Queen’s Triumphs Over Windsor in OUA Football Playoff Showdown

In a thrilling Ontario University Association (OUA) Football playoff semifinal on November 1, 2025, the Queen’s University Gaels staged a remarkable fourth-quarter comeback to defeat the Windsor Lancers 36-25 at Windsor’s Alumni Field. The victory propels Queen’s, who entered the playoffs as the No. 4 seed, into the 117th Yates Cup championship game against the defending champion Laurier Golden Hawks.

The contest remained tightly contested through three quarters, with Windsor holding a narrow 25-20 lead entering the final frame. However, Queen’s dominated the fourth quarter, outscoring the Lancers 16-0 to secure the win and end Windsor’s championship aspirations.

Queen’s graduate student running back Jared Chisari delivered a standout performance, amassing 176 yards and two touchdowns on 16 carries. His 60-yard touchdown run late in the third quarter gave Queen’s their first lead since early in the game, and his 10-yard score with under a minute remaining sealed the victory.

Quarterback Alex Vreeken efficiently managed the Gaels’ offense, completing 18 of 27 passes for 183 yards and two touchdowns. His primary targets were Logan Walton (91 yards on three receptions) and Nathan Falconi (64 yards on four catches).

Windsor relied heavily on their ground attack, outgaining Queen’s 255-210 in rushing yards, but struggled through the air with only 110 passing yards. The Lancers were ultimately undone by turnovers, committing three compared to none for Queen’s. Windsor quarterback Brady Lidster connected with Kareame Cotton for a 10-yard touchdown pass in what proved to be their final score of the game.

The victory marks Queen’s third Yates Cup appearance in five seasons as they look to capture the OUA championship against top-seeded Laurier on November 8 in Waterloo. For Windsor, the loss ends what had been a promising playoff run after qualifying as one of the higher seeds in the OUA tournament.