Result

Nelly’s Thursday AAC Knockout 10-2 NCAA RUN

Handicapper

Nelly's Sports

League

NCAAF

Competition

Rice vs Charlotte

Release Date

09/18/2025 09:22 AM

Event Date

09/18/2025 07:30 PM

Bet Type

Point Spread

Pick

Rice -2.5 (-105) (BetMGM)

Outcome

Win

Analysis

Charlotte punched in a touchdown in the final minute last season in Houston, with the PAT giving the 49ers a one-point win over Rice in the last meeting between these teams. Both programs made coaching changes as this year’s game could look quite a bit different. Both teams also played last Saturday making this a short turnaround for a Thursday night conference game. Last weekend both matchups were vs. FCS teams and Rice had a much easier time with its contest than Charlotte, with the 49ers scoring late to win 42-35 vs. Monmouth. Rice defeated Prairie View A&M 38-17, compiling 347 rushing yards. Rice is running an option offense so far this season and while the offensive returns have been modest, Charlotte has averaged just 1.7 yards per rush so far this season, third worst nationally, as a significant ground edge for the Owls looks likely. Rice’s win over Louisiana included facing the starting quarterback for the Ragin’ Cajuns for most of that game before his injury has downgraded that team while the 35-9 loss to Houston was a misleading final as it was a 7-3 game well into the second half as Scott Abell seems to have the program in a positive start to the transition and he has significant head coaching experience at the Division III and the FCS level. Tim Albin’s track record at Ohio was impressive as a two-time MAC Coach of the Year but his first season at Ohio was rough going just 3-9, including an ugly 1-7 start as it may take some time for things to head in the right direction. Appalachian State appears a bit down in their own transition season as the 34-11 loss in the opener hasn’t held up well and allowing 458 yards to Monmouth is a concern. Charlotte has seven turnovers in three games with the limited ground attack making it difficult for North Carolina transfer Conner Harrell at quarterback. Rice seems to be further along in building its identity in this pairing of AAC schools in major transitions. Thank you for playing with Nelly’s and Best of Luck.