UH Cougars football: Conner Weigman raises bar for 2026 season

Quarterback looks to build on breakout year and lead Cougars to new heights in Big 12

Published on Mar. 9, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Conner Weigman, the University of Houston's star quarterback, is coming off the best season of his college career, capped by a Texas Bowl win and MVP honors. Now he's looking to help the Cougars reach another level in the Big 12 conference. Weigman has remained busy this offseason, forming bonds with his teammates, both new and old, as the team seeks to build on its 10-win season and final No. 22 ranking.

Why it matters

Weigman's breakout season has raised expectations for the UH football program as it transitions to the highly competitive Big 12 conference. The Cougars are aiming to compete at the top of the league, and Weigman's continued development will be crucial to their success.

The details

Weigman set career highs in nearly every major statistical category last season, throwing for 2,705 yards and 25 touchdowns, while also rushing for 700 yards and 11 scores. He started all 13 games, a welcome change after dealing with injuries in previous seasons. This offseason, Weigman has focused on building chemistry with his teammates, both new and old, as the Cougars look to introduce several new starters on the offensive line and at other skill positions.

  • Weigman was named Texas Bowl MVP after the 2025 season.
  • The Cougars begin spring practice on March 13, 2026.

The players

Conner Weigman

The University of Houston's star quarterback, who is coming off the best season of his college career and is looking to lead the Cougars to new heights in the Big 12 conference.

Willie Fritz

The head coach of the University of Houston football team, who is entering his third season with the program.

Slade Nagle

The offensive coordinator for the University of Houston football team, who Weigman will be working with for a second consecutive year.

Shawn Bell

The quarterbacks coach for the University of Houston football team, who Weigman will be working with for a second consecutive year.

Makhi Hughes

A running back transfer from Tulane, who rushed for nearly 3,000 yards in two seasons with the Green Wave and is expected to contribute to the Cougars' offense.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“That doesn't start today; that starts in January when you get here. Just hanging out with the guys. Having fun outside of football and not being serious around the guys all the time. Just hanging out and getting to know each other has helped out a lot.”

— Conner Weigman, Quarterback (Houston Chronicle)

“(Conner) needs to rely on me to be on the right spot when he needs me. We're going to continue building that connection.”

— Patrick Overmeyer, Tight End (Houston Chronicle)

What’s next

The Cougars will continue spring practice over the next several weeks as they prepare for the 2026 season and their transition to the Big 12 conference.

The takeaway

Conner Weigman's breakout 2025 season has raised the bar for the UH football program, and his continued development and leadership will be crucial as the Cougars aim to compete at the top of the highly competitive Big 12 conference.