The Saskatchewan Huskies are entering the football season with high expectations — and high rankings. The team ranked first in the conference coming into the season, according to the Canada West conference coach’s poll. Saskatchewan received 24 first place votes, while Manitoba is ranked second and Regina comes in third. Nationally, the Saskatchewan Huskies will head into the first week ranked ninth, one spot behind Manitoba, and one spot ahead of Regina. Laval is ranked number one in the country, followed by Laurier, Montreal, Western, Bishop’s, Queens and Guelph. Last season, the Huskies reached the Hardy Cup conference final before losing to the Regina Rams at Griffiths Stadium. Saskatchewan opens the season on the road against Alberta before coming back for their home opener on Sept. 5.