Earlier in the week, Houston receiver Chance Allen said this about the matchup Thursday night against Louisville: "This is our Super Bowl."
In college football terms, Louisville players have something even bigger on the line. A win over the Cougars keeps their slim College Football Playoff hopes alive. A loss, and their slim hopes turn into nonexistent ones.
"Our coaches say our biggest game is always the next game," Louisville cornerback Jaire Alexander said. "With Houston having a fast-paced offense and a dual-threat quarterback, it's going to be a challenge, especially going into their environment.