Glenn or Smith? Big decisions await in Riderville

The first big decision for Roughriders interim head coach Bob Dyce will be made this week.

The Riders will return to practice on Tuesday after losing their 10th game of the season 22-7 to the Blue Bombers in Saturday’s Banjo Bowl.

Quarterback Brett Smith struggled at Investors Group Field with just over 110 yards passing and two interceptions.

Smith’s performance could be written off as a rookie having a tough game. However, with veteran Kevin Glenn set to return from the six-game injured list, the timing leaves Dyce with an interesting decision on who to start Saturday against the Ottawa Redblacks.

“You can’t make any decisions emotionally right now,” said Dyce after Saturday’s game.

“Kevin hasn’t played in a long time. So, we’ll go forward, we’ll make decisions as we see fit.”

For all we know, the decision might have already been made. However, no one in the organization is usually available to the media for two days following a game.

Whoever is named the starting quarterback this week, that decision will show what kind of direction the team will be likely be taking for the rest of the season.

If Kevin Glenn starts on Saturday, it shows that Dyce and interim general manager Jeremy O’Day are still looking to win as many games as possible down the stretch. If Smith should get the call, then the team is starting to look toward the future.

After the Banjo Bowl, Smith was well aware that he wasn’t good enough against the Bombers.

“It was frustrating out there. Just a lot I have to improve on,” said Smith, but he sees it as a chance to overcome some adversity as well.

“I think you have to. I don’t think you have the right mind set or attitude if you don’t see it that way. So, I think myself and the team are going to take that approach.”

Smith has completed 91 of his 146 pass attempts through six games for 1,016 yards, eight touchdowns and seven interceptions. In seven appearances this year, Glenn has completed 115 of his 159 pass attempts for 1,483 yards, six touchdowns and five interceptions.

Tuesday’s practice is open to the public.