ORONO — Warren Smith threw for 233 yards and three touchdowns to help the University of Maine football team to a 27-21 win over Rhode Island today at Alfond Stadium.

Four players scored touchdowns, including linebacker Vinson Givans, who intercepted Rhode Island quarterback Robert Bentsen at the Rams’ 2-yard line to give the Black Bears a 27-7 lead 1:12 into the second.

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Maine running back Pushaun Brown is pulled down by Rhode Island's Michael Okunfolami, 20, and Doug Johnson in today's game at Orono. Brown ran for 103 yards and a TD in UMaine's 27-21 win. AP

But Rhode Island scored 21 unanswered points in the final 20 minutes, including a pair of touchdowns by Anthony Baskerville. Yet the Rams opted not to take the onside kick after Baskerville’s touchdown with 1:56 left in the fourth quarter, and Smith got a first down with 90 seconds left, taking a knee to run out the clock.

Pushaun Brown led the Black Bears (5-1, 3-0 Colonial Athletic Association) with 103 yards on 29 carries, and scored a touchdown. 

Bentsen, who replaced starter Steve Probst in the third quarter, finished with 158 yards on 11 for 17 passing with two touchdowns and one interception for the Rams (1-5, 0-3).

Maine plays No. 20/25 Richmond next Saturday at 3:30 p.m. at Robins Stadium in Richmond, Va.