The Cougars joined the Big 12 with massive expectations after dominating the AAC. Two years in, where do things actually stand?
Football: The step up in competition was real. Going from AAC opponents to weekly matchups against Kansas State, Oklahoma State, and the rest of the Big 12 exposed depth issues on both sides of the ball. The offensive line wasn't ready for the speed of Big 12 defensive ends. Record improved in year two but this program needs two more recruiting classes to be a consistent Big 12 contender.
Basketball: Kelvin Sampson remains elite. The Fertitta Center is rocking. Basketball translated to the Big 12 better than football because Sampson's system is scheme-dependent, not talent-dependent. Houston basketball belongs in this conference.
Tailgating: TDECU Stadium tailgating has gotten better since the conference move. The lots on Wheeler and Scott fill up earlier. More opposing fans traveling in creates a real game day atmosphere that the AAC didn't have.
The Third Ward identity: The campus is in the heart of Houston. Third Ward culture IS Cougar culture. The best thing UH can do is lean into being Houston's team — the commuter school, the first-gen school, the diverse school. That's the brand.
Source: Big 12 Conference records, UH Athletics, Houston Chronicle
Football needs patience. The AAC to Big 12 jump is massive. Look at how long it took TCU to be competitive after joining.