In a game filled with plenty of suspense, the Saskatchewan Roughriders managed to edge out the Ottawa REDBLACKS 26-24 at Mosaic Stadium on Sunday. The Riders’ Brett Lauther emerged as the hero of the day, his boot securing the decisive field goal in the dying moments of the game to tilt the balance in Saskatchewan’s favor.

Quick Recap

The game witnessed a see-saw battle, with the lead shifting hands several times throughout. The REDBLACKS, led by quarterback Dustin Crum, initially took a 24-23 lead late in the fourth quarter. However, the Roughriders showed grit and determination, mounting a last-minute drive on the back of a long return from Mario Alford and quarterback Mason Fine‘s accurate passing. This paved the way for Brett Lauther’s game-winning field goal. With this nail-biting victory, the Roughriders move to a 4-4 record while the REDBLACKS slip to 3-5.

The REDBLACKS’ Performance

The REDBLACKS showcased some excellent football, with Crum completing 16 out of 20 passes for a total of 174 yards. Unfortunately, he was unable to notch any touchdowns or interceptions. Despite a valiant effort, the REDBLACKS found themselves on the losing end, largely due to Saskatchewan’s relentless defense that delivered six sacks on Crum.

Running back Devonte Williams led the rushing for Ottawa with 33 yards from 12 carries, while wide receiver Jaelon Acklin was the leading receiver, with three catches resulting in 56 yards. On the defensive front, linebacker Jovan Santos-Knox was the standout performer with nine defensive tackles.

Despite a commendable effort, the REDBLACKS were unable to hold onto their late lead, succumbing to a heart-wrenching two-point loss.

The Roughriders’ Performance

Quarterback Mason Fine was the lynchpin for Saskatchewan, impressively completing 23 of 37 passes for 296 yards and a touchdown. His 42-yard major to wide receiver Shawn Bane Jr. was a highlight of the contest. Bane Jr. himself racked up six catches for a total of 88 yards and the crucial touchdown.

Jamal Morrow’s rushing was equally important for the Roughriders, contributing 47 yards and a touchdown. Saskatchewan’s defense, led by Anthony Lanier with three sacks, played a pivotal role in keeping the REDBLACKS at bay and protecting their narrow lead.

Final Thoughts

While the game was a tight contest, it was the Saskatchewan Roughriders who showed greater nerve at the crunch moments. The ability to keep calm under pressure and mount a successful late drive turned out to be the game-changer. The Roughriders now look ahead to an away game against the Montreal Alouettes, while the REDBLACKS prepare to take on the Argonauts in Toronto, in what promises to be another exciting week of CFL action.