Saskatchewan Roughriders’ offensive lineman Jermarcus Hardrick understands the rivalry with the Winnipeg Blue Bombers.
"I got a new hate for the blue club," Hardrick said, chuckling. "I never understood it. That was the first time I was on that side in a while, and I really understand it now."
The six-foot-five, 317-pound Hardrick is in his second stint with Riders, the first one came in 2015. After that, Hardrick spent 2016 through 2023 with the Bombers, where he helped the franchise reach four Grey Cups, winning two. The first CFL championship win was on November 24, 2019, when Winnipeg defeated the Hamilton Tiger-Cats 33-12; the second December 12, 2021, when the Blue and Gold beat the Ticats again 33-25. Along with two Grey Cups, he earned two All-CFL selections in 2021 and 2023 plus one West Division Most Outstanding Offensive Lineman award.
Saskatchewan lost to the Bombers 38-22 in the West Final. Winnipeg takes on the Toronto Argonauts in the 111th Grey Cup.
Unfortunately, Hardrick did not suit up since Week 6 due to a quad injury he sustained against the B.C. Lions, which sidelined him for the rest of the season.
"If it was up to me, I would have played," Hardrick said. "I credit all the trainers and everyone here. I'm ready to go right now. You guys got me going."
"Hats off to them, but I think we moved in the right direction. We wanted to win the Grey Cup, but definitely not a bad season at all."
The Riders started 3-0 this season then Trevor Harris sustained an MCL knee sprain in Week 3. Backup Shea Patterson started the next six games producing a 2-3-1 record.
Harris returned from injury in Week 11 and finally led the team to a win in Week 16 when Saskatchewan beat the Calgary Stampeders 37-29 plus three more wins. The Riders finished the regular season with a 9-8-1 record to secure second place in the West Division.
Hardrick’s contract with the Riders goes through the 2025 season. He’s excited to work with his teammates, especially Logan Ferland.
"We know how to push each other," Hardrick said. "Me and him can lead the O-line room."
Ferland had quite the season with the Riders' injury problems along the O-line, where he played every position except left tackle. His hard work paid off as he earned the West Division Most Outstanding Offensive Lineman award.
Hardrick appreciated the love and support he received from the fans this year.
"Thank you, Rider Nation, felt it all year, the love, support, social media, in real life, at Save On Foods, at Tim Hortons."
The Toronto Argonauts take on the Blue Bombers in the 111th Grey Cup on Sunday. Countdown to Kickoff begins with Dave Thomas, Justin Dunk and Wes Cates at 1 p.m. until 3 p.m. That's when TSN's pre-game show takes over. Kickoff goes at 5:30 p.m. with a post-game show to follow on the Co-operators Roughrider Radio Network.
