College
Tough Schedule Stands in Rice Owls' Path to a Bowl Game
The Rice Owls face a tough start and end to the 2025 schedule as new head coach Scott Abell hopes for bowl eligibility.
Rice wanted a head coach who ran a unique offense and possessed a history of success at institutions with high academic standards after firing Mike Bloomgren in the middle of last season. The Owls found just that in Scott Abell, who makes his FBS debut in 2025. He deploys a run-oriented option attack that will distinguish Rice in a state that is Air Raid heavy. Success might not come easy in Year 1 as Abell changes philosophies with a roster he mostly inherited. High school coaching legend Jon Kay was elevated to defensive coordinator. Rice hasn’t finished above .500 since 2014.
RICE OWLS
Checking your access
We're confirming your subscription. The full article will appear in a moment.