BARIN SIMPSON HAD TOUGHEST WEEK OF HIS LIFE

By MURRAY McCORMICK, Leader-Post September 26, 2010

HAMILTON — Barrin Simpson had a difficult time celebrating Saturday's 32-25 victory over the Hamilton Tiger-Cats.

The Saskatchewan Roughriders' middle linebacker was pleased with the win, in which he recorded seven defensive tackles. Simpson accomplished that while still dealing with the emotional pain of an uncle's death Tuesday. Ray Hill was 52 when he died after a massive heart attack in Texas.

"It was a tough week,'' a subdued Simpson said. "I didn't get any sleep over the last three days because I was sick over it. Because of that, I felt that I didn't play as well as I needed to. The key point is we got the win.''

Simpson, a 10-year CFL veteran in his first season with the Riders, felt it was the toughest week of his career.

"I was thinking about family and not being there for them,'' Simpson said. "It was big surprise that he passed, but emotionally it's very tough when you lose a family member. Everyone took it pretty hard.''

Simpson said his uncle's death reminded him of his mother's death in 2002. Barbara Simpson died at 52 after a battle with cancer.

"It brought some of those emotions back,'' Simpson said. "I had to deal with that too.''

Simpson was to return to his home in Texas on Sunday to visit with his family. Simpson said he would be back with team in time for Tuesday's practice.
"I tried not to let it affect me because I still have to do my job,'' Simpson said. "I do thank God for helping me to get through the week.''

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RIDERS CLAW VICTORY

Hamilton Tiger-Cats wide receiver Arland Bruce III drops a pass in the end zone in front of Saskatchewan Roughriders defensive back Leron Mitchell (25) during the first half of their CFL football game in Hamilton on September 25, 2010.
Photograph by: Mike Cassese, Reuters

REGINA — Nearly 35 years after George Reed's final Canadian Football League game, No. 34 is still helping the Saskatchewan Roughriders.

Umpire Ritchie Miller — resplendent in striped jersey No. 34 — inadvertently made a crucial block on a pivotal play as the Roughriders outlasted the Tiger-Cats 32-25 at Ivor Wynne Stadium on Saturday.

As Roughriders slotback Weston Dressler broke deep on the final offensive play of the first half, Tiger-Cats defensive back Geoff Tisdale ran into Miller. With Tisdale out of the picture, Dressler was wiiiiiiiide open as he approached the end zone.

Nonetheless, it was not an easy completion for the Roughriders. Dressler had to stretch out to snare Darian Durant's pass. After making a spectacular diving catch on the six-yard line, Dressler got up and negotiated his way into the end zone. Luca Congi's convert gave Saskatchewan a 21-18 halftime lead.

The game was hardly in the Bagg — er, bag — as the momentum continued to turn throughout the wild game. Rob Bagg caught what proved to be the game-winning touchdown pass when he hauled in a 19-yarder from Durant with 7:19 remaining in the fourth quarter.

Andy Fantuz had set up Bagg's touchdown by making a one-handed grab in tight coverage for a 32-yard gain.

The highlight reel also included Bagg's 70-yard TD bomb in the second quarter.

Let's not forget a series of immense plays by the defence — such as interceptions by Lance Frazier and James Patrick, forced fumbles by Kye Stewart and Omarr Morgan, and some robust run-stuffing by Mike McCullough and Barrin Simpson.

But there was not a bigger play in Saturday's game than Dressler's remarkable reception.

The Roughriders won by a converted touchdown — the unlikeliest major being the one scored by Dressler.

Saskatchewan had assumed possession on its 48-yard line with 16 seconds remaining in the second quarter. In most situations, the team with the football would be thinking in terms of a field goal. After Durant found Chris Getzlaf for 19 yards on first down, Roughriders head coach Ken Miller called a timeout with 10 seconds left. At that point, it seemed logical that the Roughriders would attempt an intermediate-range pass in order to increase the likelihood of a three-pointer by Congi.

Durant, a self-described gunslinger, had other ideas. Dressler ended up scoring with one second left before halftime.

The touchdown, by itself, was critical. Also consider the manner in which it was scored. How often, if ever, do you see a better play — or a better catch — than that?

How different is Saturday's game if the Roughriders do not defy probability by travelling 62 yards in two plays while consuming 15 seconds when the Tiger-Cats should, in theory, be especially cognizant of the long pass?

Perhaps, by now, people should expect such heroics from Durant and Dressler — especially in Hamilton.

They enjoyed a mutual breakout game at Ivor Wynne Stadium on July 12, 2008, when the Roughriders won 33-28 in Durant's first CFL start. Saskatchewan scored the winning touchdown in the final minute when Wes Cates found paydirt from one yard away. On the previous play, Durant and Dressler had collaborated on a 67-yarder.

Dressler finished that 2008 game with six catches for 122 yards and one TD. Durant threw for 347 yards, foreshadowing many brilliant outings to come.
From the outset, Durant established that the Roughriders are seldom out of the game when he is at the controls. That notion was reaffirmed Saturday when the Roughriders overcame a horrid start — they trailed 15-0 after a painful first quarter — and won a nail-biter against a Tiger-Cats team that had been surging.

Durant ended up throwing for 418 yards and three touchdowns. Dressler, the Roughriders' busiest receiver, made seven catches for 139 yards as the Green and White stormed back to improve their record to 8-4-0.

At times, it didn't look promising for the visitors but, by George, they did it.
rvanstone@leaderpost.canwest.comRead more: http://www.leaderpost.com/sports/VANSTONE+Riders+wild+game/3580777/story.html#ixzz10dbY2qCf

RIDERS HAVE 2 NEW FACES ALONG THE DEFENSIVE LINE

Saskatchewan Roughriders defensive lineman Ryan Lucas #96 (L) and Montez Murphy (R) #91 at practice at Mosaic Stadium in Regina on September 23, 2010.
Photograph by: Don Healy, Leader-Post

REGINA — Saskatchewan Roughriders defensive co-ordinator Gary Etcheverry didn't hold back Thursday when it came to defensive lineman Montez Murphy.
Asked what Murphy brings to the table for Saturday's CFL clash against the host Hamilton Tiger-Cats, Etcheverry predicted big things.

"I think he's going to have a helluva game," Etcheverry said. "I'm fully anticipating it. He's a real force. He knows really well what we're doing.
"He has been working his tail off since he has been here and he has been here for a while, so there's no excuses as far as him knowing what we're doing and how we're doing it."

Murphy, a 6-foot-6, 256-pound product of Meridian, Miss., arrived in Regina on July 6 and was added to the Roughriders' practice roster on July 8.
The 28-year-old product of Baylor University has been patiently waiting for an opportunity — and this one arose when Brent Hawkins injured his right shoulder during Saskatchewan's 43-37 overtime victory over the Calgary Stampeders a week ago.

"Everything happens for a reason; you just have to wait your turn," said Murphy, who had previous CFL stints with the Edmonton Eskimos (2008) and the Tiger-Cats (2009). "I get an opportunity to go out to Hamilton and face my old team and bring home a road win."

Joining Murphy as a newcomer to the defensive line is tackle Ryan Lucas, who's to start in place of Marcus Adams (ankle). Head coach Ken Miller said he was leery of adding two new faces to a four-man line, but added it shouldn't cause too much difficulty to the unit.

"The intricacy of defensive line play isn't quite the same as offensive line play," Miller said. "It's a little bit more individualistic, so it's not a problem."

ihamilton@leaderpost.com

FANTUZ FLAKES - NEW DANDRUFF SHAMPOO

RIDERS HAVE A LOT OF TEAMS SHOWING THEIR ENVY OF OUR MARKETING SCHEMES. CHECK OUT THIS VIDEO FROM HAMILTON !!

http://www.ticats.ca/video/index/id/14285

FANTUZ SETS CAREER HIGH

By IAN HAMILTON, Leader-Post September 20, 2010

REGINA — Andy Fantuz never quit.

OK, so the Saskatchewan Roughriders' slotback admitted he did once Friday — and it resulted in a 55-yard interception return for a touchdown by Calgary Stampeders defensive back Milton Collins during the teams' CFL clash at Mosaic Stadium.

