Riders, Gainey preparing for dynamic Redblack offence

After coming off two straight wins against the Winnipeg Blue Bombers, to extend their current win streak to four, a new challenge awaits the Riders in the form of the Ottawa Redblacks.

The Roughriders are making a push in the Western Division, getting themselves into possession of second place, while the Redblacks are looking to put an end to a two-game slide.

Riders defensive back Ed Gainey said the Redblacks boast one of the top receiving groups in the league.

“They’ve got some experienced guys back there, Greg Ellingson and (Brad) Sinopoli are both bigger receivers who can go up and get the ball,” Gainey said. “You’ve got Diontae Spencer who’s really dynamic so we’re going to have our hands full.”

While the Riders don’t have to deal with Winnipeg’s Andrew Harris running the ball this week, they do have to take running back William Powell into account.

He is second in the league in rushing yards only behind Harris.

“They’re going to try to establish the run first just to try and open up that pass so we’ve just got to have good communication in the back end,” Gainey said.

Gainey said they will need to try to keep Powell bottled up because of how hard he runs.

The talented defensive back will also be looking to add to his lone interception on the year.

“I just like having that ball in my hand and being able to help my team win.”

The Riders and Redblacks will get things underway at 7:30 p.m. Saturday.