The Texas State Bobcats (7-5) are set to face off against the Rice Owls (6-6) in an intriguing matchup. With both teams looking to cap off their seasons with a victory, this game promises to be a battle of wills as the Bobcats aim to extend their winning streak and the Owls look to defend their home turf.
Texas State vs. Rice Odds
- Moneyline: Texas State Bobcats -182 (FanDuel) / Rice Owls +155 (BetRivers)
- Spread: Texas State -4.5 (FanDuel)
- Total: 60 / Over -110 (DraftKings) / Under -110 (DraftKings)
Game Info
- Date: Tuesday, Dec. 26
- Time: 05:30 PM ET
- Location: Gerald J. Ford Stadium – Dallas, TX
- TV: ESPN
Texas State Bobcats Betting Trends
- On the road, Texas State Bobcats are 2 and 4 this season.
- Against the spread this season, Texas State Bobcats are 6 and 6.
- Against the spread on the road, Texas State Bobcats are 3 and 3.
Rice Owls Betting Trends
- At home, Rice Owls are 4 and 3 this season.
- Against the spread this season, Rice Owls are 8 and 3.
- Against the spread at home, Rice Owls are 5 and 1.
Texas State Bobcats vs. Rice Owls Predictions
The Texas State Bobcats head into the game with a slightly better record and a recent victory that they’ll be looking to build upon. The Bobcats have been known for their offensive prowess this season, racking up a notable 432 points for, although their defense has allowed 406 points against. Key players to watch include quarterback TJ Finley, who has been instrumental in their offensive success, and running back Ismail Mahdi, whose ability to create explosive plays could be a game-changer.
On the other side, the Rice Owls have had an evenly matched season with a .500 win percentage. The Owls have shown they can put up points, with 363 points for, but their defense has also been susceptible, conceding 320 points. The Owls’ recent two-game winning streak at home suggests they have momentum on their side, and they’ll be relying on their home-field advantage to give them an edge. Players like quarterback AJ Padgett will be crucial in navigating the Owls’ offense against the Bobcats’ defense.
Defensively, both teams have had their struggles throughout the season, which could lead to a high-scoring affair. The game will likely come down to which team can make the critical stops when it counts. With Texas State’s ability to create offensive explosives and Rice’s balanced attack, this matchup will be a test of both teams’ adaptability and resilience. The battle in the trenches and the performance of the quarterbacks will be pivotal in determining the outcome of this exciting contest.
Texas State Bobcats vs. Rice Owls Pick
The Rice Owls have demonstrated a strong ability to cover the spread this season, boasting an impressive 8-3 record against the spread (ATS), which is even more formidable at home with a 5-1 ATS record. This trend suggests a disciplined team that consistently performs above market expectations. Additionally, the Owls are entering this game with a two-game winning streak at home, indicating they have found a rhythm in familiar territory.
The spread of +4.5 for the Rice Owls is particularly attractive, as their offense has shown it can keep up with opponents, and their defense, while not impenetrable, has been reliable enough to keep games competitive. Given these factors, the Rice Owls are well-positioned to cover the spread in this matchup.
On the other hand, the Texas State Bobcats, while having a slightly better overall record, have an ATS of 6-6, showing less consistency in beating the expectations set by oddsmakers. Their ATS record on the road is a balanced 3-3, which does not instill the same level of confidence as the Owls’ home ATS performance. Furthermore, the Bobcats’ defense has allowed more points this season compared to the Owls, which could be a deciding factor in a game that is expected to be offensively driven.
The Pick: Rice Owls +4.5 (FanDuel)