Know Your Foe: Houston Football Players to Watch

Key players from the Cougars to watch when they take on the TCU Horned Frogs on Saturday.

The TCU Horned Frogs take on Houston on Saturday, September 16. Here are some key players on the Houston team that TCU fans should know before the game. 

Houston quarterback Donovan Smith / © Troy Taormina-USA TODAY Sports

Know Your Foe - Houston Cougars

QB Donovan Smith

Donovan Smith transferred from Texas Tech and won the starting job for the Cougars. He has been good so far for the Cougars, but he has struggled to establish the air raid offense. Smith has a large frame that allows him to withstand hits and fight through contact on runs, especially at the goal line. Even though he has been struggling passing the ball, TCU should still be aware because he is mobile, efficient, and quick with the short passes. TCU will need to eliminate his run and contain him to be successful in this game.

Donovan Smith
YDS	493
TD	4
INT	1
QBR	69.5

RB Tony Mathis Jr.

Tony Mathis Jr. is a very experienced back transferring from fellow Big 12 school, West Virginia, where he spent the last four seasons. He hasn't had much production and yards through the first two games, only rushing for 98 yards. However, TCU should not underestimate him because he is a strong back who can also make some catches. The Frogs have been pretty good at stopping the run so far this season, so I expect them to be able to do the same against Mathis Jr. and the other Cougar running backs.

Donovan Smith
YDS	493
TD	4
INT	1
QBR	69.5

WR Samuel Brown

Samuel Brown has been one of the most dangerous receivers so far this season, recording back-to-back 100-plus receiving-yard games. He runs great routes along with having great hands. TCU defensive backs will have to work really hard because he is averaging 16.3 yards per catch. 

Donovan Smith
YDS	493
TD	4
INT	1
QBR	69.5

LB Malik Robinson

Malik Robinson is the team's lead tackler and has been one of the Cougar's best defensive players so far this season. He is a fast and physical player who works hard all the time. The Frogs have had a solid run game thus far, so I expect them to keep Robinson on his heels, but they still need to be aware of him.

Donovan Smith
YDS	493
TD	4
INT	1
QBR	69.5

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