Louisiana was easily one of the best teams in the Sun Belt last year.
The Ragin’ Cajuns won eight of their first nine games in 2024, including a victory at Wake Forest before beginning conference play.
But Louisiana didn’t end the season how fans hoped. The Ragin’ Cajuns lost 31-3 against Marshall in the conference title game and 34-3 against TCU in the New Mexico Bowl.
However, Louisiana should still be one of the better teams in the Sun Belt again in 2025 – and could even compete for a conference title again. But first, the Ragin’ Cajuns will want to begin their season on a high note with a Week 1 win over a fellow Group of Five program.
Rice vs. Louisiana Betting Odds
Louisiana is a -11.5 college football betting odds favorite against Rice, with the Over/Under being 47.5.
The moneyline for Rice is +350, while it’s -450 for Louisiana.
Rice vs. Louisiana On TV
The matchup between Rice and Louisiana will be televised on ESPN+.
The game will kick off at 8 p.m. ET on Saturday, Aug. 30. The contest is taking place at Cajun Field in Lafayette, Louisiana.
Rice vs. Louisiana Prediction
I predict Louisiana will win and cover the 11.5-point spread. I also project the game will go Under 47.5 total points.
Louisiana has some talent returning on defense. And I think the Ragin’ Cajuns will lean on their ground game on offense.
All-Sun Belt second-team defensive lineman Jordan Lawson is back after recording 44 tackles, 10.5 for loss, as well as 5.5 sacks, two passes defended, one interception, and a fumble recovery. All-conference second-team defensive back Tyree Skipper is also returning. He tied for a team lead with four interceptions while adding 41 tackles and six passes defended. Linebacker Jaden Dugger is also back after tallying 37 tackles, four for loss, with one sack, two passes defended, and a forced fumble.
On offense, G5 Preseason All-American Bill Davis led Louisiana with 796 yards and nine touchdowns rushing. Zylan Perry, an all-conference honorable mention last year, was second on the team with 695 yards and four touchdowns on the ground.
I think Louisiana will compile some methodical drives and will dominate time of possession at home to get a two-touchdown victory.
