Rice vs Army Picks and Prediction – 9/21/2024

The Rice Owls (1-2) head to Michie Stadium to face the undefeated Army Black Knights (2-0). Rice is coming off a tough 33-7 loss to Houston, while Army claimed a convincing 24-7 victory over Florida Atlantic. Both teams will look to make a statement in this matchup as they battle for a win. Dominate the college scene with our College Football picks.

Rice’s offense struggled in the last outing, only putting up seven points against Houston. Quarterback E.J. Warner has been inconsistent, throwing for 466 yards with 3 touchdowns but also 4 interceptions. The Owls’ ground game, led by Dean Connors, provides some balance with 197 rushing yards and 5 touchdowns so far this season. However, the offensive line needs to step up and protect Warner if Rice wants to improve its scoring output, which currently averages just 16 points per game.

Defensively, Rice has had major issues stopping opponents, allowing an average of 36 points per game. The unit struggled to contain the run against Houston, and will face a tougher challenge against Army’s potent ground attack. The Owls will have to tighten up on defense if they hope to limit Army’s offense, which thrives on ball control and clock management.

Army has started the season strong, led by quarterback Bryson Daily, who contributes both in the air and on the ground. Though not a heavy passer, Daily has thrown for 79 yards and a touchdown, and he’s added 195 rushing yards. The Black Knights’ run game is the bread and butter, with Noah Short averaging a massive 12.8 yards per carry and contributing 1 touchdown. They’ll rely heavily on the triple-option offense to wear down the Rice defense.

Army’s defense has been stout, giving up just 7 points in each of the first two games. The ability to stop the run and maintain discipline has been crucial, and they will look to maintain that success against a Rice team that struggles offensively. The Black Knights' defense has been efficient at forcing teams into mistakes, and that trend could continue against Rice’s turnover-prone offense.

Army’s ground game and disciplined defense should prove too much for a struggling Rice team. Expect Army to control the clock, keep Rice’s offense off the field, and extend the perfect start to the season. Final Score Prediction: Army wins and covers 31-10.