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{{short description|American college football season}}
{{Infobox NCAA team season
{{Use mdy dates|date=August 2023}}
| Mode = football
{{Infobox college sports team season
| Year = 1957
| Team = Houston Cougars
| year = 1957
| Logo = University of Houston classic logo.png
| team = Houston Cougars
| LogoSize = 100px
| sport = football
| LogoAlt = University of Houston's classic athletics logo
| logo = University of Houston classic logo.png
| logo_size = 100
| Conference = Missouri Valley Conference
| logo_alt = University of Houston's classic athletics logo
| Division =
| conference = [[Missouri Valley Conference]]
| ShortConference = MVC
| CoachRank =
| short_conf = MVC
| record = 5–4–1
| APRank =
| conf_record = 3–0
| Record = 5–4–1
| head_coach = [[Hal Lahar]]
| ConfRecord = 3–0
| WinsVacated =
| hc_year = 1st
| off_scheme = [[Split-T]]
| WinsForfeited =
| ConfWinsVacated =
| def_scheme =
| ConfWinsForfeited =
| captain =
| stadium = [[Rice Stadium (Rice University)|Rice Stadium]] (70,000)
| HeadCoach = [[Hal Lahar]]
| champion = MVC champion
| HCYear = 1st
| OScheme = [[Split-T]]
| DScheme =
| StadiumArena = [[Rice Stadium (Rice University)|Rice Stadium]] (70,000)
| Champion = Missouri Valley Conference Champion
| BowlTourney =
| BowlTourneyResult =
}}
}}
{{1957 Missouri Valley Conference football standings}}
{{1957 Missouri Valley Conference football standings}}
The '''1957 Houston Cougars football team''', also known as the '''Houston Cougars''', '''Houston''', or '''UH''', represented the [[University of Houston]] in the [[1957 college football season]] as a member of the [[Division I (NCAA)|NCAA's University Division]]. It was the 12th year of season play for Houston. The team was coached by first-year head coach [[Hal Lahar]]. The team played its games off-campus at [[Rice Stadium (Rice University)|Rice Stadium]], which had been built in 1950. Houston won its third conference championship, as the Cougars earned a perfect 3–0 record in conference play.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://news.google.com/newspapers?id=EJQzAAAAIBAJ&sjid=neoFAAAAIBAJ&pg=1819%2C4638700 |title=Auburn Crushes Houston, 48-7 |publisher=''[[The Miami News]]'' |date=1957-10-27 |accessdate=2010-11-12}}</ref> It was the first time a conference championship was achieved by a first-year coach for Houston. Despite losing several key starting players and switching head coaches, Houston was considered a favorite for the conference championship prior to the season's start.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/vault/article/magazine/MAG1133138/1/index.htm |title=Missouri Valley |author=Hickman, Herman |date=1957-09-23 |publisher=''[[Sports Illustrated]]'' |accessdate=2010-11-18}}</ref> Following the season, three of Houston's players from the 1957 roster were drafted in the [[1958 NFL Draft]]. Three more 1957 players were also taken in the [[1959 NFL Draft]].
The '''1957 Houston Cougars football team''', also known as the '''Houston Cougars''', '''Houston''', or '''UH''', represented the [[University of Houston]] in the [[1957 college football season]]. It was the 12th year of season play for Houston. The team was coached by first-year head coach [[Hal Lahar]]. The team played its games off-campus at [[Rice Stadium (Rice University)|Rice Stadium]], which had been built in 1950. Houston won its third conference championship, as the Cougars earned a perfect 3–0 record in conference play.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://news.google.com/newspapers?id=EJQzAAAAIBAJ&sjid=neoFAAAAIBAJ&pg=1819%2C4638700 |title=Auburn Crushes Houston, 48-7 |work=[[The Miami News]] |date=1957-10-27 |access-date=2010-11-12}}</ref> It was the first time a conference championship was achieved by a first-year coach for Houston. Despite losing several key starting players and switching head coaches, Houston was considered a favorite for the conference championship prior to the season's start.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/vault/article/magazine/MAG1133138/1/index.htm |title=Missouri Valley |author=Hickman, Herman |date=1957-09-23 |work=[[Sports Illustrated]] |access-date=2010-11-18}}</ref> Following the season, three of Houston's players from the 1957 roster were drafted in the [[1958 NFL Draft]]. Three more 1957 players were also taken in the [[1959 NFL Draft]].


==Pre-season==
==Preseason==
The pre-season marked a head coaching change for the Cougars, as head coach [[Hal Lahar]] was successfully lured from [[Colgate Raiders football|Colgate]] on January 18, 1957.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://news.google.com/newspapers?id=CM5IAAAAIBAJ&sjid=KAINAAAAIBAJ&pg=4274,1561143 |title=Lahar Quits Colgate 11 For Houston Coaching Job |publisher=''[[Record-Journal|Meriden Journal]]'' |date=1957-01-19 |accessdate=2011-09-06}}</ref>
The preseason marked a head coaching change for the Cougars, as head coach [[Hal Lahar]] was successfully lured from [[Colgate Raiders football|Colgate]] on January 18, 1957.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://news.google.com/newspapers?id=CM5IAAAAIBAJ&sjid=KAINAAAAIBAJ&pg=4274,1561143 |title=Lahar Quits Colgate 11 For Houston Coaching Job |work=[[Record-Journal|Meriden Journal]] |date=1957-01-19 |access-date=2011-09-06}}</ref>


==Schedule==
==Schedule==
{{CFB Schedule Start
{{CFB schedule
| rankyear=1957
| rankyear = 1957
| ranklink = no
| poll = AP

