KINGSTON, R.I. — Devin Farrell achieved a personal best with 265 passing yards and three touchdown passes, leading Rhode Island to a 37-28 triumph over Monmouth on Saturday, marking their seventh consecutive victory.

Farrell connected with Marquis Buchanan for the second time just 1:17 before the game concluded, putting Rhode Island ahead 31-28. In a dramatic conclusion, Monmouth attempted a lateral play that ended with Fredrick Mallay securing a loose ball, returning it for a 7-yard touchdown that sealed the contest.

With this win, Rhode Island improved to 8-1 overall and 5-0 in the Coastal Athletic Association—a record start in conference action since the 2001 season when they also began with five consecutive victories in the Atlantic 10. Notably, the team last qualified for the playoffs in 1985.

Malik Grant contributed significantly to Rhode Island’s success, rushing for 126 yards and scoring one touchdown. Tommy Smith also made an impact, catching three passes for 60 yards, which included a crucial 29-yard touchdown reception that narrowed Monmouth’s lead to 21-17 at halftime.

For Monmouth, quarterback Derek Robertson completed 28 of 43 passes for 259 yards and two touchdowns. Robertson led the nation in passing yards per game at 322.4 and was ranked eighth in total points responsible for, with 128 for the season. His teammate Sone Ntoh, who had been leading the FCS with 18 rushing touchdowns, added two short scoring runs in the game. Additionally, Josh Derry tallied six receptions for a total of 100 yards.

In the context of their historical encounters, the previous matchup between the two teams lasted an astonishing seven overtimes, concluding with URI’s victory at 48-46 in 2022. This record-breaking game is noted as the longest ever between two FCS institutions, as well as the longest game in CAA Football history.