The UTSA Roadrunners will face off against the Rice Owls in a crucial American Athletic Conference matchup. With both teams struggling to gain traction this season, this game presents a significant opportunity for each to right the ship and build momentum heading into the second half of the season. UTSA is coming off a disappointing 30-20 loss to East Carolina, where the Roadrunners saw a halftime lead slip away due to costly turnovers and a lack of execution in the second half. Quarterback Owen McCown has been a bright spot for UTSA, throwing for over 1,000 yards on the season, but his three interceptions last week were a key factor in the defeat. Rice, meanwhile, enters the game at 1-4 after a narrow 21-20 loss to Charlotte, where they blew a 10-0 halftime lead. Quarterback EJ Warner has shown potential, passing for over 250 yards in the game and displaying good chemistry with his receivers. However, the Owls’ inability to sustain drives in the second half has been a recurring issue.

Running back Dean Connors has been a consistent performer, rushing for over 120 yards against Charlotte, and will need to be a focal point for Rice to have success against a UTSA defense that has been vulnerable against the run. For UTSA, the key to victory will be limiting turnovers and establishing a rhythm early. If McCown can settle in and avoid costly mistakes, the Roadrunners should be able to move the ball effectively against a Rice defense that has given up an average of 28.4 points per game. Rice, on the other hand, will need to focus on controlling the clock and keeping UTSA’s offense off the field. If they can lean on their running game and prevent the game from becoming a shootout, the Owls have a chance to pull off the upset at home.