On Sunday, the Saskatchewan Roughriders hosted the Calgary Stampeders in what turned out to be the most exciting game of the CFL season. Kicker Brett Lauther nailed a 34-yard field goal that won the game 33-30, propelling the Riders to the Western Final against the Winnipeg Blue Bombers.
Although Saskatchewan ended up coming away with the home victory, they certainly didn’t make it easy for themselves. Quarterback Cody Fajardo threw four interceptions, three of which ended up in the hands of Stampeders defensive back Jonathan Moxey. However, Fajardo had a pretty impressive rushing performance, accounting for 89 yards and a touchdown on just 10 carries.
As for the rest of the offense, William Powell proved to be a threat in both the run game and the pass game, recording 128 total yards on 25 touches. Kian Schaffer-Baker caught Fajardo’s only touchdown through the air, but was far from the leading receiver (3 rec, 18 yards). On defense, Ed Gainey had two interceptions off Calgary quarterback Bo Levi Mitchell, while Deon Lacey led the team in tackles (12). Special teams was a big part of Saskatchewan’s day, with Jamal Morrow returning a punt for a touchdown. Lauther also connected on four of five field goal attempts, which included one of the most important kicks of his career.
Calgary, on the other hand, kept things close down the stretch. They were able to capitalize off Fajardo’s four turnovers, and may have won the game if it wasn’t for two turnovers of their own. Running back Ka’Deem Carey had a day to remember, finishing the matchup with 117 rushing yards and 2 touchdowns on 22 carries (5.3-yard average). Reggie Begelton, who was only signed a few weeks ago, led the way in receiving (5 rec, 105 yards). Begelton was a member of the team for three seasons (2017-2019), and returned after a brief stint in the NFL. His presence was certainly felt at Mosaic Stadium.
On defense, Jameer Thurman led the team in tackles with 8, and also got one of Fajardo’s picks. As mentioned before, the other three went to Jonathan Moxey. Calgary’s special teams also played a major role, with kicker Rene Paredes attempting eight field goals. However, he only made five of them.
With the Stampeders now out of the playoffs, many are questioning the future of Bo Levi Mitchell. He certainly didn’t play as bad as Fajardo, but Mitchell’s season has been quite turbulent. Jake Maier looked decent in the few games he appeared in, and the team may have a decision to make before 2022. Right now, however, the focus is on Saskatchewan, one game away from the 108th Grey Cup. If they can pull off an upset win over the Blue Bombers, the Riders will face either Toronto or Hamilton in the championship game.
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