Rams win over Huskies at new Mosaic Stadium debut

It’s a day many football fans won’t forget.

The University of Regina Rams opened up new Mosaic Stadium on Saturday with a 37-29 win against the University of Saskatchewan Huskies. The historic game held an attendance of 16,500 people, a new Canada West attendance record in any sport.

The previously ranked No.4 Rams improved their winning streak to four games, avenging their only loss of the season against the Huskies. The Rams now remain in first place in the Canada West conference.

Rams quarterback Noah Picton led the Rams with 370 yards and four touchdowns. Ryan Schienbein had 13 receptions for 189 yards, finishing as the game’s top receiver. Atlee Simon finished with 114 rushing yards on 23 carries.

“Overall I thought the guys played pretty well besides a few penalty issues, and they were able to stay focused all things considered,” Rams head coach Steve Bryce said. “We really enjoyed the big game atmosphere at the new stadium.”

The first points at the new stadium were made by the Rams, as they finished off a 45-yard drive and 11-yard touchdown pass to Schienbein. Saskatchewan immediately went 87 yards in eight plays to tie up the game.

Saskatchewan took their only lead of the game midway through the second quarter but the Rams brought it back before the half, taking a 24-18 lead with a field goal. A 60-yard touchdown was made five minutes into the the third quarter and the rams had a 37-18 lead going into the fourth.

With just under four minutes to go, Saskatchewan got the ball twice but Danny Nesbitt’s interception secured the 37-29 win for the Rams.

The Huskies lost their third-straight game and fell to 2-3. Both Saskatchewan and Regina will play their next games two weekends from now, with the Huskies hosting UBC on Oct.14 and the Rams traveling to Edmonton on Oct.15.