Rice is preparing for Florida Atlantic by focusing on how to sustain momentum and finish key stretches—an added challenge for a young roster with limited depth and injuries. Coach Scott Abell praised FAU quarterback Caden Veltkamp’s arm, size and decision-making, while Rice’s defensive backs are emphasizing ball tracking against the Owls’ downfield passing game. The depth chart also reflects several injury-related adjustments.

By the Numbers
  • Rice’s depth chart has 1 change on offense: Colter Alberding is now the backup guard.
  • On defense, Brayden Bays remains the starting defensive tackle with Dillan Botts’ availability uncertain.
  • Caden VerMaas is listed as the backup free safety; Jordan Clark is the backup kick returner.
Yes, But

Abell sees Veltkamp as a strong, polished passer with potential to play in the NFL, but Rice’s secondary believes it can disrupt the passing game by reacting to ball placement and making plays on the ball. Rice’s tight ends also acknowledge they aren’t a heavily targeted group, so they’re focused on blocking and making the most of their chances.

State of Play
  • Rice is working to create momentum-shifting situations in practice and capitalize when opponents are vulnerable.
  • Injuries have affected depth at guard, defensive tackle and kick returner.
  • Florida Atlantic is expected to test Rice with an explosive downfield passing attack.
Bottom Line

Rice’s path against FAU hinges on turning promising stretches into sustained momentum while limiting the damage from injuries and a deep-ball threat.