The silly start to the Saskatchewan Roughriders’ CFL season is over. After five straight games against Eastern opponents, the Riders will finally play an intra-division rival when they play host next Saturday to the Calgary Stampeders.
The Riders emerged from the scheduling goof-up with three wins and two losses, including back-to-back victories against the Hamilton Tiger-Cats.
For six of eight quarters against Hamilton, the Roughriders were outplayed, but they completely took command in the third quarter of Thursday’s contest.
A touchdown catch by Namaan Roosevelt, long scoring run by Marcus Thigpen and 61-yard punt return TD by Christion Jones rallied the winners, who were sparked by a ridiculous quick-kick attempt by the Tabbies.
Saskatchewan won 31-20. There are still some questions about offence and depth. Plus the loss of stellar linebacker Derrick Moncrief to injury cases some concern, but the Roughriders are trending in the right direction as they head out to conquer the west.