USports Football Roundup

[jerrym]

There was a thread with this title under Other Sports Room, but now that this exists it seems more appropriate here.

[jerrym]

The 2021 U Sports championship game will be played at Laval University on December 4th.



SPORTS is proud to announce that Université Laval in Québec City has been awarded the right to host the 56th Vanier Cup championship on Saturday, December 4, 2021 at TELUS-Université Laval Stadium.
The date of this year’s game was pushed back by one week to accommodate a hopeful safe return to conference regular season and playoff play across the country amidst ongoing impacts from COVID-19.
The 2021 edition of the Vanier Cup will be broadcast in English by CBC Sports and in French by TVA Sports in addition to being available on both broadcasters’ digital platforms.
https://usports.ca/en/sports/football/m/news/2021/06/870040115/56th-vanier-cup

[jerrym]

Below are the important dates for the OUA.



Ontario University Athletics (OUA) is pleased to announce the 2021 regular season football schedule, set to commence on September 18.

Key Dates
Training Camp Start | September 3, 2021

Regular Season Start | September 18, 2021

Regular Season End | October 30, 2021

Championship | November 20, 2021

Condensed from the usual eight-game schedule over the span of a nine-week regular season, the adjusted 2021 campaign will feature six games per school across a seven-week span.
https://usports.ca/en/sports/football/m/news/2021/07/1442669480/oua-announces-football-other-schedules-for-2021-22-season

[jerrym]

The RSEQ schedule and regulations governing Covid are described below.



After more than 18 months of inactivity, the RSEQ is proud to announce the schedule of the Quebec University Football League for the 2021-22 season. League play will begin on August 28, 2021.

The launch of the season, however, is conditional on Quebec's public health guidelines with respect to COVID-19, with input from the minister of education.

Thanks to the partnership with TVA Sports through 2023, the television network will present a total of 11 games, including one playoff semifinal and the Dunsmore Cup, which is scheduled for November 13, 2021.
https://usports.ca/en/sports/football/m/news/2021/06/3930379793/rseq-2020-21-university-football-season-other-sports-launched

[Mocha]

Below are the important dates for the OUA.

https://usports.ca/en/sports/football/m/news/2021/07/1442669480/oua-announces-football-other-schedules-for-2021-22-season

I haven't been to a USports game in decades. Maybe it's high time to get back to one (or a few). Any Ottawa-based fans here frequent Gee-Gees or Ravens games?

Here's a direct link to the OUA schedule: https://oua.ca/calendar.aspx?path=football


(https://oua.ca/calendar.aspx?path=football)

[jerrym]

Former ten year veteran Edmonton LB AJ Gass, who was later its ST coordinator, has signed with the University of Alberta.

[jerrym]

There was a record 208 U Sports football players on CFL teams as the CFL season starts.



The six-team Canada West conference leads the way with 87 players on CFL rosters, followed by the 11-team OUA (61). The Quebec-based RSEQ, a five-team league since Bishop's departed in 2017, has 47 players listed and the five-team AUS has 15.

In total, 25 of 27 U SPORTS football programs will be represented in the CFL this summer. The University of Calgary once again leads all U SPORTS institutions with 22 former Dinos on CFL lineups. They are one of seven schools to hit double digits, along with McMaster (17), the Montreal Carabins (16), Laval (15), Wilfrid Laurier (15), Guelph (11) and Western (10).

The Montreal Alouettes open the new campaign with a CFL-high 31 former Canadian university players within their ranks, followed by Ottawa (28), Calgary (27), Toronto (24), Hamilton (23), Saskatchewan (22), Edmonton (20), Winnipeg (20) and British Columbia (13).

The 2021 U SPORTS football season gets under way on Aug. 28 with Montreal visiting Sherbrooke in the RSEQ opener and culminates on Dec. 4 with the 56th edition of the Vanier Cup championship in Quebec City.
https://usports.ca/en/sports/football/m/news/2021/08/3392010684/record-208-u-sports-alumni-on-cfl-opening-day-rosters

[jerrym]

Two of the four Canadians named to the Senior Bowl watchlist played at least partly in U Sports football.



Linebacker Jesse Luketa, offensive tackle Dontae Bull, and defensive linemen Tavius Robinson and Mohamed Diallo are hoping to be the next set of Canadians to use the all-star showcase as a springboard to NFL stardom. ...


