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 avenged their 19-14 loss to the Rams in the previous year’s final.
The 88th edition of the Hardy Cup featured only the second all-Saskatchewan championship matchup in over two decades and marked the first time the same teams faced off in back-to-back provincial finals. Last season, the Regina Rams had claimed their first all-Saskatchewan Hardy Cup victory in more than 20 years.
In a dramatic fourth quarter turnaround, the Huskies overcame a 24-9 deficit by scoring 16 unanswered points to seize the championship. Kicker Lucas Scott sealed the game with a crucial field goal, describing it as a dream come true moment.
Fifth-year running back Ryker Frank lauded the team’s resilience in the second half, emphasizing the importance of faith and execution in critical moments. Coach Scott Flory commended the team’s focus and ability to deliver when it mattered most.
With this victory, the Huskies are one step closer to the Vanier Cup, which will be hosted in Regina for the first time later this month. Their next challenge is the Mitchell Bowl against Queen’s University in Saskatchewan next week, with Frank highlighting the team’s work ethic and preparation for such pivotal games.
Having previously won the Hardy Cup in 2021 and 2022 but falling short in the Vanier Cup both years, the Huskies entered the postseason with a strong 7-1 record, topping the Canada West conference. 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 upcoming Mitchell Bowl is scheduled for November 15 at 2:15 p.m. CST, setting the stage for an intense showdown between the Huskies and Queen’s University.