Fort Worth, Texas, December 8, 2025
The Texas State Bobcats will take on the Rice Owls in the Lockheed Martin Armed Forces Bowl at Amon G. Carter Stadium. This matchup highlights Texas State’s strong postseason presence, following two previous bowl wins and a resilient season finish. The game promises thrilling competition as both teams vie for victory in this annual college football event honoring the U.S. Armed Forces.
San Marcos, Texas – Texas State to Face Rice in Armed Forces Bowl
San Marcos, Texas – The Texas State Bobcats are set to play the Rice Owls in the Lockheed Martin Armed Forces Bowl on Friday, January 2, 2026, at Amon G. Carter Stadium in Fort Worth, Texas. The game is scheduled to kick off at 12:00 p.m. Central Time and will be broadcast nationally on ESPN.
Matchup Details
This bowl game marks the third consecutive postseason appearance for Texas State, following their victories in the 2023 and 2024 First Responder Bowls. The Bobcats secured a 45-21 win over Rice in the 2023 First Responder Bowl, earning their first-ever bowl victory. Texas State finished the 2025 regular season with a 6-6 record, including a 3-5 mark in the Sun Belt Conference. They concluded the season on a strong note, winning their final three games to become bowl eligible. Rice enters the matchup with a 5-7 record, finishing 2-6 in the American Athletic Conference. The Owls were selected for the bowl after several bowl-eligible teams opted out of postseason play.
Team Performance
Throughout the 2025 season, Texas State demonstrated a potent offense, ranking eighth nationally in total offense with an average of 475.8 yards per game. They also ranked 12th in rushing offense (220.5 yards per game) and 16th in scoring offense (36.1 points per game). The Bobcats’ defense improved over the latter part of the season, allowing fewer points in their final three games.
Rice’s season included a notable 37-34 double overtime victory over UConn, which finished 9-3. The Owls’ offense will look to build on this performance against a strong Texas State defense.
Coaching and Player Highlights
Texas State head coach G.J. Kinne has led the team to three consecutive bowl appearances, a first in program history. Under his leadership, the Bobcats have shown resilience and growth, particularly in their offensive performance. Rice’s head coach, Scott Abell, is in his first year with the Owls and has guided them to their third bowl appearance in the past four years. His leadership has been instrumental in navigating a challenging schedule and securing a postseason berth.
Game Information
Tickets for the Armed Forces Bowl are available through the official Armed Forces Bowl website. Fans can also listen to the game on KTSW 89.9 FM and the Varsity Network app.
Background
The Armed Forces Bowl is an annual college football postseason game that honors the U.S. Armed Forces. This year’s matchup between Texas State and Rice adds an in-state rivalry element to the game, promising an exciting contest for fans.
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 or listen to 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.
What is the history between Texas State and Rice in bowl games?
Texas State and Rice have met twice in bowl games. In the 2023 First Responder Bowl, Texas State defeated Rice 45-21, earning their first-ever bowl victory. This upcoming game will be their second postseason matchup.
How did Texas State perform in the 2025 regular season?
Texas State finished the regular season with a 6-6 record, including a 3-5 mark in the Sun Belt Conference. They concluded the season on a strong note, winning their final three games to become bowl eligible.
What is the Armed Forces Bowl?
The Armed Forces Bowl is an annual college football postseason game that honors the U.S. Armed Forces. This year’s matchup between Texas State and Rice adds an in-state rivalry element to the game, promising an exciting contest for fans.
Key Features of the Armed Forces Bowl Matchup
| 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 |
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