The University of Saskatchewan Huskies secured a narrow 25-24 victory over the Regina Rams in the Hardy Cup on Saturday, reclaiming the Canada West football championship and avenging their 19-14 loss from the previous year.
This 88th edition of the Hardy Cup marked the second all-Saskatchewan championship matchup in over two decades and the first consecutive provincial final between the same teams. The Regina Rams had claimed their first all-Saskatchewan Hardy Cup in more than 20 years in the prior season.
In a stunning fourth-quarter comeback, the Huskies overcame a 24-9 deficit by scoring 16 unanswered points to clinch the title. Kicker Lucas Scott sealed the victory with a crucial field goal, describing it as a dream come true moment.
Running back Ryker Frank, a fifth-year player, attributed the team’s resilience to their ability to execute under pressure, emphasizing the importance of faith and teamwork in such critical moments.
Head Coach Scott Flory commended the team’s composure in the final minutes despite facing challenges and turnovers, highlighting the necessity of making crucial plays when required.
Following this win, the Huskies are now one step closer to the Vanier Cup, which will be hosted in Regina later this month, marking the first time the game will take place in the city and only the third occurrence in Western Canada. Their next challenge is the Mitchell Bowl against Queen’s University in Saskatchewan next week.
Frank emphasized the team’s dedication and strong work ethic as vital elements in preparing for significant games like the Mitchell Bowl, ensuring they are ready for the moment when it arrives.
Having previously clinched the Hardy Cup in 2021 and 2022 but falling short in the Vanier Cup both times, the Huskies entered the postseason with an impressive 7-1 regular-season record, securing the top spot in the six-team Canada West conference.
Meanwhile, the Rams advanced to the final by triumphing over the Manitoba Bisons in a thrilling 32-29 double-overtime semifinal. The Mitchell Bowl is scheduled to take place on November 15 at 2:15 p.m. CST.