ORONO, Maine (Interstat) — In a stunning reversal of pregame expectations, the Rhode Island Rams delivered a dominant performance to defeat the Maine Black Bears 45 to 13 on Saturday at Harold Alfond Sports Stadium.

The Rams, who entered the contest as 6.5-point underdogs according to sportsbooks, systematically dismantled the projected outcome from Interstat’s game simulator, which had forecast a Maine victory by a score of 37 to 24. Rhode Island’s win probability was calculated at just 56 percent by the ELO system, a figure the team rendered irrelevant by the end of the first half.

Rhode Island established its authority early and never relented, scoring 14 points in each of the first three quarters before adding a fourth-quarter field goal. The Rams’ offense operated with ruthless efficiency, amassing a significant lead while their defense consistently stymied Maine’s attempts to build momentum.

The Rams’ ground game was the story of the day, spearheaded by a phenomenal performance from running back Antwain Littleton Jr. The Greenbelt, Maryland, native was virtually unstoppable, carving through the Black Bears’ defense for 202 rushing yards and two touchdowns on 21 carries. His 65-yard run in the second quarter set up a score, and he put an exclamation point on his day with a 52-yard touchdown dash in the third quarter.

Complementing Littleton Jr. was fellow running back Brendon Barrow, who contributed 65 rushing yards and two touchdowns of his own, adding 75 yards on three kickoff returns.

Quarterback Devin Farrell provided a steady and effective hand for the Rams, completing 16 of 22 pass attempts for 221 yards and two touchdowns without an interception. His primary target was Marquis Buchanan, who hauled in six receptions for 138 yards and a spectacular 63-yard touchdown catch in the second quarter. Farrell also connected with offensive lineman Dontay Bishop on a 2-yard touchdown pass in the first quarter.

For Maine, the day was defined by missed opportunities and an inability to contain the Rhode Island rushing attack. Quarterback Carter Peevy of Lawrenceville, Georgia, finished 21 of 34 for 278 yards through the air, adding a rushing touchdown. He also threw one interception.

Peevy’s favorite target was Scott Woods, who caught five passes for 114 yards, including a 40-yard touchdown reception in the second quarter that accounted for Maine’s first points. Trevin Ewing added three receptions for 77 yards and was a force in the return game, amassing 83 yards on three kickoff returns.

The Black Bears’ running game never found its footing. Sincere Baines was the leading rusher with just 36 yards on 11 attempts.

Defensively, the Rams were able to pressure Peevy consistently and shut down Maine’s offensive rhythm for long stretches. The Black Bears managed only a single touchdown and a failed two-point conversion in the second half after Woods’ second-quarter score.

With the victory, Rhode Island improves its season record to nine wins and two losses, solidifying its position as a formidable force in the conference. Maine falls to six wins and five losses.

Rhode Island will look to continue its winning ways next Saturday when it hosts Hampton. Maine will aim to rebound on the road against New Hampshire.

The total points scored, 58, surpassed the sportsbook over/under line of 48.5.