Huskies ranked #1 in CW Coach’s Poll

The Dogs’ figure to be national championship contenders once again in 2026. Their dependably dynamic offence receives a big boost with the return of fifth-year QB Anton Amundrud, who is back under centre after his 2025 season was cut short due to a lymphoma diagnosis. On the other side of the ball, look for defensive lineman Nathan Jule to make an immediate impact after missing the last two seasons due to injury.

“We are excited for the challenge ahead this season,” said Saskatchewan head coach Scott Flory. “Every week presents a fast, physical, and highly competitive matchup, which means we must be prepared to perform at our best every game.”

Regina enters the season ranked No. 2 and will look for redemption after coming agonizingly close to a second-straight conference title. The Rams will look to break through against their provincial rivals while continuing their run as one of Canada West’s premier programs.

“We are excited to compete in the toughest conference in U SPORTS,” said Regina head coach Mark McConkey. “We are looking to have continued success in this conference by staying focused on playing our brand of football.”

UBC rounds out the top three in this year’s poll, with the Thunderbirds looking to take a significant step forward after a young squad gained valuable experience in 2025. Quarterback Drew Viotto returns to lead an offence that also features veterans such as receiver Trey Montour and running back Riley Michaud, while a young defensive unit will be anchored by Deacon Sterna, Clark Leonard, and Malcolm Fraser.

“I feel we’re going to be better than last year,” said UBC head coach Blake Nill. “It was difficult with the graduation in 2024, especially at quarterback. Whenever you start a new quarterback it’s tough. I feel we’ve had the offseason that should align with improving results. Overall, we’re a year older, we didn’t have a large graduation and we should be in pretty good shape.”

Calgary checks in at No. 4 after a 2025 campaign in which the Dinos showed signs of a young team beginning to mature. The offence looks to take another step forward, led by fifth-year receiver Matt Sibley – a Calgary Stampeders draft pick who has spent time on the Stamps practice roster. The Dinos were on the wrong end of three one-score games a season ago, and turning those close contests into wins will be key to securing their first playoff berth since 2019.

Manitoba is ranked fifth heading into a transitional 2026 season. The Bisons graduated 19 players from last year’s roster, including quarterback Jackson Tachinski, but return a strong defensive group and will hand the offensive reins to quarterback Cole Anseeuw.

The Alberta Golden Bears round out the poll in sixth, entering the second season under head coach Stevenson Bone. The Bears return a number of young contributors from last year’s squad and will be aiming for a playoff berth, led on offence by sophomore running back Seth Poelzer and an exciting transfer at quarterback in Christian Veilleux.

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canadawest.org

by Canada West

Huskies ranked #1 in CW Coach’s Poll

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