"They played a different coverage than we expected and I kind of gave up on the route on Darian (Durant, Saskatchewan's quarterback)," Fantuz said. "It was a mistake by me. I needed to keep running and undercut that and if I couldn't catch it at least break it up. I kind of quit on the route, so that was on me.

"I went up and told Darian right away, 'Just keep coming to me. I'm going to be ready all game. I feel great.' He did — and I'm glad he did."

So are the Roughriders. Fantuz finished with 10 receptions for 255 yards, with a 60-yard touchdown, in Saskatchewan's 43-37 overtime victory.

The yardage was a career single-game high for Fantuz, surpassing the 240 yards he had on seven catches versus the Hamilton Tiger-Cats on Oct. 14, 2007. Fantuz's showing Friday also put him second in the Roughriders' record book, behind the 260 yards Chris DeFrance had on nine catches against the Edmonton Eskimos on Aug. 5, 1983.

"That stuff doesn't matter," said Fantuz, who now owns the second- and fourth-highest single-game yardage totals in Roughriders history. "I don't really care. Whatever. It doesn't matter. I'm just happy we won."

Fantuz said he has had similar games in his career — he mentioned "a 250 and a 240 back to back" during his rookie season at the University of Western Ontario, as well as the aforementioned Hamilton contest — but Friday's performance was important to him because of the outcome.

The victory improved the Roughriders' record to 7-4-0 and kept them in touch with the first-place Stampeders (9-2-0) in the CFL's West Division.

The club record conceivably could have fallen Friday if Fantuz had held onto a pass on the Calgary sideline in the third quarter.

"Yeah, that one was tough," he said. "It was a first down and possibly more. I felt like I was turning it up, but I guess I just did that too quickly and took my eyes off it.

"We got a touchdown that drive anyway (on a 30-yard run by Hugh Charles, following Jason Clermont's 35-yard second-down reception), so that's why I'm not too mad about it. If we would have had to punt, I would have been a little sick to my stomach."

As it turned out, the Stampeders likely were sick of seeing Fantuz getting behind Collins. The converted safety nearly got his hands on a couple of the passes aimed at Fantuz, but the slotback hauled them in.

"They wanted to match up and put 14 (Collins) on Andy," said Durant, who completed 23 of 39 pass attempts for a career-high 500 yards, "and we knew that was a matchup we could take advantage of."

That resulted in Fantuz's third career CFL game with double-digit receptions — and all have been against Calgary (12 on Nov. 7, 2009, 10 on Oct. 17, 2009, and 10 on Friday). His yardage total nearly matched that of his past five games combined (259 on 22 catches, with no TDs).
"We've got so many weapons on our team that, depending on the week and the matchups, we're going to get it to different guys," said Fantuz, whose squad visits Hamilton on Saturday. "I'm not complaining about my role in the last few weeks, but we knew we could go after it this week and get it done.

"Last time we played Calgary, there were many opportunities that we missed out on (in the Stamps' 40-20 victory on July 24). They came in with the same game plan (Friday), so we adjusted and countered. It was a great job by our coaches getting us ready for this game."

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DURANT JOINS AUSTIN IN THE RECORD BOOKS

Saskatchewan Roughriders QB Darian Durant looks for a receiver during CFL action against the Calgary Stampeders at Mosaic Stadium in Regina on September 17, 2010.
Photograph by: Don Healy, Leader-Post files

REGINA — Darian Durant has joined an ultra-exclusive fraternity that also includes Kent Austin, Kent Austin, Kent Austin and Kent Austin.

On Friday, Durant became only the second Saskatchewan Roughriders quarterback to pass for at least 500 yards in a CFL game. He hit that magic figure — on the nose — during Friday's 43-37 overtime victory over the visiting Calgary Stampeders.

The Roughriders' other four 500-yard games were all produced by Austin, who set the team record of 559 in OT against the host B.C. Lions on Aug. 13, 1992. He also erupted for totals of 546 (Oct. 23, 1993 versus Calgary), 507 (in OT against the host Winnipeg Blue Bombers on Sept. 8, 1991) and 507 (in Toronto against the Argonauts on Oct. 31, 1993).

Nearly 17 years elapsed before a Saskatchewan quarterback joined Austin in the Fortune 500 club.

Durant also rushed for a team-high 69 yards on Friday, meaning that he figured directly in 569 of the Roughriders' 636 yards of total offence — or 89.5 per cent of the yardage Saskatchewan gained while upending Calgary.

The 28-year-old Saskatchewan pivot had not enjoyed such an outing in, uh, 2 1/2 months, having dealt with inconsistency in the weeks leading up to the Calgary game. Friday's showing was comparable to the regular-season opener, in which Durant threw for 481 yards and five touchdowns in a 54-51 overtime conquest of the visiting Montreal Alouettes. He added 52 yards on the ground while accounting for 80.1 per cent of the Roughriders' 660 yards of total offence.

If you think you are being inundated with numbers, imagine how the Stampeders felt after Friday's bombardment.

The Roughriders averaged 21.7 yards per completion, and 12.8 yards per attempt, as Durant went 23-for-39.

If he does not receive CFL offensive player-of-the-week honours, the league should dispense with any future presentations. Saskatchewan slotback Andy Fantuz — who had 10 catches for 255 yards on Friday — is also a worthy candidate, but Durant's myriad contributions set him apart.

Granted, Durant's second pass of the game was not something he will fondly remember. Early in the first quarter, he was intercepted by Milt Collins, who returned the ball 55 yards to paydirt to power Calgary to an early 7-0 lead.

The last laugh belonged to Durant, who repeatedly victimized Collins during Friday's game. Andy Fantuz, for example, got behind the Stampeders safety for the most picturesque of 60-yard touchdown bombs in the fourth quarter. Earlier, Durant had steamrolled Collins while running for a nine-yard gain.

In the process, Durant joined another exclusive group. How many Riders quarterbacks have squelched a would-be tackler in Elgaardian fashion. The list includes Durant, Kerry Joseph, Reggie Slack and ... uh ... anyone?

This is not the first time a variety of superlatives have been used to describe Durant in this cherished space. The weekly tributes to the Riders quarterback are, admittedly, overdone. But, really, have denizens of the Rider Nation ever seen anything quite like this?

Ron Lancaster was a nimble scrambler in his younger days, but his agility was generally used to buy time to find an open receiver. Austin rarely, if ever, ran by design. Henry Burris enjoyed some notable passing games as a Rider, but did not become a consistent running threat until joining the Stampeders in 2005. Slack was a formidable runner — especially in the 1997 West Division playoffs — but not a high-end passer.

From a multi-dimensional standpoint, Durant is most reminiscent of Joseph — a man he considers a friend and mentor.

Joseph played his most statistically dominant game on Nov. 11, 2007, when he threw for 391 yards and boasted a team-high 109 rushing yards in the Riders' 26-24 conquest of the visiting Stampeders in the West semifinal. He personally accounted for 500 of the 531 yards the Austin-coached Roughriders amassed that day.

Shortly thereafter, Joseph was deservedly decorated as the CFL's most outstanding player in 2007.

At the time, Durant was among the most anonymous Roughriders — a second-year backup quarterback who was seemingly buried behind Joseph and Marcus Crandell on the depth chart.
And now, not even three years later, Durant has joined the firm of Austin, Austin, Austin and Austin.

Esteemed company, indeed.

rvanstone@leaderpost.comRead more:

Saskatchewan quarterback Darian Durant gains some yardage just before Calgary defensive back Milt Collins moves in to make the stop in Friday's CFL game at Regina.
Photograph by: DAVID STOBBE, REUTERS

Game Balls

Offence: Saskatchewan SB Andy Fantuz. If there's a CFL receiver who gives the Stampeders' defence more problems, we're open to suggestions. The lanky slotback makes big catch after big catch, and seemingly always when the Riders need them most.

