The University of Saskatchewan Huskies secured a narrow victory over the Regina Rams with a score of 25-24 in the Hardy Cup, clinching the Canada West football championship and seeking redemption for last year’s 19-14 loss.
This year’s 88th Hardy Cup marked only the second all-Saskatchewan championship matchup in over two decades and the first consecutive provincial final between the same teams. The previous season, the Regina Rams had claimed their first all-Saskatchewan Hardy Cup in more than 20 years.
In a remarkable fourth-quarter turnaround, the Huskies, trailing 24-9, orchestrated a thrilling comeback by scoring 16 unanswered points to claim the title. Kicker Lucas Scott sealed the victory with a crucial game-winning field goal, emphasizing its significance in the Huskies’ season.
Running back Ryker Frank, a veteran player in his fifth year, credited the team’s resilience for the second-half surge, highlighting the importance of faith and execution under pressure.
Coach Scott Flory commended the team’s composure in the closing minutes, acknowledging the challenges faced and the necessity of making critical plays when required.
Following this triumph, the Huskies are now one win away from reaching the Vanier Cup, scheduled to take place in Regina later this month, a historic moment as it marks the first time the game will be hosted in the city and only the third occasion in Western Canada. Their upcoming challenge is the Mitchell Bowl, where they will meet Queen’s University in Saskatchewan next week.
Frank emphasized the team’s strong work ethic and culture as pivotal elements in preparing for significant events like the Mitchell Bowl, highlighting the importance of consistent effort and readiness for crucial moments.
While the Huskies had previously clinched the Hardy Cup in 2021 and 2022, their Vanier Cup dreams were dashed in both years. With a dominant 7-1 record in the regular season, finishing atop the Canada West conference, the Huskies entered the postseason with confidence.
On the other hand, the Rams secured their spot in the final by triumphing over the Manitoba Bisons in a thrilling 32-29 double-overtime semi-final. The Mitchell Bowl is set to take place on November 15 at 2:15 p.m. CST.
