With two weeks remaining in the CFL regular season, the Saskatchewan Roughriders playoff hopes are close to being placed on life support, and depending the result of Friday’s Hamilton-Ottawa game, Saturday’s game against the Calgary Stampeders could see the green and white fighting for their playoff lives.
On Monday, head coach Craig Dickenson joined Don Hewitt for his weekly appearance on the SportsCage, as the Riders are set to come back from their third break of the season.
The playoff chances of the Riders took a big hit on Friday, when the Hamilton Tiger-Cats defeated the Calgary Stampeders in a game that was included a pair of lead changes in the final minute. When Dickenson discussed the aftermath of the game with his brother, Dave,(Stamps head coach) he noted his sibling didn’t provide any help.
The Riders head coach added that is the problem at the this time of year when a team doesn’t control their own playoff destiny.
“You can’t count on other people to help you, you got to take care of your own business and as soon as you’re overanalyzing what other teams can do to help you and your standing, your focus is probably a little bit off. ”
With Saskatchewan having a second bye week over the last month, Dickenson said the majority of the Roughriders coaching staff remained in Regina. He said they spent a lot of time going over the film of the Stampeders ahead of Saturday’s crucial game.
On the injury front, Dickenson said they may get some a couple players back this week. The biggest name is running back, Jamal Morrow. The 27 year old was the CFL’s leading rusher before suffering a broken hand back in August. The Riders head coach noted getting Morrow back into the lineup will be a big boost to their running game. Since Morrow’s injury, Frankie Hickson, Kienan Lafrance, Shaq Cooper have started in his place.
As well, Dickenson noted the green and white could get defensive back Godfrey Onyeka back from a torn pectoral injury that has sidelined him this season. Receiver Samuel Emilus could also be back this week, his last action was against Edmonton on September 16.
A couple key players who likely remain out for Saturday’s contest are Anthony Lanier and Duke Williams. While the Rider head coach didn’t rule either out for the season, the chances of either suiting once again are starting to fade, especially if the Roughriders season comes to end within the next two weeks.
Dickenson noted the loss Lanier is not only felt on the field, but off the field as well.
“Guys really enjoy him, he brings a lot of energy to that group. ”
He added that the defensive tackle has seen some improvement from his concussion, but adds that it’s difficult to give Lanier an accurate diagnosis on when he can return to the football field.
The Riders are set to return to practice on Tuesday.
Saturday’s game will be the final home game of the Riders season, 620 CKRM will have full coverage beginning with Countdown to Kickoff at 2:00, opening kickoff at 5:00.
