The last time UTSA football and Rice University met, the Roadrunners were coming off an embarrassing road loss in their American Conference opener. A full calendar year later, coach Jeff Traylor and his team are in the exact same dire situation. With a packed conference schedule that includes contests against Tulane University, the University of North Texas and the University of South Florida, the ‘Runners are running out of “favorable” matchups.
The Paisano spoke with the sports editor at The Rice Thresher, Andersen Pickard, to discuss the pivotal week six showdown.
Who are the Owls’ top contributors this season?
AP: On the defensive side, Ty Morris has been our leading tackler in a bunch of games. In addition to being a tackler, he’s a defensive leader. He’s one of the main guys in that room that everyone gravitates to. He speaks to the media a lot, definitely knows his stuff. We also have a transfer cornerback, Khary Crump, who has made some big plays this year.
Quinton Jackson is definitely a focal point. I think Chase Jenkins, the quarterback, just naturally as well because of how the offense operates. He’s a threat both passing and running. In terms of wide receivers, it’s Drayden Dickmann and Aaron Turner, they’re both big contributors.
How has Rice progressed since last year’s win in Houston?
AP: It’s tough to say whether they’ve gotten better or worse because there’s been so much turnover in terms of the roster and the coaching staff. Bringing in the new offensive scheme this year seems to have paid dividends. I think the passing attack has taken a step back, the offensive line has gotten a little better and the rushing attack has gotten way better. I would say that the defense is probably playing on a similar level to where they were last year.
It’s hard to say whether overall they’ve gotten better or worse. Different components of the team have shifted, due to the staff changes. If this game comes down to special teams, Rice is better equipped than they have been in years past.
What is your confidence in Chase Jenkins’ passing abilities?
AP: His passing abilities are the best when he doesn’t have to pass a lot. That’s probably natural for a lot of guys who are in the run-heavy schemes. I definitely trust his passing abilities. He is a little raw there just because he’s transitioned from quarterback to receiver back to quarterback, and it’s his first year starting.
I trust him, the coaching staff trusts him and the receivers trust him. I do think the offense is at its best when the rushing game is going and they can focus on running the ball.
Where do the Owls excel? Where are they lacking?
AP: The strength of this Rice team is their rushing attack. I would say maybe one of the biggest Achilles heels is strength in the trenches. We saw that when Rice played Navy a couple weeks ago. Navy had a stronger defensive line and was able to get into the backfield quicker, blowing up some run plays early on. If UTSA has some bigger guys on the defensive line that can push their way through the offensive line and disrupt rushing attempts, I think that’s one area where Rice has struggled the most.
Who will win on Saturday and why?
AP: I do think it’ll be a close game. I’m excited to see how it goes, especially given how close last year’s game was. I’ll go with Rice in a close game. It’ll definitely come down to the fourth quarter and the final few drives. I’ll take Rice 30-28 because of the rushing attack.
UTSA will face Rice at 6:30 p.m. Saturday at the Alamodome.
