Murray Wood: A special Grey Cup edition of who's hot... and who's not
Every Friday, Murray Wood takes a look at the week's news and decides who's hot... and who's not. This week, Wood is pre...
On the eve of one of the most anticipated matchups in recent Rider history, Premier Scott Moe says he’s feeling the same mix of nerves and hope as the rest of Saskatchewan heading into Sunday’s 112th Grey Cup.
Speaking from Winnipeg, where the Saskatchewan Roughriders will face the Montreal Alouettes at 5 p.m. on Sunday, Moe said on Saturday standing on the sidelines during the team’s walkthrough stirred up every childhood memory of growing up in a football-obsessed province.
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Moe, who was raised in Shellbrook, said he’s always been struck by how deeply the team is woven into Saskatchewan’s identity, something that’s been on full display this playoff run.
“What I still find amazing is how many people drive four hours one way for every game,” Moe said. “That’s the dedication this province brings to this team.”
The premier said he sees the same commitment reflected in this year’s Riders roster. Throughout Grey Cup week, several players, including quarterback Trevor Harris, spoke openly about wanting to win for the province and for fans who treat the team as part of their identity.
Moe said that bond has been one of the defining themes of the Riders’ season.
“These are our bouts. It’s our team. Everyone in Saskatchewan can rally behind that,” the premier said. “And we’re going to do darn well tomorrow.”
Moe also praised offensive lineman Logan Ferland, who earlier this week earned the Jake Gaudaur Veterans Award. It’s the fourth straight year a member of the Riders has won, a run that Moe said reflects the kind of work ethic Rider Nation sees as its own.
Looking ahead to Sunday, Moe predicts a tight matchup. While he joked that he’s just an “armchair coach,” he didn’t hesitate to give Saskatchewan the edge.
“Whichever quarterback gets that extra second, that’s who wins,” Moe said. “And I think it’s Harris.”
Moe added that the Riders’ fan base has a reputation for travelling in force, and he expects Princess Auto Stadium to be filled with a “sea of green” despite traditionally hostile territory.
If Saskatchewan does pull off the win, Moe says the celebrations will stretch far beyond Mosaic Stadium.
“Regina will be packed. The legislature will be packed. And honestly, politics will be on the back burner for a week or two,” he said with a laugh.
— with files from Jamie Nye
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