Ottawa’s Jesse Luketa is the biggest name among the potential 2022 crop. The former four-star recruit ascended to a starting role at linebacker with Penn State in 2020, also being named a team captain. The athletic six-foot-three, 247-pound linebacker made 59 tackles, 2.5 tackles for loss and three pass deflections in nine games last season, while adding a fumble recovery.




Hailing from Victoria, Dontae Bull is hard to miss on the offensive line for Fresno State. The six-foot-seven, 326-pound left tackle has started all 14 games he’s played over the last two season, blocking for the Mountain West’s best offence. He is one of just two Bulldogs to make the list.

An improbable story, Tavius Robinson was playing for his hometown Guelph Gryphons, registering 8.5 sacks in 2019, before electing to transfer to Ole Miss once U Sports canceled its 2020 football season. The six-foot-seven, 245-pound edge defender became an instant starter in the SEC, finishing with 18 tackles, 1.5 tackles for loss and a sack.

The 19th overall pick by the Hamilton Tiger-Cats in the the 2021 CFL Draft, Toronto’s Mohamed Diallo rounds out the watchlist Canadians in impressive fashion. A first-team All-MAC selection while playing for Central Michigan in 2020, racking up 19 tackles, 9.5 tackles for loss and three sacks in just four games. The six-foot-four, 305-pound wrecking ball opted to enter the transfer portal after the season and has not yet announced a new home, though the Senior Bowl has him listed as attending the University of Arizona.
https://3downnation.com/2021/08/12/four-canadians-named-to-2022-senior-bowl-watch-list/

[OV Argo]

Q season started: Montreal beat Sherby (Carabins new starting QB - Jon Senecal - getting a lot of hype as a superb young QB talent); and Laval at home barely beat McGill (? - big surprise ?)

[Mocha]

McGill beat Sherbrooke in what looks like a close match. I see from the game log that Senecal didn't play. Maybe injured? His replacement put up some solid numbers at least.

Laval beat Concordia easily.


I notice on the schedule out west that Regina is playing a preseason game against Alberta in Medicine Hat. Google says a few such games have been held there in recent years. I wonder if there's any push there for their local college to become a USports school.

[OV Argo]

[QUOTE=Mocha;154934]McGill beat Sherbrooke in what looks like a close match. I see from the game log that Senecal didn't play. Maybe injured? His replacement put up some solid numbers at least.

Laval beat Concordia easily.

************************************************** ***********************************************
Senecal is with the Carabins who had the bye this week.

Got to see some of the Laval/Concordia game as I added TVA Sports (French TV) who carry a Q game pretty well every week i think (?); Laval won by a bunch but the first half Concordia easily competed with them. Laval might not have the horses / talent they usually have to dominate ?

[Mocha]

Ahh, my bad about Senecal.

Note to self: McGill and Montreal are not the same school.
:ohno:

And good idea to add TVA. I'll have to wait a bit longer to see some USports action on some of the live streams.

[Mocha]

Did you catch the Laval game yesterday? Judging from the boxscore, it looks like INTs were their undoing.

[OV Argo]

Did you catch the Laval game yesterday? Judging from the boxscore, it looks like INTs were their undoing.


Historic win by Sherby; they had lost all 32 of their games (26 reg. season & 6 play-offs) against Laval in the 2 teams (fairly short ) history.

I watched a good part of the game - Sherby QB & receivers looked good and a young RB showed great speed to reel-off a 60 some yard TD run. Sherby DBs had a couple of nice picks, This game was more entertaining than a bunch of CFL games i have seen this season.


Concordia beat Montreal too ! - wowzers, some parity in the Q that has seen Laval & Montreal dominate for years now; again - doesn't seem like Laval have all the all-star players throughout their line-up like they have had in the past to dominate.

[jerrym]

Here is the first edition of the CFL Scouting Bureau report of the top U Sports projects in the Top 20 for the 2022 draft.




The CFL Scouting Bureau, comprised of CFL scouts, as well as player personnel directors and general managers from the league’s nine clubs, releases its rankings three times each year: in the fall, winter and spring.


