As Week 10 of the CFL season kicks off tonight, the stage is set for an intriguing clash between the Ottawa RedBLACKS and the Saskatchewan Roughriders. The game will unfold in Ottawa, where the 5-2 RedBLACKS will face off against the 5-3 Roughriders. However, this match might be more about the weather than the actual on-field action, as a major precipitation system is expected to drench the nation’s capital just an hour before kick-off. With rainfall warnings in effect for the next 36 hours, the soggy conditions will likely play a significant role in tonight’s game.
Key Storylines
Roughriders' Adjustments
The Roughriders are coming off a disappointing performance against Edmonton last Saturday, where Head Coach Corey Mace expressed concerns about him not getting the team prepared to play. With Quarterback Trevor Harris cleared to practice but not included in the game-day roster, Shea Patterson will make his sixth start of the season. This leaves Saskatchewan to adapt their game plan once more, focusing on utilizing Patterson’s abilities to their fullest.
The offensive line will see notable changes as well. Zack Fry will make his CFL debut at Left Guard, stepping in for Ryan Sceviour, who has been placed on the 6-game injured list. Additionally, Nick Jones will start at Right Tackle following Brandon Council's sudden retirement. These shifts may create new dynamics in the Roughriders' offensive strategy.
Additionally on offense, KeeSean Johnson will be absent after taking a hard hit last week. Dhonte Meyers, who impressed during training camp before a hand injury landed him on the six-game injured list, will step into Johnson’s receiver position.
Defensively, Middle linebacker Jameer Thurman, who has been battling injuries, will miss tonight’s game. C.J. Avery will take over Thurman’s role, while Adam Auclair, a former RedBLACK, will fill Avery’s previous spot. Jayden Dalke is expected to see some time with the linebackers, with A.J. Allen potentially rotating in on the defensive line.
Historical Context
Tonight’s game will mark the 78th regular-season encounter between Ottawa and Saskatchewan, with the Roughriders leading the series 47-30. Saskatchewan has won four of the last five meetings between these teams, though their last victory in Ottawa dates back to September 29, 2017.
Notable Statistics and Milestones
- Defensive Metrics: Saskatchewan’s defense is allowing 7.9 yards per second down play, the second-most in the league, while Ottawa is leading with the fewest yards allowed at 5.1.
- Special Teams: Mario Alford, who dazzled last week with a touchdown on the opening kick-off, needs just 8 more punt return yards to move into 4th place on Saskatchewan’s all-time list. Remarkably, he would achieve this in 91 fewer attempts than his predecessor.
- Ottawa’s Home Record: The RedBLACKS are undefeated at home this season, having defeated Winnipeg, Hamilton, Edmonton, and Calgary. Their home record for wins is seven, set in 2015. They have not lost to Saskatchewan at home since 2017.
- Big Plays: Ottawa ranks second in the league with 21 big plays on offense and special teams but has also allowed the most big plays this season with 15. On a positive note, they have only allowed one 30+ yard kick return this season.
Broadcast Information
Kick-off is scheduled for 5:30 p.m. Saskatchewan Time. Pre-game coverage begins at 2:30 p.m. on .
With the unpredictable weather and both teams dealing with key injuries, tonight’s game promises to be a challenging and compelling spectacle. Fans can expect a fierce battle as each team strives to make a statement heading into the second half of the season.
