Shea Patterson Set to Lead Roughriders Against Rivals

In an exciting matchup on Friday, the Saskatchewan Roughriders will face off against the Winnipeg Blue Bombers, with former University of Michigan star Shea Patterson set to make his third start as quarterback. This important clash will take place at Mosaic Stadium, starting at 7:30 p.m.

Patterson, who previously played as the starting quarterback for the Michigan Wolverines during the 2018 and 2019 seasons, has quickly become a key player for the Roughriders under head coach Corey Mace. While at Michigan, Patterson’s journey was under the guidance of renowned coach Jim Harbaugh, who recently transitioned to the Los Angeles Chargers after securing the 2024 College Football Playoff National Championship title.

The 25-year-old Patterson reflected on the influence Harbaugh had on his development both professionally and personally. “I love that guy,” he stated, praising Harbaugh as a proven leader, much like Coach Mace.

During his tenure at Michigan, Patterson achieved impressive milestones, including throwing for 2,600 yards and 22 touchdowns in 2018, and upping those numbers to 3,061 yards and 23 touchdowns in his concluding college season. “Toward my senior year, that’s when I really began to understand what it takes to win consistently,” he said, crediting much of his growth to Harbaugh’s mentorship.

Before joining the Wolverines, Patterson played two years at the University of Mississippi. His decision to transfer was fueled by his desire to compete for championships. Describing Harbaugh’s personal recruiting visit to his home in Mississippi, Patterson shared, “It was like, ‘Wow.’ Growing up, Jim was a celebrity to me, and meeting him meant the world.”

Despite the pressures that come with being the starting quarterback in a high-pressure environment like Saskatchewan, Patterson is keen to embrace his role. He assumed the starting position following an injury to Trevor Harris during a game on June 23, and he acknowledges his growing prominence in the community.

“Not yet,” Patterson laughed when asked if he had been recognized more frequently in public venues like grocery stores. “I usually spend all my time here and then it’s back to the dorm to get some sleep.”

The Roughriders enter this contest with a strong 4-1 record, while the Blue Bombers, who have appeared in the last four Grey Cup Games, find themselves with a record of 2-4, which is quite unusual for the team. Coaching staff, including Mace, understands the implications of this rivalry and expresses great respect for their opponents.

<p“Records are non-existent in games like this,” asserted Mace. “We understand and respect who they are. It’s still the Winnipeg Blue Bombers, coached by a talented staff, and they are led on offense by Zach Collaros. They also bring a formidable defense to the field.”

Collaros, known for his remarkable achievements, including being a two-time recipient of the CFL’s Most Outstanding Player award, has had a challenging start to the current season. As of now, he has only managed to throw two touchdown passes against six interceptions over five games. However, both touchdown passes surfaced during a close match against the Calgary Stampeders last week, where the Bombers triumphed with a score of 41-37.

<p“Mace expressed his anticipation for the ratings-worthy quarterback, saying, “I expect the four-time Grey Cups MVP Zach Collaros. That’s who we’re preparing for, so we’ll be ready for a fierce competition.”

A whimsical memory surfaced during discussions about Collaros, as it sparked recollection of an encounter between Collaros and Mace during the 102nd Grey Cup game on November 30, 2014. At that time, Collaros was leading the Hamilton Tiger-Cats against Mace and the Calgary Stampeders. Mace now fondly recalls that day, celebrating both his first Grey Cup championship and the opportunity to sack Collaros.

<p"I believe they gave me credit for it but, man, I don’t know,” Mace admitted. “It was kind of close. But, to the grave, I’ll say that was all me. That’s a tip of the cap to Zach. I have a tremendous amount of respect for him and how he approaches the game and competes.”

The humorous moment was amplified when Mace elaborated on the specifics of the sack. “Someone might have touched him with a fingernail around the same time I got there,” he explained, insisting that he would forever claim credit for that memorable moment. “But they gave me credit, so I’m stealing that forever.”

With Patterson stepping onto the field against the formidable Blue Bombers, fans are set for an engaging matchup that captures the essence of Canadian football, featuring skilled performers and a passionate rivalry.