Rice University is making a concerted effort to attract fans for this weekend’s crucial football game against North Texas by offering a variety of incentives, including free beer, T-shirts, and ice cream. The Owls (5-5) are set to host the No. 22-ranked Mean Green (9-1) with both teams competing for bowl eligibility. Rice is eager for student turnout at Rice Stadium, particularly given the significance of the match and the timing, as many students might be preparing to head home for Thanksgiving.
This season, Rice has averaged around 23,228 attendees per game, with a season-high attendance of 30,116 during their home opener against Houston. The promotional efforts aim to draw more students for what the university considers an all-important game, emphasizing the atmosphere of not only a highly ranked matchup but also a nationally televised event.
In order to manage alcohol consumption responsibly, there are specific guidelines in place regarding the distribution of free beer, offered only to attendees over 21 with a valid student ID. The first 500 students will also receive free T-shirts. Beer will be available through a designated kiosk behind the student section, serving only 12-ounce cans to maintain control over consumption.
Rice’s deputy athletic director for external affairs and revenue, Kevin Dwan, noted the importance of the game and the necessity to ensure a safe environment, citing an increased presence of Rice University Police to oversee the event. Fans will be limited to one beer per trip to the stand, with staff and campus police monitoring to ensure no one appears overly intoxicated.
As the Owls prepare to face the Mean Green, the combination of compelling incentives and careful management is aimed at creating an exciting and safe atmosphere for all attendees. The game promises to be a thrilling encounter as both teams vie for bowl eligibility, proving to be a significant event for Rice’s football program, its students, and its supporters.