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The Saskatchewan Roughriders might be the defending Grey Cup champions, but heading into today’s playoff showdown with the BC Lions, even some of their most loyal fans are calling them the underdogs.
That hasn’t stopped Rider Nation from making the trip west.
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Green-and-white jerseys were on display outside B.C. Place in Vancouver ahead of the CFL West Semifinal, with fans hoping their team can keep its championship defence alive.
For Jonathan Kiesman, who was soaking up the sunshine outside the stadium, being the underdog doesn’t mean Saskatchewan can’t get the job done.
“Any given day in the CFL, any team can win, but I think today is our day. Go Green,” he said.
Kiesman admitted the Lions might have the advantage heading into the matchup.
“I think they (the Riders) are the underdog. I mean, even though I’m a Rider fan, I’m going to admit that they are, and it would be an upset win,” he said.
“But I still think we’re going to do it.”
And if the Riders pull off that upset, Kiesman believes quarterback Trevor Harris will have to lead the way.
“I think Trevor Harris is going to have another good one. I think he’s going to be on his mark, and Harris is going to be our guy again.”
But for Kiesman, the experience is about more than just football.
“It’s a beautiful day here. It’s fabulous. The sun is shining, and we’re just so excited,” he said.
“To have the CFL fans come together, it doesn’t matter what team. It’s just wonderful. Everybody gets along, has a good time, parties up, and it’s really fun.”
Kent Chappell was also taking in the atmosphere outside B.C. Place, although he noticed there were a few more Lions jerseys than Riders jerseys in the crowd.
“We’re kind of outnumbered here a little bit by looking at the colours,” he said. “Other than that, the vibes are good. Everyone’s good. Weather’s good. It’s a good day.”
Despite being surrounded by Lions fans, Chappell wasn’t worried about Saskatchewan’s chances.
“It’ll be a good game, but I think we’re going to come out on top and carry on down the road,” he said.
His reasoning was simple.
“Because they always do.”
— with files from 980 CJME’s Britton Gray
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