| time=no
|{{CFB schedule entry
| tv=no
| date = September 21
| attend=yes
| w/l = w
}}
| nonconf = y
{{CFB Schedule Entry
| opponent = [[1957 Miami Hurricanes football team|Miami (FL)]]
| date = September 21
| nonconf = yes
| opprank = 14
| time = no
| opprank = 14
| opponent = {{cfb link|year=1957|team=Miami Hurricanes|title=Miami}}
| rank =
| site_stadium = [[Rice Stadium (Rice University)|Rice Stadium]]
| site_stadium = [[Rice Stadium (Rice University)|Rice Stadium]]
| site_cityst = [[Houston|Houston, Texas]]
| site_cityst = [[Houston|Houston, TX]]
| away =
| score = 7–0
| tv = no
| attend = 52,000
| w/l = w
| score = 7–0
| attend = 52,000<ref name="2009-media-guide">{{cite web |url=http://grfx.cstv.com/photos/schools/hou/sports/m-footbl/auto_pdf/hou-09-mg-section8.pdf |title=2009 Houston Cougars Media Guide: Year-by-Year results |accessdate=2011-11-12}}</ref>
}}
}}
{{CFB Schedule Entry
|{{CFB schedule entry
| date = September 28
| date = September 28
| nonconf = yes
| w/l = l
| time = no
| nonconf = y
| opprank = 11
| away = y
| rank = 14
| opponent = [[1957 Baylor Bears football team|Baylor]]
| opponent = [[1957 Baylor Bears football team|Baylor]]
| rank = 14
| opprank = 11
| site_stadium = [[Floyd Casey Stadium|Baylor Stadium]]
| site_stadium = [[Floyd Casey Stadium|Baylor Stadium]]
| site_cityst = [[Waco, Texas]]
| site_cityst = [[Waco, Texas|Waco, TX]]
| away = yes
| score = 6–14
| tv = no
| attend = 22,000
| w/l = l
| score = 14–6
| attend = 22,000<ref name="2009-media-guide" />
}}
}}
{{CFB Schedule Entry
|{{CFB schedule entry
| date = October 5
| date = October 5
| nonconf =
| w/l = w
| time = no
| away = y
| opponent = {{cfb link|year=1957|team=Cincinnati Bearcats |title=Cincinnati}}
| opponent = [[1957 Cincinnati Bearcats football team|Cincinnati]]
| rank =
| site_stadium = [[Nippert Stadium]]
| site_stadium = [[Nippert Stadium]]
| site_cityst = [[Cincinnati, Ohio]]
| site_cityst = [[Cincinnati|Cincinnati, OH]]
| away = yes
| score = 7–0
| tv = no
| attend =
| w/l = w
| score = 7–0
| attend = -
}}
}}
{{CFB Schedule Entry
|{{CFB schedule entry
| date = October 12
| date = October 12
| nonconf = yes
| w/l = l
| time = no
| nonconf = y
| opprank = 3
| away = y
| opponent = [[1957 Texas A&M Aggies football team|Texas A&M]]
| opponent = [[1957 Texas A&M Aggies football team|Texas A&M]]
| homecoming =
| opprank = 3
| rank =
| site_stadium = [[Kyle Field]]
| site_stadium = [[Kyle Field]]
| site_cityst = [[College Station, Texas]]
| site_cityst = [[College Station, Texas|College Station, TX]]
| away = yes
| score = 6–28
| tv = no
| attend = 33,000
| w/l = l
| score = 28–6
| attend = 33,000<ref name="2009-media-guide" />
}}
}}
{{CFB Schedule Entry
|{{CFB schedule entry
| date = October 19
| date = October 19
| nonconf = yes
| w/l = t
| time = no
| nonconf = y
| opponent = [[1957 Oklahoma State Cowboys football team|Oklahoma State]]
| opponent = [[1957 Oklahoma State Cowboys football team|Oklahoma State]]
| rank =
| site_stadium = Rice Stadium
| site_stadium = Rice Stadium
| site_cityst = Houston, Texas
| site_cityst = Houston, TX
| away =
| score = 6–6
| tv = no
| attend = 20,000
| w/l = t
| score = 6–6
| attend = 20,000<ref name="2009-media-guide" />
}}
}}
{{CFB Schedule Entry
|{{CFB schedule entry
| date = October 26
| date = October 26
| nonconf = yes
| w/l = l
| time = no
| nonconf = y
| opponent = [[1957 Auburn Tigers football team|Auburn]]
| opprank = 5
| opprank = 5
| opponent = [[1957 Auburn Tigers football team|Auburn]]
| rank =
| site_stadium = Rice Stadium
| site_stadium = Rice Stadium
| site_cityst = Houston, Texas
| site_cityst = Houston, TX
| away =
| score = 7–48
| tv = no
| attend = 30,000
| source = <ref>{{cite news|title=Auburn Offense Explodes; Tigers Maul Houston, 48-7|newspaper=The Montgomery Advertiser|author=Sam Adams|date=October 27, 1957|page=C1|url=https://www.newspapers.com/clip/99104342/auburn-offense-explodes-tigers-maul/|via=[[Newspapers.com]]}}</ref>
| w/l = l
| score = 48–7
| attend = 28,000<ref name="2009-media-guide" />
}}
}}
{{CFB Schedule Entry
|{{CFB schedule entry
| date = November 2
| date = November 2
| nonconf = yes
| w/l = l
| time = no
| nonconf = y
| opprank = 14
| neutral = y
| opponent = {{cfb link|year=1957|team=Ole Miss Rebels|title=Mississippi}}
| opponent = [[1957 Ole Miss Rebels football team|Ole Miss]]
| rank =
| opprank = 14
| site_stadium = [[Mississippi Veterans Memorial Stadium]]
| site_stadium = [[Mississippi Veterans Memorial Stadium]]
| site_cityst = [[Jackson, Mississippi]]
| site_cityst = [[Jackson, Mississippi|Jackson, MS]]
| away =
| score = 7–20
| attend = 27,000–30,000
| neutral = yes
| source = <ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/clarion-ledger-rebels-win-20-to-7/133104013/|title=Rebels win 20 to 7|newspaper=The Clarion-Ledger|date=November 3, 1957|accessdate=October 8, 2023|via=[[Newspapers.com]]}}</ref>
| tv = no
| w/l = l
| score = 20–7
| attend = 30,000<ref name="2009-media-guide" />
}}
}}
{{CFB Schedule Entry
|{{CFB schedule entry
| date = November 9
| date = November 9
| nonconf = yes
| w/l = w
| time = no
| nonconf = y
| neutral = y
| opponent = {{cfb link|year=1957|team=Southern Miss Golden Eagles|title=Southern Miss}}
| opponent = [[1957 Mississippi Southern Southerners football team|Mississippi Southern]]
| rank =
| site_stadium = Mississippi Veterans Memorial Stadium
| site_stadium = Mississippi Veterans Memorial Stadium
| site_cityst = Jackson, Mississippi
| site_cityst = Jackson, MS
| away =
| score = 27–12
| neutral = yes
| attend = 11,000
| tv = no
| w/l = w
| score = 27–12
| attend = 11,000<ref name="2009-media-guide" />
}}
}}
{{CFB Schedule Entry
|{{CFB schedule entry
| date = November 16
| date = November 16
| nonconf =
| w/l = w
| time = no
| away = y
| opponent = {{cfb link|year=1957|team=Wichita State Shockers|title=Wichita}}
| opponent = [[1957 Wichita Shockers football team|Wichita]]
| rank =
| site_stadium = [[Cessna Stadium|Veterans Stadium]]
| site_stadium = [[Cessna Stadium|Veterans Stadium]]
| site_cityst = [[Wichita, Kansas]]
| site_cityst = [[Wichita, Kansas|Wichita, KS]]
| away = yes
| score = 27–6
| tv = no
| attend = 6,000
| w/l = w
| score = 27–6
| attend = 6,000<ref name="2009-media-guide" />
}}
}}
{{CFB Schedule Entry
|{{CFB schedule entry
| date = November 23
| date = November 23
| nonconf =
| w/l = w
| gamename =
| away = y
| opponent = [[1957 Tulsa Golden Hurricane football team|Tulsa]]
| time = no
| opponent = [[1957 Tulsa Golden Hurricane football team|Tulsa]]
| rank =
| site_stadium = [[Skelly Field at H. A. Chapman Stadium|Skelly Stadium]]
| site_stadium = [[Skelly Field at H. A. Chapman Stadium|Skelly Stadium]]
| site_cityst = [[Tulsa, Oklahoma]]
| site_cityst = [[Tulsa, Oklahoma|Tulsa, OK]]
| away = yes
| score = 13–7
| tv = no
| attend = 13,486
}}
| w/l = w
| score = 13–7
| attend = 13,486<ref name="2009-media-guide" />
}}
}}
{{CFB Schedule End|rank=|poll=[[AP Poll]]|timezone=|hc=yes|ncg=}}


==Game notes==
==Game summaries==


===Miami===
===Miami===
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|H4=0
|H4=0
}}
}}
[[Miami Hurricanes football|Miami]], coached by tenth-year Hurricanes veteran [[Andy Gustafson]], traveled to Rice Stadium to compete against Houston for both of the teams' season opener game.<ref name="Miami">{{cite web |url=http://digital.lib.uh.edu/u?/p15195coll7,2323 |publisher=1958 ''Houstonian'' |title=Miami - Lahar's First...7-0 |accessdate=2010-11-18}}</ref> It was the first meeting between the two teams. Miami, an [[NCAA Division I FBS independent schools|NCAA University Division Independent]], was heavily favored to win the game, and were nationally ranked as #14 in the [[AP Poll]].<ref name="preseason ap poll">{{cite web |url=http://www.collegepollarchive.com/football/ap/seasons.cfm?appollid=199 |title=1957 Preseason Football Polls |publisher=College Poll Archive |accessdate=2011-11-18}}</ref>
[[Miami Hurricanes football|Miami]], coached by tenth-year Hurricanes veteran [[Andy Gustafson]], traveled to Rice Stadium to compete against Houston for both of the teams' season opener game.<ref name="Miami">{{cite web |url=http://digital.lib.uh.edu/u?/p15195coll7,2323 |publisher=Houstonian |title=Miami – Lahar's First...7-0 |access-date=2010-11-18 }}{{Dead link|date=August 2018 |bot=InternetArchiveBot |fix-attempted=yes }}</ref> It was the first meeting between the two teams. Miami, an [[NCAA Division I FBS independent schools|NCAA University Division Independent]], was heavily favored to win the game, and were nationally-ranked as #14 in the [[AP Poll]].<ref name="preseason ap poll">{{cite web |url=http://www.collegepollarchive.com/football/ap/seasons.cfm?appollid=199 |title=1957 Preseason Football Polls |publisher=College Poll Archive |access-date=2011-11-18}}</ref>


