Tevin Madison to Rice: Alabama Analyst Joins Scott Abell’s Staff

HOUSTON, TX – Rice University is bolstering its football program with a key addition from the ranks of college football’s elite, as the Owls prepare for what promises to be a challenging 2026 season. Scott Abell, who led Rice to a postseason berth in his inaugural year in 2025, is set to bring Alabama assistant coach Tevin Madison to Houston, according to sources familiar with the negotiations.

Madison, currently a football analyst for the Alabama Crimson Tide – a role that encompasses responsibilities as assistant defensive backs coach – is expected to take over the cornerbacks coaching position at Rice, barring any last-minute complications. His departure marks another shift in personnel for Alabama head coach Kalen DeBoer, who is navigating a period of staff adjustments following the Crimson Tide’s return to the College Football Playoff under his leadership.

The move represents a significant step in Madison’s coaching career. A former player for Texas Tech University, where he competed for three years before finishing his collegiate playing days at NCAA Division II’s West Alabama, Madison has steadily climbed the coaching ladder. His experience includes a graduate assistant role at Kansas State University, alongside positions at the Football Championship Subdivision level with Illinois State and Southeast Missouri State universities.

Abell’s arrival at Rice in 2025 signaled a new chapter for the Owls’ football program. He arrived after a successful tenure at Davidson College, an FCS school with a non-scholarship program, where he established a reputation for building competitive teams. In his first season, Abell guided Rice to a 5-5 record through the first ten games, ultimately earning a bowl berth due to a shortage of eligible teams. While the Owls ultimately fell to in-state rivals Texas State in the Armed Forces Bowl, the season was viewed as a positive step forward for the program.

The addition of Madison is particularly noteworthy given the competitive landscape of college football and the increasing importance of defensive back play. Cornerbacks are often tasked with covering some of the most dynamic and explosive players on the field, requiring a high level of skill, athleticism, and tactical understanding. Madison’s experience working with a program like Alabama, consistently a national championship contender, suggests he brings a valuable skillset to Rice.

Rice’s 2026 schedule presents both opportunities and challenges. The Owls will begin the season with a home game against Houston Christian University, an FCS opponent, providing a chance to build momentum. However, they will quickly face a significant test with a road game against Notre Dame, a program entering its fifth year under Marcus Freeman and widely considered an early contender for the 2026 College Football Playoff. The game against Notre Dame will offer a high-profile opportunity for Rice to showcase its progress and compete against one of the nation’s most storied programs.

The broader context of these coaching moves reflects the ongoing dynamics within college football. The transfer portal and increased financial incentives for coaches have led to greater staff turnover, even among successful programs. DeBoer’s situation at Alabama, following the departure of Nick Saban, has been particularly turbulent, with multiple key staff members seeking opportunities elsewhere. This trend underscores the challenges of maintaining continuity and building a cohesive program in the modern era of college athletics.

For Rice, the hiring of Madison represents a strategic investment in its football program. Abell’s vision for the Owls appears to be focused on building a competitive team through a combination of strong recruiting, effective coaching, and a commitment to academic excellence. The addition of a coach with experience at a program like Alabama could prove invaluable in attracting top talent and elevating the overall level of play.

The move also highlights the growing importance of Group of Five conferences – those outside the Power Five – in attracting coaching talent. While traditionally seen as stepping stones to larger programs, schools like Rice are increasingly able to offer attractive opportunities for coaches seeking to build their careers and compete at a high level. The success of programs like Rice, and their ability to attract experienced coaches, could further reshape the landscape of college football in the years to come.

As Rice prepares for the 2026 season, the addition of Tevin Madison signals a clear intent to build on the momentum generated in 2025. The Owls face a challenging schedule and a competitive conference, but with a strong coaching staff and a commitment to player development, they are poised to continue their ascent in the world of college football.