Colorado faces another ranked opponent Friday when No. 14 Houston visits Folsom Field for the first time.

The Cougars enter at 7-2 overall and 4-2 in the Big 12, while Colorado is 3-6 and 1-5 in conference play. Kickoff is scheduled for 8:15 p.m. MT on ESPN, and the Buffaloes need to win their final three games to reach six wins and bowl eligibility.

Here are five things to know about Willie Fritz's team before Friday's matchup.

1. Houston has a productive running game

The Cougars average 203.5 rushing yards per game and have scored 16 rushing touchdowns. Running back Re'Shaun Sanford II has recorded two 100-yard games this season after missing all of 2025 with a knee injury.

Colorado's defense will have to limit those rushing opportunities against an offense that can also move the ball through the air.

2. Conner Weigman presents a challenge in both phases

Weigman has thrown for 2,280 yards and 22 touchdowns, with two interceptions, while completing 66.1% of his passes. He has added 279 rushing yards and seven scores on the ground.

The Buffaloes saw his mobility last September, when he rushed for 83 yards and two touchdowns in Houston's 36-20 victory.

3. The defense has consistently kept scores down

Houston allows 21.3 points per game and has surrendered 30 or more points just once through nine games.

The Cougars have also recovered five fumbles and intercepted eight passes. Their 13 takeaways rank seventh in the Big 12, presenting another challenge for a Colorado offense that scored 10 points at Arizona State.

4. Two cornerbacks lead a strong secondary

Jalen Mayo is a Jim Thorpe Award semifinalist, putting him among the candidates for the award recognizing the nation's top defensive back.

Houston's preview lists Will James third among Big 12 cornerbacks in coverage grade at 76.2, with Mayo eighth at 73.5. Their play will be a significant part of the matchup against Colorado receiver Joseph Williams.

5. Houston has never played in Boulder

The teams have split their two meetings, both played in Houston. Colorado won the 1971 Astro-Bluebonnet Bowl 29-17 before the Cougars took last season's first conference matchup.

Friday gives Colorado their first opportunity to host Houston and a chance to regain the series lead.