Memphis or Bust

Champions. It’s been ten years since the University of Houston football team (10-3) could lay claim to that title. But with a 34-20 victory over Southern Miss on December 1st, the Cougars earned their second C-USA championship in front of a national television audience and a sold-out, standing-room-only crowd at Robertson Stadium.

The prize? A December 29th date in Memphis for the 48th annual Liberty Bowl. ESPN will televise the 3:30 p.m. event as the Cougars meet the University of South Carolina Gamecocks (7-5) from the Southeastern Conference.

The Gamecocks are led by Steve Spurrier, former coach of the 1996 national champion Florida Gators and widely considered one of the game’s greatest offensive minds. His team is coming off an impressive road win against their rival, 24th ranked Clemson.

“This certainly is a marquee match-up,” Head Coach Art Briles said. “South Carolina has played some good football this year, and so have we. It will be a challenge, and we are definitely up for it.”

Tickets cost $45 and may be purchased online at UHCougars.com (tickets to the Liberty Bowl).

Need an excuse to enjoy some good BBQ? Never caught an authentic blues show? Both are fine reasons to visit Memphis. But for UH fans, the chance to cheer on their championship team is reason enough.

Click here for a special message from Dave Maggard, Director of Athletics.

For more information about the Liberty Bowl, travel packages, and alumni events surrounding the game, visit www.mycougarconnection.com/bowl_2006/liberty/