The Rice Owls’ 2021 non-conference schedule presented a wave of nostalgia for fans who remember and cherish the now-defunct Southwest Conference. Rice rekindled old ties when opening its season slate against three former conference mates — Arkansas, Houston, and Texas.
Unfortunately for Rice (0-3), all three rivalries of yesteryear resulted in disastrous fashion. But none were more disastrous than the trip to Lone Star State capital. In Austin, the Owls were severely outmatched in all facets of the game leading to a hapless 58-0 shutout at the hands of Texas (2-1). Rice has now lost 15 consecutive matchups against the Longhorns in a streak dating back to 1995.