University of Rhode Island Press Release KINGSTON, R.I. – On the heels of leading Rhode Island Football to its first conference title since 1985, head coach Jim Fleming has been named a finalist for the 2024 Eddie Robinson Award, presented by Stats Perform. The award, established in 1987 and now in its 38th season, is named for legendary Grambling State coach Eddie Robinson and given annually to the national coach of the year in Division I FCS Football. In his 11th year at the helm, Fleming led the Rams to the 2024 CAA Football Championship crown as well as a program-record 10 regular season victories. The wins match the URI record for total wins in a season, first set in 1984 and matched in 1985. Rhode Island has now strung together five consecutive winning seasons for the first time in the history of the football program. The team previously put together four from 1982-85. Additionally, Rhody’s win over UAlbany (Nov. 16) secured its first unbeaten regular season at home (6-0) since 1985. Statistically, Fleming’s Rams are among the nation’s best in winning percentage (second), defensive touchdowns (ninth), sacks allowed (11th), team tackles for loss (14th), team sacks (18th) and red zone defense (18th). Fleming and the Rams received an at-large selection as the No. 10 seed in the FCS Championship field and will host Central Connecticut on Saturday, Nov. 30 at Noon. Tickets are available HERE. All 13 FCS leagues are represented by an Eddie Robinson Award finalist. The winner, to be selected by a national voting panel, will be announced on Dec. 5 and honored at the Stats Perform FCS National Awards Banquet on Jan. 4 in Frisco, Texas. Categories: College Sports, Sports Tags: Jim Fleming, University of Rhode Island, URI Rams