South Florida vs Rice Picks and Prediction – 11/30/2024

The South Florida Bulls (6-5) face the Rice Owls (3-8) this Saturday in an AAC matchup at Rice Stadium. South Florida is coming off a dominant 63-30 victory over Tulsa, while Rice looks to rebound after a 40-14 loss to UAB. Both teams aim to finish the season on a strong note. Dominate the college scene with our College Football picks.

The South Florida Bulls have surged late in the season, propelled by a high-powered offense averaging 416.9 total yards per game (67th nationally). Kelley Joiner leads the way with 747 rushing yards and 11 touchdowns, averaging a stellar 7.4 yards per carry. Quarterback Bryce Archie complements the run game with 145.2 passing yards per game and 8 touchdowns, though his 8 interceptions have been a concern. Sean Atkins has been a reliable target with 585 receiving yards. The Bulls rank 39th nationally in rushing yards per game (198.5), giving them a strong advantage against Rice’s vulnerable rush defense.

Defensively, the Bulls have struggled, allowing 313 points this season (212th nationally). The pass defense has been inconsistent, leaving them vulnerable to big plays through the air. Facing a Rice offense with a capable passer in E.J. Warner, South Florida’s defense must tighten up to avoid unnecessary lapses. 

The Rice Owls enter this matchup on a four-game losing streak and face challenges on both sides of the ball. Quarterback E.J. Warner averages 228 passing yards per game and has thrown 14 touchdowns, but his 13 interceptions have hampered the team’s progress. Dean Connors anchors the rushing attack with 740 yards and 9 touchdowns, providing a consistent, if unspectacular, ground game. Matt Sykes leads the receivers with 677 yards and 5 touchdowns, but Rice’s offense as a whole ranks just 198th in total yards per game (335), highlighting the inability to sustain drives.

Defensively, Rice has allowed 277 points this season (160th nationally) and struggled significantly against the run, giving up 198.5 rushing yards per game. The pass rush has been inconsistent, often leaving the secondary exposed. To compete against South Florida, the Owls will need to create turnovers and limit big plays. 

South Florida’s superior offensive balance and rushing attack, led by Kelley Joiner, should control this game. Rice’s defensive struggles and turnover-prone offense are likely to result in a decisive Bulls victory. Final Score Prediction: South Florida wins 41-21.