RANK
NAME
POS.
SCHOOL
HOMETOWN
PROGRAM


7
Jalen Philpot
WR
Calgary
Delta, B.C.
Arts


8
Tavius Robinson
DL
Ole Miss/Guelph
Guelph, Ont.
Multi-disc. Studies


9
Tre Ford
QB
Waterloo
Niagara Falls, Ont.
Rec. & Leisure


12
Tyrell Ford
DB
Waterloo
Niagara Falls, Ont.
Rec. & Leisure


13
Zack Fry
OL
Western
London, Ont.
Social Sciences


14
Peter Kozushka
OL
Alberta
Yorkton, Sask.
Business


15
Tyson Philpot
WR
Calgary
Delta, B.C.
Arts


18
Adam Machart
RB
Saskatchewan
Saskatoon, Sask.
Kinesiology


19
Jayden Dalke
DB
Alberta
Leduc, Alta.
Business


20
Noah Zerr
OL
Saskatchewan
Lagenburg, Sask.
Kinesiology






https://usports.ca/en/sports/football/m/news/2021/09/3674695033/cfl-scouting-bureau-hec-crighton-nominees-ford-machart-headline-10-u-sports-products-of-fall-top-prospects-list

[Mocha]

Lookout Laval and Calgary, U of T is tied for first!

OUA standings after Week 1:

OUA West



GP
W
L
Win %
Last 10
Streak
PF
PA
PTS


Laurier (https://universitysport.prestosports.com/sports/fball/2021-22/schedule?team=Laurier)
1
1
0
1.000
1-0
Won 1
37
6
2


Waterloo (https://universitysport.prestosports.com/sports/fball/2021-22/schedule?team=Waterloo)
1
1
0
1.000
1-0
Won 1
42
14
2


Western (https://universitysport.prestosports.com/sports/fball/2021-22/schedule?team=Western)
1
1
0
1.000
1-0
Won 1
41
13
2


Guelph (https://universitysport.prestosports.com/sports/fball/2021-22/schedule?team=Guelph)
0
0
0
0.000
0-0
-
0
0
0


McMaster (https://universitysport.prestosports.com/sports/fball/2021-22/schedule?team=McMaster)
1
0
1
0.000
0-1
Lost 1
13
41
0


Windsor (https://universitysport.prestosports.com/sports/fball/2021-22/schedule?team=Windsor)
1
0
1
0.000
0-1
Lost 1
14
42
0






OUA East



GP
W
L
Win %
Last 10
Streak
PF
PA
PTS


Queen's (https://universitysport.prestosports.com/sports/fball/2021-22/schedule?team=Queen%27s)
1
1
0
1.000
1-0
Won 1
18
6
2


Toronto (https://universitysport.prestosports.com/sports/fball/2021-22/schedule?team=Toronto)
1
1
0
1.000
1-0
Won 1
11
10
2


Carleton (https://universitysport.prestosports.com/sports/fball/2021-22/schedule?team=Carleton)
1
0
1
0.000
0-1
Lost 1
6
18
0


Ottawa (https://universitysport.prestosports.com/sports/fball/2021-22/schedule?team=Ottawa)
1
0
1
0.000
0-1
Lost 1
10
11
0


York (https://universitysport.prestosports.com/sports/fball/2021-22/schedule?team=York)
1
0
1
0.000
0-1
Lost 1
6
37
0

[jerrym]

CBC will be the exclusive USports championships broadcast in English through 2025.



SPORTS and CBC Sports announced Monday a four-year agreement that will see the public broadcaster become the exclusive English-language digital home of U SPORTS National Championships.
Under the deal, CBC Sports will be the home of all U SPORTS National Championships broadcasts in English through the 2024-2025 season. Digital coverage can be accessed on cbcsports.ca (https://www.cbc.ca/sports) the free CBC Gem (https://gem.cbc.ca/) streaming service and the CBC Sports App for iOS (https://itunes.apple.com/ca/app/cbc-sports/id1001665907) and Android (https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=ca.cbc.android.sports&hl=en) devices.

