Wray Morrison

By Wray Morrison

The 2022 training camp is underway

A return to the Vanier Cup is on the minds of many at Huskie camp

Aug 16, 2022 | 1:18 PM

Like many other Canadian college football programs, the University of Saskatchewan Huskies have noticeable turnover on the roster going in to the 2022 season. With defensive linemen Riley Pickett and Nathan Cherry both joining the BC Lions, the Huskies prepare to pass the torch to some younger defenders. “We’re so happy for Pickett and Cherry”, said defensive coordinator Warren Muzika. “That’s the goal. is to have guys play for as long as they can and hopefully get paid some money to do it. That’s awesome.”

Last season’s experience of winning the Hardy Cup, the Uteck Bowl and advancing to the Vanier Cup will benefit the younger players who will have expanded roles this season. 3^rd year defensive lineman George Idoko (Calgary, St. Francis), and 2^nd year defensive lineman Nathan Jule (Saskatoon, St. Joe’s) are two players to watch for. Jule registered his first Canada West sack against UBC on October 1^st of 2021. “Nathan had an outstanding rookie season, so he is going to see some more playing time”, said Muzika.

A lack of experience will not be an issue in the interior of the defensive line. Carson Bell (Assiniboia) and Jonathan Leggett (Holy Trinity Academy, Okotoks AB) are preparing for their fifth and final seasons with the Huskies. Leggett is one of many returnees who is motivated by last season’s 27-21 loss to Western in the Vanier Cup. “Man! 6 points! That’s a tight margin”, said Leggett. “We are looking to get right back to London this year.” (The 57^th Vanier Cup is set for November, 26^th at Western Alumni Stadium in London, Ontario.)

Inevitable change has happened along the offensive line too. Noah Zerr and Connor Berglof, who finished their fourth year of eligibility in 2021, both went to the CFL, while Nicholas Summach graduated. 2^nd year centre, Oluwayombo Olabimtan, (Saskatoon, St. Joe’s) now prepares to be a fixture in team pass protection. Saskatchewan head coach Scott Flory can’t wait to see Olabimtan’s career evolve. “He’s got an infectious personality”, Flory said. “It’s awesome. We are looking forward to seeing his growth and development here.”

Running back Josh Ewanchyna (4^th year, Saskatoon, Holy Cross) has valuable experience as he replaces Hec Crighton trophy nominee Adam Machart as the team’s feature back. Ewanchyna had 404 yards rushing in 6 regular season games in 2021, with an 8.6 yds/carry average. Second year tail back Ryker Frank (Regina, LeBoldus) saw a large amount of playing time in his first season in 2021, and is also expected to play a key role on Scott Flory’s offense this year.

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Quarterback Mason Nyhus (5^th year, Regina, Riffel) is the undisputed field leader of this offense as he prepares for his final USports season. Even though veterans such as Machart, receivers Colton Klassen and Yol Piok and a handful of members of the offensive line have moved on, Nyhus believes that last year’s experience of advancing to the Vanier Cup can be key in making a return to the championship game. “We have the talent to do it”, Nyhus said. “We know we can get there. Let’s just finish the job this time.”

Olabimtan echoes Nyhus’ excitement when it comes to Saskatchewan’s potential on offense. “When #8 (Mason Nyhus) is slinging that thing and (receiver Daniel Perry) is doing his thing…with Chewy (Josh Ewanchyna) and Ryker…there are just so many weapons! Those guys will make things happen!” (Infectious indeed.)

The Huskies open the regular season on Friday September 2^nd in Calgary against the Dinos. Kick off is at 5:30pm on the HuskieFAN app, and HuskieFAN.ca.

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wray.morrison@pattisonmedia.com

Twitter: @wraymorrison