With 1–2 records, both the UBC Thunderbirds and University of Saskatchewan Huskies needed a win in Friday’s sold-out football match-up. Invigorated by an electric Homecoming crowd at Thunderbird Stadium, the ‘Birds emerged victorious, winning 38–24 in their highest-scoring game this season.
The Thunderbirds looked steady, especially compared to their latest performances. Quarterback Garrett Rooker had zero interceptions for the first time since 2023, while Isaiah Knight carried UBC’s run game. Meanwhile, the defence played some of their best game all season.
“We still have a tendency to make it tough on us,” said UBC head coach Blake Nill. “I think what you saw was the potential of this offence, and … our defence is becoming more comfortable.”
The Thunderbirds came out swinging early, opening Homecoming with an 80-yard scoring drive to take a 7–0 lead. The ‘Birds heavily utilized Knight, who capped off the possession with a 13-yard touchdown run.
The Huskies responded in kind, driving deep into ‘Birds territory. UBC’s defence seemed challenged by Saskatchewan’s passing game — a trend that continued for most of the game. Still, UBC held the Huskies to a field goal. After another Sask field goal toward the start of the second quarter, UBC’s lead narrowed to 7–6.
UBC struggled in pass coverage, allowing Sask quarterback Anton Amundrud to connect a beautiful 87-yard touchdown pass. Down 13–7, the Thunderbirds rebounded quickly, embarking on a nine-play scoring drive to retake the lead. A Huskies’ rouge tied the game, but UBC pulled ahead with another touchdown run.
As the first half neared its end, Sask looked poised to tie the game again. However, UBC’s defence remained stout when it mattered most, forcing Sask to settle for a field goal. At halftime, the score was a close 21–17.
After the break, the T-Birds’ defence forced a quick three-and-out — their first of the game. The UBC offence immediately capitalized on the opportunity: Starting from their own 51 yard-line, Knight tore up the field, cutting through defenders for a 59-yard touchdown run.
Momentum snowballed in UBC’s favour. The ‘Birds scored on each of their possessions in the third quarter, with their final drive taking five minutes of playtime. They entered the fourth quarter with a 38–17 lead.
The Huskies didn’t give up, scoring a touchdown with less than nine minutes left, and even recovering a subsequent onside kick. However, with time running out, Sask’s passing game floundered and the ‘Birds walked away with a 38–24 victory.
"We put together a pretty complete four quarters, and it was fun to just get the win here on Homecoming in front of the big crowd," said Rooker in an interview with UBC Athletics.
After starting the season 0–2, UBC’s recent wins are critical to staying afloat in a close Canada West conference. “It takes a little pressure off,” said Nill.
The Thunderbirds (2–2) will aim to continue their win streak on Saturday, as they take on the University of Calgary Dinos (1–3) in Calgary.
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