Rice named Davidson’s Scott Abell as the school’s 20th head football coach on Tuesday.

Abell, who will formally be introduced on Wednesday, effectively replaces Mike Bloomgren after the latter was relieved of his duties last. Associate head coach Pete Alamar assumed the interim position for the rest of the season.

“After spending time with Scott throughout this process, it was clear that we had found the right leader for our program,” Rice vice president and director of athletics Tommy McClelland said. “He has had an immediate impact on every program he has coached and is passionate about developing winners on and off the field. He is the right person to lead Rice football into a new era of success. I am thrilled to welcome Scott and his family to Rice.”

Abell, 54, posted a 47-28 record during his seven seasons with the Wildcats.

“I cannot imagine a more ideal time or fit for myself, my family, and the future of Rice Football,” Abell said. “Today begins the journey, as we pursue championships. Go Owls!”

Bloomgren, 47, posted a 24-52 record with the Owls.

–Field Level Media