Defence: Saskatchewan DE Luc Mullinder. With injuries all over the Saskatchewan defensive line, Mullinder steps up his game. Not a lot that registered on the stats sheet, but Mullinder puts all sorts of pressure on Henry Burris all night and puts the lumber on him a couple times.
Special Teams: Saskatchewan P Eddie Johnson. Hammers the ball all night, and gets a rare kickoff single that stretches the Riders' lead to six in the second quarter.

Big Play

After the Stamps took the lead at halftime, the Riders open the third quarter in perfect fashion; a long drive, capped by Hugh Charles' 30-yard touchdown run, capped by his acrobatic flip in the end zone that gets the Saskatchewan fans back on their feet.

Big Catch

Darian Durant had spent much of the first half either overthrowing or underthrowing speedy receiver Weston Dressler. But when it finally worked, it worked really, really well. Durant feathers a pass just over the outstretched fingers of halfback Brandon Smith, and Dressler does the rest, taking it 77 yards for a touchdown.

Big Hit

Down 10-0 on the final play of the first quarter, Riders quarterback Darian Durant decides it's time to make something happen. He takes off on a QB keeper and, instead of hook-sliding, he drives straight into hard-hitting Stamps DE Robert (Hammer) McCune, and gives as good as he gets in a jarring collision.

The Notes

Announced attendance was 30,048, another sellout . . . Scratches for the Stampeders were defensive linemen Miguel Robede, Tearrius George and Mike Landry, and defensive back Ahmad Carroll . . . Rider scratches were receivers Jordan Sisco and Obed Cetoute, defensive back Byron Bullock and long snapper Cory Huclack . . . Stamps SB Nik Lewis extended his team-record streak of consecutive games with a reception to 116 . . . Lewis also moved into third place on the Stamps' all-time receiving yardage list, passing Travis Moore; he now trails only Allen Pitts and Tom Forzani . . . Stamps DT Corey Mace recorded his first career sack . . . It was Randy Chevrier's 100th career game as a Stamp.

The Summary

Roughriders 43 Stampeders 37 (OT)
Calgary 10 10 7 10 0-37
Saskatchewan 0 16 7 14 6-43
First Quarter
Cgy - TD, Collins 55 yd interception return (Maver kick), 1:46.
Cgy - FG, Maver 25 yd, 13:28.
Second Quarter
Sas - Single, Johnson 53 yd off a punt, 1:20.
Sas - TD, Cates 8 yd run (Congi kick), 8:47.
Sas - TD, Dressler 77 yd pass from Durant (Congi kick), 10:45.
Sas - Single, Johnson 93 yd off a kickoff, 11:39.
Cgy - TD, Tate 1 yd run (Maver kick), 13:22.
Cgy - FG, Maver 22 yd, 14:59.
Third Quarter
Sas - TD, Charles 30 yd run (Congi kick), 11:31.
Cgy - TD, Cornish 30 yd pass from Burris (Maver kick), 13:46.
Fourth Quarter
Sas - FG, Congi 18 yd, 1:05.
Cgy - TD, Reynolds 4 yd run (Maver kick), 4:00.
Cgy - FG, Maver 30 yd, 6:33.
Sas - TD, Fantuz 60 yd pass from Durant (Durant pass to Koch for two-point conversion), 10:04.
Sas - FG, Congi 44 yd, 12:42.
Overtime
Sas - TD, Cates 5 yd run (two-point pass convert failed), 0:00.
The Yardsticks

Cgy Sas

First Downs 25 25

Rushes-Yards 18-79 17-136

Net Passing Yards 348 487

Yards Lost 0 13

Total Offence 427 623

Passes 29-40-0 23-39-1

Sacks By-Yards 0-0 3-11

Punts 9-332.0 8-291.0

Fumbles-Lost 0-0 4-1

Penalties-Yards 8-83 11-122

Time Of Possession 29:12 30:48

Individual Leaders

Rushing: Cgy - J. Cornish 9-47, J. Reynolds 6-30, H. Burris 2-1, D. Tate 1-1; Sas - D. Durant 5-69, W. Cates 10-35, H. Charles 1-30, C. Szarka 1-2.

Passing: Cgy - H. Burris 29-40-1-348; Sas - D. Durant 23-39-2-500.
Receiving: Cgy - K. Rambo 6-115, N. Lewis 9-84, R. Bryant 4-40, A. Franklin 3-32, J. Cornish 1-30, J. Reynolds 4-20, D. Murphy 1-20, J. Arthur 1-7; Sas - A. Fantuz 10-255, W. Dressler 3-104, J. Clermont 3-61, R. Bagg 1-28, W. Cates 3-23, C. Koch 2-15, C. Getzlaf 1-9.

Att. at Regina, Sask.- 30,048

RIDERS WIN !!!

Saskatchewan Roughriders' Hugh Charles on his way to the end zone during CFL action against the Calgary Stampeders at Mosaic Stadium in Regina on September 17, 2010.
Photograph by: Don Healy, Leader-Post

REGINA — The Saskatchewan Roughriders won one the hard way.

The Roughriders beat the Calgary Stampeders 43-37 in overtime on Friday. The win was an improvement over Saskatchewan's last outing — a 31-2 loss to the Winnipeg Blue Bombers — but how the Riders and Stampeders ended up in overtime will dominate conversations.

The Riders inexplicably rejected a 35-yard field goal attempt by Luca Congi in the closing seconds of the fourth and elected to have punter Eddie Johnson kick the ball through Calgary's end zone for a single point and the win. Johnson, who had been booming the ball, wasn't able to accomplish that and Calgary's Dean Murphy was able to run the ball out of the end zone to force overtime tied at 37-37.

"We had (head coach Ken Miller's) back,'' said Riders middle linebacker Barrin Simpson. "We knew that that we're a good football team. We just wanted to get back to what we do well and that's play as a team, play well in all three phases of the game and we did that tonight.

"We know it's playoff time. We've got to get in that playoff groove and get ourselves prepared to make that playoff run.''

Running back Wes Cates scored on a five-yard run on Saskatchewan's first possession of the overtime period. The Riders weren't able to convert the two-point conversion.

The Riders' defence stiffened and kept Calgary from scoring to salvage their second overtime win at home this season. Saskatchewan opened the season with a 54-51 double overtime win over the Montreal Alouettes on July 1.

The win extended the Riders' home unbeaten streak to six games and stopped Calgary's winning streak at seven games. The Riders improved to 7-4-0, good enough for second in the West. The Stampeders fell to 9-2-0 but still lead the division.

"We got our swagger back,'' said Riders cornerback Tad Kornegay. "This was a huge win. We needed it. We've still doing our thing at home. Now all we need to do is take it on the road and keep this winning streak going.''

The decision to punt instead of kicking a field goal have overshadowed some of the Riders' offensive performances. Quarterback Darian Durant was 23-of-39 for 500 yards, an interception and two touchdowns. Slotback Andy Fantuz had 10 receptions for 255 yards and a 60-yard touchdown pass.

"We had a game plan going in,'' Fantuz said. "They bring a lot of pressure and play single coverage behind. We knew we could get past them if we bought some time for our QB. Darian had a great game running the ball and passing, so kudos to him.''

The Riders forced overtime with a spirited rally in the fourth quarter. Fantuz caught a 60-yard touchdown pass from Darian Durant and Congi connected on two field goals, including a 44-yard attempt that tied the contest with 64 seconds remaining.

Calgary's Joffrey Reynolds (four-yard run) and Rob Maver (30-yard field goal) scored for the Stampeders in the fourth quarter.

The Riders and Stampeders exchanged touchdowns in the third quarter. Jon Cornish scored on a 30-yard pass from quarterback Henry Burris to give Calgary a 27-23 lead after three quarters.

Running back Hugh Charles scored on a 30-yard to help Saskatchewan grab a 23-20 lead.
The Stampeders raced into a 10-0 lead in what turned out be an entertaining first half.
Milt Collins intercepted Durant's second pass attempt and returned it 55 yards for a touchdown. Maver then connected on a 25-yard field goal to give Calgary a 10-0 first-quarter advantage.

