The air was electric at Mosaic Stadium this past Saturday as the Regina Rams faced off against the Laval Rouge et Or during the much-anticipated Mitchell Bowl – the national semifinal of Canadian university football. Fans from both teams filled the bleachers, their cheers echoing through the crisp autumn air, creating the perfect backdrop for what turned out to be a thrilling clash.
From the outset, it became clear this wasn't just another game. The Rams, underdogs through much of the season, had already ruffled some feathers by making it this far, and they were not about to go down without a fight. With the Rouge et Or boasting one of the most formidable records and rosters in U Sports history, the stage was set for what many had dubbed as the 'battle of giants.'
The first quarter was tightly contested, with both defenses flexing their muscles. The Rams' defense, surprisingly aggressive, managed to hold the Laval offense at bay for significant stretches. Quarterback Arnaud Desjardins and the Rouge et Or weren't able to find their rhythm right away as they faced constant pressure from the Rams’ blitzing linebackers.
Yet, the Rams' offense was also struggling to advance the ball against Laval’s scorching defense. Led by Rams quarterback, who had been pivotal throughout their playoff run, the team seemed to be on the verge of breaking through; yet, time and time again, they failed to capitalize, with both drives stalling just outside scoring range.
After what felt like ages, it was Laval who struck first. The Rouge et Or finally found their groove late in the second quarter, capping off their drive with a touchdown, and placing themselves firmly on the scoreboard. Following some miscommunication from the Rams, the opposing team’s wide receiver caught the ball and sprinted down the sideline, evading defenders the whole way.
Halftime rolled around with Laval leading 7-0, but the Rams weren't ready to give up just yet. Coach spoke to his players with fervor during the break, emphasizing the need to shake off the first half and rally together for the second. Whatever he said worked, as the Rams came back reinvigorated and ready to play.
The second half showcased the resilience of the Regina Rams. Almost immediately, the Rams orchestrated what seemed to be their best drive of the game. With pinpoint passes and solid run plays, they advanced down the field. A spectacular touchdown pass from their QB – fittingly executed under immense pressure – had the crowd on their feet, pulling the Rams within one point of the lead.
But the Rouge et Or responded swiftly, proving why they were favorites heading to this semifinal. With Desjardins finally hitting his stride, Laval mounted an impressive 85-yard drive, showcasing quick passes and powerful runs to stretch their lead again. Their offensive line played exceptionally well, giving the quarterback the time he needed to make plays happen.
By the time the clock ticked down, both teams were left exhausted, but with tension hanging palpably over the stadium. The Rams, at times, felt they were just one play away from victory, yet the clock was not on their side. With seconds to spare, the Rams launched one last assault, aiming to overturn the scoreboard. But as they raced down the field, the Laval defense stood strong, refusing to buckle under pressure.
When the final whistle blew, the score was set at 17-14, the Rouge et Or narrowly edging out the Rams. The Laval coach lauded the resolve and the heart shown by both teams, emphasizing it’s this passion for the game which makes college football so special.
Star player for the Rams, quarterback, finished the game with 28 completed passes for 356 yards and one interception. Despite the loss, he remained proud of his team's effort. “That was a great game,” he said. “We went against a great team. We showed heart, and at the end of the day, I couldn’t be prouder.”
Fans of both squads left Mosaic Stadium with memories of what was truly thrilling college football. The Rams, though they fell short, earned respect. Laval, on the other hand, advances to the Vanier Cup, one step closer to claiming their championship dreams.
