Houston

Many consider this week's game against Houston a must win. A must win for many reasons, most having to do with confidence and momentum for the second half of the season. Most important however is player and recruit "buy-in." How much trust will this staff lose with the players if they lose to Houston? Will the long hours still be worth it if they can't even muster a win against Conference USA competition? Will they quit believing that success is "just around the corner" if they keep doing what the coach asks?

Hopefully these questions won't need to be asked next week.

A lot is being made this week of Houston's 3-4 defense. After facing Florida, Georgia, LSU and Auburn, a little change in the front line of the opposing defense can't really cause too much concern. There really isn't much else for media to talk about following an off week, minus a minor discipline case.

Houston got thumped last week in Memphis after failing to convert multiple trips deep inside the red zone. Luckily, State's defense has been pretty solid itself inside the red zone, and this may be crucial as Houston will surely find ways to move the ball. Making the Cougars settle for 3, instead of 7, will help the struggling State offense immensely.

Stories last week filled the wires about changes Croom was making to the offense. Last year, during a bye week, Croom benched his starting three linebackers in favor of a younger corps. Hopefully this past weeks' offensive adjustments will have as big of an impact on the field as last year's move.

Why Houston: Kolb and company can put points on the board. And they stood tough against Oregon into the third quarter before the wheels came off.

Why State: Houston's defense has been porous against the run, so Norwood should have a big day. And State's defense has played admirably against some pretty good offenses already this year. If the offense can muster just a little momentum....

Bottom line: State wins this one in the fourth quarter, 28-24.