Both teams struggled offensively, as there were 11 fumbles throughout the game.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://news.google.com/newspapers?id=NG4eAAAAIBAJ&sjid=jMkEAAAAIBAJ&pg=1063%2C3520786 |title=Houston U. Defeats Favored Miami U., 7-0 |publisher=''[[The Daytona Beach News-Journal]]'' |date=1957-09-22 |accessdate=2010-11-12}}</ref> Miami's longest drive was for only 27 yards. The single score in the game came near the end of the second quarter period when junior Houston halfback rushed for 23 yards with key blocks from senior fullback Owen Mulholland and junior guard Burr Davis. Halfback Mike Michon converted the point after touchdown. Miami responded by taking the ball to Houston's 23-yard line in the second quarter, but ran out of time to complete a successful score. In the fourth quarter, Houston halfback [[Don Brown (American football player)|Don Brown]] ran for 75 yards for a touchdown in the fourth quarter, but this was retracted by officials due to a holding penalty.
Both teams struggled offensively, as there were 11 fumbles throughout the game.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://news.google.com/newspapers?id=NG4eAAAAIBAJ&sjid=jMkEAAAAIBAJ&pg=1063%2C3520786 |title=Houston U. Defeats Favored Miami U., 7-0 |work=[[The Daytona Beach News-Journal]] |date=1957-09-22 |access-date=2010-11-12}}</ref> Miami's longest drive was for only 27 yards. The single score in the game came near the end of the second quarter period when junior Houston halfback rushed for 23 yards with key blocks from senior fullback Owen Mulholland and junior guard Burr Davis. Halfback Mike Michon converted the point after touchdown. Miami responded by taking the ball to Houston's 23-yard line in the second quarter, but ran out of time to complete a successful score. In the fourth quarter, Houston halfback [[Don Brown (American football player)|Don Brown]] ran for 75 yards for a touchdown in the fourth quarter, but this was retracted by officials due to a holding penalty.


With a win against #14 Miami, Houston entered the AP Poll as a nationally ranked team for the first time since the [[1952 Houston Cougars football team|1952 season]].
With a win against #14 Miami, Houston entered the AP Poll as a nationally-ranked team for the first time since the [[1952 Houston Cougars football team|1952 season]].
{{-}}
{{Clear}}


===Baylor===
===Baylor===
Line 228: Line 182:
}}
}}


The Houston Cougars went on the road to Waco, Texas to meet with Baylor of the [[Southwest Conference]]. Both Houston and Baylor had a six-game winning streak.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://news.google.com/newspapers?id=IaxTAAAAIBAJ&sjid=EogDAAAAIBAJ&pg=2384%2C2883164 |title=Baylor, Houston Have Won 6 In Row |author=Lyons, John |date=1957-09-26 |publisher=''[[The Victoria Advocate]]'' |accessdate=2010-11-29}}</ref> Baylor led the series 3–2, and were led by second-year head coach [[Sam B. Boyd (coach)|Sam Boyd]]. Also coaching for the Bears was lines coach [[Harden Cooper]], who had previously served in the same capacity for Houston under [[Hal Lahar]] from 1950–1954. As a pre-season ranked team, and a win against [[Villanova Wildcats football|Villanova]] the week prior, Baylor entered the game nationally ranked at #11 in the AP Poll.
The Houston Cougars went on the road to Waco, Texas to meet with Baylor of the [[Southwest Conference]]. Both Houston and Baylor had a six-game winning streak.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://news.google.com/newspapers?id=IaxTAAAAIBAJ&sjid=EogDAAAAIBAJ&pg=2384%2C2883164 |title=Baylor, Houston Have Won 6 In Row |author=Lyons, John |date=1957-09-26 |work=[[The Victoria Advocate]] |access-date=2010-11-29}}</ref> Baylor led the series 3–2, and were led by second-year head coach [[Sam B. Boyd (coach)|Sam Boyd]]. Also coaching for the Bears was lines coach [[Harden Cooper]], who had previously served in the same capacity for Houston under [[Hal Lahar]] from 1950–1954. As a pre-season ranked team, and a win against [[Villanova Wildcats football|Villanova]] the week prior, Baylor entered the game nationally-ranked at #11 in the AP Poll.


While Houston's offensive strategy centered around a running game, Baylor's game was spearheaded by quarterback Doyle Traylor and a short passing strategy. Traylor completed 11 of 15 passes to help his team win.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/vault/article/magazine/MAG1133063/2/index.htm |title=Travails Of A T Back |author=Parker, Don |date=1957-10-07 |publisher=''[[Sports Illustrated]]'' |accessdate=2010-11-29}}</ref> Throughout the first half of the game, no team scored, but early in the third quarter, Baylor scored a touchdown.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://news.google.com/newspapers?id=YiMsAAAAIBAJ&sjid=ocgEAAAAIBAJ&pg=4865%2C6678729 |title=Long Drive Leads To Win For Baylor |publisher=''[[TimesDaily]]'' |date=1957-09-29 |accessdate=2010-11-29}}</ref> Although Houston answered with a 3-yard reception for a touchdown by halfback Claude King, kicker Mike Michon was unable to convert for the point after touchdown.
While Houston's offensive strategy centered around a running game, Baylor's game was spearheaded by quarterback Doyle Traylor and a short passing strategy. Traylor completed 11 of 15 passes to help his team win.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/vault/article/magazine/MAG1133063/2/index.htm |title=Travails Of A T Back |author=Parker, Don |date=1957-10-07 |work=[[Sports Illustrated]] |access-date=2010-11-29}}</ref> Throughout the first half of the game, no team scored, but early in the third quarter, Baylor scored a touchdown.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://news.google.com/newspapers?id=YiMsAAAAIBAJ&sjid=ocgEAAAAIBAJ&pg=4865%2C6678729 |title=Long Drive Leads To Win For Baylor |work=[[TimesDaily]] |date=1957-09-29 |access-date=2010-11-29}}</ref> Although Houston answered with a 3-yard reception for a touchdown by halfback Claude King, kicker Mike Michon was unable to convert for the point after touchdown.


After the loss, Houston was dropped from the AP Poll, and did not return for the remainder of the season.
After the loss, Houston was dropped from the AP Poll, and did not return for the remainder of the season.
{{-}}
{{Clear}}


===Cincinnati===
===Cincinnati===
Line 251: Line 205:
For the first time ever, Houston met with Missouri Valley Conference foe Cincinnati at [[Nippert Stadium]] in Ohio. Having moved from an [[NCAA Division I FBS independent schools|independent status]] in the NCAA, it was Cincinnati's first season as a conference member, and the team was coached by 3rd-year head coach [[George Blackburn (American football)|George Blackburn]].
For the first time ever, Houston met with Missouri Valley Conference foe Cincinnati at [[Nippert Stadium]] in Ohio. Having moved from an [[NCAA Division I FBS independent schools|independent status]] in the NCAA, it was Cincinnati's first season as a conference member, and the team was coached by 3rd-year head coach [[George Blackburn (American football)|George Blackburn]].


After a scoreless three quarters, the fourth quarter of the game saw Houston score a rushing touchdown by halfback Claude King from Cincinnati's four-yard line.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://digital.lib.uh.edu/u?/p15195coll7,2325 |title=Cincy 0, UH 7 |publisher=1958 ''Houstonian'' |accessdate=2010-12-01}}</ref> Houston's offense had 257 total yards compared to Cincinnati's 97.
After a scoreless three quarters, the fourth quarter of the game saw Houston score a rushing touchdown by halfback Claude King from Cincinnati's four-yard line.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://digital.lib.uh.edu/u?/p15195coll7,2325 |title=Cincy 0, UH 7 |publisher=Houstonian |access-date=2010-12-01 }}{{Dead link|date=August 2018 |bot=InternetArchiveBot |fix-attempted=yes }}</ref> Houston's offense had 257 total yards compared to Cincinnati's 97.


