Houston Prepares for USF vs. Rice College Football Showdown
HOUSTON, Texas — The University of South Florida (USF) Bulls will clash with the Rice University Owls in their final regular-season game. This matchup is set to take place on Saturday, November 30, 2024, at 2:00 PM ET at Rice Stadium, home to 47,000 fans in Houston. The contest is particularly significant for the Bulls, who are looking to extend their winning streak.
Game Context and Importance
The Bulls enter the game with a record of 6-5, including a respectable 4-3 standing in the American Athletic Conference. Meanwhile, the Owls find themselves at 3-8 overall and 2-5 in conference play. Following a strong performance last week, where USF defeated the Tulsa Golden Hurricane 63-30, the Bulls are vying for their first three-game winning streak since 2018, and their first in conference play since 2017.
Recent Team Performance
The recent win against Tulsa showcased the Bulls’ potential, highlighted by impressive individual efforts. Particularly noteworthy were two key plays from freshman cornerback James Chenault and junior cornerback Ben Knox. Both players exhibited extraordinary hustle and determination during crucial moments of the game. Chenault ran down a Tulsa back, preventing a touchdown with a remarkable 70-yard chase, while Knox made an incredible play by causing a fumble that led to a turnover when he chased down a receiver who had gotten past him.
Coaching Perspective
USF head coach Alex Golesh praised both players, emphasizing that their efforts reflect the team’s ideal standards. “Super proud,” Golesh stated, underlining the importance of playing until the whistle. Following the Tulsa game, Golesh used these plays as teaching moments for the entire team, demonstrating that hard work and accountability are crucial elements of success.
A Brief History
This matchup marks the first time the pairs will face each other in Houston. The Bulls previously won their only meeting against the Owls last year in Tampa, securing a 42-29 victory. With USF leading the series 1-0, both teams are aware that every game matters, especially as they look to finish the season strong. The Bulls’ recent performances may give them a confidence boost as they aim for another victory.
Game Broadcast Information
This Saturday’s game will be broadcast on ESPN+ with David Saltzman and LaDarrin McLane calling the action. Fans can also tune in to 102.5 FM and 102.5 HD2 The Strike for live game coverage.
Looking Ahead
As this game concludes the regular season for both teams, the stakes are high for the Bulls, who have already secured a bowl bid. Meanwhile, Rice will be looking to finish the season on a high note. For USF, the focus remains on extending their winning trend and capitalizing on the lessons learned from previous games, especially the importance of every play and rooting for each other as a team.
Kickoff is set for 2:00 PM ET, and with college football fans eagerly anticipating this matchup, the atmosphere at Rice Stadium is expected to be electric. Both teams will seek to conclude their seasons positively.
