
Houston Cougars QB Clayton Tune enters his fifth year with the program in 2022. (Courtesy Sean Thomas)
Houston Cougars: 2022 College Football Preview
Photo courtesy Sean Thomas
3 things to watch for with Houston Cougars Football in 2022
The Houston Cougars football team is looking to build off its best season under the Dana
Holgorsen era in 2022.
The Cougars are picked as preseason favorites to win the American Athletic Conference and
ranked in the top 25 in both the Associated Press and USA Today’s Coaches preseason polls.
Here are three things to watch for the Cougars in 2022:
Clayton Tune enters season poised for big year
Quarterback Clayton Tune is entering his fifth season in college football. After a debacle game one against Texas Tech in 2021, Tune had a spectacular turnaround, ending the year with 30 passing touchdowns and only 10 interceptions.
Defensive coordinator Doug Belk told reporters during his training camp availability Tune is at a point where he is throwing receivers open. Head coach Dana Holgorsen said the team has surrounded him with the most collective talent at the skill positions since he has been at UH.
Dell motivated to top 2021
“Tank” Dell had a strong 2021 campaign, catching 90 passes for 1,329 yards and 12 touchdowns. While the numbers are strong, the 5-10 lead receiver is motivated to put together an even better 2022.
Dell said goals for the new season include scoring at least 15 touchdowns, winning the AAC Championship and getting to a New Year’s Six Bowl. The receiver said he is also going to be the punt returner for UH.
Houston D-Line a force to reckon
After losing veterans Logan Hall and David Anenih to the NFL, the Cougars are expecting the trio of D’Anthony Jones, Nelson Caesar and Derek Parish to step up and make big plays, Belk said.
The three players combined for 15.5 sacks and 93 tackles in 2021, and their impact should only grow in the new season.
Game of the year: at Texas Tech (Sept. 10)
Vegas win total: 9
Predicted win total: 10