The Riders pecked away at Calgary's lead early in the second quarter. Running back Wes Cates scored on an eight-yard run on a direct snap and receiver Weston Dressler scored on a 77-yard pass from Durant.

Johnson added the second of his two singles in the half to pad the Riders' lead to 16-10.
The Stampeders rebounded to grab a 17-16 lead when Drew Tate scored on a one-yard run. Maver added another 22-yard field goal as Calgary went into the half leading 20-16.

It may have been a costly first half for the Riders in terms of injuries. Starting defensive end Brent Hawkins left mid-way through the second quarter with a right shoulder injury.
The Riders are off until Tuesday when they begin on-field preparations for a Sept. 25 in Hamilton against the Tiger-Cats. The Stampeders play host to the B.C. Lions on Sept. 25.

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NEW RIDER - RYAN GRICE-MULLEN

The newest Rider Ryan Grice-Mullen was returning punts during Rider practice at Mosaic Stadium in Regina September 15, 2010.
Photograph by: Bryan Schlosser, Leader-Post

REGINA — Ryan Grice-Mullen is not here to talk about the past.

Following Wednesday's practice, the Saskatchewan Roughriders' recently signed import receiver/kick returner neatly side-stepped a question from the media in regards to one of most infamous moments as a CFL player.

During a game in Regina on July 3, 2009, when he was a member of the visiting B.C. Lions, Grice-Mullen found himself alone and behind the Riders' secondary late in a close game. He dropped the pass which, had he caught, would have likely sent him into the end zone for a go-ahead touchdown. Instead, the Riders managed to hang on to a 28-24 victory.

When asked of his memories of playing at Mosaic Stadium, Grice-Mullen had little to say.
"That's a tricky question," he said with a smile. "I don't have no memories (of playing at Mosaic Stadium)."

Grice-Mullen's elusiveness is one of his greatest strengths as a player. His speed and quickness will likely be added to the Riders' special teams in the coming weeks, if not in time for Friday's showdown with the visiting Calgary Stampeders.

"He has an explosive burst to him and I think he gives you, as he gets familiar with things, a real threat in a return game," Riders' special teams co-ordinator Jim Daley told the media on Wednesday.

Riders defensive back Lance Frazier is confident in Grice-Mullen's abilities, especially his speed in the return game.

"He makes an impact on special teams, which we really need," Frazier told the media. "He's replacing a guy who was supposed to be the guy (Dominique Dorsey), so I'm sure he has something to prove.

"He's a threat and he can blow the top off the defence."

Following a tryout with the NFL's Miami Dolphins, Grice-Mullen has been inactive for the past couple of weeks. Riders head coach Ken Miller wasn't sure if Grice-Mullen would be ready in time for Friday's game, but said when he is good to go he'll be used in the return game.
Grice-Mullen set a CFL playoff record in the 2009 East final when he returned a punt 106 yards for a touchdown versus the Montreal Alouettes.

Daley is anxious to see what Grice-Mullen can do for the Riders whenever he is given the green light to play.

"He certainly is a guy we're very interested in taking a look at as soon as possible, whether that's a week away or this week," Daley said. "It all depends on certain factors."

Hugh Charles will likely return kickoffs on Friday, with Weston Dressler penciled in as the primary punt returner. Using Dressler on special teams isn't a concern for Miller given the added risk of an injury to one of the team's more reliable offensive weapons.

"We haven't been getting him a lot of touches in our regular offence and (returning punts) is an opportunity for him to make some plays," he said. "It's another opportunity for him to add to the team."

Miller said returning punts is a job Grice-Mullen will pick up in the coming weeks.
Grice-Mullen admitted he battled the injury bug during his tryout stint with the Dolphins, but he said on Wednesday that he was feeling fine.

"I felt pretty good today," said the 5-foot-11, 185-pounder. "I had to get out a few of the bugs and a little rust, but it's nothing too bad that I can't handle. I feel good, ready to go."

cslater@leaderpost.comRead more: http://www.leaderpost.com/news/Rider+Ryan+Grice+Mullen+focused+future/3530385/story.html#ixzz0zet8Bb3G

RIDERS MAKE CHANGES.....BUT IS IT ENOUGH

By Rob Vanstone, Leader-Post September 15, 2010

REGINA — Given the events of Tuesday, it was only appropriate that Saskatchewan Roughriders quarterback Darian Durant appeared at a local auto dealership that uses "Driving Change'' as its motto.

Before a mid-afternoon media conference at which the signature-edition Darian Durant Ford F-150 truck was unveiled at Bennett Dunlop Ford, the Roughriders made some notable changes.
Dominique Dorsey, once a productive kick returner, was placed on the nine-game injured list. He might as well have been sent to Madagascar.

Prechae Rodriguez, once a productive wide receiver, was released. Cary Koch is to take Rodriguez's place Friday against the visiting Calgary Stampeders.

Hugh Charles, who has spent most of the season on the sideline, will be activated for Friday's CFL game. Charles is to return kickoffs and provide some relief for tailback Wes Cates. Slotback Weston Dressler is to moonlight as the punt returner.

Ryan Grice-Mullen, who was a member of the B.C. Lions for two seasons before trying out for the NFL's Miami Dolphins, is apparently ticketed for Regina. He can be employed as a receiver or kick returner.

Moreover, general manager Brendan Taman said that the search is on for an import offensive lineman.

Aside from those moves — actual or anticipated — all is quiet in Riderville.

The deactivation of Dorsey ranks as a surprise only when his production (or lack thereof) is compared to his glittering credentials. The regression of Dorsey, who won the CFL's special-teams player-of-the-year award as a member of the 2008 Toronto Argonauts, is astounding. How could someone turn into such a non-factor at the age of 27?

Not so long ago, it appeared that Dorsey was at least reliable when it came to the fielding of punts and kickoffs. Once the most rudimentary act of any kick returner became an adventure, there was no longer any case for deploying Dorsey.

The Roughriders had defended Dorsey by pointing out, with considerable validity, that flawed blocking played a role in his microscopic returns. That point was underlined during Sunday's second half, when Dressler replaced Dorsey on punt returns. Dressler, for all his elusiveness, did not fare significantly better than Dorsey in that regard. But at least Dressler caught the ball. Congratulations to him.

The team's brass would prefer that Dressler concentrate exclusively on his responsibilities as a slotback, but he is the best option with Dorsey out of the equation. Perhaps this will be a hidden blessing, in that Dressler's special-teams responsibilities could create an opening for Jason Clermont to be deployed as a slotback. Dressler will require periodic breathers, so why not use Clermont on the first few plays following a punt return?

Once upon a time, Dressler and Rodriguez were mentioned in the same sentence. Rodriguez, who enjoyed a smashing CFL debut with the Hamilton Tiger-Cats, was the runner-up to Dressler for the league's rookie-of-the-year honour in 2008. That banner season by Rodriguez proved to be a mirage. After 10 generally uninspired performances, head coach Ken Miller had little choice but to jettison Rodriguez.

Koch is next in line. Or maybe Grice-Mullen, if Koch does not pan out. Given the Roughriders' recent struggles on offence, perhaps the infusion of some new faces will be beneficial. The same applies to Charles, who should provide a nice complement to Cates. If Calgary can use two tailbacks (Joffrey Reynolds and Jon Cornish) to great effect, why not Saskatchewan?

Tuesday's moves, while applaudable and inevitable, did not address the primary problem — the offensive line.

Unless the Riders can address the matador pass protection and the alleged run blocking, the moves involving Charles, Koch and possibly Grice-Mullen will have little impact.
If Taman's pursuit of an offensive lineman proves to be futile, Durant isn't likely to be a part of many long drives — except when associated with the Ford F-150 that bears his signature.

rvanstone@leaderpost.comRead more:

RIDERS MAKE CHANGES

REGINA — The Saskatchewan Roughriders proved they aren't going to stand pat heading into the stretch run of the CFL season.

Sunday's 31-2 loss to the Winnipeg Blue Bombers was the impetus for two and possibly more rosters moves that may shake up the CFL team.