With the win against the Bearcats, Houston improved to an overall record of 2–1, and a 1–0 conference record.
With the win against the Bearcats, Houston improved to an overall record of 2–1, and a 1–0 conference record.
{{-}}
{{Clear}}


===Texas A&M===
===Texas A&M===
{{See also|1957 Texas A&M Aggies football team}}
{{See also|1957 Texas A&M Aggies football team}}
When Houston met with Texas A&M of the [[Southwest Conference]] at [[Kyle Field]], it was the sixth time in history that the two teams had competed against each other. Texas A&M had become a regular opponent for Houston, having met with each other each season since 1952. The Aggies were coached by [[Bear Bryant]], who was serving in his fourth year with the team. Attendance for the game was 33,000. It was the third time on Houston's schedule that they played a nationally ranked team, and Texas A&M was #3 in the AP Poll.
When Houston met with Texas A&M of the [[Southwest Conference]] at [[Kyle Field]], it was the sixth time in history that the two teams had competed against each other. Texas A&M had become a regular opponent for Houston, having met with each other each season since 1952. The Aggies were coached by [[Bear Bryant]], who was serving in his fourth year with the team. Attendance for the game was 33,000. It was the third time on Houston's schedule that they played a nationally-ranked team, and Texas A&M was #3 in the AP Poll.


With the loss to Texas A&M, Houston's overall record fell to 2–2. Texas A&M's national ranking improved to the #1 spot later in the season, and the Aggies eventually finished at #9 after a berth in the [[Gator Bowl]]. Following the season, head coach Bear Bryant went on to coach [[Alabama Crimson Tide football|Alabama]], and won several national championships from 1958–1982.
With the loss to Texas A&M, Houston's overall record fell to 2–2. Texas A&M's national ranking improved to the #1 spot later in the season, and the Aggies eventually finished at #9 after a berth in the [[Gator Bowl]]. Following the season, head coach Bear Bryant went on to coach [[Alabama Crimson Tide football|Alabama]], and won several national championships from 1958–1982.
{{-}}
{{Clear}}


===Oklahoma State===
===Oklahoma State===
Houston returned home to compete against former conference-mate Oklahoma State. It was the Cowboys' first season as an independent since 1914. The team's head coach was third-year [[Cliff Speegle]], and the Cowboys' entered the game with a 3–1 season record and a three-game winning streak. It would be both Houston and Oklahoma State's sole game of the season with a tied result. Had Oklahoma State won the game, it would have meant a complete sweep of all Missouri Valley former conference-mates.<ref name="lineman">{{cite web |url=http://news.google.com/newspapers?id=wSZUAAAAIBAJ&sjid=MDoNAAAAIBAJ&pg=4406%2C3806346 |title=Houston Tackle Gets Week's Best Lineman Award |publisher=''[[St. Joseph News-Press]]'' |date=1957-10-22 |accessdate=2011-04-15}}</ref>
Houston returned home to compete against former conference-mate Oklahoma State. It was the Cowboys' first season as an independent since 1914. The team's head coach was third-year [[Cliff Speegle]], and the Cowboys' entered the game with a 3–1 season record and a three-game winning streak. It would be both Houston and Oklahoma State's sole game of the season with a tied result. Had Oklahoma State won the game, it would have meant a complete sweep of all Missouri Valley former conference-mates.<ref name="lineman">{{cite web |url=https://news.google.com/newspapers?id=wSZUAAAAIBAJ&sjid=MDoNAAAAIBAJ&pg=4406%2C3806346 |title=Houston Tackle Gets Week's Best Lineman Award |work=[[St. Joseph News-Press]] |date=1957-10-22 |access-date=2011-04-15}}</ref>


Although the Cowboys led the game with six points over the Cougars' nil score, a final quarter punt by Oklahoma State's Jim Wiggins was blocked by Houston tackle Hogan Wharton. This allowed Houston to recover the ball on Oklahoma State's 24-yard line. Then, Houston halfback [[Don Brown (American football player)|Don Brown]] managed to complete a nine-yard rushing touchdown.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://digital.lib.uh.edu/u?/p15195coll7,2327 |title=State 6, Cougars 6 |publisher=1958 ''Houstonian'' |accessdate=2011-04-15}}</ref> Despite this, when attempting a PAT, kicker Sammy Blount missed, and the score remained tied.
Although the Cowboys led the game with six points over the Cougars' nil score, a final quarter punt by Oklahoma State's Jim Wiggins was blocked by Houston tackle Hogan Wharton. This allowed Houston to recover the ball on Oklahoma State's 24-yard line. Then, Houston halfback [[Don Brown (American football player)|Don Brown]] managed to complete a nine-yard rushing touchdown.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://digital.lib.uh.edu/u?/p15195coll7,2327 |title=State 6, Cougars 6 |publisher=Houstonian |access-date=2011-04-15 }}{{Dead link|date=August 2018 |bot=InternetArchiveBot |fix-attempted=yes }}</ref> Despite this, when attempting a PAT, kicker Sammy Blount missed, and the score remained tied.


Following the game, Hogan Wharton received the "Lineman of the Week" award from the Missouri Valley Conference.<ref name="lineman" /> Houston's record became 2–2–1, and Oklahoma State eventually finished their season with a 6–3–1 overall record.
Following the game, Hogan Wharton received the "Lineman of the Week" award from the Missouri Valley Conference.<ref name="lineman" /> Houston's record became 2–2–1, and Oklahoma State eventually finished their season with a 6–3–1 overall record.
{{-}}
{{Clear}}


===Auburn===
===Auburn===
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Houston hosted [[Auburn Tigers football|Auburn]] of the [[Southeastern Conference]] for their next game. With a perfect 4–0 season record, the Tigers were nationally ranked in the [[AP Poll]] as #5. Auburn was coached by seventh-year head coach [[Ralph Jordan]] who had led his team to four previous winning seasons with three bowl game appearances, and three finishes in the national rankings.
Houston hosted [[Auburn Tigers football|Auburn]] of the [[Southeastern Conference]] for their next game. With a perfect 4–0 season record, the Tigers were nationally-ranked in the [[AP Poll]] as #5. Auburn was coached by seventh-year head coach [[Ralph Jordan]] who had led his team to four previous winning seasons with three bowl game appearances, and three finishes in the national rankings.


Starting with a 71-yard touchdown pass with its first play against Houston, Auburn would eventually crush Houston with a 48–7 win.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://news.google.com/newspapers?id=EJQzAAAAIBAJ&sjid=neoFAAAAIBAJ&pg=1819%2C4638700 |title=Auburn Crushes Houston, 48-7 |publisher=''[[The Miami News]]'' |date=1957-10-27 |accessdate=2011-04-23}}</ref> The Cougars' lone touchdown was scored by halfback Paul Sweeten in the second quarter after returning an interception.
Starting with a 71-yard touchdown pass with its first play against Houston, Auburn would eventually crush Houston with a 48–7 win.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://news.google.com/newspapers?id=EJQzAAAAIBAJ&sjid=neoFAAAAIBAJ&pg=1819%2C4638700 |title=Auburn Crushes Houston, 48-7 |work=[[The Miami News]] |date=1957-10-27 |access-date=2011-04-23}}</ref> The Cougars' lone touchdown was scored by halfback Paul Sweeten in the second quarter after returning an interception.


