The Houston Cougars and Rice Owls will meet in Week 2 of the 2025 college football season. This game is set to take place on Saturday, September 6, at Rice Stadium in Houston, TX. Fans can catch the action on ESPN+ starting at 7:00 PM.
Both teams enter this matchup with a 1-0 record. The Cougars dominated their season opener against Stephen F. Austin Lumberjacks with a 27-0 victory at home. Meanwhile, the Owls secured a 14-12 win on the road against the Louisiana-Lafayette Ragin’ Cajuns.
As for the betting odds, the Cougars are favored with a moneyline of -601 and a spread of -14.0. The Owls carry a moneyline of +438, with the game’s total set at 39.5 points for both the over and under. This matchup promises to highlight the strengths of both teams early in the season.
Rice vs Houston At a Glance
- Game Time: Saturday, September 6, 2025 at 7:00 PM
- Location: Rice Stadium in Houston, TX
- TV Channel: ESPN+
- Houston Cougars Record: 1-0
- Rice Owls Record: 1-0
- Betting Odds: Houston -601, Rice +438
Rice Owls Ready to Soar in Upcoming Game
Offensive Strategy
Rice’s offensive performance has been a mixed bag so far this season. With only 45 passing yards in their last game, they currently rank 138th in passing yards. The Owls will need to focus on improving their aerial attack to support their ground game.
On the other hand, Rice’s rushing game has shown promise, with 209 rushing yards that rank them 38th. This ground dominance was key in their narrow victory against Louisiana-Lafayette. Expect the Owls to lean on their rushing attack to control the tempo of the game.
Defensive Prowess
Rice’s defense has been a bright spot, allowing only 12 points in their opening game, ranking them 8th in points against. They excelled in pressuring the quarterback, registering 3 sacks to secure a top-5 ranking in that category. Their ability to disrupt opposing offenses will be vital for continued success.
Additionally, Rice’s defense forced key turnovers, including one interception and one fumble recovery. These takeaways were instrumental in their recent win and will be crucial in future games. The defense’s ability to capitalize on opponent mistakes could set the tone for their season.
Key Players to Watch
Quarterback Chase Jenkins will be under the spotlight, looking to improve his passing output from the last game. Though he had only 45 passing yards, Jenkins will aim to leverage his experience and lead the offense more effectively. The Owls will rely on his leadership to orchestrate scoring drives.
Running back Quinton Jackson has been a standout performer, rushing for 119 yards and scoring a touchdown. His explosive running style and vision make him a key asset for the Owls’ offensive strategy. Jackson’s performance will likely be a determining factor in their offensive success.
Betting Trends
- SU All Games: 1-0 (100.0%)
- SU as Underdog: 1-0 (100.0%)
- SU in Away Games: 1-0 (100.0%)
- ATS All Games: 0-1 (0.0%)
- ATS as Underdog: 0-1 (0.0%)
- O/U All Games: 0-1 (0.0%)
The Houston Cougars Roar into Week 2: A Preview of the Upcoming Away Challenge
Houston’s Season Opener
The Houston Cougars kicked off their 2025 season with a commanding 27-0 victory over Stephen F. Austin Lumberjacks. This win set the tone for their defensive prowess, shutting out their opponents and showcasing their ability to control the game from start to finish.
On the offensive side, the Cougars displayed a balanced attack with 152 passing yards and 191 rushing yards. Their ground game proved to be effective, ranking them 48th in rushing yards this season.
Offensive Performance
Houston’s offensive performance in their season opener was solid, with a total of 27 points scored. Their passing game, led by quarterback Conner Weigman, totaled 152 yards, placing them 96th in the national rankings.
In terms of rushing, the Cougars gained 191 yards, ranking them in the top 50. This balance between passing and rushing will be crucial as they prepare for their next game.
Defensive Standout
The Houston defense was exceptional, not allowing any points against Stephen F. Austin. Their ability to pressure the quarterback was evident, with 2 sacks ranking them 6th in the nation.
Interceptions were another highlight for the Cougars’ defense, with 2 recorded in their opening game. This ranks them 3rd nationally, indicating a strong secondary that opponents will need to be wary of.
Key Players to Watch
Quarterback Conner Weigman had a strong showing with 159 passing yards and 3 touchdowns, ranking him as the top performer for the Cougars. His efficiency will be vital as Houston aims to continue their winning streak.
On the ground, running back Dean Connors led the team with 50 rushing yards. His performance will be crucial in keeping the Cougars’ offense balanced and effective.
Betting Trends
- SU All Games: 1-0 (100.0%)
- ATS All Games: 1-0 (100.0%)
- O/U All Games: 0-1 (0.0%)
The Cougars have shown they can perform well as favorites, both straight up and against the spread. However, their recent games have gone under the total points line, reflecting their strong defensive capabilities.
Rice vs Houston Prediction: Over 39.5
Analyzing the offensive capabilities, Houston is averaging 27 points per game this season. Their passing game is their weaker point, but their rushing attack is ranked 48th, which could be effective against Rice’s defense. This suggests that Houston can contribute significantly to the total score.
Rice, on the other hand, has shown a solid rushing game with 209 yards, ranked 38th, which could challenge Houston’s defense. With Rice’s offense scoring 14 points last game, they have the potential to add enough points to push the total over the set line.
Considering the defensive stats, Houston’s defense was impressive last game, but they played an opponent with less offensive power. Rice’s defense ranks 8th in points against, yet Houston’s balanced offense might find a way through.
Given these factors, the total of 39.5 seems achievable. A projected score of Houston 28 – Rice 14 would put the total at 42, covering the over comfortably.
- Rice vs Houston Prediction: Over 39.5
- Rice vs Houston Score: Houston 28 – Rice 14
