Laval Rouge et Or Exacts Revenge on Montreal Carabins in Defensive Showdown
October 20, 2025
In a hard-fought, defensive battle that captivated a record-breaking crowd of 21,399 at Stade Telus, the Laval Rouge et Or secured a crucial 16-6 victory over their archrivals, the Montreal Carabins, on Sunday. This win marks a critically importent moment for Laval, as they exacted revenge for a previous 38-28 loss to the Carabins earlier in the season on September 12.
While the first meeting between these two powerhouse Canadian university football programs was an offensive shootout, this rematch proved to be a stark contrast. It was the relentless defense and clutch special teams play from the Rouge et Or that ultimately dictated the outcome, showcasing a level of grit reminiscent of classic defensive struggles seen in American college football rivalries like the Army-Navy game.
The pivotal moment came in the first quarter when Xavier Thibodeau,with a play that would make any special teams coach proud,blocked a punt and returned it for a touchdown. This electrifying score set the tone for laval’s defensive dominance. The Rouge et Or’s secondary was notably suffocating, registering a remarkable four interceptions against Carabins quarterback Pepe Gonzalez. Alexandre Benoît led the charge with two crucial thefts, complemented by interceptions from Christophe Lévesque and Philippe Champagne. This defensive pressure was akin to what top NFL defenses like the Baltimore Ravens or Pittsburgh Steelers are known for, consistently disrupting the opponent’s rhythm.
The Carabins, who entered this contest as the No. 1 ranked team in U Sports and where the reigning Vanier cup champions, found themselves stymied by Laval’s disciplined defensive scheme. While they managed to score a touchdown in the fourth quarter via a 61-yard run from Lucas Dembele, it wasn’t enough to overcome the early deficit and Laval’s unwavering defensive stand. This resilience from Laval echoes the spirit of underdog teams that have pulled off major upsets in the NCAA, proving that a strong defense can indeed win championships.
This victory not only avenges a prior defeat but also solidifies Laval’s position as a top contender in the U Sports landscape. For fans of hard-hitting, strategic football, this matchup between the Rouge et Or and the Carabins is a must-watch event, highlighting the intense passion and high level of play in canadian university football. The defensive intensity and the dramatic swing of momentum in this game offer a compelling narrative that resonates with the core of what makes sports so captivating.
Potential Areas for Further Investigation:
- How dose Laval’s defensive strategy compare to prosperous defensive schemes in American college football?
- What are the key factors contributing to the intense rivalry between Laval and Montreal?
- Can Laval maintain this defensive momentum throughout the remainder of their season?