"It's not a wakeup call,'' Riders general manager Brendan Taman said Tuesday. "I don't believe in that. If a guy isn't performing well, you have to make changes.''

On Tuesday, the Riders released wide receiver Prechae Rodriguez and added returner Dominique Dorsey to the nine-game injured list with hamstring issues and a dislocated finger. Riders quarterback Darian Durant was surprised by Rodriguez's release but understands it's part of the business side of football.

"That's a sad part of the business,'' Durant said. "Unfortunately, one day we will all have to face that. I wish things had worked out better for Prechae. It's sad when people get released, but it's part of the business that we chose to do for a living.''

Rodriguez and Dorsey have both struggled this season. Rodriguez had 30 receptions for 375 yards and two touchdowns. He was acquired Feb. 24 from the Hamilton Tiger-Cats for non-import receiver Adam Nicolson and a third-round pick in the 2011 Canadian college draft.

"He didn't have the confidence of our staff,'' said Taman. "We came to the conclusion that he wasn't in our plans going forward.''

Dorsey was last among the league's regular returners with an averages of 6.2 yards on punt returns and 20.8 yards on kickoff returns. Dorsey, who was the CFL's special teams player of the year in 2008, muffed three kicks in the first half of Sunday's loss to the Blue Bombers.
Dorsey apparently dislocated a finger in the Riders' 27-23 win over the Blue Bombers on Sept. 5. Taman said the damaged digit wasn't the reason for Dorsey's struggles on Sunday.

"I don't know where his ability went, but we didn't see it this year,'' Taman said. "He is as disappointed as anyone and so are we. It just didn't work out.''

Riders head coach Ken Miller, who had pushed for the acquisition of both players, made the decision with Taman to move forward without them.

"It's a situation that all of us are disappointed with,'' said Miller, adding that Dorsey had lost some of his burst because of the hamstring injuries. "At some point, whether that's for me or the players, it all comes down to production and getting the job done.''

That will now be the responsibility of Hugh Charles, Weston Dressler and Cary Koch. Down the road, it could be the role of Ryan Grice-Mullen. Taman said it was possible that Grice-Mullen, who was cut by the NFL's Miami Dolphins on Aug. 18 after spending two seasons with the Lions, could be added to the practice roster next week.

"Without our return game succeeding very well, he's one of the options we felt we wanted to look at,'' said Taman, adding that Grice-Mullen had yet to sign with the Riders.

In the immediate future, Hugh Charles is to become the team's primary kickoff returner for Friday's game against the Calgary Stampeders. Charles, hasn't dressed for a game since Week 4, is also expected to spell veteran Wes Cates at tailback.

Dressler will handle the majority of punt returns. He has done that in his past two seasons, but the Riders were leery about asking too much from one of the team's star receivers. Dressler is looking forward to the opportunity.

"I'm excited about taking a bigger role with the team,'' said Dressler, who filled in as a punt returner during the second half of Sunday's game for the struggling Dorsey. "I don't think one guy will change a whole lot about the return team. It's all about all the guys working together and that's the best way to having success.''

Koch has been on the Riders' practice roster since the start of the season. The import rookie is expected to start as the boundary receiver against the Stampeders. Koch could also figure into the mix as a returner.

Taman said it's likely there may be other moves ahead, possibly with offensive line. Import tackle Joel Bell is still battling a pectoral injury and hasn't been able to practice. It's possible that Bell could return for the game on Sept. 25 against the host Hamilton Tiger-Cats.
Taman is considering adding an import offensive lineman to bolster the performance of the struggling Riders' line.

"There aren't a lot of Canadians waiting on the street or looking for a job,'' Taman said. "That's probably the way we'll go.''

mmccormick@leaderpost.comRead more: http://www.leaderpost.com/sports/Roughriders+Prechae+Rodriguez+shelve+Dominique+Dorsey/3523433/story.html#ixzz0zbfG0KQ7

RIDERS MAKE CUT AND SHELF DORSEY

Prechae Rodriquez
Photograph by: Bryan Schlosser, Leader-Post files

REGINA — The Saskatchewan Roughriders released wide receiver Prechae Rodriguez and placed returner Dominigue Dorsey on the nine-game injured list Tuesday.

The changes come two days after the Riders were beaten 31-2 by the Winnipeg Blue Bombers. Rodriguez has been a disappointment since being acquired in an off-season trade with the Hamilton Tiger-Cats. The lanky wide receiver had 30 receptions for 375 yards and two touchdowns for the 6-4-0 Roughriders.

The Riders didn't disclose Dorsey's injury. He has struggled as a kick and punt returner since signing with the Riders as a free agent during the off-season. Dorsey was last among the league's regular kickoff and punt returners.

It appears that Hugh Charles will be promoted to full-time returner. The Riders' options at wide receiver include imports Cary Koch and Aaron Fairooz.
The Riders play host to the Calgary Stampeders on Friday.

mmccormick@leaderpost.comRead more: http://www.leaderpost.com/sports/Roughriders+Prechae+Rodriguez+shelf+Dominque+Dorsey/3523433/story.html#ixzz0zXCSnmDf

2010 RIDERS ARE SOMEWHAT CONFUSING

By Rob Vanstone, Leader-Post September 9, 2010 1:02 AM

REGINA — Despite not performing as expected, the Saskatchewan Roughriders are meeting expectations.

Confused? That makes two of us.

The Roughriders were widely projected to be one of the CFL's better teams in 2010. Saskatchewan's 6-3-0 record at the midpoint of the regular season demonstrates that the forecasts were in the ballpark.

However, the manner in which the Riders have played over the first nine games is surprising, if not shocking.

Entering the season, it stood to reason that the offence would sparkle and the special teams would be better. Proficiency in those facets of the game, it was theorized, would more than offset an anticipated regression on defence.

Turn it all upside down and you have the 2010 Roughriders.

Saskatchewan's offence is erratic, and not as explosive as envisioned. Rare is the game in which the Riders do not bemoan a special-teams implosion. But the defence, after a porous start, has been sensational over the past month.

The offence was supposed to benefit from continuity, given that Darian Durant is in his second season as the full-time starting quarterback. There was every reason to expect Durant to thrive in collaboration with returning receivers Weston Dressler, Andy Fantuz, Chris Getzlaf and Rob Bagg, plus newcomer Prechae Rodriguez.

The season opener did proceed as envisioned. Durant threw for 481 yards and five touchdowns to lead Saskatchewan to a 54-51, double-overtime conquest of the visiting Montreal Alouettes. In Week 2, the Riders efficiently disposed of the host B.C. Lions, 37-18.

Since then, the offence has been inconsistent, as Durant has repeatedly emphasized. Considering the personnel, it should be a high-octane unit. By season's end, that label could apply.

Another label — that of special teams — is a misnomer. This unit melts down more often than Naomi Campbell.

The ever-reliable Luca Congi has missed only four of 24 field-goal attempts this season, but two of those errant kicks have been returned for touchdowns. A blocked punt played a key role in the Roughriders' inexplicable, 17-14 loss to the putrid Edmonton Eskimos on Aug. 28. During Sunday's 27-23 victory over the visiting Winnipeg Blue Bombers, the Roughriders surrendered a 27-yard reception on a fake punt, and turned over the ball when Dominique Dorsey mishandled a punt.

Dorsey, who won the CFL's special-teams player-of-the-year award as a member of the Toronto Argonauts in 2008, was expected to provide consistent field position. There were some flashes during the Labour Day Classic, but the return game remains a liability. (As a counterbalance, the Riders have done a fine job of covering punts and kickoffs.)

At the outset of the season, it was written in this space that Dorsey and Louie Sakoda would be difference-makers. Sakoda, a punter of some promise, was dumped after only three games and replaced by Eddie Johnson. Some of Johnson's punts — the moonshots in particular — have been awe-inspiring.

Ideally, the Roughriders should not be as reliant on Johnson. Again, the onus is on the offence to improve.

The defence, meanwhile, needs to maintain what has become a high standard of play.
Over the past 3 1/2 games, the Roughriders' defence has surrendered only four touchdowns, one of which was a meaningless major in the waning seconds of Sunday's game.

