First-year head coach Scott Abell has quickly changed things for the better at Rice.
The Owls are 3-3 overall and have a real chance at making a bowl game. However, they are also 1-2 in the American Conference standings and are on a two-game losing skid.
In its past two contests, Rice has lost at Navy and against FAU at home. But those games were decided by a collective 14 points. This week presents an opportunity for the Owls to get back above .500, but it won’t be easy.
Rice is going back on the road to take on UTSA, which is 2-3 overall and 0-1 against American teams after losing at Temple. As disappointing as the beginning of their season has been, also losing at Texas A&M and Texas State, the Roadrunners still have a chance to be competitive with other teams in the conference and make it to a bowl game.
Rice vs. UTSA Spread & Betting Odds
UTSA is a -10 college football betting odds favorite against Rice, with the Over/Under being 48.5 as of this writing.
The moneyline for Rice is +300, while it’s -375 for UTSA.
Rice vs. UTSA On TV
The matchup between Rice and UTSA will be televised on ESPNU.
The game will kick off at 7:30 p.m. ET on Saturday, Oct. 11. The contest is taking place at the Alamodome in San Antonio, Texas.
Rice vs. UTSA Prediction
I predict UTSA will win but Rice will cover the 10-point spread. I also project the game will go Over 48.5 total points.
I expect this game will prove to be interesting to watch because of the two styles these teams play with on offense. But I believe the Roadrunners have enough firepower to win in a close game.
UTSA quarterback Owen McCown has thrown for 990 yards, nine touchdowns, and four interceptions on a 63% completion rate. Running back Robert Henry Jr. has rushed for 666 yards and seven touchdowns.
I think those two have stellar games against Rice at home. I also think the Owls will put up some points in an attempt to keep up, but I think UTSA will prove to be just a little bit better.