U SPORTS also announced Monday that CBC Sports will be the English television home of the 56th Vanier Cup (https://usports.ca/en/championships/vanier-cup/m/news/2021/06/870040115/56th-vanier-cup) at Université Laval’s TELUS-UL Stadium on Dec. 4.
https://usports.ca/en/sports/football/m/news/2021/09/3972092418/cbc-sports-becomes-exclusive-english-language-digital-broadcaster-of-u-sports-through-2025

[jerrym]

Bombers #1 draft pick Kyle Borsa led Regina Rams to a 34-21 victory over #1 ranked Calgary Dinos.

https://3downnation.com/2021/10/02/blue-bombers-draft-pick-rb-kyle-borsa-leads-university-of-regina-to-first-ever-win-over-no-1-ranked-team/

[Mocha]

Updated OUA standings:


OUA West



GP
W
L
Win %
Last 10
Streak
PF
PA
PTS


Waterloo (https://universitysport.prestosports.com/sports/fball/2021-22/schedule?team=Waterloo)
3
2
1
0.667
2-1
Lost 1
91
60
4


Western (https://universitysport.prestosports.com/sports/fball/2021-22/schedule?team=Western)
3
2
1
0.667
2-1
Won 1
98
52
4


Guelph (https://universitysport.prestosports.com/sports/fball/2021-22/schedule?team=Guelph)
2
1
1
0.500
1-1
Lost 1
35
35
2


McMaster (https://universitysport.prestosports.com/sports/fball/2021-22/schedule?team=McMaster)
2
1
1
0.500
1-1
Won 1
47
54
2


Windsor (https://universitysport.prestosports.com/sports/fball/2021-22/schedule?team=Windsor)
2
1
1
0.500
1-1
Won 1
28
54
2


Laurier (https://universitysport.prestosports.com/sports/fball/2021-22/schedule?team=Laurier)
3
1
2
0.333
1-2
Lost 2
65
78
2






OUA East



GP
W
L
Win %
Last 10
Streak
PF
PA
PTS


Queen's (https://universitysport.prestosports.com/sports/fball/2021-22/schedule?team=Queen%27s)
3
3
0
1.000
3-0
Won 3
83
24
6


Toronto (https://universitysport.prestosports.com/sports/fball/2021-22/schedule?team=Toronto)
2
1
1
0.500
1-1
Lost 1
22
45
2


Carleton (https://universitysport.prestosports.com/sports/fball/2021-22/schedule?team=Carleton)
3
1
2
0.333
1-2
Lost 1
53
54
2


Ottawa (https://universitysport.prestosports.com/sports/fball/2021-22/schedule?team=Ottawa)
3
1
2
0.333
1-2
Won 1
36
58
2


York (https://universitysport.prestosports.com/sports/fball/2021-22/schedule?team=York)
2
0
2
0.000
0-2
Lost 2
23
67
0







Ottawa was able to beat Carleton in the Panda game in front of 15,000 fans.

It's looking like Queen's might be a lock for first in the East.

[OV Argo]

Queens looking like a powerhouse team this season: 5 & 0 with 142 points scored / 32 allowed.

A bunch of veterans on the team, including the QB and tailback position; kicker and some D stars.

5 guys named to the East-West Bowl (not played due to Covid) as CFL draft prospects.

[Mocha]

I watched a bit of their game tonight vs Ottawa. It was close for a while, but Queens pulled away in the 4th. Nice to see Michael Soles' son get some carries as a FB late in the game. He's a second year player, so will probably be featured more in the next few seasons.

Amateur production values on the broadcast, but one aspect I love about USports games is the flow: no challenges, no video reviews, no commercial stoppages. Keeps viewers from flipping channels (or tabs) all the time.

[AngeloV]

Amateur production values on the broadcast, but one aspect I love about USports games is the flow: no challenges, no video reviews, no commercial stoppages. Keeps viewers from flipping channels (or tabs) all the time.

I've streamed a lot of OUA games too, and notice that depending on where the game is being played, the production value changes. Western for example, had a great production value. Probably because of the stadium they can place their main camera in a better position, and it makes a huge difference.

[OV Argo]

I watched a bit of their game tonight vs Ottawa. It was close for a while, but Queens pulled away in the 4th. Nice to see Michael Soles' son get some carries as a FB late in the game. He's a second year player, so will probably be featured more in the next few seasons.

Amateur production values on the broadcast, but one aspect I love about USports games is the flow: no challenges, no video reviews, no commercial stoppages. Keeps viewers from flipping channels (or tabs) all the time.


TVA Sports' production of Q Conference game of the week = superior to TSN broadcasts of CFL games, IMO

[Mocha]

TVA Sports' production of Q Conference game of the week = superior to TSN broadcasts of CFL games, IMO

Interesting. I don't think I've ever seen one of their broadcasts. I'll have to track one down someday soon.

[OV Argo]

U Sports play-offs coming soon.

