Houston uses bye week to recharge amid best record in Willie Fritz era

Jeff Hauser

Houston uses bye week to recharge amid best record in Willie Fritz era image

The Houston Cougars (8-2, 5-2 Big 12) are laser-focused as they approach a critical matchup with TCU Horned Frogs. And for good reasons as they're one of four teams in contention for a Big 12 title berth. 

Coach Willie Fritz says the late-season bye week was intentional. “Our No. 1 goal was to get as healthy as we possibly can,” he said via CBS Sports

The Cougars are currently ranked No. 23, are one game back in the loss column in the Big 12 standings. They used the downtime as a self-evaluation period and to iron out assignment errors and fundamentals. This may sound backwards, but it's actually a staple for Fritz going back to his days Georgia Southern.

With two regular-season games remaining, every snap is meaningful. A win over TCU this weekend would considerably boost Houston’s league title hopes and assist their national-ranking perception. 

Fritz's focus on fundamentals was key going forward. “We talked about working on our weaknesses last week. For some guys, it might be blocking; it might be tackling.” 

Houston’s path is clear from here on out. If they can remain healthy and seize this window, there might be an unexpected result to follow. The bye week may pay dividends in a finish down in H-Town. 

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Staff Writer