Rice sits at 120th in GIE ratings after a dominant 31–3 win over Houston Christian in Week 1, though the rating held steady heading into this week—a signal the model views that result within expected parameters for the Owls' talent level. The real test arrives immediately: a road trip to Notre Dame in Week 2 presents the kind of step up in competition that typically reshuffles perceptions fast. GIE projects Rice to win roughly 4.2 games this season, and the playoff window remains sealed shut. Third-down conversion rates of 31% and a red-zone touchdown rate of 21% suggest Rice's offense has room to tighten execution when margins compress against elite defenses.