HOUSTON, Texas (KTRK) — Whose house? Coogs’ house!

The University of Houston’s football team prepares to take on the UNLV Rebels to open up their 2024 regular season on Saturday evening.

Saturday will also mark Houston’s second season in the Big 12 Conference, and the debut of UH football head coach, Willie Fritz, who is the reigning two-time American Athletic Conference Coach of the Year. Fritz replaced Dana Holgerson, who was fired after five seasons at the coaching helm in November 2023.

SEE ALSO: University of Houston Cougars’ head coaching job goes to Willie Fritz of Tulane

UH senior Donovan Smith, who is a Las Vegas, Nevada native, was named the starting quarterback for the Cougar’s football squad, and is looking forward to square off against the college football team in his hometown. The 22-year-old also started all 12 games in the 2023 regular season.

Frtiz is also impressed with Smith. From his energy and leadership to the ability to make every throw required, the senior is all the way back to 100% after labrum surgery.

In terms of the Coogs’ history vs. UNLV, the team is 3-0.

UH’s football season opener will take place at 6 p.m. on Saturday at TDECU Stadium.