Football | 10/17/2026 8:00:00 AM

The York University Lions Football team will look to build off a strong showing last weekend when they take on the University of Toronto Varsity Blues this Saturday, October 17th in the 56th Annual Red and Blue bowl. Cross-town rivals will meet for the battle of Toronto between the two programs. 

York got back on the right track last weekend when they faced the UOttawa Gee-Gee's in a defensive grudge match at York Lions Stadium. York and Ottawa both battled for four quarters with the Lions coming out on top with a 19-12 win, completing the sweep of the Ottawa schools as they defeated Carleton also earlier this season. 

The Varsity Blues have struggled tremendously this season as they currently sit 0-6 on the year, most recently with a loss to the McMaster Marauders by a score of 26-6. For reference, when Toronto and Ottawa played earlier this season also, Ottawa beat Toronto 44-3. 

Last years Red and Blue bowl was one for the history books as both teams ended up tied 26-26 after regulation, forcing overtime. In Overtime, York got the ball first and scored a touchdown and extra point to make it 33-26. Toronto then took the ball and marched down the field, scoring themselves to bring the game within one point. Toronto elected to go for two and for the win, but could not haul in the pass for the game, giving York a 33-32 win and retention of the Argo Cup for the first time since 2019. 

Since Head Coach Dexter Janke took over the Lions program in 2024, the Lions are 2-0 in the Red and Blue bowl, signaling a changing of the guard from years past. Janke and the Lions also have a chance to make history in this years bowl, as a win would secure Janke's first 3+ win season as Head Coach of the Lions. 

This years Red and Blue Bowl figures to be a battle of the defenses, with York coming off a stellar defensive performance against the Gee-Gee's, holding them to 12 points total and only 77 rushing yards despite the Gee-Gee's heavy running attack. York also forced a fumble and blocked a punt against Ottawa, two huge plays that helped carry the Lions to the win. 

Tickets for the Red and Blue Bowl will be available at www.varsityblues.universitytickets.com for those who want to take over UofT and support the Lions. The game will also be available to stream on OUA.tv.