Blog Article
The Rice Owls Are Entering A New Era In 2025
The Rice Owls are about to undergo their most significant transformation in recent memory.
After a disappointing 4-8 campaign in 2024 that saw a mid-season coaching change, Rice University has appointed Scott Abell as the program’s 20th head coach—a move that signals a dramatic shift in offensive philosophy and team identity. Abell, who turned Davidson College from a perennial loser into a championship contender, now faces the challenge of doing the same in the increasingly competitive American Athletic Conference.
But can his run-heavy approach succeed at Rice? And will 2025 be a year of growth pains or immediate improvement?
Let’s break it down.
Abell Brings A Winning Formula To South Main
Scott Abell isn’t just another coach looking for a bigger paycheck.
His track record of program revival is precisely what Rice desperately needs:
- At Davidson College, he transformed a program without a winning season since 2007 into a powerhouse with a 47-28 overall record
- He captured two Pioneer Football League championships and led the Wildcats to three consecutive FCS playoff appearances
- His teams led the nation in rushing offense for five straight years—a stark contrast to Rice’s 106th-ranked rushing attack in 2024
The philosophical shift couldn’t be more dramatic. While Rice averaged 252.5 passing yards per game (45th nationally) but just 110.5 rushing yards (106th) last season, Abell is bringing a ground-and-pound approach that dominated at the FCS level.
How quickly this transformation takes hold will determine the Owls’ ceiling in 2025.
A Staff Blending Old And New Creates Intriguing Mix
Abell didn’t come alone.
His coaching staff represents a strategic blend of familiar faces and fresh perspectives:
- Offensive coordinator Vince Munch follows Abell from Davidson to implement the run-heavy system
- Porter Abell (the head coach’s son) takes over as quarterbacks coach and passing game coordinator
- Defensive coordinator Jon Kay enters his third season at Rice but with a promotion from linebackers coach
- Former NFL standout Ty Warren, a two-time Super Bowl champion with the Patriots, joins as defensive line coach
This mix of continuity and new blood could help ease the transition while bringing much-needed energy to a program that has struggled to find its identity in the AAC.
The question is whether this diverse staff can quickly get on the same page and implement Abell’s vision.
The Transfer Portal Giveth And Taketh Away
Rice’s roster has been significantly reshuffled through the transfer portal, creating both opportunities and challenges.
Key Departures:
- Running back Dean Connors (780 rushing yards, 62 receptions in 2024) transferred to crosstown rival Houston
- Offensive tackle Ethan Onianwa left for Ohio State, creating a void on the offensive line
- Safety Tyson Flowers departed for Virginia Tech, weakening the secondary
Notable Additions:
- Cornerback Max Lofy brings Big Ten experience from Wisconsin to bolster the defensive backfield
- Offensive linemen Sean Sullivan (Yale) and Cole Morgan (Michigan) provide potential solutions up front
- A recruiting class ranked 103rd nationally and sixth in the AAC adds young talent, including running back Tyvonn Byars
Perhaps the most concerning departure is Connors’, particularly given Abell’s run-focused philosophy. Finding his replacement will be critical for offensive success in 2025.
Fixing The Turnover Problem Is Priority Number One
To understand why Rice struggled in 2024, look no further than the turnover column.
The Owls finished with a turnover margin of -13—dead last in college football—by committing 25 turnovers while forcing only 12. This fatal flaw neutralized a defense that performed reasonably well (364.5 yards allowed per game, 54th nationally).
Abell’s disciplined approach at Davidson emphasized ball security and mistake-free football. If he can instill these values quickly, Rice could see immediate improvement even before his offensive system fully takes root.
Imagine what even a neutral turnover margin could mean for a team that lost three games by seven points or fewer last season.
A Schedule Offering Both Challenges And Opportunities
The 2025 slate allows Rice to build momentum while testing its progress against quality opponents.
Non-Conference Games:
- August 30: at Louisiana (road test to open the Abell era)
- September 6: vs. Houston (crosstown rivalry with added Dean Connors storyline)
- September 13: vs. Prairie View A&M (potential confidence builder)
- September 27: at Navy (challenging service academy matchup)
Key AAC Games:
- September 18 (Thursday): at Charlotte (early conference test)
- October 11: at UTSA (regional rivalry)
- October 31 (Friday): vs. Memphis (prime-time opportunity)
- November 29: at USF (season finale)
Six AAC programs will introduce new head coaches in 2025, making the conference landscape unusually fluid and creating potential opportunities for the Owls to climb the standings faster than expected.
Four home games in the final six weeks could allow Rice to build momentum as players become more comfortable with the new schemes and expectations.
Realistic Expectations For Year One
Success in 2025 will not be measured solely by wins and losses.
While a bowl game would be a tremendous achievement, fans should look for these signs of progress:
- Significant improvement in turnover margin from last year’s -13 disaster
- Development of a consistent rushing attack reflecting Abell’s philosophy
- Competitive performances against established AAC powers
- Growth from younger players who fit the new system
- Victories against fellow programs also undergoing transitions
The reality is that systematic changes take time. Abell’s history suggests he can accelerate rebuilds, but patience will still be required as Rice installs a new offensive identity.
If the Owls can show progressive improvement throughout the season and establish a clear foundation for 2026 and beyond, that’s a successful first step in the program’s revitalization.
Sometimes, you have to take one step back to take two steps forward.
For Rice football, 2025 lays the groundwork for sustained success under Scott Abell’s leadership. The journey begins on August 30.
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