Cornerback Jordan Lessard excelled with two crucial interceptions in the end zone, stifling the Redbirds’ scoring attempts. Despite a strong defensive performance, including seven sacks, the Rouge et Or allowed over 400 yards for the second consecutive game. Éloa Latendresse-Regimbald praised Lessard, expressing confidence in their offensive abilities, although mistakes on special teams hindered their success. Loïc Brodeur highlighted the exhaustion of the defensive line, while Guillaume Cauchon noted challenges in establishing offensive rhythm.
Cornerback Jordan Lessard showcased his talent with two crucial interceptions in the end zone as the Redbirds approached the Rouge et Or’s ten-yard line during key moments of the match.
Despite some promising drives, the Redbirds couldn’t capitalize. “I knew Darius Simmons was their intended receiver in those crucial situations,” Lessard reflected. “On the first interception, we were in man coverage, and I made my move to secure the ball. With the second, I stayed one-on-one with Simmons, and they clearly didn’t learn from the first one—they threw it my way again.”
Even with the interceptions and a total of seven sacks, the Rouge et Or’s defense allowed over 400 yards for the second consecutive game. “There’s nothing to be concerned about,” proclaimed Lessard. “We faced two skilled quarterbacks with sound game strategies, but we will definitely bounce back.”
“We deserved a better outcome”
After being thwarted by Lessard’s interceptions, Éloa Latendresse-Regimbald acknowledged the cornerback’s prowess. “Jordan played outstandingly, and I have to give him credit,” said the third-year quarterback, who threw for 284 yards and two touchdowns, completing 18 of 33 attempts. “From the very start of the week, we were confident in our ability to advance the ball effectively. Our defense really stepped up, but we made some errors in special teams that cost us. We deserved a better outcome.”
“This game is something we can build on,” Latendresse-Regimbald added. “We felt we could score every time we touched the ball.”
A total of seven sacks
Loïc Brodeur contributed two of the seven sacks and spent considerable time battling alongside his defensive line. “It was tough for us on the defensive front, but we have great depth,” he noted. “Our focus was to maintain constant pressure. At McGill, we achieved seven sacks, and we aimed to better that performance.”
The Rouge et Or concluded the game with seven sacks. Christophe St-Hilaire led with nine tackles, including 2.5 tackles for loss and 1.5 sacks. “Our game plan was to keep their quarterback contained in the pocket, and we need to execute that plan more effectively,” the second-year linebacker explained. “We gave up more yards than we aimed for, but credit goes to Éloa, who is an exceptional athlete—fast, tall, and impressive.”
Guillaume Cauchon noticed signs of struggles reminiscent of previous seasons on offense but remains optimistic. “It was challenging to find our rhythm, and our performance had similarities to last year, but I’m not worried,” said Cauchon, who recorded four receptions for 36 yards and returned a punt for 73 yards. “We started slowly, but it wasn’t due to overconfidence. On my return, I just ran out of steam before reaching the end zone.”
Cauchon was halted at the five-yard line, leading to only one point from a failed 17-yard field goal attempt by the Rouge et Or.