The Saskatchewan Roughriders clinched a spot in the Grey Cup playoffs for the first time since 2021 with a 28-24 win in Edmonton.
Quarterback Trevor Harris threw two touchdown passes in the win and admitted securing a ticket to the postseason seemed unlikely after back-to-back losses against the Winnipeg Blue Bombers in September.
“It was a seven-game stretch where we couldn't figure out a way to win a ball game. If you think we're going to just exhale now you're dead wrong about what the character of this team is and what we're all about. We've got bigger goals in mind.”
Harris’ 358 passing yards in Week 18 was his sixth 300-yard passing performance in 10 starts this season.
“We're going to keep our hand on the wheel, foot on the pedal and keep pressing because this team and group has a lot more in terms of our potential. We're going to keep pounding the stone and find out what we're truly capable of," the 38-year-old said.
Saskatchewan hosts the B.C. Lions on Saturday at Mosaic Stadium. With a win, the Riders can clinch a home playoff game and host the Western Semi-Final.
“When we left Winnipeg, people were saying: 'Are they going to ever win a game after Labour Day?' The ability that we have as a team is far greater than what we've shown," Harris said.
Saturday’s game in Edmonton was Harris’ seventh since returning from a knee injury which cost him six games on the injured list. Since returning to the lineup, he has completed 71 percent of his passes for 2,121 yards with 11 touchdowns and six interceptions.
“People ask me all the time: 'Who's your favourite to throw to?' It's the person in the progression that I think is open and has a chance to get the ball," Harris explained.
Kian Schaffer-Baker was open and caught a pair of passes from Harris to reach the 200 reception mark for his career. Harris is happy with their relationship and the progression of the entire offence.
“I love this group and I’m happy with where we are in terms of where we were about a month ago," Harris said.
“This team is not playing our best football right now, but we're heading in the right direction and we're going to keep pressing. This group has the character and morale to keep finding out what we're capable of.”
Saskatchewan hosts the B.C. Lions on Saturday afternoon at Mosaic Stadium. Countdown to Kick-off begins with a chance to watch Justin Dunk and Wes Cates at 2 p.m. on YouTube. Luc Mullinder and I will join at 4 p.m. with the kick-off to follow at 5 p.m. on the Co-operators Roughrider Radio Network.
