Football named CAA champions for the first time in program history

Photo courtesy of Meg Coutts

For the first time in program history the Rhode Island Rams are Coastal Athletic Association Conference Champions, clinching it with a 35-21 win over in-state rival Bryant. 

The Rams have had multiple “signature” wins in 2024, but the one that will be the most memorable is the one where they earned their rings. Trailing 14-13 at halftime, something URI is so used to, the Rams used second-half magic to get it done again. 

This magic came specifically from sixth-year running back Malik Grant who rushed for 215 yards and three touchdowns, eclipsing the 1,000 yard mark in his single season at URI. Grant also added a receiving touchdown, scoring all four of URI’s house calls and 24 of the Rams 35 total points. 

URI struggled on Bryant’s side of the field early, as fifth-year quarterback Hunter Helms and Grant fumbled the transfer on a read-option in the Rams first drive of the game. Rhody was then held to back to back field goals, not able to get into the endzone from the Bryant eight and 21 yard lines. 

With URI struggling to convert on the opposite side of the field the Bulldogs drove down to take the lead when QB Brennan Myer found WR Drew Montez on the outside for the 11-yard score. Grant and the Rams would come down the field and get into the endzone but their newfound lead would not last long as Bryant RB Dylan Kedzior would rip a 50-yard run up the URI sideline for the score. The touchdown gave the hosts a 14-13 lead before the break. 

The Rams have used second half comebacks all season long to propel them to their 10-2 record and did it again on Saturday. The defense forced two second-half interceptions and allowed just seven points after the break to hold the Bulldogs down. 

On the opening drive of the half, Helms and Grant got the Rams down the field before connecting for a touchdown when the QB found Grant in the flat. The score gave the Rams a 20-14 lead, one they would not relinquish. 

Grant would find the endzone two more times, as the Rams would hold on for a 35-21 win and their first ever CAA conference title. The win is one of the biggest moments in URI football history, almost guaranteeing a spot in the Football Championship Subdivision playoffs, a place Rhody has not been in 39 years.

 URI will share the crown with the Richmond Spiders who went 8-0 in conference play and claimed the automatic qualifier to the playoffs last week. Rhode Island awaits their postseason fate with the FCS selection show on ESPNU at 12:30 p.m. on Sunday.