BIRMINGHAM, Ala. — Jalen Kitna connected for two touchdown passes, while Lee Beebe Jr. contributed two rushing scores as UAB triumphed over Rice with a convincing score of 40-14 on Saturday.

The match began with both teams trading touchdowns, with two each occurring in the first quarter. UAB (3-8, 2-5 in the American Athletic Conference) took control of the game when Jonah Delange successfully kicked two field goals, followed by a remarkable 99-yard interception return for a touchdown by Adrian Maddox just before halftime, giving UAB a solid lead of 27-14. Rice (4-7, 3-4) had made significant progress down to the 3-yard line, but Maddox intercepted E.J. Warner’s pass with only six seconds left in the half, thwarting the Owls’ scoring attempt.

Beebe showcased an impressive performance, rushing for a personal best of 161 yards on just 16 carries, which included a notable 48-yard touchdown run. Kitna completed an efficient game, going 18-of-23 passing for 174 yards. Corri Milliner was one of the standout receivers for the Blazers, making six catches for 90 yards, one of which was a 45-yard touchdown reception.

For Rice, quarterback E.J. Warner ended the game with a tally of 28 completions out of 49 attempts for 222 yards, along with one touchdown and three costly interceptions.

The outcome of the match enhances UAB’s standings while leaving Rice to reflect on their performance as the season progresses.