Following the win against Houston, Auburn went on to have an undefeated 10–0 season record. They were awarded the national title in the AP Poll, and were ranked as the second-best team in the Coaches' Poll. As a team on NCAA probation, Auburn was ineligible for a bowl game appearance.
Following the win against Houston, Auburn went on to have an undefeated 10–0 season record. They were awarded the national title in the AP Poll, and were ranked as the second-best team in the coaches' poll. As a team on NCAA probation, Auburn was ineligible for a bowl game appearance.
{{-}}
{{Clear}}


===Mississippi===
===Ole Miss===
[[File:Lahar with Houston at Jackson Veterans Memorial Stadium against Mississippi during the 1957 American football season.jpg|thumb|left|Houston's Bob Borah and Bob Blevins confer with head coach [[Hal Lahar]] at [[Mississippi Veterans Memorial Stadium]] against Ole Miss]]
[[File:Lahar with Houston at Jackson Veterans Memorial Stadium against Mississippi during the 1957 American football season.jpg|thumb|left|Houston's Bob Borah and Bob Blevins confer with head coach [[Hal Lahar]] at [[Mississippi Veterans Memorial Stadium]] against Ole Miss]]
{{Linescore Amfootball|
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For its next game, Houston traveled to [[Mississippi Veterans Memorial Stadium]] to compete against the [[Ole Miss Rebels football|Ole Miss Rebels]].<ref>{{cite web |url=http://news.google.com/newspapers?id=TxcsAAAAIBAJ&sjid=isgEAAAAIBAJ&pg=5266%2C3674656 |title=Ole Miss Nips Houston |publisher=''[[TimesDaily]]'' |date=1957-11-03 |accessdate=2011-05-05}}</ref> Having competed against Auburn in the previous game, Ole Miss was the second SEC team that Houston played on its schedule. The Rebels were coached by eleventh-year veteran [[Johnny Vaught]], and entered the contest with a 5–1 overall record (having only lost to [[1957 Arkansas Razorbacks football team|Arkansas]] of the Southwest Conference).<ref>{{cite web |url=http://news.google.com/newspapers?id=f2YpAAAAIBAJ&sjid=kckEAAAAIBAJ&pg=742%2C672319 |title=SEC Title Hopefuls Down to 4 |author=Bailer, Mercer |date=1957-11-04 |publisher=''[[The Daytona Beach News-Journal]]'' |accessdate=2011-05-05}}</ref> Ole Miss was considered to be the favorite, and were nationally ranked as #14 in the AP Poll.
For its next game, Houston traveled to [[Mississippi Veterans Memorial Stadium]] to compete against the [[Ole Miss Rebels football|Ole Miss Rebels]].<ref>{{cite web |url=https://news.google.com/newspapers?id=TxcsAAAAIBAJ&sjid=isgEAAAAIBAJ&pg=5266%2C3674656 |title=Ole Miss Nips Houston |work=[[TimesDaily]] |date=1957-11-03 |access-date=2011-05-05}}</ref> Having competed against Auburn in the previous game, Ole Miss was the second SEC team that Houston played on its schedule. The Rebels were coached by eleventh-year veteran [[Johnny Vaught]], and entered the contest with a 5–1 overall record (having only lost to [[1957 Arkansas Razorbacks football team|Arkansas]] of the Southwest Conference).<ref>{{cite web |url=https://news.google.com/newspapers?id=f2YpAAAAIBAJ&sjid=kckEAAAAIBAJ&pg=742%2C672319 |title=SEC Title Hopefuls Down to 4 |author=Bailer, Mercer |date=1957-11-04 |work=[[The Daytona Beach News-Journal]] |access-date=2011-05-05}}</ref> Ole Miss was considered to be the favorite, and were nationally-ranked as #14 in the AP Poll.


Within the first four minutes of gameplay, Ole Miss scored the first touchdown in a rushing play by senior running back [[Billy Lott]]. In the second quarter, Houston's halfback Billy Ray Dickey scored the sole touchdown with a completed pass thrown by quarterback Paul Sweeten. Throughout the third quarter, there were no scores by either side. In the third quarter, Ole Miss defensive end Don Williams recovered a fumble from Houston, and the Rebels gained 48 yards.<ref>{{cite book |title=The USA Today College Football Encyclopedia 2009-2010 |last=Boyles |first=Bob |author2=Guido, Paul |year=2009 |publisher=''[[Skyhorse Publishing]]'' |location=[[New York, New York]] |isbn=1-60239-677-9 |page=86 |url=http://books.google.com/books?id=eNThHqwUK7kC&lpg=PA86&ots=MdkOEtZdeW |accessdate=2011-05-05}}</ref> In the fourth quarter, Ole Miss starting quarterback [[Ray Brown (Baltimore Colts)|Ray Brown]] scored a touchdown for his team by utilizing a [[quarterback sneak]]. After Sweeten fumbled at the Houston six-yard line, Ole Miss backup quarterback [[Bobby Franklin (American football)|Bobby Franklin]] then scored a final touchdown.
Within the first four minutes of gameplay, Ole Miss scored the first touchdown in a rushing play by senior running back [[Billy Lott]]. In the second quarter, Houston's halfback Billy Ray Dickey scored the sole touchdown with a completed pass thrown by quarterback Paul Sweeten. Throughout the third quarter, there were no scores by either side. In the third quarter, Ole Miss defensive end Don Williams recovered a fumble from Houston, and the Rebels gained 48 yards.<ref>{{cite book |title=The USA Today College Football Encyclopedia 2009-2010 |last=Boyles |first=Bob |author2=Guido, Paul |year=2009 |publisher=[[Skyhorse Publishing]] |location=New York City |isbn=978-1-60239-677-7 |page=86 |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=eNThHqwUK7kC&pg=PA86 |access-date=2011-05-05}}</ref> In the fourth quarter, Ole Miss starting quarterback [[Ray Brown (Baltimore Colts)|Ray Brown]] scored a touchdown for his team by utilizing a [[quarterback sneak]]. After Sweeten fumbled at the Houston six-yard line, Ole Miss backup quarterback [[Bobby Franklin (American football)|Bobby Franklin]] then scored a final touchdown.


With a win against the Cougars, Mississippi continued their season to eventually finish with a 9–1–1 overall record, and a win against [[1957 Texas Longhorns football team|Texas]] in the [[1958 Sugar Bowl]]. Ole Miss finished the season with a #7 national ranking in the AP Poll, and 2nd place finish in the Southeastern Conference standings.
With a win against the Cougars, Mississippi continued their season to eventually finish with a 9–1–1 overall record, and a win against [[1957 Texas Longhorns football team|Texas]] in the [[1958 Sugar Bowl]]. Ole Miss finished the season with a #7 national ranking in the AP Poll, and 2nd-place finish in the Southeastern Conference standings.
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{{Clear}}


===Southern Mississippi===
===Mississippi Southern===
Houston remained at [[Mississippi Veterans Memorial Stadium]] in [[Jackson, Mississippi]] to face the [[Southern Miss Golden Eagles football|Southern Miss Southerners]] for the first time in history. Southern Miss was coached by ninth-year head coach [[Thad Vann]], and entered the game with a perfect 7–0 overall record. Halfback Claude King had a stand-out game, where he scored two touchdowns for the Cougars. Right halfback Don Brown of Dayton, Texas also punched in two short touchdown runs.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://digital.lib.uh.edu/cdm4/document.php?CISOROOT=/p15195coll7&CISOPTR=2426&CISOSHOW=2323 |title=Miss. Southern 12, Big Red 27 |publisher=''1958 Houstonian'' |accessdate=2011-09-06}}</ref> Following its loss to Houston, Southern Miss went on to finish the season with an 8–4 record, and appeared in that season's edition of the [[Capital One Bowl|Tangerine Bowl]].
Houston remained at [[Mississippi Veterans Memorial Stadium]] in [[Jackson, Mississippi]] to face the [[Southern Miss Golden Eagles football|Southern Miss Southerners]] for the first time in history. Southern Miss was coached by ninth-year head coach [[Thad Vann]], and entered the game with a perfect 7–0 overall record. Halfback Claude King had a stand-out game, where he scored two touchdowns for the Cougars. Right halfback Don Brown of Dayton, Texas also punched in two short touchdown runs.<ref name="1957Houston1">{{cite news|url=https://www.newspapers.com/clip/74691259/king-sparks-houston-by-southerners-271|work=Fort Worth Star-Telegram|title=King sparks Houston by Southerners, 27–12|date=November 10, 1957|accessdate=March 29, 2021|via=[[Newspapers.com]]}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=http://digital.lib.uh.edu/cdm4/document.php?CISOROOT=/p15195coll7&CISOPTR=2426&CISOSHOW=2323 |title=Miss. Southern 12, Big Red 27 |publisher=Houstonian |access-date=September 6, 2011 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120302205339/http://digital.lib.uh.edu/cdm4/document.php?CISOROOT=%2Fp15195coll7&CISOPTR=2426&CISOSHOW=2323 |archive-date=March 2, 2012 |url-status=dead }}</ref> Following its loss to Houston, Southern Miss went on to finish the season with an 8–4 record, and appeared in that season's edition of the [[Tangerine Bowl (1947–82)|Tangerine Bowl]].
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{{Clear}}


