THIS IS VERY DIFFICULT FOR DRESSLER

By Murray McCormick

CALGARY — Weston Dressler would prefer to be playing rather than watching Sunday’s Grey Cup game.
The Saskatchewan Roughriders slotback will be on the sidelines when they line up against the Montreal Alouettes. Dressler has been sidelined since Oct. 10 with a broken right leg and dislocated ankle.

“It’s hard,’’ said Dressler. “It’s not easy being at practice and knowing that I won’t be playing in the game. At the same time, it’s fun to be here and I’m proud of the team for what it has accomplished so far. I just hope we can get one more win.’’

Dressler broke his leg during the 32-22 victory over the Toronto Argonauts. There was some talk at the time that Dressler may be back for the Grey Cup. The break may have healed but his recovery has been slowed by the dislocated ankle.

Dressler, who was the CFL’s rookie-of-the-year in 2008, still finished the season as the Riders’ leading receiver with 941 yards. He had started 14 straight games before being injured. Dressler had 62 receptions (second to slotback Andy Fantuz’s 67) and scored four touchdowns. Dressler has been impressed with the Riders’ development this season.

“From Day 1 we’ve grown so much as an offence,’’ said Dressler. “Our quarterback (Darian Durant) has become a special player for us right now. Everyone on our offence is working together really well and using each other to make them better.’’

The Riders’ receivers have stepped up in Dressler’s absence, especially Canadian Rob Bagg. He was moved from wide receiver to slotback and was called on to fill the hole left by Dressler. Bagg finished the regular season with 59 receptions for 807 yards and five touchdowns. He scored on a 16-yard touchdown pass from Durant in the Riders’ 27-17 victory over the Calgary Stampeders in the West Division final.

“It took him a week or two to get comfortable then he played well,’’ said Dressler. “I’m proud of him and he has made the most of the opportunity.’’

Dressler is expected to make a full recovery in time for the 2010 season. The fact the Riders are playing the Alouettes for the league championship has made being on the sidelines for the game slightly easier to handle.
“It’s easier because they have been winning,’’ said Dressler. “It’s hard enough having to sit out but it would be even tougher if they were losing. They have made it easier on me since they are winning.’’

mmccormick@leaderpost.canwest.com
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