Interesting season - a bunch of surprises maybe - like Queens going undefeated; or the Dinos losing a few games

Final 4: i'll bet on - StFX (rookie QB having some great games); Montreal (killed Laval earlier); Sask Huskies (some real vet key players - a few CFL draft picks still in the line-up); and in the OUA - a real toss-up between Queens & Western - Queens have a vet QB; a real good RB and a super tough D; Western rolling with a rookie QB i think (?), but have their usual dominant ground game (Queens will host the Yates if they win the OUA East - love to go to that game in Kingston)

Vanier = in Quebec City - I'll go with Montreal vs. Queens - in what could be a great game.

[j-ski]

U Sports play-offs coming soon.

Interesting season - a bunch of surprises maybe - like Queens going undefeated; or the Dinos losing a few games

Final 4: i'll bet on - StFX (rookie QB having some great games); Montreal (killed Laval earlier); Sask Huskies (some real vet key players - a few CFL draft picks still in the line-up); and in the OUA - a real toss-up between Queens & Western - Queens have a vet QB; a real good RB and a super tough D; Western rolling with a rookie QB i think (?), but have their usual dominant ground game (Queens will host the Yates if they win the OUA East - love to go to that game in Kingston)

Vanier = in Quebec City - I'll go with Montreal vs. Queens - in what could be a great game.

I will go with Montreal vs Western

[OV Argo]

I will go with Montreal vs Western


Western/Queens = a potential great Yates? Though i really doubt Western are going to run all over that Queens D like they did to some weak OUA teams; and Western have a young QB and no real proven receiver threats; Queens OTOH have a veteran QB, and an outstanding RB, a real tough D, and, would be playing at home ...

[jerrym]

U Sports Rankings

https://usports.ca/uploads/cis/Top_10/2021-22/nov_16/TOP_10_FB_WK9.png
https://usports.ca/en/sports/football/m

[Mocha]

Well, StFX is the only undefeated team remaining, but they'll likely fall to Western next week.

I don't know who to pick when Montreal hosts Saskatchewan.

[OV Argo]

Well, StFX is the only undefeated team remaining, but they'll likely fall to Western next week.

I don't know who to pick when Montreal hosts Saskatchewan.

I fear Western will blow-out FX with their big power run game; but maybe X have some surprises - on D and with a real good rookie RB & QB

Huskies / Carabins should be a great game IMO; not sure who to pick either, but Montreal at home with a week's rest ... Huskies are loaded with vet talent including some CFL draft picks and other all-stars. Carabins rookie QB Senecal looks real good though.

[AngeloV]

This Churchill Bowl is an embarrassment. If this is the best the AUS has to offer, then Usport needs to go to a two tiered system for football. I've felt this way for a long time. The difference between the top teams in Canada and the rest is just too high. This is why looking at a players Usport stats are often misleading in terms of relating to the pro level. Too many teams that are just not competitive enough.

[Mocha]

This Churchill Bowl is an embarrassment. If this is the best the AUS has to offer, then Usport needs to go to a two tiered system for football. I've felt this way for a long time. The difference between the top teams in Canada and the rest is just too high. This is why looking at a players Usport stats are often misleading in terms of relating to the pro level. Too many teams that are just not competitive enough.

Yeah, it would be so awesome if USports could somehow pull off the Nothern 8 conference idea that was floated a few years ago.

All of Western's players look good in this game, but that RB Wanadi especially looks like he could make the CFL in a few years. Mark Lee keeps comparing him to Jesse Lumsden, and you can see why by the way he plays.

Oh well, hopefully the Uteck Bowl will be more competetive.

[OV Argo]

Sad to see such a blow-out, but FX are way over-matched talent wise, and their coaching staff made it worse with nothing in terms of schemes or play-calling to help.

Is what it is these days with the AUS a weak sister, but they still deserve a chance to compete IMO; and I've been watching long enough to recall Saint Mary's being a dominant team that won Vaniers - in a couple of stretches; another such program could sill arise there and FX have those all-star rookies at QB & tailback to look forward to.

And BTW - there are a lot of big mismatches and blow-outs in US college ball; Alabama slaughtering teams by 60 some points; I wonder if some down there call for some programs to fold or be kicked out of a chance to compete.

[Mocha]

Sad to see such a blow-out, but FX are way over-matched talent wise, and their coaching staff made it worse with nothing in terms of schemes or play-calling to help.

