Seawolves Deliver Shutout Win in New Conference Debut

Forced turnovers, recovered fumbles, a record-setting punt and more. Stony Brook's first game of the season – and first-ever as a Colonial Athletic Association competitor in football – was full of memorable moments.

The Seawolves defeated Rhode Island on Saturday, 24-0, on the strength of a good all-around game.

"I thought all three phases of today's game were outstanding. We controlled field position and the defense made some plays," head coach Chuck Priore said in a statement. "You can't understate the importance of forcing three turnovers. Rhode Island was going to commit nine guys in the box to defend our running game and it was up to us to attack it."

Among the highlights: The Stony Brook defense forced three Rhode Island turnovers, and in the first half held Rhode Island to all of 13 yards rushing. Senior Reuben Johnson recovered two fumbles and forced another, while sophomore Naim Cheeseboro recorded nine tackles. Quarterback Lyle Negron finished at 12 of 19 for 186 yards and a touchdown and totaled 65 yards rushing. Nick Ferrara recorded a Stony Brook record with a 68-yard punt. 

Up next for Stony Brook: The Seawolves take on Buffalo, an FBS school, on Sept. 14 at 3:30 p.m. (to be televised on Time Warner Cable Sports and ESPN3; to be broadcast via Champions Radio 96.9 and 107.1 FM).