CIS Football Preview: Saint Mary’s Huskies (1-0) vs. Mount Allison Mounties (0-1)

Preview Summary

Two teams looking to reset after uneven 2024 campaigns collide as the Huskies travel to Alumni Stadium. Saint Mary’s leans on a dynamic aerial attack and veteran secondary, while Mount Allison counters with a physical ground game and a revamped offensive line. Expect a tight first half before big plays determine the outcome.

Key Storylines

• Momentum Reboot
  • Saint Mary’s finished 2024 at 4–4 (3–3 AUS) under second-year coach Steve Sumarah with a midseason surge that showcased its passing prowess.
  • Mount Allison went 1–7 (1–5 AUS) but returns three All-AUS offensive linemen and its leading rusher, aiming to sustain longer drives.
• Quarterback Showdown
  • Huskies junior QB Adam Frizzell threw for 2,600 yards and 18 touchdowns last fall, adding chemistry with All-Rookie WR Jordan Clarke.
  • Mounties sophomore QB Liam Bryson sees his first AUS start after a spring camp battle, armed with an expanded playbook.
• Home-Field Edge
• Sackville’s crisp early-September air and spirited student section could energize the Mounties, who are 6–2 at home over the past two seasons.

Tactical Matchups

Saint Mary’s Offense vs Mounties Defense

• Attack Blueprint
  • West Coast-style passing offense targeting intermediate zones.
  • Offensive line returns all five starters; excels in pass protection.
• Defensive Response

• Mount Allison blitz-heavy scheme under first-year DC Denise Innis.
• Cornerbacks are inexperienced; vulnerability over the middle.

Mount Allison Offense vs Huskies Defense

• Ground Emphasis
  • RB Nathaniel Paul averaged 85 yards/game in 2024; goal-line workhorse.
  • New right tackle transfer adds strength in short-yardage.
• Secondary Challenge

• Saint Mary’s defense allowed just 3.2 yards per carry last season.
• Linebackers excel in run fits but can be tested in space.

Broadcast & Streaming

Live Stats: huskies.ca/live
Video Stream: AUS YouTube channel (free)
Radio: CHNI 89.5 FM (Saint John) / CJPN 90.5 FM (Sackville)

What to Watch

• First-quarter pace: Whoever wins the opening coin flip and sustains a drive sets the tone.
• Third-down conversions: Both defenses thrive on early stops; offenses must respond.
• Turnover battle: Huskies return three takeaway leaders; crucial for field position.

Looking Ahead

A win sets Saint Mary’s up for a Homecoming clash with Dalhousie (Sept. 13). Mount Allison, regardless of result, travels to Fredericton for a tough test at UNB next week. This opener will shape each team’s confidence in a tight AUS race.