Rhode Island’s football team delivered a statement performance last weekend, routing Merrimack 34‑7 and cementing its place among the nation’s top FCS programs.
Rising in the polls
The Rams now sit at No. 6 in the Stats Perform Top 25 and No. 8 in the AFCA Coaches poll, reflecting a swift ascent that has caught the attention of both analysts and rivals.
Their next test arrives on Saturday when they travel to face Temple, a matchup that could further solidify their upward trajectory.
The poll movement was not isolated to Rhode Island. Elon University, coming in at 1‑0, garnered votes in both the Stats Perform and AFCA rankings after opening its season with a win.
Monmouth University, also 0‑1, received votes despite a loss, highlighting the competitive nature of the conference.
Meanwhile, the Phoenix squad, which dismantled Glenville State 31‑7, is set to host Davidson on Saturday, while Sacred Heart Hawks, after a 38‑14 defeat to Tennessee Tech, prepare for their CAA opener.
UAlbany, fresh off a 28‑14 victory over UNH, climbed into the Stats Perform Top 25 and will now head to Buffalo, while Maine’s 21‑18 road win at Towson earned them a spot in the AFCA poll.
Campbell, fresh from a 49‑37 triumph over ETSU, entered the AFCA rankings and is slated to meet Appalachian State next, a game that could test their newfound momentum.
Looking ahead
The convergence of strong early results and upcoming conference battles suggests that the CAA may see several teams break into the national conversation, making the remainder of the season a pivotal stretch for all involved.