ESPN FPI predicts that Kansas will prevail in the decisive match against Houston

The Kansas Jayhawks (1-5) and Houston Cougars (2-4) face off in a matchup that could help end a difficult season for both programs.

After a bye week, Kansas had a chance to refocus, regroup and refocus for the second half of the season.

Meanwhile, Houston has had some poor performances and will look to gain momentum on the road. But if ESPN's Football Power Index (FPI) is anything to go by, things might not bode well for the Cougars.

FPI's take: Kansas has the upper hand

According to ESPN's FPI, Kansas has an impressive 75.3% chance of winning this game, which could raise some eyebrows given the Jayhawks' struggles this season. But when you peel back the layers, it makes sense.

Despite their difficult 1-5 start, the Jayhawks have shown potential. They face tough competition and return from a week off with time to recover, problem solve and refine their game plan. That extra time could make all the difference.

Houston, on the other hand, has been inconsistent. At 2-4, the Cougars had moments where they looked competitive, but they struggled to put together a full 60-minute game. Add in a road trip to Kansas City, where Kansas will have home field advantage, and you can see why FPI is leaning heavily toward the Jayhawks.