At IG Field on Saturday, the Winnipeg Blue Bombers asserted their domination with a masterful performance against the Saskatchewan Roughriders, concluding the game with a substantial 51-6 victory.
The Bombers not only avenged their Labour Day Classic loss but also secured a place in the post-season with their 10th win in the 2023 season. This victory elevates them to a leading position in the CFL standings with a four-point lead over the West Division second-place BC Lions.
Winnipeg’s quarterback Zach Collaros led the charge with an awe-inspiring performance, delivering five touchdowns all in the first half, establishing a remarkable advantage that Saskatchewan could not overturn.
Results
Team
1
2
3
4
T
SSK
3
3
0
0
6
WPG
14
28
3
6
51
Winnipeg Blue Bombers’ Performance Breakdown
Offense
Zach Collaros (QB) orchestrated the Bombers’ splendid offensive display, completing 18 of 21 passes and notching 319 yards with five touchdowns. Dalton Schoen (WR) was the primary recipient of Collaros’s throws, catching five for 104 yards and scoring three times. Kenny Lawler (WR) also had a remarkable day with 104 yards and a touchdown. Brady Oliveira (RB) stood out in the running game with 154 yards on 18 carries.
Defense
The Bombers’ defense was equally potent with Kyrie Wilson (LB) leading in total tackles with seven, supported by an ensemble cast including Demerio Houston (CB) and Ricky Walker (DT) making significant contributions to control the Roughriders’ advances throughout the game.
Saskatchewan Roughriders’ Performance Breakdown
Offense
The Roughriders’ offense struggled against a stout Bombers’ defense. Jake Dolegala (QB) managed to complete 15 out of 21 passes, but for only 113 yards and no touchdowns. The running game saw some contribution from Jamal Morrow (RB) and Thomas Bertrand-Hudon (RB), accumulating 36 and 41 yards respectively. However, they couldn’t find the end zone, reflecting Saskatchewan’s offensive woes.
Defense
On the defense end, Larry Dean (LB) led with seven total tackles, yet the unit couldn’t resist the high-flying Bombers. Despite the efforts of defensive players like Nick Marshall (CB) and Deontai Williams (CB), who managed six and one defensive tackles respectively, the Roughriders could not manage to constrict the CFL scores to a manageable number.
Closing Notes
Despite a promising start with a field goal from veteran kicker Brett Lauther, the Saskatchewan Roughriders couldn’t build momentum, being stifled by the Bombers’ dominating offense and solid defense. Winnipeg showcased their playoff readiness with a disciplined and creative game plan, executing both ground and aerial attacks to perfection.
As the Bombers prepare to meet the Tiger-Cats on the road on September 16, the Roughriders will be seeking to recalibrate when they host the Edmonton Elks on September 15. This game exhibited the sheer might of the Winnipeg Blue Bombers, a team clearly operating at the pinnacle of their abilities, as they edge closer to realizing their playoff ambitions.
Mark Perry is the founder and editor of CFL News Hub. A dedicated and experienced football analyst, he has been providing comprehensive coverage of the sport since 2018.