Is what it is these days with the AUS a weak sister, but they still deserve a chance to compete IMO; and I've been watching long enough to recall Saint Mary's being a dominant team that won Vaniers - in a couple of stretches; another such program could sill arise there and FX have those all-star rookies at QB & tailback to look forward to.

And BTW - there are a lot of big mismatches and blow-outs in US college ball; Alabama slaughtering teams by 60 some points; I wonder if some down there call for some programs to fold or be kicked out of a chance to compete.

The Northern 8 proposal from a few years back would allow for the best teams to play each other more often, without calling for programs to fold or be kicked out of a chance to compete.

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Northern_8#Selection_of_teams

https://lfpress.com/2015/02/10/oua-football-schedule-doesnt-include-interlocking-games-just-yet

[Mocha]

Anyhow, time for Saskatchewan at Montreal. This one should be much more competetive.

[AngeloV]

Sad to see such a blow-out, but FX are way over-matched talent wise, and their coaching staff made it worse with nothing in terms of schemes or play-calling to help.

Is what it is these days with the AUS a weak sister, but they still deserve a chance to compete IMO; and I've been watching long enough to recall Saint Mary's being a dominant team that won Vaniers - in a couple of stretches; another such program could sill arise there and FX have those all-star rookies at QB & tailback to look forward to.

And BTW - there are a lot of big mismatches and blow-outs in US college ball; Alabama slaughtering teams by 60 some points; I wonder if some down there call for some programs to fold or be kicked out of a chance to compete.

Alabama slaughters teams in lower divisions that take the payday. They only beat Arkansas by a TD last week. Why must you try and justify the fact that USport has had teams that can’t compete for years now?
Yes, St Mary’s used to be really good. That was at a time when Ontario wasn’t offering any type of scholarships to athletes. They are now, and the result is that some of the best Ontario players are no longer heading east to play. AUS has been horrible for years now. Why do you think Bishop’s joined?

[argolio]

I wonder if some down there call for some programs to fold or be kicked out of a chance to compete.Definitely. The idea of the so-called power five conferences (65-70 schools) forming their own division or even completely leaving the NCAA has been floated for years.

[Mocha]

It does seem a bit unfair that OUA teams only have a 1 in 11 shot at a bowl game, while AUS and RSEQ teams have a 1 in 5 shot.

[OV Argo]

What an outstanding Uteck; Huskies gut out a late win but the Carabins blew it with lots of yardage but missed scoring chances. Carabins run closer to a CFL offence - more pass reliant - with Calvillo as OC. Huskies have a big O-line (kept the QB clean when Montreal usually gets lots of pass rush pressure) and paved the way for an excellent RB in Machart.

Western vs. Sask. = should be a great match-up IMO; 2 similar sort of veteran teams with huge O-Lines and strong ground games; I think Western's D might be stronger though; but Nyhus a vet QB vs. Mustangs rookie QB could be the difference ?

[OV Argo]

Alabama slaughters teams in lower divisions that take the payday. They only beat Arkansas by a TD last week. Why must you try and justify the fact that USport has had teams that can’t compete for years now?
Yes, St Mary’s used to be really good. That was at a time when Ontario wasn’t offering any type of scholarships to athletes. They are now, and the result is that some of the best Ontario players are no longer heading east to play. AUS has been horrible for years now. Why do you think Bishop’s joined?


If you don't like the AUS, then just skip the play-off game they are in and watch the other games. I'd love to see all competitive games but weak teams happen in football - take a look at the 9 team CFL this season with 2 brutal/dumpster fire teams - how many $hite games with them did i get to watch this year - but i still watch all the games. Why do guys like you constantly find ways to cut-down Canadian football? Were you whining and crying when St. Mary's pummeled all the other conferences in Vaniers in the past ?

[AngeloV]

If you don't like the AUS, then just skip the play-off game they are in and watch the other games. I'd love to see all competitive games but weak teams happen in football - take a look at the 9 team CFL this season with 2 brutal/dumpster fire teams - how many $hite games with them did i get to watch this year - but i still watch all the games. Why do guys like you constantly find ways to cut-down Canadian football? Were you whining and crying when St. Mary's pummeled all the other conferences in Vaniers in the past ?

