The University of Saskatchewan Huskies' quest for national football glory came up short once again as they fell to the Montreal Carabins 30-16 in the 60th edition of the Vanier Cup on Saturday, November 22, 2025.
Championship Game Breakdown
Played before a passionate crowd at Regina's Mosaic Stadium, the championship matchup saw the Huskies keep pace with their opponents through much of the contest before ultimately succumbing to Montreal's offensive firepower. The loss extends Saskatchewan's unfortunate streak to six consecutive Vanier Cup defeats dating back to 2002, with their last national championship victory occurring in 1998.
Game Action and Key Moments
The Carabins established an early 4-0 advantage through an opening kickoff rouge followed by a field goal. Saskatchewan responded later in the first quarter when kicker Lukas Scott connected on a 20-yard field goal to narrow the gap to 4-3.
Montreal expanded their lead in the second quarter with a spectacular 41-yard touchdown reception by Brandon Gourgon from quarterback Pepe Gonzalez, the U Sports rookie of the year. The Huskies answered with an impressive drive culminating in running back Ryker Frank powering into the end zone from four yards out. After the convert and a rouge on the ensuing kickoff, the game stood tied at 11-11.
The Carabins reclaimed the lead before halftime, adding a rouge and field goal as time expired to take a 15-11 advantage into the break.
Second Half Seals Huskies' Fate
After intermission, Saskatchewan closed the gap to 15-14 when Scott nailed a 32-yard field goal following a 46-yard connection between quarterback Jake Farrell and receiver Liam Piccinin.
Montreal responded decisively, first adding another rouge before Gonzalez threw his second touchdown pass of the game—a 32-yard strike to Hassane Dosso that extended their lead to 23-14 after three quarters.
The fourth quarter saw the Carabins concede a safety to make the score 23-16, then secure a crucial turnover when linebacker Harold Miessan intercepted Farrell near midfield. Although Montreal couldn't capitalize on that possession, they ultimately put the game out of reach when Gonzalez connected with Simon Larose on a seven-yard touchdown pass with just 2:22 remaining, sealing the 30-16 victory.
Gonzalez finished with an impressive 313 passing yards and three touchdown throws, earning recognition as the game's outstanding offensive player.
This marked Saskatchewan's third appearance in the national championship over the past five years, following previous losses in 2021 and 2022. Meanwhile, Montreal captured their second Vanier Cup title in three years, cementing their status as a U Sports football powerhouse.
