UConn Huskies vs. Rice Owls 10/07/23 – The gridiron will be ablaze as the beleaguered UConn Huskies, struggling at 0-5, square off against the seemingly resurgent Rice Owls at 3-2 on the season. Set in the backdrop of Rice Stadium, this Saturday evening clash is primed to be an exhibit of raw determination versus consistent performance. With each game, teams not only battle their opponents but also the pundits, striving to defy the odds. And as the latest NCAAF picks would have it, this game has its share of intriguing narratives.
UConn Huskies vs. Rice Owls
Date & Time: Saturday, October 7, 2023 at 5:00 PM ET
Location: Rice Stadium
TV: ESP+
UConn Huskies vs. Rice Owls 10/07/23 Betting Odds
| Team | Moneyline | Spread | Total |
| UConn | +285 | +9.5 (-108) | 48 over (+105) |
| Rice | -355 | -9.5 (-112) | 48 under (-125) |
UConn Huskies Analysis
Offensively, the Huskies lean heavily on quarterback Ta’Quan Roberson. With 755 passing yards, Roberson has shown moments of brilliance. However, his completion rate of 57.4% suggests there’s room for improvement. Victor Rosa, in the running department, brings a touch of optimism with his 310 rushing yards, offering the Huskies an avenue when the aerial route looks constricted. Rosa’s impressive 5.4 yards per rush attempt indicates his capability to find gaps in the defense. Brett Buckman, albeit with just 261 receiving yards, can’t be overlooked, given his potential to come alive during tight situations.
Defensively, Connecticut’s record is a tale of concerns. Their struggle is not just on paper but has also been visibly palpable on the field. With a concerning 0-7 SU in their last seven games, their defense seems to have difficulty holding off aggressive offenses. As they head into Rice Stadium, adjustments are paramount. Tightening their defensive coverages and capitalizing on turnovers might give them the edge they so desperately seek.
Rice Owls Analysis
The Owls, offensively, find their talisman in quarterback JT Daniels. Boasting 1,469 passing yards, Daniels stands as the bastion of Rice’s offensive play. His 62.4% completion rate, complemented by his impressive 163.2 passer rating, encapsulates his significance to the team. On the ground, while Dean Connors’ 138 rushing yards may seem understated, it offers Rice a balanced offensive approach. The standout star, however, is Luke McCaffrey. With 414 receiving yards and averaging a whopping 18 yards per reception, he’s the go-to man for Daniels, especially when the Owls are looking for big plays.
On the defensive front, Rice’s stats suggest a blend of solidity and vulnerability. Despite the team’s commendable 4-1 ATS in their last five games, there’s a sense that the Owls can be breached, particularly when facing teams with potent passing games. Their last nine games, with a record of 3-6 SU, further spotlight these defensive frailties. Rice’s key will be to nullify UConn’s offensive threats early and exert pressure on Roberson, potentially forcing errors.
UConn Huskies vs. Rice Owls Against the Spread
UConn’s betting trends seem to mirror their struggles on the field. With a 2-5 ATS in their last seven games, the Huskies appear to be a risky proposition for many bettors. Their record, especially on the road with 1-13 SU in their last 14, further cements this narrative.
Conversely, Rice seems to be a safer bet, at least statistically. Their impressive 4-1 ATS in the last five games offers bettors a semblance of assurance. However, their 5-15 SU record in October games serves as a cautionary note.
UConn Huskies vs. Rice Owls Free Pick
Based on odds, trends, team stats, and key players, here are the picks:
Moneyline: Rice -355
Given Rice’s superior form and UConn’s struggles, the Owls seem the more logical pick.
Spread: Rice -9.5 (-112)
Despite UConn’s desperation, Rice’s offensive prowess led by Daniels makes them favorites to cover the spread.
Total: 48 under (-125)
Given UConn’s offensive inconsistencies and Rice’s sometimes stout defense, an under seems likely.
Predicted Score: Rice Owls 31, UConn Huskies 16
Wrapping up, while the Huskies will be desperate to turn their season around, the Owls, playing at home, seem poised to extend their winning streak. For those looking to wager on this game, checking out Canadian sportsbook offerings might yield additional insights and lucrative odds.
