What Is 2015 Rhode Island Rams football team

Overview

The 2015 Rhode Island Rams football team represented the University of Rhode Island during the 2015 NCAA Division I FCS football season. Competing in the Colonial Athletic Association (CAA), the Rams were led by first-year head coach Jim Fleming, marking a pivotal transition year for the program.

The team faced a challenging schedule, balancing non-conference matchups with tough CAA opponents. Despite falling short of postseason eligibility, the season laid the foundation for future improvements under new leadership.

• First-year head coach Jim Fleming took over the program in 2015, replacing returning coach Joe Trainer, and introduced a renewed focus on discipline and team culture.
• The Rams played their home games at Meade Stadium in Kingston, Rhode Island, a venue with a seating capacity of approximately 5,100 fans.
• Overall, the team finished with a 5-6 win-loss record, including a 3-5 mark in conference play, narrowly missing a winning season.
• Key victories included wins over Wagner (31-10), Central Connecticut State (27-10), and Elon (34-20), showcasing offensive improvement late in the season.
• The season concluded with a 34-27 loss to Maine in the regular-season finale, a game that highlighted both progress and lingering inconsistencies.

Season Performance

The 2015 campaign was defined by rebuilding efforts and player development under new coaching leadership. While wins were limited, several individual performances signaled future promise.

• Quarterback Colin Ellis started multiple games and threw for 1,203 yards and 9 touchdowns, providing stability during a transitional offensive period.
• Running back Marquis Buchanan led the ground attack with 587 rushing yards and 4 touchdowns on 139 carries, becoming a focal point of the offense.
• The defense recorded 59 tackles for loss and 17 sacks, with standout performances from linebacker Bryson Bailey and defensive end Mike Kinal.
• Special teams saw kicker Cole Shelton convert 8 of 11 field goal attempts, including a long of 42 yards, contributing crucial points.
• The Rams' offense averaged 22.8 points per game, an improvement over previous seasons, reflecting offensive scheme adjustments.
• The team allowed 27.5 points per game, indicating defensive struggles against stronger CAA competition.

Comparison at a Glance

Here's how the 2015 Rhode Island Rams compared to select CAA peers in key statistical categories:

The Rams ranked near the middle of the CAA in most statistical categories. While their scoring output was competitive, defensive lapses and close losses—such as a 24-21 defeat to Towson—prevented a breakout season. The team showed growth compared to prior years, particularly in offensive execution under new coaching direction.

Why It Matters

The 2015 season was a critical step in the long-term rebuilding of Rhode Island’s football program. Though not a winning season, it established a foundation for future competitiveness in the CAA.

• The hiring of Jim Fleming brought a new culture and emphasis on accountability, which began reshaping team identity immediately.
• Player development during the season allowed younger athletes to gain experience, preparing them for larger roles in subsequent years.
• The Rams’ improved offensive output compared to 2014 demonstrated progress under new coaching strategies and play-calling.
• Competitive games against strong teams like James Madison and Richmond showed the program was closing the gap.
• Meade Stadium continued to serve as a dedicated home-field environment, supporting team morale and fan engagement.
• The season’s challenges underscored the need for depth and recruiting improvements, goals that became central in the following years.

Ultimately, the 2015 Rhode Island Rams season was a transitional chapter that set the stage for future growth. While not defined by wins, it was instrumental in laying the groundwork for a more competitive program in the years to come.