The University of Saskatchewan Huskies clinched a narrow 25-24 victory over the Regina Rams on Saturday, reclaiming the Hardy Cup and securing the Canada West football championship. This win served as redemption for last year’s 19-14 defeat. It was the 88th Hardy Cup, featuring only the second all-Saskatchewan championship matchup in over twenty years and the first consecutive provincial final between the same teams. The Regina Rams had previously won their first all-Saskatchewan Hardy Cup in more than two decades in the previous season.
In a thrilling fourth quarter, the Huskies found themselves trailing 24-9 before launching an impressive comeback, scoring 16 consecutive points to seize the title. Kicker Lucas Scott sealed the victory with a crucial field goal, marking a pivotal moment in the Huskies’ season.
Fifth-year running back Ryker Frank described the team’s second-half resurgence as a testament to their resilience and unwavering belief in each other. Coach Scott Flory commended the team’s focus during the decisive moments of the game, emphasizing the importance of making critical plays when needed.
Following this victory, the Huskies are now one win away from advancing to the Vanier Cup, set to take place in Regina later this month. Their next challenge is the Mitchell Bowl, where they will face off against Queen’s University in Saskatchewan next week. Frank emphasized the team’s dedication, work ethic, and collective mindset as crucial elements in preparing for significant matchups like the Mitchell Bowl.
The Huskies, who previously secured the Hardy Cup in 2021 and 2022 but fell short in the Vanier Cup both years, entered the postseason with an impressive 7-1 regular-season record, claiming the top spot in the Canada West conference.
On the other hand, the Rams secured their spot in the final by triumphing over the Manitoba Bisons in a dramatic 32-29 double-overtime semi-final showdown. The Mitchell Bowl is scheduled to take place on November 15 at 2:15 p.m. CST.