Week 3 of the college football season takes us to Texas, where the Houston Cougars host the Colorado Buffaloes under the Friday night lights at TDECU Stadium. Colorado enters with more questions than answers after head coach Deion Sanders made a major change at quarterback. Meanwhile, Houston looks to protect its home turf and establish itself as a Big 12 program on the rise.

This game has the makings of a gritty, momentum-swinging contest — with the quarterback storyline stealing the headlines. Let’s break down the Colorado vs. Houston predictions, odds, injury updates, and how to bet it.

 

 

 

Colorado vs. Houston Predictions For College Football Week 3, Friday, 9/12

The Buffaloes opened the season with Kaidon Salter, the high-profile Liberty transfer, under center. But after a shaky performance against Delaware in Week 2, Sanders pulled the plug and handed the offense to Ryan Staub. Staub, a redshirt sophomore, isn’t the same kind of dual-threat player as Salter, but he brings a steadier pocket presence and a quicker release. That change could actually help behind a still-questionable Colorado offensive line.

Staub will lean heavily on Sincere Brown like he did last week, whose ability to take over a game with the deep ball remains Colorado’s biggest weapon. But the Buffs’ margin for error shrinks considerably on the road if Staub struggles under pressure.

Houston, meanwhile, enters with stability on both lines of scrimmage and a physical rushing attack designed to wear down opponents. Playing at home, the Cougars will try to establish tempo early, grind the Buffs’ defense, and force Staub to beat them in just his second career game and first start.

Colorado vs. Houston Best Bet

Pick: Houston -4.5

Colorado has playmakers, but the quarterback switch midseason raises red flags about consistency and chemistry. Staub has talent, but going on the road for his first real test is no small ask.

Houston’s ground game and defensive front should control tempo, and their home-field advantage could tilt the game late. Taking the Cougars as a +4.5 home favorite is the sharper play here.

 

 

 

How To Watch Colorado vs. Houston College Football Week 3

  • Date: Friday, September 12, 2025
  • Kickoff time: 7:30 p.m. ET
  • Location: TDECU Stadium, Houston, TX
  • TV: ESPN
  • Live stream: ESPN app / FuboTV

Friday night football in Texas sets the stage for an early-season tone-setter in the Big 12.

Colorado vs. Houston Odds, Spreads, Total & Betting Lines

Odds courtesy of Bet365 Sportsbook:

  • Point Spread: Colorado +4.5 (-110), Houston -4.5 (-110)
  • Moneyline: Colorado +170, Houston -210
  • Total (Over/Under): 54.5 (O -110, U -110)

Houston is the favorite on paper, but the line has tightened with the quarterback change. Oddsmakers expect a competitive game that could hinge on turnovers or one explosive play from either team.

 

 

 

Colorado vs. Houston Injury Report & Latest News

Colorado’s biggest storyline is the quarterback shift. With Ryan Staub now leading the offense, the Buffs will need improved protection up front to give him a chance to build confidence. Defensively, Colorado is relatively healthy, though depth in the secondary could be tested against Houston’s play-action looks.

Houston has dealt with some wide receiver injuries, limiting their ability to stretch defenses vertically. But their defense enters this game with few major concerns, giving them an edge in preparation.

How To Bet on Colorado vs. Houston at Bet365 Sportsbook & Claim Your $300 Bonus

If you’re looking to bet this game, Bet365 Sportsbook is offering an outstanding promo: Bet $5 & Get $300 win or lose!

Here’s how to claim it:

  1. Navigate to Bet365 Sportsbook via this link to claim this bonus.
  2. Deposit and place your first $5 wager on Colorado vs. Houston (or any other Week 3 matchup).
  3. No matter the result, you’ll instantly receive $300 in bonus bets.

It’s an easy way to boost your bankroll for college football season while watching Friday night action from Houston.