===Wichita===
===Wichita===
After its victory over Southern Miss, Houston had finished its out of conference schedule. Traveling to [[Cessna Stadium|Veterans Stadium]], Houston had the opportunity to clinch the 1957 Missouri Valley Conference championship with a victory over conference opponent [[Wichita State Shockers football|Wichita]].<ref>{{cite web |url=http://news.google.com/newspapers?id=GzJaAAAAIBAJ&sjid=QEwNAAAAIBAJ&pg=5968,2584772 |title=Houston Can Clinch Valley Title Sunday |publisher=''[[St. Joseph Gazette]]'' |date=1957-11-11 |accessdate=2011-09-06}}</ref> Wichita, now a regular opponent of Houston since the 1949 season, was tied with Houston in the all-time series of 3–3. They were coached by first-year [[Woody Woodard]], and with an abysmal record of 1–6, were coming off only their first win of the season over [[Drake Bulldogs football|Drake]]. It would be their sole win of the season.
After its victory over Southern Miss, Houston had finished its out of conference schedule. Traveling to [[Cessna Stadium|Veterans Stadium]], Houston had the opportunity to clinch the 1957 Missouri Valley Conference championship with a victory over conference opponent [[1957 Wichita Shockers football team|Wichita]].<ref>{{cite web |url=https://news.google.com/newspapers?id=GzJaAAAAIBAJ&sjid=QEwNAAAAIBAJ&pg=5968,2584772 |title=Houston Can Clinch Valley Title Sunday |work=[[St. Joseph Gazette]] |date=1957-11-11 |access-date=2011-09-06}}</ref> Wichita, now a regular opponent of Houston since the 1949 season, was tied with Houston in the all-time series of 3–3. They were coached by first-year [[Woody Woodard]], and with an abysmal record of 1–6, were coming off only their first win of the season over [[Drake Bulldogs football|Drake]]. It would be their sole win of the season.
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===Tulsa===
===Tulsa===
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The conclusion of the 1957 season coincided with another victory and a perfect 3–0 conference record for the Cougars. Houston met with the Tulsa Golden Hurricane at [[Skelly Field at H. A. Chapman Stadium|Skelly Stadium]] in Tulsa, who were coached by [[Bobby Dobbs]], and had a 3–5 record. An annual match-up between the two teams had existed since the 1950 season, and this was their eighth meeting. Despite their losing record, the Golden Hurricane were coming off of a three-game winning streak, and the game was designated as Tulsa's homecoming.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://news.google.com/newspapers?id=bqpTAAAAIBAJ&sjid=DYgDAAAAIBAJ&pg=6464%2C2510110 |title=Houston Wins on Late Tally |publisher=''[[Victoria Advocate]]'' |date=1957-11-24 |accessdate=2012-06-20}}</ref>
The conclusion of the 1957 season coincided with another victory and a perfect 3–0 conference record for the Cougars. Houston met with the Tulsa Golden Hurricane at [[Skelly Field at H. A. Chapman Stadium|Skelly Stadium]] in Tulsa, who were coached by [[Bobby Dobbs]], and had a 3–5 record. An annual match-up between the two teams had existed since the 1950 season, and this was their eighth meeting. Despite their losing record, the Golden Hurricane were coming off of a three-game winning streak, and the game was designated as Tulsa's homecoming.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://news.google.com/newspapers?id=bqpTAAAAIBAJ&sjid=DYgDAAAAIBAJ&pg=6464%2C2510110 |title=Houston Wins on Late Tally |work=[[Victoria Advocate]] |date=1957-11-24 |access-date=2012-06-20}}</ref>


The first score of the game came from Houston, when running back Harold Lewis made a 2-yard dive into the Hurricane end zone in the first quarter. Tulsa answered with their own rushing touchdown in the second quarter. However, the game was decided late in the fourth quarter, when a holding call was made against Tulsa, and they were forced to give up fifteen yards. This eventually resulted in Houston's senior halfback Gene Ward scoring another touchdown from a pass by quarterback Don Brown. With a win against Tulsa, Houston improved its all-time series record against the Golden Hurricane to a tie at 4–4.
The first score of the game came from Houston, when running back Harold Lewis made a 2-yard dive into the Hurricane end zone in the first quarter. Tulsa answered with their own rushing touchdown in the second quarter. However, the game was decided late in the fourth quarter, when a holding call was made against Tulsa, and they were forced to give up fifteen yards. This eventually resulted in Houston's senior halfback Gene Ward scoring another touchdown from a pass by quarterback Don Brown. With a win against Tulsa, Houston improved its all-time series record against the Golden Hurricane to a tie at 4–4.
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| [[Red Conkright]] || [[Backfield|Defensive backfield coach]] || Oklahoma (1937) || 1st
| [[Red Conkright]] || [[Backfield|Defensive backfield coach]] || Oklahoma (1937) || 1st
|-align="center"
|-align="center"
| Casto Ramsey || [[Backfield|Offensive backfield coach]] || [[King University|King College]] (1941) || 1st
| [[Casto Ramsey]] || [[Backfield|Offensive backfield coach]] || [[King University|King College]] (1941) || 1st
|-align="center"
|-align="center"
| [[Lovette Hill]] || [[Scout (sport)|Head scout]] and assistant || [[Centenary Gentlemen|Centenary]] (1931) || 10th
| [[Lovette Hill]] || [[Scout (sport)|Head scout]] and assistant || [[Centenary Gentlemen|Centenary]] (1931) || 10th
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===Honors===
===Honors===
Tackle Hogan Wharton was named Lineman of the Year by the [[Missouri Valley Conference]].<ref name="2009-media-guide" /> He was also named to the 1957 All-Missouri Valley Conference Team along with guard Burr Davis, and fullback Harold Lewis. Halfback Don Brown was selected to participate in the 1958 [[Senior Bowl]].
Tackle Hogan Wharton was named Lineman of the Year by the [[Missouri Valley Conference]]. He was also named to the 1957 All-Missouri Valley Conference Team along with guard Burr Davis, and fullback Harold Lewis. Halfback Don Brown was selected to participate in the 1958 [[Senior Bowl]].


==References==
==References==
{{Reflist|30em}}
{{Reflist}}

{{commons|University of Houston#Football|Houston Cougars football}}


{{Houston Cougars football navbox}}
{{Houston Cougars football navbox}}
{{Missouri Valley Conference football champions}}


[[Category:1957 Missouri Valley Conference football season|Houston]]
{{DEFAULTSORT:1957 Houston Cougars Football Team}}
[[Category:Houston Cougars football seasons]]
[[Category:Houston Cougars football seasons]]
[[Category:1957 Missouri Valley Conference football season|Houston]]
[[Category:Missouri Valley Conference football champion seasons]]
[[Category:Missouri Valley Conference football champion seasons]]
[[Category:1957 in Texas|Houston Cougars football]]
[[Category:1957 in sports in Texas|Houston Cougars football]]

Revision as of 03:58, 11 June 2024

1957 Houston Cougars football
University of Houston's classic athletics logo
MVC champion
ConferenceMissouri Valley Conference
Record5–4–1 (3–0 MVC)
Head coach
Offensive schemeSplit-T
Home stadiumRice Stadium (70,000)
Seasons
← 1956
1958 →
1957 Missouri Valley Conference football standings
Conf Overall
Team W   L   T W   L   T
Houston $ 3 - 0 - 0 5 - 4 - 1
North Texas State 1 - 0 - 0 5 - 5 - 0
Tulsa 2 - 2 - 0 4 - 6 - 0
Cincinnati 1 - 2 - 0 5 - 4 - 1
Wichita 0 - 3 - 0 1 - 9 - 0
  • $ – Conference champion

The 1957 Houston Cougars football team, also known as the Houston Cougars, Houston, or UH, represented the University of Houston in the 1957 college football season. It was the 12th year of season play for Houston. The team was coached by first-year head coach Hal Lahar. The team played its games off-campus at Rice Stadium, which had been built in 1950. Houston won its third conference championship, as the Cougars earned a perfect 3–0 record in conference play.[1] It was the first time a conference championship was achieved by a first-year coach for Houston. Despite losing several key starting players and switching head coaches, Houston was considered a favorite for the conference championship prior to the season's start.[2] Following the season, three of Houston's players from the 1957 roster were drafted in the 1958 NFL Draft. Three more 1957 players were also taken in the 1959 NFL Draft.

