Mills’ 100-yard pick-6 lifts Rice past Wheatley in five-overtime

The Rice Raiders opened the 2026 season with a dramatic 28-22 victory over Houston Wheatley Friday, Aug. 28, at Rice Consolidated High School, needing five overtime periods and a game-winning defensive play to secure the win.

After a lightning delay pushed back the start of the game, the Raiders battled through a defensive contest that stretched well into the night.

Rice trailed 18-6 with seven minutes remaining in regulation before rallying to force overtime. After the Raiders tied the game in the fifth overtime period, Glenn Mills intercepted a Wheatley pass and returned it 100 yards for a touchdown to seal the victory.

RICE, 6 The game began as a defensive battle, with the score tied 6-6 entering the third quarter. Rice’s offense found its rhythm in the second half and began finding the end zone.

Quarterback Kor’Dae Johnson led the Raiders through the air, completing 15 of 23 passes for 100 yards and two touchdowns.

Ta’Rell Tarver was Johnson’s top target, catching six passes for 39 yards and a touchdown.

Johnson also led the Raiders’ rushing attack with 68 yards and two touchdowns on nine carries. Tarver added 65 yards on 15 carries.

Defensively, Rice limited Wheatley’s opportunities and came up with several key plays to keep the Raiders within striking distance. The defense forced and recovered a fumble before Mills delivered the decisive interception return in the fifth overtime.

The Raiders will remain at home in Week 2 when they host Hempstead and look to improve to 2-0.