Friday’s bowl slate opens with an in-state Texas matchup as Rice meets Texas State in the Armed Forces Bowl.

Read more: College Football Schedule Jan. 1–2: Game Times, Previews, Where to Watch & Streaming Guidance

Rice vs. Texas State: How to Watch, Kickoff Time, TV Info & Armed Forces Bowl Preview
Rice vs. Texas State: How to Watch, Kickoff Time, TV Info & Armed Forces Bowl Preview

Rice vs. Texas State: Game Information

  • Date: Friday, January 2

  • Kickoff time: 1:00 p.m. ET

  • Bowl: Armed Forces Bowl

  • Location: Amon G. Carter Stadium, Fort Worth, Texas

  • TV channel: ESPN

An early-afternoon kickoff makes this an easy start to a full day of bowl games.

Where to Watch Rice vs. Texas State

Watch on TV

  • ESPN (national broadcast)

Stream the Game Live (Trusted Options)

Streaming tip: Daytime bowl games often start right on time. Open your stream 5–10 minutes early to avoid missing kickoff.

Read more: 5 Free Ways to Watch College Football (NCAAF) Without Cable: A Complete Guide

Armed Forces Bowl Setting: What Fans Should Know

Played outdoors in Fort Worth, the Armed Forces Bowl typically features:

  • Moderate winter conditions

  • Strong regional attendance

  • High energy from Texas-based fan bases

Weather can influence pace, making fundamentals and field position more important than tempo.

Team Stats & Insights (Betting-Free Analysis)

Rice: Stats & Tendencies

Season tendencies:

  • Methodical offensive approach focused on efficiency

  • Emphasis on ball control and limiting turnovers

  • Defense prioritizes keeping plays in front and forcing long drives

On-field identity:
Rice prefers structured football. The Owls are most effective when games stay close and possessions are limited.

Key insight:
If Rice controls time of possession early, it can neutralize Texas State’s athletic advantage.

Texas State: Stats & Tendencies

Season tendencies:

  • More aggressive offensive mindset

  • Willingness to push the ball downfield

  • Defense thrives when playing with a lead

On-field identity:
Texas State is comfortable playing fast and attacking mismatches. The Bobcats look to apply pressure rather than grind.

Key insight:
Early scoring helps Texas State dictate tempo and force Rice out of its comfort zone.

Read more: Top 10 Best College Football Teams in the United States of All Time

Key Matchups to Watch

  • Tempo control: Rice’s patience vs. Texas State’s aggression

  • First quarter execution: Early drives could define the game’s pace

  • Field position: Outdoor bowls often hinge on hidden yardage

Why This Bowl Game Matters

Beyond the trophy, this game offers:

  • In-state bragging rights

  • Momentum heading into next season

  • Extra practices and exposure for developing programs

For fans, it’s a clean, straightforward matchup to kick off Friday’s bowl schedule.

Quick Viewer Checklist

  • Kickoff: 1:00 p.m. ET

  • TV: ESPN

  • Streaming: ESPN App, Hulu + Live TV, YouTube TV, Fubo

  • Venue: Outdoor (Fort Worth, Texas)

  • Best for: Fans who enjoy disciplined football and regional rivalries

Bottom Line

Rice vs. Texas State in the Armed Forces Bowl is a smart, low-stress way to begin Friday’s college football viewing. With an early kickoff, national TV coverage, and contrasting styles, this game offers accessible bowl action for fans easing into the day.