Preseason

The preseason marked a head coaching change for the Cougars, as head coach Hal Lahar was successfully lured from Colgate on January 18, 1957.[3]

Zeitplan

DateOpponentRankWebsiteResultAttendanceSource
September 21No. 14 Miami (FL)*
W 7–052,000
September 28at No. 11 Baylor*No. 14
L 6–1422,000
October 5at Cincinnati
W 7–0
October 12at No. 3 Texas A&M*
L 6–2833,000
October 19Oklahoma State*
  • Rice Stadium
  • Houston, TX
T 6–620,000
October 26No. 5 Auburn*
  • Rice Stadium
  • Houston, TX
L 7–4830,000[4]
November 2vs. No. 14 Ole Miss*
L 7–2027,000–30,000[5]
November 9vs. Mississippi Southern*
  • Mississippi Veterans Memorial Stadium
  • Jackson, MS
W 27–1211,000
November 16at Wichita
W 27–66,000
November 23at Tulsa
W 13–713,486
  • *Non-conference game
  • Rankings from AP Poll released prior to the game

Game summaries

Miami

Houston halfback Claude King advances against Miami in a rushing play, while end Bob Borah blocks
1 2 3 4 Total
#14 Miami 0 0 0 0 0
Houston 0 7 0 0 7

Miami, coached by tenth-year Hurricanes veteran Andy Gustafson, traveled to Rice Stadium to compete against Houston for both of the teams' season opener game.[6] It was the first meeting between the two teams. Miami, an NCAA University Division Independent, was heavily favored to win the game, and were nationally-ranked as #14 in the AP Poll.[7]

Both teams struggled offensively, as there were 11 fumbles throughout the game.[8] Miami's longest drive was for only 27 yards. The single score in the game came near the end of the second quarter period when junior Houston halfback rushed for 23 yards with key blocks from senior fullback Owen Mulholland and junior guard Burr Davis. Halfback Mike Michon converted the point after touchdown. Miami responded by taking the ball to Houston's 23-yard line in the second quarter, but ran out of time to complete a successful score. In the fourth quarter, Houston halfback Don Brown ran for 75 yards for a touchdown in the fourth quarter, but this was retracted by officials due to a holding penalty.

With a win against #14 Miami, Houston entered the AP Poll as a nationally-ranked team for the first time since the 1952 season.

Baylor

1 2 3 4 Total
#14 Houston 0 0 6 0 6
#11 Baylor 0 0 7 7 14

The Houston Cougars went on the road to Waco, Texas to meet with Baylor of the Southwest Conference. Both Houston and Baylor had a six-game winning streak.[9] Baylor led the series 3–2, and were led by second-year head coach Sam Boyd. Also coaching for the Bears was lines coach Harden Cooper, who had previously served in the same capacity for Houston under Hal Lahar from 1950–1954. As a pre-season ranked team, and a win against Villanova the week prior, Baylor entered the game nationally-ranked at #11 in the AP Poll.

While Houston's offensive strategy centered around a running game, Baylor's game was spearheaded by quarterback Doyle Traylor and a short passing strategy. Traylor completed 11 of 15 passes to help his team win.[10] Throughout the first half of the game, no team scored, but early in the third quarter, Baylor scored a touchdown.[11] Although Houston answered with a 3-yard reception for a touchdown by halfback Claude King, kicker Mike Michon was unable to convert for the point after touchdown.

After the loss, Houston was dropped from the AP Poll, and did not return for the remainder of the season.

Cincinnati

1 2 3 4 Total
Houston 0 0 0 7 7
Cincinnati 0 0 0 0 0

For the first time ever, Houston met with Missouri Valley Conference foe Cincinnati at Nippert Stadium in Ohio. Having moved from an independent status in the NCAA, it was Cincinnati's first season as a conference member, and the team was coached by 3rd-year head coach George Blackburn.

After a scoreless three quarters, the fourth quarter of the game saw Houston score a rushing touchdown by halfback Claude King from Cincinnati's four-yard line.[12] Houston's offense had 257 total yards compared to Cincinnati's 97.

With the win against the Bearcats, Houston improved to an overall record of 2–1, and a 1–0 conference record.

Texas A&M

See also: 1957 Texas A&M Aggies football team

When Houston met with Texas A&M of the Southwest Conference at Kyle Field, it was the sixth time in history that the two teams had competed against each other. Texas A&M had become a regular opponent for Houston, having met with each other each season since 1952. The Aggies were coached by Bear Bryant, who was serving in his fourth year with the team. Attendance for the game was 33,000. It was the third time on Houston's schedule that they played a nationally-ranked team, and Texas A&M was #3 in the AP Poll.

With the loss to Texas A&M, Houston's overall record fell to 2–2. Texas A&M's national ranking improved to the #1 spot later in the season, and the Aggies eventually finished at #9 after a berth in the Gator Bowl. Following the season, head coach Bear Bryant went on to coach Alabama, and won several national championships from 1958–1982.

Oklahoma State

Houston returned home to compete against former conference-mate Oklahoma State. It was the Cowboys' first season as an independent since 1914. The team's head coach was third-year Cliff Speegle, and the Cowboys' entered the game with a 3–1 season record and a three-game winning streak. It would be both Houston and Oklahoma State's sole game of the season with a tied result. Had Oklahoma State won the game, it would have meant a complete sweep of all Missouri Valley former conference-mates.[13]

Although the Cowboys led the game with six points over the Cougars' nil score, a final quarter punt by Oklahoma State's Jim Wiggins was blocked by Houston tackle Hogan Wharton. This allowed Houston to recover the ball on Oklahoma State's 24-yard line. Then, Houston halfback Don Brown managed to complete a nine-yard rushing touchdown.[14] Despite this, when attempting a PAT, kicker Sammy Blount missed, and the score remained tied.

Following the game, Hogan Wharton received the "Lineman of the Week" award from the Missouri Valley Conference.[13] Houston's record became 2–2–1, and Oklahoma State eventually finished their season with a 6–3–1 overall record.

Auburn

See also: 1957 Auburn Tigers football team
1 2 3 4 Total
#5 Auburn 16 6 6 20 48
Houston 0 7 0 0 7

Houston hosted Auburn of the Southeastern Conference for their next game. With a perfect 4–0 season record, the Tigers were nationally-ranked in the AP Poll as #5. Auburn was coached by seventh-year head coach Ralph Jordan who had led his team to four previous winning seasons with three bowl game appearances, and three finishes in the national rankings.

Starting with a 71-yard touchdown pass with its first play against Houston, Auburn would eventually crush Houston with a 48–7 win.[15] The Cougars' lone touchdown was scored by halfback Paul Sweeten in the second quarter after returning an interception.

Following the win against Houston, Auburn went on to have an undefeated 10–0 season record. They were awarded the national title in the AP Poll, and were ranked as the second-best team in the coaches' poll. As a team on NCAA probation, Auburn was ineligible for a bowl game appearance.

Ole Miss

Houston's Bob Borah and Bob Blevins confer with head coach Hal Lahar at Mississippi Veterans Memorial Stadium against Ole Miss
1 2 3 4 Total
Houston 0 7 0 0 7
#14 Ole Miss 7 0 0 13 20

For its next game, Houston traveled to Mississippi Veterans Memorial Stadium to compete against the Ole Miss Rebels.[16] Having competed against Auburn in the previous game, Ole Miss was the second SEC team that Houston played on its schedule. The Rebels were coached by eleventh-year veteran Johnny Vaught, and entered the contest with a 5–1 overall record (having only lost to Arkansas of the Southwest Conference).[17] Ole Miss was considered to be the favorite, and were nationally-ranked as #14 in the AP Poll.

Within the first four minutes of gameplay, Ole Miss scored the first touchdown in a rushing play by senior running back Billy Lott. In the second quarter, Houston's halfback Billy Ray Dickey scored the sole touchdown with a completed pass thrown by quarterback Paul Sweeten. Throughout the third quarter, there were no scores by either side. In the third quarter, Ole Miss defensive end Don Williams recovered a fumble from Houston, and the Rebels gained 48 yards.[18] In the fourth quarter, Ole Miss starting quarterback Ray Brown scored a touchdown for his team by utilizing a quarterback sneak. After Sweeten fumbled at the Houston six-yard line, Ole Miss backup quarterback Bobby Franklin then scored a final touchdown.

