Villanova football shuts out Rhode Island, 44-0, improves to 6-1

Daniel Smith threw for 214 yards and two touchdowns and Jalen Jackson ran for a pair of scores as Villanova rolled over Rhode Island, 44-0, in a Colonial Athletic Association game Saturday at Villanova Stadium.

The Wildcats’ defense got in on the act too, shutting down the Rams (5-2, 3-2) by holding them to 165 yards of offense. Starting quarterback Kasim Hill was held to 4-of-13 passing for 22 yards. His replacement, Brandon Robinson, went 6 of 10 for 36 yards.

Jackson opened the scoring in the first quarter for Villanova (6-1 overall, 4-0 CAA) on a 3-yard run. He added another score on a 20-yard run late in the third quarter.

Smith’s two touchdowns came on a 5-yard pass to Todd Summers in the first and a 23-yarder to Rayjoun Pringle in the second quarter.

The final touchdown was an 8-yard run by TD Ayo-Durojaiye. Cole Bunce added three field goals of 41, 36, and 43 yards.

Also on defense, the Wildcats forced three fumbles and recovered all three. Hill also threw an interception.

Villanova outgained Rhode Island 511 yards to 165, including a 297-107 edge on the ground.

Next, the Cats host William & Mary (5-2, 3-1) at 1 p.m. Saturday