The University of Houston is considering altering its football schedule, and is considering playing Oklahoma instead of playing LSU, according to a report in the Houston Chronicle.
LSU is set to face Houston on Sept. 11 in Tiger Stadium, and LSU Associate Athletics Director Dan Radakovich said that date is still solid unless Houston administrators approach him about backing out of the game.
“We’re definitely playing Houston next season,” Radakovich said. “These [rumors] happen a lot.”
According to the Chronicle, the Cougars also are trying to move their home date with Miami (Fla.) and possibly garner another TV date later in the year.
The Chronicle reported UH would face Oklahoma in Norman, Okla., on Oct. 23 if LSU can find a replacement opponent. It also said the Cougars’ Sept. 30 game with the Hurricanes would be moved to Oct. 2 for a Thursday night ESPN telecast in Reliant Stadium.
“I’m optimistic that at some point we’ll be playing Oklahoma,” Cougars’ athletic director Dave Maggard told the Chronicle. “We would like to expand our schedule with Big XII Conference schools and have had conversations with several, including Oklahoma. Nothing is confirmed yet.”
Radakovich said Houston backing out is a rumor at this point, and if it reaches a point where the Cougars propose a deal, they would have to help find a replacement opponent for LSU and pay a possible penalty.
“It all depends on the opponent [they choose],” Radakovich said
LSU holds a 2-1 series lead over Houston, getting wins in 1996 (35-34) and 2000 (28-13), but falling 20-7 in 1999.