The Winnipeg Blue Bombers concluded their preseason campaign with a 27-20 victory over the Saskatchewan Roughriders at Mosaic Stadium on Friday night, completing a perfect 2-0 sweep of their Prairie rivals. With roster cutdowns looming at 10 PM Eastern on Saturday, both teams used the finale to evaluate depth players and finalize their regular season rosters ahead of the June 5th season opener.
Explosive First Quarter Sets Early Tone
Winnipeg wasted no time establishing dominance, racing to a commanding 14-0 first-quarter lead behind two explosive touchdown passes to Keric Wheatfall. The connection proved unstoppable as Wheatfall hauled in scoring strikes of 21 and 40 yards from Chris Streveler and Zach Collaros respectively.
The opening touchdown came on a 12-play, 83-yard drive that showcased Winnipeg’s methodical approach, while the second score required just two plays and 80 yards, highlighting the Blue Bombers’ big-play capability. Saskatchewan managed just three plays and seven yards in their opening possession, setting the tone for a challenging evening.
Defensive Touchdown Extends Lead
The Blue Bombers’ advantage grew to 21-3 in the second quarter thanks to a spectacular defensive play. Phillip Webb recovered a Mario Anderson fumble and returned it 90 yards for a touchdown, demonstrating the type of game-changing defensive play that has become synonymous with Winnipeg football.
Saskatchewan managed to respond with a pair of field goals from Brett Lauther, but trailed 21-6 at halftime despite outgaining Winnipeg 235-310 in total yards.
Field Goal Battle Defines Second Half
The third quarter belonged to the kickers, with both teams trading field goals in a tactical battle. Saskatchewan’s Lauther connected from 53 yards out, while Sergio Castillo answered for Winnipeg from 31 yards. Dawson Hodge added a 31-yard field goal for Saskatchewan, keeping the Roughriders within striking distance at 24-12 entering the final frame.
Late Drama in Fourth Quarter
Winnipeg extended their lead early in the fourth quarter with another Castillo field goal from 26 yards, seemingly putting the game away at 27-12. However, Saskatchewan mounted a spirited comeback attempt in the final minutes.
With just 29 seconds remaining, Mario Anderson punched in a 4-yard rushing touchdown, and the Roughriders successfully converted the two-point attempt via a pass to Daniel Wiebe, cutting the deficit to 27-20.
Unfortunately for Saskatchewan, their onside kick attempt failed, allowing Winnipeg to run out the clock and secure the victory.
Eddie Heckard: 3 tackles, 1 interception (45-yard return)
Braxton Hill: 4 tackles
Antoine Brooks Jr.: 5 tackles
Key Statistical Differences
Despite outgaining Winnipeg 235-310 in total yards, Saskatchewan struggled with ball security and crucial mistakes. The Roughriders committed two turnovers compared to Winnipeg’s two, but the Blue Bombers capitalized more effectively on their opportunities.
Saskatchewan’s ground game struggled significantly, managing just -50 rushing yards on 12 attempts, while Winnipeg controlled the line of scrimmage with 107 rushing yards on 21 carries. The Roughriders’ passing attack was more productive (302 yards) than Winnipeg’s (225 yards), but failed to find the end zone through the air.
Special Teams Excellence
Both teams showcased reliable kicking games, with Saskatchewan’s Brett Lauther perfect on four field goal attempts, including a long of 53 yards. Winnipeg’s Sergio Castillo matched that reliability, converting both of his field goal tries and all three extra points.
The punting battle was closely contested, with both teams averaging over 45 yards per punt and controlling field position effectively throughout the contest.
Looking Ahead
With the preseason sweep complete, Winnipeg demonstrated the depth and versatility that made them championship contenders. The Blue Bombers’ ability to score through multiple phases – offense, defense, and special teams – provides head coach Mike O’Shea with confidence heading into roster decisions.
Saskatchewan showed resilience and offensive potential despite the loss, particularly in their late-game comeback attempt. The Roughriders’ passing attack moved the ball effectively, but costly turnovers and struggles in short-yardage situations proved decisive.
Both teams now face critical roster cutdown decisions before Saturday’s 10 PM Eastern deadline, with the regular season set to begin June 5th. The Blue Bombers’ perfect preseason against their Prairie rivals positions them as early favorites in what promises to be another competitive CFL season.
