Rice Owls at Houston Cougars Player Props, Picks and Predictions - 9/14/2024 8:00 PM EST

We have your Rice Owls at Houston Cougars prop betting and game preview needs covered as the Rice Owls hit the road to face the Houston Cougars.

Rice Owls at Houston Cougars Odds Info

Best Moneyline Odds: Rice Owls +160 (ESPN Bet) / Houston Cougars -190 (Caesars)
Best Spread Odds: -4.0 - Rice Owls -110 (Caesars) / Houston Cougars -110 (Caesars)
Best Total Odds: 44.5 - Under -110 (FanDuel) / Over -110 (FanDuel)

Game Info

Date: 9/14/2024
Time: 8:00 PM EST
Location: TDECU Stadium (Houston, TX)
TV: ESPN+

Rice Owls at Houston Cougars Preview

The Rice Owls and Houston Cougars are set to clash in a nonconference showdown that promises to be an intriguing matchup. The Cougars, still searching for their first win of the season, are coming off a narrow 16-12 defeat against the formidable Oklahoma Sooners. Despite the loss, Houston showcased a resilient defense, limiting Oklahoma to just 249 total yards and demonstrating significant improvement in tackling, as noted by head coach Fritz. Quarterback Donovan Smith rebounded from a shaky start to the season, completing 24 of 28 passes for 260 yards and a touchdown, though he did throw one interception. Linebacker Michael Batton has been a standout on defense, recording nine tackles and two sacks against Oklahoma, and his speed and decision-making will be crucial against Rice.

On the other side, the Rice Owls are riding high after a commanding 69-7 victory over Texas Southern, a game in which they posted the third-highest point total in school history. Running back Dean Connors was a key contributor, amassing 113 yards and three touchdowns on just nine carries. However, the Owls are aware of the need for continued improvement, as emphasized by safety Tyson Flowers, who highlighted the importance of correcting mistakes to maintain their momentum. Rice's season opener saw them fall to Sam Houston, but their recent offensive explosion suggests they are finding their rhythm.

As these two teams prepare to meet at TDECU Stadium, the Cougars are slight favorites, but the Owls' potent offense could pose a significant challenge. With both teams eager to prove themselves, this matchup is poised to be a competitive and high-scoring affair, setting the stage for an exciting evening of college football.

Rice Owls at Houston Cougars Pick: Total Points Over

As we delve into the matchup between the Rice Owls and the Houston Cougars, the potential for a high-scoring affair becomes increasingly apparent. The Owls are coming off a remarkable offensive performance, having dismantled Texas Southern with a 69-7 victory. This offensive explosion, which marked the third-highest point total in Rice's history, was spearheaded by running back Dean Connors, who amassed 113 yards and three touchdowns on just nine carries. Such a potent offensive display suggests that the Owls have found their rhythm and are capable of putting up significant points against any opponent.

On the other side, the Houston Cougars, despite their 0-2 start, have shown flashes of offensive capability, particularly in their recent narrow loss to Oklahoma. Quarterback Donovan Smith demonstrated his ability to lead the offense, completing 24 of 28 passes for 260 yards and a touchdown. This performance against a formidable Oklahoma defense indicates that the Cougars have the potential to move the ball effectively and contribute to a high-scoring game.

Moreover, the Cougars' defense, while improved, has yet to fully shut down an opponent, as evidenced by their inability to close out the game against Oklahoma. This could provide Rice with opportunities to exploit any defensive lapses and add to the scoreboard. With both teams eager to prove themselves and the Owls' offense firing on all cylinders, the stage is set for a competitive and high-scoring encounter. Therefore, the over on the total points line of 44.5 appears to be a promising pick for this intriguing nonconference showdown.

Rice Owls at Houston Cougars Top Player Prop Picks

Donovan Smith Over 260.5 Passing Yards Passing Yards -110 (FanDuel)

Houston quarterback Donovan Smith has shown significant improvement since his season opener against UNLV. In the recent game against Oklahoma, Smith completed an impressive 24 of 28 passes for 260 yards and a touchdown. This performance against a strong Oklahoma defense suggests that Smith is finding his rhythm and is capable of surpassing the 260.5 passing yards mark against Rice. Given Rice's recent defensive performance, which allowed 34 points to Sam Houston, Smith has a favorable matchup to exploit and continue his upward trajectory in passing efficiency.

Dean Connors Over 1.5 Rushing Touchdowns Rushing Touchdowns +150 (Caesars)

Rice running back Dean Connors is coming off a stellar performance against Texas Southern, where he rushed for 113 yards and three touchdowns on just nine carries. His ability to find the end zone with such efficiency makes the over on 1.5 rushing touchdowns an enticing proposition. Connors' explosive play and knack for scoring will be crucial for Rice as they face a Houston defense that, while improved, has yet to completely shut down an opponent. With Connors' current form, he is well-positioned to add multiple touchdowns to his tally in this matchup.

Michael Batton Over 8.5 Total Tackles Total Tackles -120 (DraftKings)

Houston linebacker Michael Batton has been a defensive standout, recording nine tackles and two sacks against Oklahoma. His speed, quickness, and decision-making have been praised by his coach, and these attributes will be vital against a Rice offense that is coming off a high-scoring game. Batton's ability to close on opponents and make decisive plays suggests he will be heavily involved in disrupting Rice's offensive rhythm. With his current form and the expected high tempo of the game, Batton is likely to exceed the 8.5 total tackles mark, making this a strong prop bet.