ORONO — The Maine football team will again be without starting middle linebacker Christophe Mulumba Tshimanga and strong safety Darrius Hart in Saturday’s game against Rhode Island.

Both players also missed last week’s 38-7 loss at Tulane with bruised legs, but were hopeful of making a return for the home opener.

Rhode Island, meanwhile, will be without starting tailback Harold Cooper, out with a concussion. Cooper rushed for 74 yards on 10 carries last year in a 20-14 loss to Maine.

Sophomore T.J. Anderson will replace Cooper. Anderson will be making his season debut after missing the first three games for the Rams with an ankle injury.