With the first whistle of training camp Friday morning, Rice University’s football team officially kicked off its 2025 campaign — launching a season of new leadership and rising expectations on South Main.
“It’s incredibly exciting,” said first-year head coach Scott Abell, who addressed the media before the Owls’ opening training camp session Friday morning. “For each and every one of us, this is what we work for. We wait for this time of year all year long — and especially in a new year, a new era, there’s nothing more exciting.”
The Owls’ new head coach brings more than three decades of experience and a contagious energy that’s been building on campus since his arrival.
Abell praised the team’s relentless effort and buy-in throughout the offseason.
“In my 32 years, I’m not sure I’ve ever had a group that worked as hard together creating the culture and expectations as this one,” he said. “They’ve showed up every day, and that right there gives us a shot.”
As camp unfolds over the next few weeks, Abell said he and his staff are focused on daily progress and preparation for the Owls’ season opener at the University of Louisiana at Lafayette Aug. 30.
“Our big goal is: How do we get better each day?” he said. “How do we tap in to make sure we’re at our peak when we leave camp getting ready for Week 1?”
The Owls return to Rice Stadium Sept. 6 to open their home slate against crosstown rival, the University of Houston. The following weekend, Prairie View A&M University visits for Rice’s Military Appreciation/Salute to Service game. Family Weekend (Oct. 4), Hall of Fame Weekend (Oct. 25), a Friday night Halloween clash with the University of Memphis and Homecoming (Nov. 8) highlight a packed seven-game home schedule.
As Rice football begins its next chapter, Abell says the foundation being laid in camp is critical — not just for wins this season but for the long-term culture.
“Culture is built in the everyday things — your training, your weight room, your meals together,” he said. “The fun stuff is great, but real culture is built in the good and the bad days, growing together.”
Single-game tickets for the 2025 season are now on sale, starting at $22. Season tickets and custom miniplans are also available. Fans can purchase tickets online or by calling 713-348-OWLS (6957).
To learn more, visit riceowls.com/sports/football.