CHARLOTTE — Charlotte football’s first American Conference game of the Tim Albin era ended in disappointment Thursday night with a 28-17 home loss to Rice at Jerry Richardson Stadium. Rice extended its lead early in the third quarter when Daelen Alexander capped a drive with a 13-yard rushing touchdown. Running back Rod Gainey Jr. broke free for a 37-yard gain — Charlotte’s longest rush from scrimmage — and finished with 51 rushing yards on eight carries. Running backs Quinton Jackson (80 yards) and Alexander (73 yards, two touchdowns) helped the Owls finish with three players topping 70 rushing yards. “I tip my hat to (Rice coach) Scott (Abell) and the Rice Owls,” Albin said.