Rice vs. Charlotte Picks and Predictions for Thursday, September 18, 2025
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The Rice Owls visit Jerry Richardson Stadium in Charlotte on Thursday to play the Charlotte 49ers at 7:30 PM ET on ESPN. Rice sits 2–1 after beating Prairie View and Louisville, while Charlotte is 1–2 with its only win coming against Monmouth. Follow all the college football action with our expert college football picks
Rice Preview
Rice has used its ground game more than its passing attack. Quinton Jackson leads with 213 rushing yards on 46 carries, averaging 4.6 yards per rush. Daelen Alexander adds 149 yards on 32 attempts at 4.7 per rush. QB Chase Jenkins has been efficient, completing 73% of his passes, but he has thrown for only 182 yards with one TD and one interception. The Owls’ offense focuses on running the ball and avoiding mistakes.
On the other side, Rice’s defense has been steady. Linebacker Ty Morris has 18 tackles, and edge rusher Michael Daley has 1.5 sacks, giving the Owls a balanced attack. While Houston’s power exposed them earlier this season, this matchup is more favorable. If Rice holds firm on early downs and forces Charlotte to rely on its passing game, it should keep control of field position and clock.
Charlotte Preview
Charlotte has struggled to move the ball on the ground, averaging just 1.7 yards per carry. CJ Stokes leads the way with 96 rushing yards on 32 attempts, but there has been little push from the offensive line. That puts more weight on quarterback Conner Harrell, who has 664 passing yards with four touchdowns and two interceptions. E. Jai Mason has been the bright spot, hauling in 16 catches for 284 yards and three touchdowns, giving Harrell a reliable option.
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Defensively, Charlotte has not created much havoc for opposing offenses. The 49ers have five sacks but no interceptions through three games. Safety Ja’Qurious Conley leads with 20 tackles, showing effort in the secondary, but the lack of pressure up front has allowed opponents to control tempo. To compete with Rice, Charlotte needs more stops on early downs and to have at least one takeaway.
Rice vs Charlotte Prediction
Rice should control the game with its rushing attack and defensive strength, while Charlotte’s lack of a run game forces it into tough situations. Expect a lower-scoring matchup, with Rice coming away with the win on the road. Final Score Prediction: Rice Owls win and cover ATS 24-12.
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Best Picks
- Rice Owls -5.5
- Under 43.5
