Houston defeated LSU 38-35 in a competitive Week 1 contest. The home team's defense made crucial plays down the stretch, including a pivotal fourth-quarter stop that proved decisive in the final margin.

LSU struck early, scoring 14 points in the first quarter behind quarterback Michael Van Buren Jr., who finished with 267 passing yards. The Tigers added seven more in the third quarter before a strong fourth-quarter push netted 14 points, but it fell just short.

Houston answered with 14 second-quarter points to take control, then held on despite LSU's offensive firepower. Van Buren Jr. orchestrated multiple explosive plays throughout the game, connecting with receivers Trey'Dez Green (80 receiving yards) and others on deep passes that consistently moved the chains.

The game exceeded expectations on the betting market, going over the 44-point total, while Houston covered the one-point spread. Houston's defense produced the game's most impactful plays, including a 4.09 EPA play in the fourth quarter that helped seal the victory.