The defence has become the strongest component of Saskatchewan's game, despite the absences of defensive ends John Chick and Stevie Baggs, middle linebacker Rey Williams, and defensive halfback Eddie Davis. Chick, Baggs and Williams landed NFL tryouts. Davis retired at the tender age of 37.

Much of the credit for the Riders' ability to withstand those departures should go to defensive co-ordinator Gary Etcheverry, whose wacky schemes baffle rival quarterbacks and strategists.
The confusion extends to anyone who thought they had a read on the Roughriders as the 2010 season dawned.

If you subscribed to my view that the offence would be formidable, the special teams would be improved, and the defence would be a concern, then we are both 0-for-3. But the Roughriders are 6-and-3, and that is the bottom line.

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OFFENSIVE LINE NEEDS TO MAKE ADJUSTMENTS

The Saskatchewan Roughriders' offensive line prepares to take on the host Winnipeg Blue Bombers in the Banjo Bowl on Sunday.
Photograph by: Roy Antal, Leader-Post

REGINA — They say first impressions are lasting.

Winnipeg Blue Bombers' Odell Willis and Phillip Hunt certainly impressed members of the Saskatchewan Roughriders' offensive line during Sunday's Labour Day contest, their initial meeting of the 2010 CFL season.

"They're both pretty good," said Riders 16-year veteran Gene Makowsky. "We definitely had our hands full with them. They gave us tackles a hard time, for sure."

The Riders allowed three sacks in the 27-23 victory, but those numbers don't tell the whole story. Willis and Hunt, who have a combined 13 sacks this season, pressured and disrupted Riders quarterback Darian Durant for much of the contest.

Despite throwing for more than 300 yards, Durant was hurried in a lot of his reads, was knocked down more than a few times and had a handful of passes deflected at the line of scrimmage. Willis and Hunt were often the usual suspects.

Makowsky knows he and his fellow linemen will have to be better for Sunday's rematch in the sold-out Banjo Bowl in Winnipeg.

"They have really good speed and some good moves and they have some power behind them too," Makowsky said. "You can't ask for much more in a defensive lineman.

"There have been a lot of great defensive ends over the years, and I guess that's why I have a few more grey hairs than I used to. But (Willis and Hunt) certainly have the complete package."
Dan Goodspeed, the Roughriders' right tackle, said he and Makowsky had watched plenty of game film on the Blue Bombers' defensive front four leading into the Labour Day clash.

Goodspeed said the biggest adjustment he'll need to make in the rematch with Willis and Hunt is simply to get out of his stance quicker and get his hands on the smaller and quicker defensive ends.

"I'd go to punch at them and they'd dodge it and move around me," Goodspeed explained. "They were good at not letting me get my hands on them. But now that we've seen them up close, we know what to do to change our approach."

He also said the Bombers' pass rush didn't come as a surprise.

"They're a new entity in the CFL," Goodspeed said. "I have notebooks piled up from over the years on pass rushers that I've seen. I didn't have one for these guys.

"(But) it wasn't like all of a sudden these guys showed and came as a surprise to us. We knew they were good and we knew they had been giving their opponents fits all season."

In order to keep Willis and Hunt on their heels on Sunday, Makowsky and Goodspeed agreed that Wes Cates and Riders' running game would need to be established.

"You don't want to have a pass-only offence," Makowsky said. "Hopefully we can get the running game going and mix it up a bit on them ... maybe run some screens, draws, that sort of thing, to slow them up."

EXTRAS: S James Patrick and LB Daniel Francis did not participate in Wednesday's practice. Head coach Ken Miller expects Francis to return to practice today, but Patrick's status is still up in the air. Patrick, who leads the CFL with eight interceptions, injured his knee in the first half of Sunday's game. He did return in the second half and finished the game, but Miller wants to makes sure Patrick is 100 per cent before he's back on the field. Tad Kornegay replaced Patrick at safety on Wednesday, while Leron Mitchell filled in at the wide-side corner position.

cslater@leaderpost.canwest.com
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CATES HAVING EXCEPTION SEASON

Saskatchewan Roughriders tailback Wes Cates celebrates a touchdown against the Winnipeg Blue Bombers during first half of CFL action at Mosaic Stadium in Regina Sask. on Sept. 5, 2010.
Photograph by: Troy Fleece, Leader-Post

REGINA — Wes Cates is mingling with the greats.

With 11 touchdowns this season, Cates is already in elite company — considering that Saskatchewan Roughriders legends George Reed, Hugh Campbell, Ray Elgaard, Kent Austin, Don Narcisse and Jeff Fairholm also boast 11-TD seasons.

Cates, however, has reached 11 touchdowns in only nine games this season, enabling the fourth-year Roughriders tailback to lead the CFL in majors. Montreal Alouettes receiver S.J. Green is next in line, with eight.

At Cates' current pace, he will eclipse the Roughriders' single-season record for touchdowns, set in 1955 when Ken Carpenter scored 18 times in 16 games. Cates also gave the record a run in 2008, when he scored 14 TDs despite missing two games due to injury.

When it was pointed out that Carpenter's record could fall by October, Cates chuckled and said: "I'm going to keep trying to do my job and stay healthy, and I'm sure we'll be talking about it around that time.''

The talk was much different entering this season. After a substandard 2009 campaign, there were questions as to whether the 30-year-old Cates was still capable of approaching peak form. Head coach Ken Miller did not commit to a starting tailback — Hugh Charles was the other candidate — until following the pre-season.

That debate ended several weeks ago.

At the midway point of the season, Cates has rushed for 631 yards, averaging 5.8 yards per carry, and 10 touchdowns. He has also caught 24 passes for 221 yards and another major.

"It has been a blessing,'' Cates said. "I just prayed all off-season for the Lord to give me an opportunity to be able to start and be back with my team, and He did that, and to just keep me healthy so I could perform. He has done that thus far.

"I'm just keeping the faith and just trying to get better with my teammates and trying to have a positive attitude. My attitude's been better this year than last. I'm just trying to get back in the groove and go get this Grey Cup.''

Cates never got untracked last season after missing the first two games following shoulder surgery.

"It was a tougher season for me,'' said Cates, who re-signed with the Roughriders as a free agent this past off-season. "I just feel like coming into the work days and just in general, I feel better about my situation. I feel better about my health. It wasn't something that I tried to show outwardly, but it was something that I was dealing with internally. I'm just happy to get that monkey off my back.''

Although Cates was limited to 15 yards on seven carries during Sunday's 27-23 victory over the visiting Winnipeg Blue Bombers, two of his rushes produced touchdowns. He added 37 yards on three receptions, including a leaping, 16-yard grab during an eight-play, 91-yard TD drive during the fourth quarter.

"I'm really pleased with Wes because he has been resurgent this year,'' Miller said.
Cates is poised to pass Kenton Keith and move into fourth on the Roughriders' all-time rushing-yardage list. Keith, who was the Riders' featured tailback from 2003 to 2006, produced 3,811 yards. Cates has 3,658 rushing yards as a Roughrider.

Reed (16,116), Mike Saunders (4,396) and Bobby Marlow (4,291) occupy the top three spots on Saskatchewan's career rushing list. Cates is a good bet to pass Saunders and Marlow late this season or early in 2011.

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STEVIE BAGGS GOING TO WAIT AND SEE

Saskatchewan's Stevie Baggs puts the grip on B.C.'s Corey Grant in a file photo.
Photograph by: Don Healy / Canwest News Service, National Post

Stevie Baggs hasn’t given up on his dream of playing in the NFL.

Baggs’ agent, Gil Scott, said the former Saskatchewan Roughriders defensive end wants to explore his NFL options before committing to any CFL team. Baggs, who was released Friday by the Arizona Cardinals, is a free agent and is eligible to sign with any CFL team.

“I’ve had a lot of calls from CFL teams but we want to see what happens south of the border first,” Scott said Tuesday from his Toronto office. “He was disappointed when he didn’t make the team but those things happen.”

