The University of Toronto Varsity Blues football team will be looking to ride the momentum of a highlight-filled season a year ago. With a high-octane offence and a versatile defensive attack, the Blues are aimed to compete week-in and week-out.

A 1-7 record a year ago did not completely reflect the product on the field for the Varsity Blues. Despite the tough showing in the overall standings, U of T found themselves battling with their OUA counterparts every week. This was highlighted by three of those losses coming by just a one score deficit, and two of those coming in overtime efforts. With better fortune, a shift in those close contests could see the Blues rise back up the rankings.

FROM THE COACH'S DESK
"Every year is a new year and I am feeling good about the team culture we are establishing in 2026. Despite losing a lot of talent and experience, we are a tighter knit group. The players are bonding, and everyone is pushing each other to be the best version of themselves. As well, there's a hunger expressed by the younger guys who have been patiently waiting for an opportunity. It's their time to step up as leaders and playmakers and so far, they have answered the challenge. The goal is to get two percent better every day and continue to close the gap in the OUA.  We know we have our work cut out for us, but we are embracing the grind and trusting the process. I'm excited about the growth and development of the organization as a whole. It took a lot to get to this point, and I look forward to what the future holds."

• Darrell Adams, University of Toronto Varsity Blues football head coach

PLAYERS TO WATCH
Key Returners:  Gavin Hemeon (OL), Dawson Sjoberg (WR), Devon Crenshaw (DB), Denayden Lee-Daniel (WR), Elia Lini (LB), Kaleb O' Donoghue (QB)
Key Additions: Keith Agba (DB), Iverson Brown (WR), Jaylen Clarke (WR), Omarion Martin (RB), Aiden Munroe (RB), Elijah Felix (RB)

LAST SEASON'S LEADERS
Passing: Scott Barnett | 8 GP, 186-271, 2326 YDS, 10 TD, 9 INT
Rushing: Scott Barnett | 8 GP, 53 ATT, 330 YDS, 1 TD
Receiving: Chris Joseph | 8 GP, 77 REC, 863 YDS, 4 TD
Defense: Elia Lini | 8 GP, 44.0 TKL, 1 SCK, 3 TFL

FROM THE FIELD

"I'm feeling great about the team during training camp. We've been flying around playing physical and making plays - getting each other better every day and setting a foundation down for the season. As a fifth-year on the team, I've been most excited to see how our offence comes together and plays in a game as the guys have been putting in the work over the summer. I've got a great feeling about the Varsity Blues offence this year."

• Gavin Hemeon, 5th year, Offensive Line

"I'm really excited about the resiliency and unity of this team. Throughout camp, you can feel how much this group has come together under Coach DA's leadership and how hungry we are to compete. Our defence is dynamic under Coach Jykine Bradley, and Coach Tommy [Kanichis] has our offence looking explosive with a lot of potential. I'm excited to see everything come together this season and show what this team is capable of."

• Elia Lini, 4th year, Linebacker

MARQUEE GAMES
August 30 vs. Queen's
This marks the first time the Blues have opened their season on home turf since a thrilling upset of the Ottawa Gee-Gees back in 2021. Taking place during U of T's O-Week festivities, Varsity Stadium will be packed with supporters for a Sunday night showdown versus an old-four rival in the Gaels. Both teams will be looking to start the season on the right foot as Toronto aims to move up the rankings while Queen's begin their Yates Cup defence.

October 3 vs. Guelph
This home contest versus the Gryphons will be considered a vital start to the second half of the season for U of T. A victory here could set something up as Toronto have earned wins over the next three opponents (McMaster, York, Carleton) in recent seasons. Postseason aspirations will surely have this showdown versus Guelph circled on the calendar.

October 17 vs. York
Hosting the 56^th annual Red & Blue Bowl at Varsity Stadium, U of T will be looking to reclaim the Argo Cup. The Varsity Blues lead the all-time series with a 34-21 record, but the Lions have won the last two meetings by a combined three-points. Always a showcase event in the OUA football schedule, this battle for the city will mean even more as the final weeks of the regular season draw near.

GET YOUR TICKETS
Both season seats and individual game tickets can be purchased at varsityblues.ca/tickets.

All OUA football games are streamed live and on-demand via oua.tv.