Third time a charm?

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Rams lose first- and second-string quarterbacks to injury

Autumn McDowell
Sports Editor

The University of Regina Rams season has gotten off to a rocky start. In their first three regular-season games, they will start three different quarterbacks.

When Rams veteran quarterback Marc Mueller went down early in the first game of the season, backup Dylan Hart took to the field. During his 2010 redshirt season, Hart dressed for just one game and would see no game action. But one game into 2011, he would be thrust into competition.

After coming in for the injured Mueller, Hart was able to rack up 134 yards with one touchdown and one interception, completing 14 of his 28 passes. Although the Rams eventually lost the game by a final score of 21-10 in favor of the visiting UBC Thunderbirds, Hart was able to gain valuable game experience.

With Mueller still sidelined with a shoulder injury, Hart was awarded his first start of the season on Sept. 9 against the always-competitive Saskatchewan Huskies in Saskatoon. The Rams held the lead for the better part of the first quarter, but would go on to lose more than just the game. Hart, who went 11-for-20 and piled up 79 passing yards with three interceptions, was also forced to leave the game due to a suspected back injury.

With the first- and second-string quarterbacks out with injuries, true rookie Frankie Gray entered the game in the third quarter to lead the Rams. Gray is in his first season with the Rams after graduating from Campbell Collegiate this past June. Gray was able to connect on five of his seven passes, good enough for 63 yards, and one interception. The Rams would eventually fall to their provincial rivals 33-10 and sat tied for last in Canada West at 0-2.

With the futures of both Mueller and Hart still very much up in the air, Gray will be in the pocket for an undetermined amount of time. Mueller went for an MRI last week. Results of the MRI and information on the extent of Hart’s injury had not been released as of press time.

Gray is set to make his first start of the season on Sept. 16 when the Calgary Dinos come into town. Calgary, who is a powerhouse and top contender nearly every year in Canada West, is a perfect 2-0 this season and is eager to keep their undefeated streak going.

Although this was not exactly the start to the season the Rams had in mind, there is plenty of time to make up some ground. No one said the road to the Vanier cup would be easy, but it will be worth it.

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