Baggs spent two seasons with the Roughriders, including a break-out year in 2009 when he tied for the league lead with 12 sacks. He was named a CFL all-star at defensive end and had hoped to parlay that performance into a spot with the Cardinals.

Scott felt that Baggs would be offered a spot on Arizona’s practice roster, but that didn’t come about. Now, Scott and Baggs want to wait and see what happens before deciding about a return to Canada. Scott said that no time frame has been set in regards to Baggs making a decision.
Short yardage:

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RIDERS BOMBERS GAME ...MOST WATCHED IN TSN HISTORY FOR A REGULAR SEASON GAME

A pair of Winnipeg Blue Bombers defenders run down Saskatchewan Roughriders running back Wes Cates during second half CFL action at Mosaic Stadium in Regina on Sask. Sept. 5, 2010. The Riders won the game 27-23.
Photograph by: Troy Fleece, Leader-Post

REGINA — TSN announced Tuesday that its telecast of Sunday's Labour Day Classic from Mosaic Stadium was the most-watched regular-season CFL game in TSN history.

According to the network, the Saskatchewan Roughriders' 27-23 victory over the Winnipeg Blue Bombers attracted 1.34 million viewers. The numbers were collected from preliminary overnight data from BBM Canada.

Sunday's game also delivered the highest regular-season average audience on record for a CFL game since 1994. The network said audience levels peaked at 2.1 million viewers at 4:59 p.m., Regina time, with the Blue Bombers driving into the Saskatchewan end with 21 seconds left in the fourth quarter.

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SIMPSON HAS BEST GAME YET

Saskatchewan Roughriders Barrin Simpson (right) helps bring down Winnipeg Blue Bombers quarterback Buck Pierce (4) during CFL action in Regina in Sept. 5, 2010.
Photograph by: Troy Fleece, Leader-Post

REGINA — Barrin Simpson left his mark on the Labour Day Classic and the Winnipeg Blue Bombers.

The veteran middle linebacker accomplished that with his best defensive performance since joining the Saskatchewan Roughriders during the off-season. The fact Simpson had nine defensive tackles and a fumble recovery in Sunday's 27-23 CFL victory was more significant because it came against the Blue Bombers. Simpson had spent four seasons with the Blue Bombers before electing not to return during the off-season.

"I prepare the same every week but the Labour Day Classic and playing my former team was more emotional than any other game,'' Simpson said after the Riders' sixth straight win over the Blue Bombers in the Labour Day Classic. "I'm always excited to play the game but I have to admit I was more excited to play my old team in this one.''

Simpson's enthusiasm was evident before the game when he got into a spirited exchange with veteran Winnipeg offensive lineman Ibrahim Khan after the teams were introduced. It took just three defensive plays for Simpson to record his first statistic when he held running back Fred Reid to no gain on a second-and-one on Winnipeg's 54. The Blue Bombers were forced to punt and the tone had been set for what would turn out to be a defensive contest.

Early in the third quarter, Simpson recovered a fumble by quarterback Buck Pierce on Winnipeg's 33.

Six plays later, running back Wes Cates scored on a one-yard run to give the Riders an 18-10 lead with Luca Congi's convert. Those were the type of plays that Simpson seemed to make throughout the contest.

"I thought he played very well,'' said Ken Miller, head coach of the Riders. "I know that he was especially geared up to play well. He was energetic and enthusiastic as we went through the week, and he was in the locker room (Sunday) as well.''

Simpson had something to prove against the Blue Bombers. He endured a trying 2009 season, to say the least, under former head coach Mike Kelly. The relationship soured to such a point that Simpson was benched for five games, including the 2009 Labour Day Classic.

Simpson dressed for 13 games in 2009. He finished the season 84 defensive tackles, three special-teams tackles, two sacks and an interception. Even though Kelly was fired after the season, Simpson elected not to return. He signed with the Riders as a free agent in April.
"I knew in the off-season this would be a great game,'' said Simpson, who spent five seasons with the B.C. Lions before joining Winnipeg in 2006. "I don't blame the players for what happened. It was just one of those games where I was excited to play.''

Simpson is now looking forward to playing in Winnipeg in Sunday's rematch.

"I blogged Sunday morning that I was looking forward to being on the winning side at the Labour Day Classic,'' Simpson said. "We never won any year that I played with the Blue Bombers so I wanted us to keep the streak alive so I would could be on the winning side. I want to go into Winnipeg and get the win. I know it will be in their house and it will be tough, though.''

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EDDIE JOHNSON's BEST GAME

REGINA — Eddie Johnson enjoyed a superb game on Sunday — and a victory to boot.
The first-year Saskatchewan Roughrider punted nine times for an average of 49.1 yards, with two singles, in a 27-23 CFL victory over the Winnipeg Blue Bombers. He also averaged 69.4 yards on five kickoffs, one of which produced a 94-yard single.

"I definitely feel like this was my best game so far,'' Johnson said. "I still feel like I've got a lot of room for improvement.''

Johnson is averaging 43.5 yards on 37 punts and 68.5 yards on 28 kickoffs since replacing Louie Sakoda after three games. He had his longest punt (68 yards) and longest kickoff (94) of the season on Sunday.

"When you're a punter and kicker — especially a punter — you don't always feel like part of the team sometimes,'' Johnson said. "When you can do stuff that helps your team out, it just makes you feel like you're that much more part of the team. That's very nice for me to feel like that.''

The 29-year-old product of Costa Mesa, Calif., is also happy to have found a home after bouncing around the NFL and CFL. The six games he has played with Saskatchewan are his most in a season since 2003, when he played 14 games as an NFL rookie with the Minnesota Vikings.

Subsequently, he had NFL tryouts with the Cincinnati Bengals (2004), New York Giants (2005), Jacksonville Jaguars (2005), Washington Redskins (2006), Denver Broncos (2007) and Detroit Lions (2008) before spending two games with the Toronto Argonauts in 2009.
"There's nothing like playing,'' Johnson said. "Nothing else gives you that same sort of rush — that feeling. It's definitely something that I've missed over the last year or two.

"If I'm going to go out and play and get a little nervous and have some butterflies before a game, it feels good to me. To be able to go out and also have success, it's even better. Every day is fun. I'm just taking it one day at a time and just enjoying myself.''

rvanstone@leaderpost.com
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DEFENSE GETTING STRONGER

By Ian Hamilton, Leader-Post September 5, 2010

In Luc Mullinder’s mind, the defence doesn’t rest.
After the Saskatchewan Roughriders’ defence turned in another stellar effort Sunday, Mullinder said the unit will do anything it has to do to help the CFL team win — no matter the sacrifice.

“If it involves playing 90 plays in a row, we’ll play 90 plays in a row,” the veteran defensive lineman said after the Roughriders’ 27-23 victory over the Winnipeg Blue Bombers in the Labour Day Classic at Mosaic Stadium. “We’ll sub in, we’ll sub out and we’ll play 90.
“The big picture is we want to get to the Grey Cup — and everybody’s doing a great job of buying in. If there are some guys not buying in, they’ll get strung along until they do realize the big picture and we’ll be just fine.

“We’re gelling at the right time.”

The defence’s roll began in the second half of the Roughriders’ 30-26 loss to the host Montreal Alouettes on Aug. 6. Saskatchewan held the Als to six points, one first down, 12 yards rushing and 27 yards passing after the intermission to give the Roughriders’ offence a shot at a comeback.

Since then, the Roughriders haven’t surrendered double digits in points in any quarter, nor have they allowed more than 400 yards in total offence in any game. The B.C. Lions had 365 yards in a 37-13 loss to Saskatchewan on Aug. 12, the Edmonton Eskimos managed 299 yards in a 17-14 victory over the Roughriders on Aug. 28, and Winnipeg had 391 yards on Sunday.
“It was a challenge, not only by the coaches but within ourselves,” defensive back Lance Frazier said when asked what the difference has been. “We know we didn’t play the best defensive football starting off the season. As a professional, you’ve got to take that personally.

