The Houston Cougars lead the Arizona State Sun Devils at halftime by 10-0 in the middle of the field at Mountain America Stadium, which has obviously brought significant frustration in ASU
Houston opened the game assertively, moving the ball with poise and confidence. Quarterback Conner Weigman led a steady first-quarter drive that ended in a 26-yard field goal from kicker Ethan Sanchez, putting the Cougars ahead 3-0 early on.
Houston added to their lead again in a few seconds with a short-yardage TD one-yard QB sneak by Weigman that put them up to 10-0. Their offensive line stood resolute, with the front of the ASU defense of the Cougars restricting the run game of Arizona State to small proportions.
The offensive woes of Arizona State
In the case of Arizona State, the initial half was full of opportunities taken up. At approximately 162 yards of offense, the Sun Devils were almost on the same level as the total yards of the Houston group, but they were unable to turn their drives into points. A fumble at the beginning of the first half proved to be their greatest loss as it stopped a promising drive in the middle of the field.
Quarterback Sam Leavitt and his formation showed poor performance on third downs, 0-of-3, but Houston did 4-of-7 in decisive situations. The absence of a continuous rhythm and inefficient red-zone performance made the home audience nervous before the break.
Field control and defensive edge
The difference-maker has been the Houston defense. The Cougars controlled the ball the most, almost 16 minutes to ASU’s 8. They were controlling the pace and cutting off threats of big plays by ASU. Having no turnovers and good balance in play calling between the run and the pass, the first half was controlled by Houston.
Halftime Outlook
Since both teams are in a regrouping stage, the Sun Devils will have to find solutions fast. To re-enter the fray, ASU should have more aggressive passing, clear play-calling, and provide better protection to Leavitt. Meanwhile, all that Houston needs to do is to remain disciplined. Also, keeping possession under control to win a much-needed road victory. Houston stands a chance of recording a statement win against a struggling Arizona State baseball team should the second half be a replica of the first.