the country, ranking high in forcing turnovers (21.4% turnover rate) and being among the best in points allowed. 

They play aggressively on defense, pursue offensive rebounds, and have experienced players who thrive in challenging environments. However, betting isn’t solely about choosing the superior team in isolation. It involves considering price, context, and value. And at +114 at home? Kansas provides that value.

Allen Fieldhouse is more than just a typical arena. It’s a venue where even top-tier teams find it hard to perform. The atmosphere, crowd intensity, and pace changes all tend to enhance Kansas’ advantages.

Houston has lost two games in a row — to Iowa State and Arizona — both strong teams. Now they’re up against a third tough opponent, this time away in one of the most challenging arenas in the country.

It’s important to mention: Kelvin Sampson hasn’t lost three games in a row since 2017. This fact will be highlighted a lot this week. However, trends don’t win bets — stats and matchups do. This could be a situation where Houston’s offensive weaknesses might show again.

Kansas hasn’t always played well this season. They’ve had some puzzling losses, including a 16-point home loss to Cincinnati. In that game, Kansas allowed 1.242 points per possession — one of their worst defensive showings of the year.

But looking at the bigger picture, Kansas is fourth in the Big 12 for both two-point and three-point shooting percentages in conference play. When Darryn Peterson is focused, this team can score against anyone.

Peterson averages 19.8 points per game and shoots over 41% from three. Yes, there have been questions about his availability and consistency at times. But in important home games? He can definitely take charge. And he’s not alone.

Flory Bidunga averages 9.3 rebounds per game, providing Kansas with a strong presence inside. Tre White and Melvin Council Jr. also contribute with double-digit scoring. This team isn’t reliant on just one player — they have already secured seven Quadrant 1 victories.

Both teams are vying for a win in the Big 12 title race, but Kansas seems to have a greater sense of urgency. They’re one game behind in the standings and just came off a disappointing home game. Historically, Bill Self’s teams bounce back well after poor performances, especially in conference play.

On the other hand, Houston is facing its third consecutive emotionally taxing game. This accumulated fatigue is significant — particularly against a team eager to defend its home court. At +114, you’re backing a top-10 team at home in a nearly even matchup.

If this were a neutral site, Houston might be favored by -2 or -3. But this isn’t neutral. It’s Allen Fieldhouse. You shouldn’t bet on a road favorite with offensive uncertainties that has lost two in a row. Instead, you should take the plus money with a strong home team, so says our #2 Houston vs. #8 Kansas predictions.

 

 

 

How To Watch #2 Houston vs. #8 Kansas NCAAB on ESPN

  • Date: Monday, February 23, 2026
  • Time: 9:00 p.m. ET
  • Location: Allen Fieldhouse (Lawrence, KS)
  • TV: ESPN

#2 Houston vs. #8 Kansas Odds, Spreads, Total & Betting Lines

After displaying our #2 Houston vs. #8 Kansas predictions for the game this Monday, we’re thrilled to share the latest #2 Houston vs. #8 Kansas odds from DraftKings Sportsbook for this exciting matchup:

  • Money Line (ML): Cougars -135 | Jayhawks +114
  • Spread: Cougars -1.5 (-115) | Jayhawks +1.5 (-115)
  • Over/Under (O/U): 136.5 (O: -108 | U: -112)

 

 

 

#2 Houston vs. #8 Kansas Injury Report & Latest News

Houston Injury Report

  • K. Jefferson (G) – Out, Knee
  • B. Jackson (G) – Out, Redshirt

Kansas Injury Report

  • S. Calderon (F) – Questionable, Undisclosed

How To Bet On Houston vs. KU At DraftKings Sportsbook & Claim Your $200 Bonus

Get ready for an exciting chance with DraftKings Sportsbook to team up with our top #2 Houston vs. #8 Kansas picks — it’s really easy! To get your bonus, just follow these simple registration steps:

  1. Start by clicking the link to create a new DraftKings account; you don’t need a DraftKings promo code.
  2. Make sure your first deposit is at least $5.
  3. Then, place a bet of $5 or more on the #2 Houston vs. #8 Kansas predictions, or on any other game that interests you.

If your bet wins, you’ll get an extra $200 in bonus bets in addition to your winnings! Sign up with DraftKings today to claim an amazing bonus worth $200.

 

Â