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By ANTHONY ANDRO
Fort Worth Star-Telegram

FORT WORTH, Texas -- With a roster littered with area players, distractions could be a concern for the Houston Cougars as they prepare for Friday night's Fort Worth Bowl against Kansas.

Cougars coach Art Briles doesn't see it that way.

"I think it's a plus," said Briles, who coached at Stephenville. "Everybody wants to look good in front of grandma. They'll all use it as a motivation. They're not 14. They understand we're here to be productive and win a bowl game."

Six Houston starters are from the area, including three from Stephenville. Another starter, wideout Kendal Briles, also played at Stephenville before moving with his father and finishing his high school career at Wolfforth Frenship.

One of the hottest commodities among the Cougars is tickets to the game for friends and family. Each player is allotted six, putting a premium on their value.

"There have been a lot of players wanting them," Briles said. "I know those guys from out of state or not from this area have been hit up pretty hard. I think the ticket sales are going pretty well, and we're excited to be here."

Slow ride

Houston didn't charter a plane for the trip to Fort Worth, opting for buses instead.

Houston, which is headquartered at the Radisson Plaza, arrived Monday after a four-plus-hour ride.

It marked the second time the Cougars have traveled by bus to a road game this season. The Cougars played Tulane in Lafayette, La., on Oct. 8 and made that trip by bus.

"It's no big deal," Art Briles said. "A couple of movies, and the next thing you know you're here. It's not a hassle or anything. Our guys all get along, so we kick back, relax and spend a little quality time with each other without having to hustle to an airport."

Briles mum on injuries

Briles said running back Anthony Evans, who has battled injuries all season, is expected to play. He has rushed for only 178 yards this season after gaining 788 as a junior. He'll back up Ryan Gilbert, who has 1,030 yards.