By Lucas DiCicco
If there’s one conference that predictable after four weeks, it’s definitely the AUS. Let’s take a look at how each team in the conference has faired so far.
StFX X-Men (4-0)
A mainstay on the U SPORTS Top 10 since week one, the defending conference champions are on course for another national semi-final appearance barring any sort of setbacks.
The X-Men are statistically among the nation's best defensively, only giving up 45 points so far this season, while recording 14 total sacks - putting them in the top five in the nation.
Offensively, quarterback Silas Fagnan, leads the AUS in passing yards (871) and passing yards per game (217.8). Running back Malcolm Bussey is fifth in U SPORTS in rushing yards per game (103.8).
With a high-powered offence that continues to play alongside a defence that is capable of shutting down any AUS opponent - and has done so for almost two years - the X-Men are the clear front-runners, as of right now, to reclaim the Jewett Trophy
Mount Allison Mounties (3-1)
The Mounties got off to a great start to the season, going undefeated through the first three games and even making back-to-back appearances on the U SPORTS Top 10 - to much controversy.
A blowout loss to the undefeated X-Men, however, is the only blemish on their schedule so far.
Through four games MTA have used both CJ Valenti and Justin Vogels at quarterback, but haven’t found the consistency needed to build any momentum as the offence is averaging only 11.8 points per game.
What’s unique about Mount Allison is in light of their offensive struggles, they truly do have one of the more impressive defences in the nation. The Mounties defence is giving up only 148.5 passing yards per game (2nd in U SPORTS), 125.0 rushing yards per game (10th in U SPORTS), and only 14.8 points per game
Regardless, unless the team can find consistency on the offensive side of the ball, their chances of winning the Loney Bowl, even as the second-best team in the conference, are slim.
Saint Mary’s Huskies (1-2)
The Huskies currently sit in the middle of the pack - a position they’ve been in for years. They recruit well, yet always seem to underperform against their expectations. Now, this year, we can’t be too critical of the Huskies, as they hired a new head coach in Steve Sumarah just a few months before the start of the season.
The Huskies offence roll with a deep backfield of A’dre Simmonds, Teon Alexander-Amour, and Malik Williams who together have rushed for 422 yards by committee this season
Quarterback Duncan Patterson is tied for most passing touchdowns in the conference (4), and receiver Brycen Mayoh who is 3rd in receiving yards per game.
On defence, the Huskies two losses have come at a combined total of 17 points, but at 1-3, the Huskies find themselves in a tie for third in the conference with Bishop’s in what could be an interesting playoff race.
Bishop’s Gaiters (1-2)
The Bishop’s Gaiters find themselves in the same situation as the SMU Huskies, Battling for position in the standings.
The Gaiters started the season with a close win over the now 0-4 Acadia Axemen, but have lost the last 2 to St. FX and MTA.
The Gaiters offence is highlighted by a run game that features Marco Briones and David Chaloux. Together, the two have rushed for 520 yards in three games. Quarterback Mason McGriskin is second in the conference in passing yards per game (160.2).
This leaves them tied with SMU and in a battle for third place. The Gaiters will have an opportunity to claim that seed however, as two of their next five games will be against the Huskies.
Acadia Axemen (0-4)
Want to see just how far the fall can be from the top? Just ask Acadia.
Just three years ago they went undefeated and won their second straight Loney Bowl. Now, they're sitting at 0-4 and just four games away from having a winless season.
The Axemen are going to need something special to be able to turn their season around.
On offence, they’ve thrown five interceptions while only accounting for one passing touchdown With just 3 players over 100 yards rushing or passing this season the offence is a far cry from the days of Hunter Guenard and Dale Wright.
On the other side, their defence isn’t as weak. But, no matter how good your defence is, if you can’t put points on the board, you will not win any games.
About 57th Vanier Cup
The 2022 Vanier Cup is the 57th edition of the championship and will be hosted at Western Alumni Stadium in London, Ontario on November 26th with kick-off at 1pm. The winner of the Uteck and Mitchell Bowl will face off against one another for the right to engrave their school’s name onto this historic trophy. The Western Mustangs are the defending champions, making it only the second time in U SPORTS history that the defending champions will be hosting the game and have the opportunity to defend their title on home turf. Tickets are on-sale now starting at only $25! Visit www.VanierCup.com to learn more and to purchase your tickets today!
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