REDBLACKS
Jeremiah Johnson: This guy is the real deal. Recently nicknamed Mr. Plow , JJ is putting together an outstanding second half of the season. In his past three games, Johnson has racked up 232 rushing yards, 97 receiving yards and seven TDs. He leads the CFL in total touchdowns with eight. There’s no reason to think that JJ factor in this game in a big way.
Brett Maher: With no offense meant towards any kickers out there, normally you wouldn’t see one be considered a key player in a mid-season matchup. Though tonight, Brett Maher’s punting skills will have an immediate impact on the REDBLACKS special teams. Ottawa lost Maher to an off-season hip injury and has been searching for stability in that part of their kicking game ever since. With Chris Milo quietly killing it on field goal, convert, and kickoff duty, Maher should complete a dangerous kicking duo.
Shawn Lemon: Are #LemonDrops in the forecast in Regina tonight? Let’s hope so! DL Shawn Lemon took over the REDBLACKS Snapchat today in Saskatchewan, so he should he ready to rock the Riders. In two games against Saskatchewan last season, Lemon recorded four tackles, three sacks, and two forced fumbles. Look for Lemon to drop a few Riders tonight.
ROUGHRIDERS
Kevin Glenn: The 15-year CFL vet is back after spending eight weeks on the injured list and will instantly transform the Riders’ offence. Yes, rookie QB Brett Smith played admirably in his (and Durant’s) absence, but Glenn has a real rhythm will the Riders’ receivers. Playing parts of the Riders first five games, Glenn had 1,483 passing yards and six TDs. He needs to be Saskatchewan’s best player if they hope to win tonight.
Jerome Messam: A native of Toronto, ON, running back Jerome Messam will definitely be the Riders’ nominee for 2015 Most Outstanding Canadian. He’s a big reason why Saskatchewan is leading the CFL in rushing yards with 127.3 per game. Personally, Messam sits second, only behind BC’s Andrew Harris, among CFL rushing leaders (612 yards). With the Riders passing game back, the REDBLACKS defence will have to protect against both offensive threats.
Nic Demski: The Riders selected highly-touted receiver Nic Demski with the 6th overall pick in 2015 CFL Draft, hoping he could add another dimension to their offence. So far though, the rookie hasn’t quite lived up to all the hype. Through 11 games, Demski only has nine receptions for 134 yards. His speed has been helping on special teams though, returning punts and kicks for a combined 266 yards. If he and QB Kevin Glenn can find any kind of chemistry, look for a big game from the Canadian receiver.
