North Texas Defeats Rice 52-24 to Extend Winning Streak
Jahiem White rushed for 141 yards and three scores as the Mean Green took a one-game lead in the American Conference.
By Adriana Abebe ·
North Texas defeated Rice 52-24 on Saturday in Denton, Texas, securing a sixth straight victory and placing the Mean Green one game ahead of Memphis and UTSA in the American Conference standings. The result extends the team's conference record to 5-0, while the Owls drop to 1-8 overall with their fifth conference loss.
Jahiem White carried the ball for 141 yards and three touchdowns, serving as the primary offensive threat. Tayven Jackson contributed both as a passer and a rusher, completing a 19-yard touchdown pass and scoring on a 6-yard run. Justin Stevenson hauled in five passes for 117 yards, and Brendon Haygood added a 4-yard rushing score with under two minutes remaining.
The lead expanded decisively late in the third quarter. After White’s 1-yard touchdown gave North Texas a 24-14 advantage, Zakye Barker forced a fumble that Bryce Garza recovered at the Rice 31. Five plays later, Jackson connected with Dalton Carnes on a 19-yard touchdown pass, widening the margin to 17 points.
Rice scored on each of its second-half possessions but could not overcome the deficit. Gael Ochoa threw a 36-yard touchdown pass to Will Swartz, and Tyvonn Byars ran for a 2-yard score. The Owls have lost eight consecutive games since a 31-3 win over Houston Christian in the season opener, marking their 11th straight loss against Bowl Subdivision opponents.
North Texas led 10-7 at halftime and scored on all six of its second-half drives. The Mean Green will visit UTSA next Saturday, while Rice hosts Tulane in the same timeframe.
