Rice University’s football team will open its 2026 season at home Sept. 5, welcoming Houston Christian University to Rice Stadium for a 6 p.m. kickoff. The game marks the first meeting between the two Houston programs.
The Owls enter the season looking to build on a bowl game appearance in head coach Scott Abell’s first year at the helm. Saturday’s game will open the second season of the Abell era, with the Owls looking to carry the progress made during the offseason onto the field.
“I’m excited about this group,” Abell said. “They’ve really gelled together nicely. I think in this new world of college football, probably everybody who stands up here and talks about their team has to ask themselves that question: How have we brought the team together? And I think this group is incredibly tight. I think they’ve bonded quickly, and I think they are excited about what’s ahead for them.”
Abell said the Owls used preseason camp to build depth and reinforce the physical identity they want to carry throughout the season.
“We’ve used the word toughness a lot,” Abell said. “I can guarantee that on Saturday, we’ll be physical and we’ll be tough.”
Houston Christian enters the matchup after a 2-10 season under head coach Jason Bachtel, but the Huskies have already delivered a notable result this season. HCU opened its campaign last Thursday with a 34-28 upset victory over Southeastern Louisiana, which entered the season ranked in the FCS preseason Top 25.
For Rice senior running back Quinton Jackson, the opener also marks the beginning of his final season with the Owls. Jackson, who is transitioning to a slot role this year, said the team’s chemistry has given him confidence heading into the season.
“This is Year 5, my last year. I want to finish it the right way,” Jackson said. “I just want to win football games and try to win a championship. That’s the goal.”
The Owls will get their first opportunity to take that step Saturday night in front of the home crowd at Rice Stadium. Visit the Owls’ website to learn more or their ticket page to purchase tickets.