### Texas State vs. Rice: A Showdown in the 2026 Armed Forces Bowl The 2026 Armed Forces Bowl features a compelling matchup between the Texas State Bobcats and the Rice Owls, set to take place on January 2, 2026. This game marks a significant event as Texas State prepares to join the Pac-12 Conference in the future, while Rice, despite a challenging season, aims to capitalize on their bowl opportunity. Both teams have had their ups and downs this season, with Texas State finishing at 6-6 and Rice at 5-7, making this bowl game a critical moment for both programs to showcase their potential and end the season on a high note [https://www.cbssports.com/college-football/news/texas-state-rice-prediction-odds-time-2026-armed-forces-bowl-picks-best-bets]. ### Breakdown of the Matchup and Predictions 1. **Team Performance Overview** - Texas State Bobcats: Finished the season with a 6-6 record, including a strong finish with a 49-26 victory over South Alabama [https://www.oregonlive.com/tv/2026/01/watch-texas-state-vs-rice-in-the-armed-forces-bowl-streaming-free-today-tv-channel-time-odds.html]. - Rice Owls: Ended the season at 5-7, struggling in their last game with a significant loss to South Florida [https://www.picksandparlays.net/free-picks/ncaaf/rice-owls-vs-texas-state-bobcats-picks-and-predictions-for-friday-january-2-2026]. 2. **Betting Insights** - Predictions suggest that Texas State is favored to win, with many analysts believing the point spread may be too high for Rice to overcome [https://www.thespread.com/ncaaf-articles/rice-vs-texas-state-picks-spread-too-high-in-armed-forces-bowl]. - Expert opinions indicate that Texas State's recent form gives them an edge, with expectations of a strong performance against their in-state rivals [https://www.covers.com/ncaaf/rice-vs-texas-state-prediction-picks-odds-best-bets-today-january-2-2026]. 3. **Key Players to Watch** - Both teams will rely on their star players to make impactful plays. Texas State's offense is expected to be led by their quarterback, who has shown significant improvement throughout the season [https://www.si.com/betting/rice-vs-texas-state-prediction-odds-and-key-players-to-watch-for-armed-forces-bowl-01kdtgy00fb6]. - Rice will need to rally around their key offensive and defensive players to compete effectively in this bowl game [https://www.usatoday.com/story/sports/ncaaf/2025/12/30/texas-state-rice-armed-forces-bowl-picks-predictions-odds/87953645007]. ### Statistical Insights and Predictions - **Recent Performance Metrics** - Texas State's last game: 49 points scored against South Alabama, showcasing a potent offense [https://www.covers.com/ncaaf/rice-vs-texas-state-prediction-picks-odds-best-bets-today-january-2-2026]. - Rice's last game: 3 points scored against South Florida, indicating struggles on both sides of the ball [https://www.picksandparlays.net/free-picks/ncaaf/rice-owls-vs-texas-state-bobcats-picks-and-predictions-for-friday-january-2-2026]. ### Conclusion: A Critical Bowl Game for Both Teams In summary, the 2026 Armed Forces Bowl presents a pivotal opportunity for both Texas State and Rice to conclude their seasons positively. **Texas State is favored to win**, given their recent form and overall performance metrics, while Rice will need to overcome significant challenges to compete effectively. The outcome of this game could set the tone for both programs as they look to build momentum heading into the next season. 1. Texas State's strong finish and favorable predictions position them as the likely winner. 2. Rice's struggles in their last game raise concerns about their ability to compete. 3. Key players will be crucial in determining the game's outcome, making this matchup one to watch closely [https://www.cbssports.com/college-football/news/rice-texas-state-prediction-odds-time-2026-armed-forces-bowl-picks].