Normally the CFL playoff push would be in full swing after the Thanksgiving long-weekend, but obviously COVID-19 put a stop to the season months ago.

With more time on their hands than they’ve had in perhaps years, players and coaches have had to find a way to fill the void.

Saskatchewan Roughriders head coach Craig Dickenson said he’s given himself a project to work on during the hiatus.

“One of the projects I’ve been doing is just going back and analyzing and trying to critique the last three minutes before the half and the end of the game and how coaches handle those situations in different scenarios,” Dickenson said.

Dickenson also said despite the fact there’s no season this year, he’s done something that he hopes makes him a better head coach when it comes time to return.

“I’m coming in to work everyday,” he said. ” I think one thing I’ve gotten better at is showing more patience and empathy, I think that’s the one thing this pandemic has taught us, is that you have to be patient.”

One positive the lack of CFL football in 2020 has given many players, is the chance to pursue NFL opportunities more freely.

Dickenson has an opinion on many players, and did admit he was surprised to see that kicker Brett Lauther has not gotten an opportunity south of the border, at the same time though he said it was somewhat expected.

“Yes and no, I do think he’s good enough there’s no question about that,” Dickenson said. ” The tricky part is actually finding yourself with an opportunity,” he added.

Lauther was good on 78 percent of his field goals in 2019, going 32/41 with a season long 57 yarder.

Some notable players who are or have pursued NFL opportunities this year include Edmonton receiver Derel Walker, and B.C. linebacker Adam Bighill.