The University of Regina Rams opened the 2024 Canada West season with a 24-16 win at McMahon Stadium over the University of Calgary Dinos on Friday night.
However, the victory could be costly as Regina quarterback Owen Seiben was forced to leave the stadium on a cart at halftime after absorbing a sack in the second quarter.
Sieben, the reigning Canada West conference Rookie of the Year, completed 6-of-13 pass attempts for 64 yards with two interceptions plus three carries for 11 yards and one touchdown before going to the hospital. Head coach Mark McConkey stayed back in Calgary with Sieben. His status is uncertain for the Rams when the U of R hosts the University of Saskatchewan on Friday, September 6 at Mosaic Stadium.
Backup Noah Pelletier came on in relief for Sieben and completed 14-of-19 passes for 125 yards with one QB sneak TD, helping the team to victory. Jevon Garwood ran eight times for 50 yards while Olivier Savard carried the ball 11 times for 46 yards. Nicholas Sirleaf led all receivers with four receptions for 81 yards. Isaac Wegner made 2-of-3 field goals.
Defensively, Regina's much-improved front seven was outstanding in the win, limiting Calgary to 30 rushing yards. Consistent pressure from the Rams forced Calgary quarterback Dom Britton to hurry throws, resulting in three interceptions by Cameron Mah, Max Polischuk and Garret Hatchard respectively.
Regina's win spoiled the first game for Dinos head coach Ryan Sheahan who made his debut on the sidelines after replacing Wayne Harris following his retirement after the 2023 season.
In other Canada West football action, the University of Alberta Golden beat the University of British Columbia 42-28 in Vancouver. The victory exacted some revenge for the Bears losing to the Thunderbirds in last year’s Hardy Cup.
Week 1 in the Canada West wraps up on Saturday afternoon when the University of Manitoba Bisons host the University of Saskatchewan Huskies in Winnipeg.
