Houser originally began his college career at Michigan State, where he arrived in 2022 as a highly regarded four-star recruit out of St. John Bosco High School. He was ranked No. 225 overall and No. 13 among quarterbacks nationally in his class and earned Elite 11 finalist honors. After redshirting his first season, Houser saw action in 11 games in 2023, starting the final seven contests. During that stretch, he completed 112 of 191 passes (59.0%) for 1,130 yards, six touchdowns, and five interceptions before transferring to ECU following a coaching change.

At East Carolina, Houser played in 21 games over two seasons and posted impressive numbers, completing 418 of 653 passes (64.0%) for 5,306 yards, 37 touchdowns, and 17 interceptions. He also contributed as a runner, recording 363 rushing yards and 13 touchdowns. In the 2025 season, Houser threw for 3,300 yards and 19 touchdowns with just six interceptions, while adding 181 rushing yards and nine scores on the ground. His ability to push the ball downfield stood out, as he connected on 25 of 58 passes of 20 yards or more for 1,021 yards, seven touchdowns, and only one interception. That performance earned him 24 “big-time throws,” tying him for third among FBS quarterbacks, according to PFF.