Northwestern continues its non-conference schedule Saturday evening against Rice University, another academic rival consistent with out-of-conference scheduling. As similar as they are academically, the directions of the two football programs could not be more opposing. While the Wildcats look to continue their success this season, the Owls are trying to recover from last year’s 2-10 record.

Despite Rice’s perception as a weak football program, the Owls enter the game 1-1, barely squeezing out a win against North Texas, but showing remarkable moxie Week 1 against national powerhouse Texas. Northwestern must approach the game cautiously in order to avoid a Virginia Tech-like meltdown in Rice Stadium.

Offense

The star of the Owls offense is Michigan transfer and Texas native Sam McGuffie, perhaps most famous for this high school YouTube clip of him hurdling a hapless defender.

Despite splitting time with fellow running back junior Tyler Smith, McGuffie’s strength lies in his ability to catch as well. Overall, the rushing offense leaves a lot to be desired. However, Northwestern’s run defense can be susceptible to opportunistic play.

Unfortunately for the Owls, their passing attack can’t overcome the lack of an effective running game. Backup quarterback Nick Fanuzzi is filling in for an injured starter. Despite leading the Owls to a winning touchdown last week, Fanuzzi is only as good as his receivers. Tight end Luke Willson is clearly the go-to target, but if the remaining receivers can’t step up, Northwestern’s pass coverage won’t have trouble keeping Willson in check. Comparable to Wildcat slotback Drake Dunsmore, the defense should be familiar defending against a prominent tight end in practice all year long.

Defense

Rice may have issues going up against a well-stocked receiving corps and the stellar play of junior quarterback Dan Persa. Already one of the most accurate passers in Division I, Persa should have no problem keeping his reads simple and efficient behind the offensive line. The lingering issue of the running game will be given another shot at the Rice front seven, but there’s reason to remain positive; Rice has given up 4 touchdowns on the ground already this season.

Special Teams

The most consistent weapon on the Owls may be their kickers. Kicker Chris Boswell accounted for 14 points last week against North Texas, including two field goals from 50 yards out. Punter Kyle Martens has averaged 47 yards per punt, and Northwestern should prepare for a little more work on offense. Should Rice’s offense sputter in Wildcat territory or in the red zone, they can be confident that they can come away with three points from distance.