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While the Hamilton Tiger-Cats’ offence is going through some growing pains, the Saskatchewan Roughriders know the opposing defence will be up to the task.
Hamilton’s defence is only surrendering 26.2 points per game to opposing offences this season, which is the third fewest in the league.
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“They are coached well. Guys fly around and make plays. They have some playmakers up front and a linebacker corps (we’re familiar with) with Wynton (McManis) and us being with Braxton (Hill) as well,” Riders head coach Corey Mace said. “I think it fits the mould of ‘The Hammer’ vibe they are going for. They are an aggressive football team, so it’s a tall task for us offensively.”
Offensive lineman Jermarcus Hardrick agreed that the Ti-Cats’ defence presents an interesting challenge this week.
“They are fast, play together and have a lot of fun. A lot of great players over there. They have guys who can play at every level. It’s going to be a test for us, just like every week. I respect the game. They are another CFL opponent, and you get punched in the mouth every week,” Hardrick said.
The Riders’ offence is dealing with a number of injuries to key players, including wide receiver Sam Emilus, slotback Kian Schaffer-Baker and running back A.J. Ouellette. Despite those losses, the Green and White’s offence put together quite the performance in a 42-20 win over the Ottawa Redblacks last week.
Quarterback Trevor Harris threw for 401 yards and two touchdowns, one to veteran KeeSean Johnson and another to Dylan Djete.
While the Hamilton defence has been solid throughout the season, the team’s offence has been playing a bit of quarterback musical chairs. Bo Levi Mitchell was seriously injured in Week 5 against the Winnipeg Blue Bombers. Jake Dolegala started one game – a 38-7 loss to the Riders – before the team moved on to Tre Ford for three games. Now Harrison Frost will start his second straight game as Ti-Cats head coach Scott Milanovich tries to find the answer at the position.
Kickoff for Saturday’s game is set for 5 p.m. The Green Zone pregame show begins at 3 p.m.
There will be a couple of changes for the Riders heading into this game.
Running back Quali Conley was placed on the one-game injured list after he appeared on the injury report with a hamstring injury at the team’s last practice on Thursday. In his place, Star Thomas will make his first career CFL start. Thomas spent the 2025 season at the University of Tennessee. In 13 games with the Volunteers, he rushed for 596 yards and seven touchdowns. He also caught 11 passes for 116 yards and two touchdowns, and participated in that year’s Senior Bowl.
The only other change is newly signed Canadian receiver Vyshonne Janusas, who will come onto the roster to provide some Canadian depth in the receiver group. Offensive guard Erik Andersen will start his second straight game.
The Saskatchewan Roughriders depth chart for their Aug. 15, 2026 game against the Hamilton Tiger-Cats. (Saskatchewan Roughriders)
The Saskatchewan Roughriders roster list for their Aug. 15, 2026 game against the Hamilton Tiger-Cats. (Saskatchewan Roughriders)
