Houston, TX
Nov 2, 2024
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In a dramatic night that extended due to a five-hour weather delay, Rice powered through to claim their first victory over Navy since 2002, winning 24-10. The game featured a heroic performance from Dean Connors, who rushed for 105 yards and scored two decisive touchdowns. Rice's magic under the astute guidance of interim head coach Pete Alamar came to life after the extended delay, as the Owls executed crucial plays that carved an early 14-point lead.
Rice's defense stifled Navy's high-powered offense, which had been averaging 46.5 points in conference play. The Owls limited the Midshipmen to just 120 passing yards and snagged two key interceptions. E.J. Warner added to the offensive spectacle with 239 passing yards, ensuring Rice's control of the game. Despite efforts by Navy's Blake Horvath to rally, Rice's well-coordinated defense and timely interceptions sealed a memorable homecoming win.
Tyson Flowers (Rice)
Began Rice's defensive domination by intercepting Blake Horvath's pass on Navy's first play, returning it to the Navy 45-yard line. This pivotal moment set up Rice's first touchdown after the delay.
Dean Connors (Rice)
Showcasing agility and determination, Connors rushed for a 4-yard touchdown immediately after play resumed post-delay, giving Rice an early lead.
Matt Sykes (Rice)
Connected with Warner on a precise 17-yard touchdown pass, extending Rice's lead to a comfortable 14-0, buoying team confidence amidst the tumultuous game conditions.
Blake Horvath (Navy)
Broke through Rice's defense with a 9-yard touchdown run, attempting to close the gap and energize a struggling Navy offense.
Dean Connors (Rice)
Secured Rice's commanding lead with a relentless 9-yard touchdown run, quelling any hopes of a Navy comeback after an 80-yard drive.
Gabriel Taylor (Rice)
Clinched the victory with a critical interception, disrupting Navy's last-ditch efforts to score and underscoring Rice's defensive dominance.
E.J. Warner (Rice, QB)
Warner showcased precision and poise, completing 28 of 40 passes for 239 yards. His ability to manage the game and secure vital completions even during adverse conditions was instrumental in maintaining Rice's momentum.
Dean Connors (Rice, RB)
Connors was the workhorse for Rice with 105 yards rushing and two touchdowns, consistently breaking through Navy's defense and setting the tone for Rice's commanding lead.
Blake Horvath (Navy, QB)
Horvath battled against a fierce Rice defense, managing to score a rushing touchdown and throw for 120 yards, but was ultimately stymied by Rice's strategic defensive plays.
Gabriel Taylor (Rice, DB)
Emerging as a defensive stalwart, Taylor not only contributed with tackles but also executed a pivotal interception that decisively ended Navy's scoring ambitions late in the game.
Tyson Thompson (Rice, KR)
Thompson's performance on special teams set Rice up with excellent field positions. With punt returns averaging 17 yards, his contributions were crucial to winning the field position battle.
Navy Midshipmen
0
7
0
3
10
Rice Owls
14
3
7
0
24
