The Matchup
Last week's bye was a welcome break but the No. 7 UBC Thunderbirds (3-2) are raring to get back into game action as they head on the road to face the Saskatchewan Huskies (2-3) Saturday, October 14 in Saskatoon.
Both teams have had a couple weeks to regroup following a loss in their last games, along with an opportunity to rehab injuries and get ready for the home stretch and push for a playoff berth with just three games remaining in the regular season.
The 'Birds are going for the season series sweep of the Huskies after an impressive 31-10 victory over Saskatchewan in UBC's homecoming game at Thunderbird Stadium back on September 16.
Kickoff at Griffiths Stadium Saturday is set for 6:00 p.m. PT.
Last Action
The T-Birds saw their three-game win streak come to a halt with a 31-17 loss to the Calgary Dinos at Thunderbird Stadium on September 29. It marked the first home loss of the season for the 'Birds.
The Huskies lost their third straight game, 50-40 at home to Regina in a wild tilt that saw more than 1100-yards of combined offence. Saskatchewan's defence also gave up at least 50 points for the second straight game.
By the Numbers
110.4 – The average number of rushing yards allowed per game by UBC, the best run defence in the Canada West. In UBC's win over Saskatchewan earlier this season, the 'Birds held the Huskies to just 30 yards on the ground.
25.9 – The average number of return yards on kickoffs by the Thunderbirds, the most in the conference.
Players to Watch
Michael O'Connor (#15, QB) – Now in his third season with the 'Birds, O'Connor has once again been solid behind centre throwing for an average of 274 yards per game with seven touchdowns. O'Connor's two interceptions are the fewest out of any starting pivot in the conference.
Ben Hladik (#52, LB) – The rookie linebacker has had an immediate impact this season leading the entire conference in tackles for a loss with seven, and fumble recoveries with two. The Vernon native has registered 14 total tackles and a sack.
Coach's Take
Having suffered a number of injuries, particularly on offence, the bye week was a critical time for the Thunderbirds to get some rest, both mentally and physically before the home stretch.
"We've taken the opportunity to rest some of our athletes who've been banged up a little bit," said UBC head coach
Blake Nill. "I think that's the primary motive for most programs, to allow injuries to heal and to rest the kids. The practices during bye week were relatively light, lots of mental reps and lots of rest."
The 'Birds were limited to just 71 yards rushing against the Dinos, something Nill expects will be much better starting this week.
"You always have to be able to run the ball, especially late in the year," said Nill. "I think we've learned from the Calgary game, I think it's provided both coaches and players with an opportunity to reflect and hopefully we're better off for it."
Tied with Regina and just one win ahead of Saskatchewan heading into this week's battle, the T-Birds are right in the middle of a fight for a home playoff berth facing a potential turning point in the season in Saskatoon.
"We're going into a place that's notoriously tough to win," said Nill. "At the same time, I feel that as a program we have the ability to play a lot better. I'm looking forward to our best effort of the year and hopefully we can gain some traction as we go into the final two games."