With a win against the Cougars, Mississippi continued their season to eventually finish with a 9–1–1 overall record, and a win against Texas in the 1958 Sugar Bowl. Ole Miss finished the season with a #7 national ranking in the AP Poll, and 2nd-place finish in the Southeastern Conference standings.

Mississippi Southern

Houston remained at Mississippi Veterans Memorial Stadium in Jackson, Mississippi to face the Southern Miss Southerners for the first time in history. Southern Miss was coached by ninth-year head coach Thad Vann, and entered the game with a perfect 7–0 overall record. Halfback Claude King had a stand-out game, where he scored two touchdowns for the Cougars. Right halfback Don Brown of Dayton, Texas also punched in two short touchdown runs.[19][20] Following its loss to Houston, Southern Miss went on to finish the season with an 8–4 record, and appeared in that season's edition of the Tangerine Bowl.

Wichita

After its victory over Southern Miss, Houston had finished its out of conference schedule. Traveling to Veterans Stadium, Houston had the opportunity to clinch the 1957 Missouri Valley Conference championship with a victory over conference opponent Wichita.[21] Wichita, now a regular opponent of Houston since the 1949 season, was tied with Houston in the all-time series of 3–3. They were coached by first-year Woody Woodard, and with an abysmal record of 1–6, were coming off only their first win of the season over Drake. It would be their sole win of the season.

Tulsa

1 2 3 4 Total
Houston 7 0 0 6 13
Tulsa 0 7 0 0 7

The conclusion of the 1957 season coincided with another victory and a perfect 3–0 conference record for the Cougars. Houston met with the Tulsa Golden Hurricane at Skelly Stadium in Tulsa, who were coached by Bobby Dobbs, and had a 3–5 record. An annual match-up between the two teams had existed since the 1950 season, and this was their eighth meeting. Despite their losing record, the Golden Hurricane were coming off of a three-game winning streak, and the game was designated as Tulsa's homecoming.[22]

The first score of the game came from Houston, when running back Harold Lewis made a 2-yard dive into the Hurricane end zone in the first quarter. Tulsa answered with their own rushing touchdown in the second quarter. However, the game was decided late in the fourth quarter, when a holding call was made against Tulsa, and they were forced to give up fifteen yards. This eventually resulted in Houston's senior halfback Gene Ward scoring another touchdown from a pass by quarterback Don Brown. With a win against Tulsa, Houston improved its all-time series record against the Golden Hurricane to a tie at 4–4.

Poll rankings

Week-to-Week Rankings
Legend: ██ Increase in ranking. ██ Decrease in ranking. ██ Not ranked the previous week.
Poll Pre Wk 1 Wk 2 Wk 3 Wk 4 Wk 5 Wk 6 Wk 7 Wk 8 Wk 9 Wk 10 Final
AP[7] NR 14 NR NR NR NR NR NR NR NR NR NR

Coaching staff

Head Coach Hal Lahar
Name Position Alma mater (Year) Year at Houston
Hal Lahar Head coach Oklahoma (1940) 1st
Andy Zubel Offensive line coach West Virginia (1949) 1st
Hank Watkins Defensive line coach Tulane (1950) 1st
Tex Flanakin Ends coach Baylor (1949) 1st
Red Conkright Defensive backfield coach Oklahoma (1937) 1st
Casto Ramsey Offensive backfield coach King College (1941) 1st
Lovette Hill Head scout and assistant Centenary (1931) 10th
Swede Hill Freshmen coach Sam Houston State (1939) 1st

After the season

NFL Draft

There were three players from the 1957 season to be drafted to the National Football League in the 1958 NFL Draft. It was the eighth time in team history that Houston players were taken in the draft. Tackle Hogan Wharton was taken by the San Francisco 49ers in the eleventh round (131st overall), but remained on the team through the duration of the 1958 season. Similarly, Don McDonald was taken by the Philadelphia Eagles in the twenty-ninth round (340th overall), but did not leave Houston until after the 1959 season. Tackle John Peters was taken by the Green Bay Packers in the thirtieth round (350th overall). While Donnie Caraway, another Houston player was drafted in 1958, he did not play with the Cougars for the 1957 season.

During the 1959 NFL Draft several more Houston players from the 1957 season were drafted. Don Brown was taken in the second round (20th overall) by the Los Angeles Rams, Hal Lewis was taken in the seventh round (84th overall) by the Baltimore Colts, and Bob Borah was taken in the twenty-fifth round (296th overall) by the Chicago Bears.

Honors

Tackle Hogan Wharton was named Lineman of the Year by the Missouri Valley Conference. He was also named to the 1957 All-Missouri Valley Conference Team along with guard Burr Davis, and fullback Harold Lewis. Halfback Don Brown was selected to participate in the 1958 Senior Bowl.

References

  1. ^ "Auburn Crushes Houston, 48-7". The Miami News. October 27, 1957. Retrieved November 12, 2010.
  2. ^ Hickman, Herman (September 23, 1957). "Missouri Valley". Sports Illustrated. Retrieved November 18, 2010.
  3. ^ "Lahar Quits Colgate 11 For Houston Coaching Job". Meriden Journal. January 19, 1957. Retrieved September 6, 2011.
  4. ^ Sam Adams (October 27, 1957). "Auburn Offense Explodes; Tigers Maul Houston, 48-7". The Montgomery Advertiser. p. C1 – via Newspapers.com.
  5. ^ "Rebels win 20 to 7". The Clarion-Ledger. November 3, 1957. Retrieved October 8, 2023 – via Newspapers.com.
  6. ^ "Miami – Lahar's First...7-0". Houstonian. Retrieved November 18, 2010.[permanent dead link]
  7. ^ a b "1957 Preseason Football Polls". College Poll Archive. Retrieved November 18, 2011.
  8. ^ "Houston U. Defeats Favored Miami U., 7-0". The Daytona Beach News-Journal. September 22, 1957. Retrieved November 12, 2010.
  9. ^ Lyons, John (September 26, 1957). "Baylor, Houston Have Won 6 In Row". The Victoria Advocate. Retrieved November 29, 2010.
  10. ^ Parker, Don (October 7, 1957). "Travails Of A T Back". Sports Illustrated. Retrieved November 29, 2010.
  11. ^ "Long Drive Leads To Win For Baylor". TimesDaily. September 29, 1957. Retrieved November 29, 2010.
  12. ^ "Cincy 0, UH 7". Houstonian. Retrieved December 1, 2010.[permanent dead link]
  13. ^ a b "Houston Tackle Gets Week's Best Lineman Award". St. Joseph News-Press. October 22, 1957. Retrieved April 15, 2011.
  14. ^ "State 6, Cougars 6". Houstonian. Retrieved April 15, 2011.[permanent dead link]
  15. ^ "Auburn Crushes Houston, 48-7". The Miami News. October 27, 1957. Retrieved April 23, 2011.
  16. ^ "Ole Miss Nips Houston". TimesDaily. November 3, 1957. Retrieved May 5, 2011.
  17. ^ Bailer, Mercer (November 4, 1957). "SEC Title Hopefuls Down to 4". The Daytona Beach News-Journal. Retrieved May 5, 2011.
  18. ^ Boyles, Bob; Guido, Paul (2009). The USA Today College Football Encyclopedia 2009-2010. New York City: Skyhorse Publishing. p. 86. ISBN 978-1-60239-677-7. Retrieved May 5, 2011.
  19. ^ "King sparks Houston by Southerners, 27–12". Fort Worth Star-Telegram. November 10, 1957. Retrieved March 29, 2021 – via Newspapers.com.
  20. ^ "Miss. Southern 12, Big Red 27". Houstonian. Archived from the original on March 2, 2012. Retrieved September 6, 2011.
  21. ^ "Houston Can Clinch Valley Title Sunday". St. Joseph Gazette. November 11, 1957. Retrieved September 6, 2011.
  22. ^ "Houston Wins on Late Tally". Victoria Advocate. November 24, 1957. Retrieved June 20, 2012.
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