Rice Owls vs Charlotte 49ers Prediction, Odds and Picks for Thursday, 09/18/25

The Rice Owls hit the road for Jerry Richardson Stadium in the Queen City to take on the Charlotte 49ers in an American Conference matchup. The Owls opened the season with a 14-12 win on the road against Louisiana as a 10-point underdog. While they’re 0-2 against the spread (ATS) in the past two games, Rice lost a tough 35-9 battle against crosstown rival Houston, before bouncing back with a 38-17 win over Prairie View A&M at home. However, the Owls missed covering as an 28-point favorite. Still, the Owls are playing with a lot of confidence, and they have a respectable defense, unlike the 49ers right now.

The 49ers scored a 42-35 win over Monmonth of the FCS, but while a victory is nice, Charlotte allowed an FCS quarterback to throw for 410 yards. Monmouth total 458 yards and 28 first downs against Charlotte, too, having their way in the stadium of the 49ers. Charlotte was also sloppy, turning it over three times, while forcing zero turnovers. If the 49ers play like that against the Owls, they’re going to get their doors blown off. Charlotte is 0-2 SU/ATS in two games against FBS opponents, averaging 7.0 PPG, while allowing 27.0 PPG. Expect more of the same Thursday.

Rice -3.5 (-110) at time of publishing. Playable to -5.5.