NC A&T gets first win behind defense, freshman kicker, beating Rhode Island 22-18

GREENSBORO, N.C. (AP) — Kevin White had a short touchdown run and the defense turned one of four turnovers into a touchdown as North Carolina A&T upset Rhode Island 22-18 on Saturday night for its first win of the season.

The Rams, ranked No. 19 in the Stats Perform Football Championship Subdivision poll, outgained the Aggies 398-303 in total offense, had a 24-13 margin in first downs and a 10-minute advantage in time of possession.

But Donavan Frederick forced a fumble when he sacked Rhode Island quarter Tyler Budge on a third-and-10 from the A&T 14-yard line and Tyrek Brown scooped up the loose ball and raced 69 yards to make it 22-3.

The Rams scored on their next two possession to pull within four but after reaching the Aggies' 14, a holding penalty and an interception by Kamari Blankumsee ended the threat with five minutes to go.

On their final possession, starting at 1:34, the clock ran out as they reach midfield.

Freshman Asher Holland kicked field goals of 21, 31 and 41 yards for the Aggies (1-4, 1-1 Coastal Athletic Association) and White had a 2-yard touchdown run for a 15-3 lead at the half.

Frederick had 13 tackles, 10 solo, a sack, three tackles for loss, broke up three passes and forced a fumble to lead the defense.

Terrence Campbell ran for 85 yards and a touchdown for Rhode Island.

Up next

Rhode Island: Home against Brown next Saturday.

North Carolina A&T: At Bryant next Saturday.

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