Practice Report #17

9/13/2005 12:00:00 AM | Football

Sept. 13, 2005

Houston - Rice's team strengths may have been few in the 63-21 loss at UCLA Saturday night, but the weaknesses won't wait as the Owls prepare for second-ranked Texas Saturday night in Austin.

"We tried to work on those plays we had trouble with defensively," said head coach Ken Hatfield following Tuesday's practice. "That's the first priority, because if we don't stop them, Texas will run them all day."

The Owl egos may have been bruised by the Bruins, but Rice emerged from the game in relatively good health. Senior H-back Thomas Lott and freshman quarterback Chase Clement were back at practice Tuesday after minor injuries Saturday night.

"Sometimes, it takes a game to show you your weaknesses," said Hatfield, "but it also can show you what your strengths are."

Saturday's game will be televised live nationally on Fox Sports Net.