Saskatchewan Roughriders' Samuel Emilus is having a great season. However, he is focused on the team's ultimate goal.
"We all know a thousand yards is a milestone for every receiver and back-to-back seasons is an accomplishment, but we all know we got bigger goals," Emilus said.
The six-foot-one, 200-pound pass catcher has played 16 games for the Riders so far this year, recording 81 receptions for 970 yards and five touchdowns. Last season, Emilus snatched 70 balls for 1,097 yards and six touchdowns. This is Emilus' third CFL season with the Riders and he's been with different quarterbacks.
"I can't really control that. All I can do is do my part and catch the ball when the ball comes my way," the 26-year-old said. "Beginning of the season, I know those stats will come naturally and that's what happened."
"Hopefully, we can get it in a winning fashion," head coach Corey Mace said. "I know that's the most important thing for him, it validates the work."
In 2022, his rookie season, Emilus had Cody Fajardo, Jake Dolegala and Mason Fine as his quarterbacks. The only difference in 2023 was Trevor Harris was with the team as Fajardo went to the Montreal Alouettes. Both years the Roughriders finished the season with a 6-12 record and missed the playoffs.
"They count on me and I gotta make the most out of it. I know Trevor got the trust in me to put the ball in my hands and they know I'm going to make plays," Emilus said.
"I enjoy you guys calling me a vet in my third year in the league. It goes to show that I do things the right way and I'm a leader in this group. I'm going to do the best I can to lead those guys and make sure they're ready for games."
During the season, Emilus and his fellow receivers have performed the 'Saskatchewan Samba' and other choreographed celebrations. Initially, the receivers forgot about the dances, but brought them later when the group got their "groove back."
"It's a tough job to get in the end zone in this league," Emilus said. " When you get into the end zone, you have to celebrate and have fun."
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 live at 2 p.m. on YouTube. Dave Thomas and Luc Mullinder join at 4 p.m., with the kick-off to follow at 5 p.m. on the Co-operators Roughrider Radio Network.
