Michael Amey Archives

The first signs of a hierarchy within the Rice football defense are beginning to form as the Owls work through the first few weeks of spring ball.

So much focus has, understandably, been given to the Rice football offense as it installs a new scheme under head coach Scott Abell. And while that has been fun to watch and filled with unexpected twists and developments, the relatively smooth deployment of the defensive scheme under first-year DC Jon Kay has begun to crystallize.

More: Spring Practice Notebook 2 — Unpacking the offense and QBs

This update digs into what potential starting roles on defense are nearly secured, which pieces are fighting for meaningful depth spots and a host of other spots still up for grabs as spring progresses.

Early contenders for First Teamers

Sorry! This part of content is hidden behind this box because it requires a higher contribution level ($10) at Patreon. Why not take this chance to increase your contribution?

Subscribe on Patreon for exclusive Rice football recruiting updates, practice notes and more.

The recent wave of 2025 Rice Football recruiting class wins marches onward. Hightower safety Michael Amey III has committed to the Owls.

The 2025 Rice Football recruiting class has added commitments from almost every position following a flurry of visits and offers in late June and early July. A true safety wasn’t among those new pledges, though. Now the class has one in the fold. Michael Amey has committed to the Owls.

Amey picked Rice over offers from Hawaii, Texas Southern, HCU, Lamar and UTRGV, among others. The Rice coaching staff hasn’t been afraid to be one of the first to extend an offer and tends to be very confident in their evaluations.

With Amey on board, the 2025 class is starting to fill out and take shape. The 247 Sports rankings, which still have yet to list a few of the Owls’ more recent commitments, including Amey, lists Rice in the top 100 classes nationally and top five in the AAC. That’s a good launching point for the program as the summer starts to wind down as we march toward the fall and the return of football.

Premium: Rice Football Recruiting Offer and Commitment Tracker

The film does a great job of showcasing Amey’s vision and instincts in the middle of the field. He has tremendous range and isn’t afraid to lower his shoulder and deliver a punishing blow when he arrives at his target. Amey is a true centerfielder who should find himself right at home in the Owls’ defensive scheme.

Become a Patron!