“`html
KINGSTON, R.I. — In a thrilling first round of the FCS playoffs, Malik Grant showcased an impressive performance with 223 rushing yards, leading Rhode Island to a 21-17 victory over Central Connecticut on Saturday.
With this win, the Rams are set to advance to the next round, where they will face seventh-seeded Mercer (10-2) next Saturday at noon Eastern. This victory marks a program record, as Rhode Island now boasts 11 wins this season (11-2), achieving a milestone by making their first playoff appearance since the 1985 NCAA I-AA playoffs.
Senior Tommy Smith, who has played both quarterback and tight end during his time with the Rams, made significant contributions. He scored twice, including a crucial 6-yard touchdown run out of the wildcat formation, which broke a tie with just 9:42 left on the clock. This touchdown was set up by a 23-yard punt return from Shawn Harris Jr., bringing the ball to the CCSU 32-yard line.
Despite a solid effort from the Blue Devils (7-6), which included advancing to the Rams’ 4-yard line, their drive stalled when Brady Olson was sacked for a 10-yard loss on third down. Jack Barnum added a 32-yard field goal with 4:47 remaining, narrowing the gap, but the Blue Devils didn’t regain possession until just 43 seconds remained. On their first play back, Olson’s pass was tipped by Carson Primrose, leading to an interception by lineman Wesley Neal Jr.
Grant came close to reaching a personal milestone, finishing just 5 yards short of his career high with 29 carries, and he recorded a career-long run of 75 yards. Hunter Helms contributed with an 18-of-28 passing performance for 208 yards, including a 38-yard touchdown pass to Smith, but also threw one interception.
On the other side, Olson completed 11 of 23 passes for 148 yards, tossing two touchdowns to Isaac Boston while also throwing three interceptions. Elijah Howard managed to accumulate 101 rushing yards on 19 carries, providing a solid ground game for the Blue Devils.
Emmanuel Gomes made an impactful play with a 41-yard interception return for a touchdown, giving the Rams an early lead of 14-0. At halftime, the score stood at 14-7. The Blue Devils managed to tie the game late in the third quarter when Olson found Boston for a 6-yard touchdown pass, leveling the score at 14-all.
“`