Refresh my memory. When did St Mary’s beat another conference champion by 50+ points and lead 51-3 at half time? Like I said, the top players from Ontario stopped going out east to play their University ball. I don’t crap on Canadian football. I love it. I go out aJF watch York or UofT at least once a year. I’m just more honest about it than you care to be. It’s been a problem for years. Too many teams have no chance before the game even starts.

[OV Argo]

Refresh my memory. When did St Mary’s beat another conference champion by 50+ points and lead 51-3 at half time? Like I said, the top players from Ontario stopped going out east to play their University ball. I don’t crap on Canadian football. I love it. I go out aJF watch York or UofT at least once a year. I’m just more honest about it than you care to be. It’s been a problem for years. Too many teams have no chance before the game even starts.

Yeah - I know you love Canadian football.

Wonder what you'd say though if I opined that both the RedBlacks & EE franchises got suspended for next season; till they prove they can put together competitive football teams, rather than the $hite they put out this season, and not produce embarassing CFL games ? The CFL would be better off , for a year anyways, with just 7 teams and more competitive games? Same sort of thing you're suggesting IMO.

And BTW Saint Mary's slaughtered the Manitoba Bisons, by 30 points or so (40 something to 16 ?), in one of their powerhouse team Vanier wins; and that was a National Title game, not a semi-final. Should CanWest have been given a year off to get their act together back then ? And you should check some AUS rosters before you believe they can't attract some good players from other parts of the country. FX has several guys from the Calgary area including their all-star rookie QB; and the Atlantic provinces can still produce their own good football talent - like that rookie all-star tailback Bussey (they should have used him way more earlier today before the game got out of hand); or their all-star OT McKellar (recruited at Div I Rice before he returned home to play at FX) who will be CFL drafted next.

[jerrym]

It does seem a bit unfair that OUA teams only have a 1 in 11 shot at a bowl game, while AUS and RSEQ teams have a 1 in 5 shot.

I have to agree especially when ST FX was 7-0 facing obviously weak opposition but then goes down 61-6 against Western.

[OV Argo]

Anyhow, time for Saskatchewan at Montreal. This one should be much more competetive.

It was; an outstanding down to the wire game with the Huskies scoring a last second TD on a great run by their all-star tailback Adam Machart (who the Argo scouts should be looking at to draft perhaps); Argo draft pick Sam Baker made some nice grabs to help the Huskies get the win.

Montreal coulda/shoulda won though IMO; blew numerous scoring chances.

[Mocha]

It was; an outstanding down to the wire game with the Huskies scoring a last second TD on a great run by their all-star tailback Adam Machart (who the Argo scouts should be looking at to draft perhaps); Argo draft pick Sam Baker made some nice grabs to help the Huskies get the win.

Montreal coulda/shoulda won though IMO; blew numerous scoring chances.
I agree. It seemed like Montreal had carried the play for the most part, but just couldn't finish.

I'm looking forward to the battle of run games in the Vanier, though. Machart shows incredible will to just keep gaining yards, but Western has three backs who are all highly capable. Which team's O-line will dominate? That should determine who wins.

I saw Football Canada post this image about former national team members (including Machart) playing in last weekend's games:
991

[argolio]

If you don't like the AUS, then just skip the play-off game they are in and watch the other games. I'd love to see all competitive games but weak teams happen in football - take a look at the 9 team CFL this season with 2 brutal/dumpster fire teams - how many $hite games with them did i get to watch this year - but i still watch all the games. Why do guys like you constantly find ways to cut-down Canadian football? Were you whining and crying when St. Mary's pummeled all the other conferences in Vaniers in the past ?
The difference is CFL teams usually clean house after a bad year and can turn it around in as little as one year with the right hire. AUS champions have not been competitive outside their league for years. It's a worrying trend.

There's nothing wrong with looking at the possibility of separating U-Sports football into two tiers. In the late 70s/early 80s, NCAA football went from two divisions to four. It was obvious by then that the Ivy League, where American football was born, could no longer compete with schools like Michigan.

[OV Argo]

The difference is CFL teams usually clean house after a bad year and can turn it around in as little as one year with the right hire. AUS champions have not been competitive outside their league for years. It's a worrying trend.

There's nothing wrong with looking at the possibility of separating U-Sports football into two tiers. In the late 70s/early 80s, NCAA football went from two divisions to four. It was obvious by then that the Ivy League, where American football was born, could no longer compete with schools like Michigan.


Alabama beat NM State this season, 59 to 3.

