Riders vs. Bombers: Saskatoon Preseason

Saturday the Riders take the field in Saskatoon for their preseason finale. This is a case of the Riders getting something very right. The managed to take what would be a boring preseason game here in Regina that would be almost as sparsely attended as the Melania documentary and turn it into an event that people want to be at. I mean, it will likely still be a boring preseason game but it will be a fun atmosphere nonetheless. 

After enduring a not-so-great game on Monday, we should see quality pick up as the starters get some playing time. With the stupidity of the CFL schedule makers and our upcoming 21 days off, I expect the starters to get at least a half. Offense is going to look a lot better when you add back in Ferland, Harris, Emilus and Keesean. Don’t need to see them light it up but a few good drives to show they are ready for the season is all we are after. There are really only 2 spots on the offense up for grabs. Left guard where Fry is most likely the guy but Andersen could also be an option. American receiver Sexton was about the only guy to improve his stock in the first game. Jaylen Johnson still intrigues me as does newcomer Johnny Johnson III (who is about the closest thing to a real-life Joey Jojo Jr in terms of names). A buddy of mine characterized him as the next Duron… both on and off the field. 

Second half will be most interesting for offense as guys jockey for backup roles. Is Mimbs ready to step into a fulltime roster spot? Can Djete finally get on the field? We saw a bit from McBean on Monday, is there more? O-line depth was downright scary on Monday hopefully we see guys like Darius Bell improve with the benefit of some experience and film. Big one will be seeing is Jack Coan can show any spark. 

Defense will be interesting from the beginning. The secondary is set (yes just accept another season of Fields and Lokombo, you don’t have to like, just accept it) but lots up for grabs outside of that. Josh Woods seems to be the starter at outside LB, it will be interesting to see how he fits in with Thurman and Brooks. I still think Aubrey Miller is making a case for more playing time. 90% of my attention on D will go to D-line. Evans was ok but missed a lot of tackles. Can Vaughters be more than the rotational guy I think he is? Can Chico Bennett step up and grab a starting spot? Will it be someone else like Weaver? At this point I don’t care who but please show me some pressure so I can sleep a bit easier. 

Lastly, it appears Kim has all but won the kicker job, hoping he can keep being steady and not introduce any unneeded doubt. 

I am told the refs will be following standard CFL protocol and cramming all penalties into the first 5 minutes of the half and then taking the remaining 20+ off. CFL research has clearly shown this is what people want. 

If you are going to the game, enjoy it should be a great event.