PAWTUCKET, R.I. (Interstat) — Tyler Budge threw two touchdown passes and Mitchell Garner returned an interception 30 yards for a score as Rhode Island beat Elon 31-10 on Saturday, Sept. 12, 2026, in an NCAA Football Championship Division game and Coastal Athletic Association opener at Centreville Bank Stadium. Rhode Island, playing at home, broke open a tight game after Elon led early. Luke Barnes made a 46-yard field goal for the Phoenix, while J. Hamel connected on a 51-yard field goal for the Rams. T. Campbell scored on a 1-yard run, and Garner’s pick-6 helped Rhode Island secure the win. Ty Groff added extra points. Rhode Island improved to 2-1, and Elon fell to 2-1. The Phoenix next host Sacred Heart on Sept. 19, while Rhode Island visits Stony Brook. Elon had opened the season with wins over Glenville State and Davidson. Rhode Island had beaten Merrimack and lost at Temple. The Rams’ defense helped secure the home win.