Saskatchewan Roughriders Triumph Over Ottawa REDBLACKS with Stellar Performance

The Saskatchewan Roughriders emerged victorious against the Ottawa REDBLACKS with a 29-16 win at Mosaic Stadium on Saturday, marking a significant improvement in their standing in the Canadian Football League (CFL). Kicker Brett Lauther was pivotal to the victory, successfully making all seven of his field-goal attempts, a performance that quarterback Trevor Harris praised. “Seven field goals … it’s awesome,” Harris said post-game, lauding Lauther’s consistency following earlier struggles in the season.

This victory improved the Roughriders’ record to 7-7-1, placing them ahead of the B.C. Lions (7-8-0) in the CFL’s West Division standings, and just three points behind leaders Winnipeg Blue Bombers (9-6-0). Previously, the Roughriders had been mired in a seven-game winless streak. Their last game against the Montreal Alouettes on August 8 had seen Lauther missing four field goals, but since then, he has impressively converted 18 of 19 attempts.

Under a sun-lit autumn sky, the Roughriders led the game from the outset. Lauther’s field goals were critical in establishing an early lead, with Saskatchewan ahead 15-3 by the third quarter. Coach Corey Mace emphasized the importance of refining their performances, “We’ve got to be a better version of what we were today,” he stated, aiming for continued improvements.

The Roughriders demonstrated a robust defensive strategy, with three interceptions contributing significantly to the victory. Rolan Milligan Jr., who secured one of the interceptions, emphasized the importance of turnovers in their game plan against quarterback Jeremiah Masoli of the Ottawa REDBLACKS, who completed 26 out of 36 passes for 278 yards.

In the coming week, Saskatchewan is set to face the Edmonton Elks at Commonwealth Stadium. With their recent wins, the Roughriders are in a strong position to secure a home playoff game, maintaining control of their destiny in the league standings.

KeeSean Johnson emerged as Harris’ top target on the day, making six catches for 101 yards. Harris also completed 27 of his 36 passes for 315 yards, navigating through the Ottawa defense with precision.

Despite suffering injuries and player substitutions during the game, including Ryquell Armstead’s exit due to a shoulder injury, the Roughriders showed resilience. Thomas Bertrand-Hudon stepped up, rushing for 72 yards and a touchdown, embodying the team’s “next-man-up” mentality.