Florida Atlantic defeats Rice 51-49 in high-scoring football matchup

Florida Atlantic University secured a 51-49 victory over Rice in a high-scoring football game. Easton Messer led the FAU offense with 262 all-purpose yards and five touchdowns, including a record-breaking punt return for a touchdown.

Rice quarterback Gael Ochoa performed strongly in his first start, accounting for 259 rushing yards and four touchdowns, along with a 71-yard reception. The game was ultimately decided by a blocked punt for a safety by Derrick Rogers Jr. and a missed 55-yard field goal attempt by Rice in the final minute of play.

FAU quarterback Caden Veltkamp completed 29 of 37 passes for 339 yards and three touchdowns, bringing the team to a 5-2 record in the American Conference.