NORTHFIELD, Vt. – The Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute (RPI) football team ran for 244 yards and intercepted three passes to defeat Norwich University, 31-17, on Saturday at Sabine Field. With the win, the Engineers open the season at 1-0, while the Cadets begin 0-1.

After a scoreless first quarter, Norwich broke onto the board with a 30-yard field goal by junior Wesley Mederios (Gilford, NH/Charlotte Christian School), early in the second.

RPI answered with 17 straight points, beginning with a 47-yard boot by junior Christian Kapp (Amawalk, NY/Iona Prep), with 10:17 left in the quarter.

Rushing touchdowns from Johnny Ramsdell (Haverhill, MA/Haverhill) and junior Ethan Wells (Windsor, MA/Wahconah Regional), just 1:57 apart, gave the Engineers a 17-3 lead at halftime.

A 15-yard pick-six from junior Sean Egan (Watervliet, NY/Shaker) to start the third quarter gave Rensselaer its largest lead of the day at 24-3.

Norwich came right back, however, scoring two straight touchdowns to draw within a single score (24-17).

An interception by junior Bryan Hayes (Boylston, MA/Tahanto Regional) gave the Engineers terrific field position and they capitalized, scoring a two-yard run by junior Mike Tivinis (Middleton, MA/Masconomet) for a 31-17.

The RPI defense was then able to hold on a pair of fourth downs to seal the victory.

Tivinis led all rushers with 22 carries for 110 yards and a score, while Wells went for 66 yards on 10 carries and a touchdown. Sophomore Ed Trimpert (Hillsborough, NJ/Hillsborough) was 5 of 16 passing for 61 yards in his first collegiate start.  

Senior captain Alexander Greenidge (Miller Place, NY/Miller Place) had a game-high nine tackles, while five different Engineers recorded sacks.

RPI is back in action next Saturday for hits home opener against Alfred at East Campus Stadium (12pm). Norwich visits St. Lawrence next Saturday (1pm).