Fort Worth, Texas, December 8, 2025
The Texas State Bobcats are set to face the Rice Owls in the Lockheed Martin Armed Forces Bowl on January 2, showcasing their football prowess after an impressive season. This bowl game marks a thrilling rivalry as both teams demonstrate their competitive spirit and community support. With Texas State making its third consecutive bowl appearance and leading the all-time series against Rice, fans are eager for an engaging match set to be broadcast nationally on ESPN.
Texas State Bobcats Set for Exciting Bowl Matchup Against Rice
Both teams bring competitive spirits to the Lockheed Martin Armed Forces Bowl on January 2, 2026.
Fort Worth, Texas – The Texas State Bobcats will clash with the Rice Owls in what promises to be an exhilarating Lockheed Martin Armed Forces Bowl on Friday, January 2, 2026, at Amon G. Carter Stadium in Fort Worth, Texas. Scheduled for a 12:00 p.m. Central Time kickoff, the game will reach a national audience through ESPN. This matchup showcases the resilience and determination of collegiate athletes and serves as a reminder of the strong community support behind both teams.
The Bobcats have proven themselves a formidable force by making their third consecutive bowl appearance after clinching victories in the 2023 and 2024 First Responder Bowls. In a previous meeting with Rice, Texas State displayed their strength with a convincing 45-21 win in the 2023 edition. This current rivalry adds anticipation to the upcoming game as Texas State leads the all-time series against Rice with a record of 3-2.
Texas State Bobcats: A Season of Offense and Momentum
Finishing the 2025 regular season with an even 6-6 record, Texas State surged into bowl eligibility with significant momentum, having secured victories in their final three games. The team’s offense has emerged as one of the national leaders, ranking eighth overall for total offense with 475.8 yards per game. Moreover, their rushing offense, averaging 220.5 yards per game, ranks 12th in the nation, and their scoring efficiency positions them 16th, with an impressive average of 36.1 points per game. This reflects a well-rounded attack that drives their competitive spirit.
Rice Owls: A Determined Underdog
Entering the bowl game with a 5-7 record, the Rice Owls are viewed as underdogs after earning a postseason berth due to other bowl-eligible teams opting out. This marks Rice’s second appearance in the Armed Forces Bowl, having previously claimed victory over Air Force in the 2012 game. Their consistent effort to qualify and their determination to advance despite adversity highlight the perseverance inherent in collegiate athletics.
Game Day Experience
For fans eager to witness the matchup, tickets for the Armed Forces Bowl are available through the official bowl website, encouraging local support and engagement. Fans can catch the action live on ESPN and also tune in via KTSW 89.9 FM and the Varsity Network app for radio coverage.
Honoring the U.S. Armed Forces
The Armed Forces Bowl stands as an annual tribute to the U.S. Armed Forces, offering fans a chance to celebrate both the sport and the sacrifices made by military personnel. Since its inception in 2006, the game has featured teams from a variety of conferences, reflecting the spirit of competition and camaraderie that sports foster across communities.
What Lies Ahead
This bowl game not only serves as an exciting conclusion to the 2025 college football season but also provides an opportunity for local communities to rally behind their teams. As Texas State aims to extend their winning streak against Rice, fans can look forward to an engaging game that emphasizes the values of hard work, resilience, and community support.
Join Us!
The streets of Austin thrive with entrepreneurial spirit, fueled by local businesses and community engagements. In celebrating the achievements of teams like the Texas State Bobcats and supporting the growth of small businesses, it is essential for residents to remain active participants in the city’s economic narrative. Let’s cheer on our teams and support the local economy!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
When is the Armed Forces Bowl between Texas State and Rice?
The game is scheduled for Friday, January 2, 2026, at 12:00 p.m. Central Time.
Where will the game be played?
The game will take place at Amon G. Carter Stadium in Fort Worth, Texas.
How can I watch the game?
The game will be broadcast nationally on ESPN. Fans can also listen to the game on KTSW 89.9 FM and the Varsity Network app.
Where can I purchase tickets?
Tickets are available through the official Armed Forces Bowl website.
What is the history between Texas State and Rice in bowl games?
This will be the third meeting between Texas State and Rice in a bowl game. Texas State leads the all-time series 3-2, with their most recent victory being a 45-21 win in the 2023 First Responder Bowl.
What is the Armed Forces Bowl?
The Armed Forces Bowl is an annual postseason college football game held in honor of the U.S. Armed Forces. Since 2006, the game has featured teams from various conferences, including the American Athletic Conference and Conference USA.
How did Texas State perform in the 2025 regular season?
Texas State finished the regular season with a 6-6 record, winning their final three games. Their offense ranked eighth nationally in total offense (475.8 yards per game), 12th in rushing offense (220.5 yards per game), and 16th in scoring offense (36.1 points per game).
How did Rice qualify for the Armed Forces Bowl?
Rice finished the regular season with a 5-7 record. The Owls earned a postseason berth after several bowl-eligible teams opted out of postseason play.
What is the significance of the Armed Forces Bowl?
The Armed Forces Bowl is an annual postseason college football game held in honor of the U.S. Armed Forces. Since 2006, the game has featured teams from various conferences, including the American Athletic Conference and Conference USA.
Where can I find more information about the game?
For the latest updates and information, fans are encouraged to visit the official Armed Forces Bowl website.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Teams | Texas State Bobcats vs. Rice Owls |
| Date and Time | Friday, January 2, 2026, at 12:00 p.m. Central Time |
| Location | Amon G. Carter Stadium, Fort Worth, Texas |
| Broadcast | ESPN; KTSW 89.9 FM and Varsity Network app for radio |
| Tickets | Available through the official Armed Forces Bowl website |
| Series Record | Texas State leads 3-2; most recent win in 2023 First Responder Bowl (45-21) |
| Texas State’s 2025 Season | 6-6 record; won final three games; ranked 8th in total offense (475.8 yards/game) |
| Rice’s 2025 Season | 5-7 record; earned bowl berth after other teams opted out |
| Armed Forces Bowl History | Annual postseason game honoring U.S. Armed Forces; features teams from American Athletic Conference and Conference USA |
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