[argolio]

Alabama beat NM State this season, 59 to 3.Okay, but that wasn't anything close to a playoff game, and Alabama was favoured by 50. Those two schools are at opposite ends of the FBS food chain. NMS has only been to one bowl game in the last two decades in an era where six wins pretty much guarantees you a bowl game. NMS schedules Alabama and schools like that as a so-called "money game" to help fund its athletic program. If FBS ever splits, Alabama and NMS will be in different divisions.

AUS schools have been outscored 243-9 in the last four playoff games. That doesn't help showcase Canadian football, especially considering how little U-Sports does to promote the sport. US college football doesn't lack for internal promotion.

[Mocha]

Would an 8-team playoff field help avoid such mismatches in the Mitchell and Uteck Bowls?

Gord Randall and Mike Hogan seem to thnk it could help:


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xwh7scrpUPY

[AngeloV]

Doesn’t look like a great crowd at the Vanier today. Not surprising with no Quebec representation. They need to combine the game with the Grey Cup going forward, or have one of teams in the game play it in their own stadium.

[Mocha]

Doesn’t look like a great crowd at the Vanier today. Not surprising with no Quebec representation. They need to combine the game with the Grey Cup going forward, or have one of teams in the game play it in their own stadium.

I'd like to see the Vanier paired with the Grey Cup again. Maybe Laval will think twice about bidding for the game in the future (though I don't know how much they have to bid to get it).

But pretty good first half considering the frigid conditions. After the first drive, it looked like Western just might roll over the Huskies, but offense has had it tough from then on.

[OV Argo]

Doesn’t look like a great crowd at the Vanier today. Not surprising with no Quebec representation. They need to combine the game with the Grey Cup going forward, or have one of teams in the game play it in their own stadium.

Heard Quebec City will not be interested in hosting again for some time.

Game should go to Ottawa IMO - nice stadium and I believe they would get a good crowd regardless of who is playing; don't think Ottawa has ever hosted a Vanier, so long overdue.

[jerrym]

Quite a win by the Mustangs in a close fought game.

[Mocha]

Heard Quebec City will not be interested in hosting again for some time.

Game should go to Ottawa IMO - nice stadium and I believe they would get a good crowd regardless of who is playing; don't think Ottawa has ever hosted a Vanier, so long overdue.

I like that idea. I'd buy a ticket.

[Mocha]

Quite a win by the Mustangs in a close fought game.

Yeah, I enjoyed that game quite a bit.

I'll beat the drum for the Northern 8 idea again. I think it'd be awesome to be able to see more matches of the top teams throughout the fall.

[OV Argo]

I like that idea. I'd buy a ticket.

Me too - for sure !

Bit of a disappointing crowd for Quebec (considering they have had 20K type crowds for big games there before), but no Q team and freezing cold did not help.

I'd be very interested to see what type of crowd would turn out for a Vanier in Ottawa - even if close by teams were not in the game. - I'd wager they could get well over 8K, if it wasn't a cold, rain or snow forecast.

But pairing the Vanier with a GC weekend guarantees a much larger crowd - and they should do this every 2 or 3 years IMO.

[argolio]

Decent first half before Western proved their dominance. But the field conditions were terrible. Are tarps not a thing anymore?

[OV Argo]

Decent first half before Western proved their dominance. But the field conditions were terrible. Are tarps not a thing anymore?


The field was way worse - more icy and slippery - at that one GC in Edmonton (Als vs. EE i think).

I asked that question about tarps on another forum: why could the field - that is not being used otherwise - not be tarped all week before the big game, and then remove the tarps and blast propane heaters all over the place, the night before or morning of the big game ? Maybe that would not work / is not feasable - I don't really know, but maybe somebody could explain why it is not tried.

[AngeloV]

Heard Quebec City will not be interested in hosting again for some time.

Game should go to Ottawa IMO - nice stadium and I believe they would get a good crowd regardless of who is playing; don't think Ottawa has ever hosted a Vanier, so long overdue.

I’d be good with Ottawa. Get it out of Quebec City. They only support their own there. No Laval, no local support.

[jerrym]

Tre Forde becomes the first Black QB to win the Hec Crighton trophy as top player in Canadian college ball with his his dual run-pass threat.

https://3downnation.com/2021/12/02/waterloos-tre-ford-becomes-first-black-quarterback-to-win-hec-crighton-trophy-as-top-player-in-canadian-university-football/