As the Saskatchewan Roughriders gear up for their Thursday night clash with the Ottawa Redblacks, they’re navigating a significant shake-up on the offensive line. Injuries have struck hard, with key players Jermarcus Hardrick, Phillip Blake, Jacob Brammer, and Ryan Sceviour sidelined, compounded by the unexpected retirement of Brandon Council on Tuesday.

In light of these developments, the Roughriders have been forced to make substantial adjustments. Nick Jones, recently signed by the team, will be stepping into the offensive line, while Zack Fry, a 2022 second-round draft pick, will make his season debut at Left Guard.

Head Coach Corey Mace expressed his surprise at Council’s retirement but emphasized respect for the decision. “We were pretty surprised by it, but out of respect for the man and what made more sense for him and post-football, it was kind of a decision that he came to,” Mace said. He remained optimistic about the situation, adding, “We do have other people in the building and again another opportunity for somebody to go out there and show what they got.”

Zack Fry, who has been waiting for his chance, will start at Left Guard, and Nick Jones will be the third starting Right Tackle for the Roughriders this season. Fry’s first start this season comes with high expectations, while Jones’s transition from his recent signing to a starting role demonstrates the team’s trust in his abilities.

Jones, a six-foot-three, 300-pound blocker, was brought on board by the Riders on July 16th. His collegiate career at Mississippi State, where he played 32 games and made 25 starts at left guard and left tackle, is notable. Jones’s solid performance, including allowing just three sacks over 657 snaps in his senior year, contributed significantly to his team’s offensive success.

Reflecting on his rapid journey from arriving in Regina to starting in just three weeks, Jones admitted the adjustment has been swift. “It’s been a whirlwind,” Jones said. “The biggest adjustment for me has been getting used to twelve men on the field and knowing who you’ve got when there are a lot of people running behind you.”

As the Roughriders prepare to face Ottawa, all eyes will be on their revamped offensive line. The game promises to be a critical test of the team’s depth and adaptability. Fans will be eager to see how Fry and Jones perform under the Thursday night lights and whether they can rise to the challenge presented by their new roles.

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