Second year CFLer Logan Bandy will get the start at centre for the Riders this week, in place of injured veteran Dan Clark.

The 34-year-old Clark suffered a broken fibula in Saskatchewan’s 26-16 win over the Edmonton Elks on the weekend, so Bandy – a 23-year-old University of Calgary product – moves into the starting role. He’s nervous, but ready for the opportunity.

“It’s super exciting for me,” Bandy acknowledges. “It’s a once in a lifetime moment for me, as you only get to experience your first start once. I’m gonna go out, play for Dan, communicate with the guys and do my best out there. It’s heartbreaking for all the guys to see our leader go down like that,” Bandy continues. “He’s the heart and soul of the team, and with 13 years experience, there’s no guy like him. We’re playing for him for sure this week.”

In addition to his blocking responsibilities, Bandy will also be tasked with calling out the defensive formations and offensive line blocking scheme adjustments at the line of scrimmage. He feels he’s ready for the challenge.

“I think my biggest attribute is my confidence,” Bandy states. “I’m coming into this situation and I’m confident I’m going to play well, and I know the guys around me have got me. So, I’m excited to be physical out there and just play football.

The offensive line is coming off a strong performance in the run game against the Elks, with first year starting RB Jamal Morrow rumbling for 126 yards and one touchdown. Morrow doesn’t expect the running game to miss a beat this week.

“It’ll be tough,” Morrow admits. “I mean, Dan has been a leader on this team since I’ve been here. But it’ll be fine. We all have complete faith in Bandy. At the end of the day, football is all about the next man up. We’ll be alright.

The Riders and Als kick off at 5:30 p.m. on Thursday. 620 CKRM’s coverage starts with the pre-game show at 2:30.