“This is our livelihood. This is what we feed our families on. If you play bad defence, you won’t be around long. Everybody here takes it personally and everybody here wants to be great.”
To many of the Roughriders, the key in the unit’s resurgence is the players’ growing familiarity with each other. That in turn has allowed the unit to function more effectively.

“We’ve been working week in and week out trying to get better as a core,” said safety James Patrick, who recorded his league-leading seventh interception Sunday. “We’re going up from here.”

“The style of defence that we play is very team-oriented,” added head coach Ken Miller. “It doesn’t have a lot of spectacular individual plays. It’s related to cohesiveness of the group of men who happen to be on the field.

“I think that we have had some bonding and some understanding of each other’s skills, and we’re getting that team concept down a little bit better than it was prior.’’

On Sunday, the defence certainly stepped up in the fourth quarter to help out the offence. After quarterback Darian Durant lost a fumble at the Saskatchewan 45-yard line, defensive end Brent Hawkins held Bombers tailback Fred Reid to a two-yard gain before Jerrell Freeman sacked Winnipeg quarterback Buck Pierce to force a punt.

That sparked the Roughriders’ offence, which subsequently drove 91 yards in eight plays for the knockout blow: An 11-yard scoring run by Durant that gave Saskatchewan a 25-17 lead.
“It’s a complete team effort,” running back Wes Cates told the Leader-Post’s Rob Vanstone. “Every play that’s made out there gets your buddies riled up.

“Our defence has been doing a great job of doing that. When we’ve put them in a tough situation, they’ve been answering the bell consistently and getting stops in situations where it was dire and we needed a stop. I commend the defence for that. Luckily, we got it together and let them thank us for getting it in the end zone.’’

Despite their renaissance, the defenders aren’t resting on their laurels. Mullinder and Frazier both said there were numerous mistakes during Sunday’s game — and in the preceding contests as well — that must be addressed.

“We have a long way to go still,” Frazier said. “We’re going to get better and better. The ceiling (he pointed upward) is still up there.”

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BOUNCE BACK....BOUNCES BACK

By Rob Vanstone, Leader-Post September 6, 2010

For most of the game, it was the Labore Day Classic.

The Saskatchewan Roughriders’ offence often appeared to be in hibernation during the first three quarters of Sunday’s annual long-weekend CFL clash with the Winnipeg Blue Bombers. After 45 minutes, Saskatchewan had a mere 10 first downs and was clinging to an 18-17 lead.
But then — and forgive me if you have read this 188 times before — Darian Durant demonstrated his resilience by making timely plays and quarterbacking his team to victory. The verdict: Saskatchewan 27, Winnipeg 23.

“My teammates gave me the nickname Bounce Back,’’ said Durant, who lived up to the monicker once again. “They don’t worry about it when we make turnovers or I throw an interception. That’s just the mentality we have.

“We have a team that’s never going to quit. We’re always going to be there at the end. That’s the confidence we have. When it’s time to make a play, we all step up — not just me.’’
Durant is quick to defer to his teammates in times of triumph. When he does single himself out, it is typically after a defeat — when he will invariably put the onus on himself to improve.
A case in point was a 17-14 loss to the Edmonton Eskimos on Aug. 28. Durant had perhaps his worst game as a Roughrider — throwing three interceptions and struggling to move the ball with the requisite consistency.

Leading up to Sunday’s game, Durant patiently fielded questions about his performance. The media thoughtfully advised him that some especially frustrated fans were questioning his performance. Some loyalists even went so far as to assert that understudy Ryan Dinwiddie should have been deployed during the latter stages in Edmonton.

Durant saved his most emphatic response for Sunday’s fourth quarter, when his actions spoke volumes. He helped the Roughriders engineer nine of their 19 first downs while throwing for 111 of his 301 yards.

Most notably, Durant was at the controls for the Roughriders’ game-changing drive — an eight-play, 91-yard gem that devoured four minutes 48 seconds. The 28-year-old pivot completed all five of his passes on that drive. He also ran twice for 18 yards. A seven-yard run gave

Saskatchewan its first of six first downs on that possession, which was punctuated by his 11-yard touchdown scamper.

“Before every drive, you pretty much say, ‘This is the drive where we’re going to turn it around,’ but I think we took it back to like we were at practice,’’ Durant said. “We’re laughing, smiling and joking all the time in the huddle, and that’s what we did on that drive. It was, ‘Let’s have fun, let’s be loose, and let’s take the ball down the field.’ ’’

Sure enough, he did.

No surprise there.

While emerging as a CFL star last season, Durant repeatedly rallied the Roughriders, thereby establishing that he could be a victorious quarterback on days that were not necessarily his best. Sunday’s contest also adheres to that description.

“I’m tired of slumping myself,’’ Durant said. “It’s time for us to start making plays. Hopefully we can take what we did in the fourth quarter, build on that, and hopefully it will carry over until next week and for the rest of the season.’’

There was some carryover from the Edmonton game, in that Durant did not throw a touchdown pass against Winnipeg. After being picked off once on Sunday, Durant’s ratio of TD passes to interceptions is now 11:13 this season. However, that number can be deceiving.
Consider the fact that Durant had two virtual touchdown passes on Sunday. His 33-yard toss to Andy Fantuz put Saskatchewan on the two-yard line, from where Wes Cates ran for a major. Cates later scored from one yard out one play after Durant found Chris Getzlaf for a 14-yard gain. And don’t forget The Drive, which culminated when Durant’s legs carried him to paydirt. Moreover, a 38-yard pass from Durant to Fantuz late in Sunday’s game was initially ruled a TD, only to be overturned by video review.

The interceptions may outnumber the touchdown passes, but Durant attaches more relevance to a disparity of a different sort. The Riders’ victory total (six) now doubles the losses (three).
The victories aren’t always aesthetic successes — just like the Labour Day Classic isn’t always a classic — but who can argue with the results?

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LABOUR DAY 2010

By MURRAY McCORMICK, Leader-Post September 3, 2010

REGINA — It's difficult to shake feelings of deja vu with the 2010 Saskatchewan Roughriders.
That's because this year's team finds itself in a similar situation to what took place at this point of the 2009 CFL season. Heading into the 2009 Labour Day Classic against the visiting Winnipeg Blue Bombers, the Riders were 4-4-0. They were also dealing with concerns about their offensive and special-teams systems and the development of quarterback Darian Durant.

At the time, Durant had thrown 10 touchdown passes and been intercepted 12 times.
This season, the Riders are 5-3-0 heading into Sunday's Labour Day Classic (2 p.m., TSN, CKRM) against the Blue Bombers (2-6-0). Similar to 2009, this year's edition was beaten in the game before the Classic. The Edmonton Eskimos upset the Riders 17-14 on Saturday. In 2009, the Riders went into the bye week after a 34-25 loss to the host Montreal Alouettes.

Edmonton's win sparked much debate about the Riders' offence and special teams. Durant was once again a target. Durant, who is in his second full season as a starter, has thrown 11 touchdown passes and been intercepted 12 times. He has rushed for four touchdowns,

compared to one at this juncture in 2009.

There was a great deal of validity to the concerns in 2009, just like this year. Last year, the Riders rallied to beat the Blue Bombers 29-14 in Regina and 55-10 in Winnipeg. The wins helped the Riders finish 6-3-1 in the second half of the season en route to finishing first in the West Division.

"After we lost that game last year (against Montreal), we got more focused,'' Riders veteran cornerback Omarr Morgan said after Friday's practice at Mosaic Stadium. "We took care of the little things and we're trying to do that this week. I don't really remember last year because the only game I really remember is the Grey Cup. I just know that after a loss, you tend to focus a little more. You should already be doing that but it's human nature. You always focus more after bad things happen.''

Durant remains the focus of the Riders regardless of what happens. He had some challenges during his first season as a starter and was even benched for a quarter against the Calgary Stampeders on Aug. 1.

Riders head coach Ken Miller felt that Durant could benefit from watching the offence while then-backup Steven Jyles was in control. Durant returned to lead the Riders to a 24-23 victory over the Stampeders. The Riders lost two of their next three games before settling in to play the Blue Bombers.

"When you win, it's easy to overlook your flaws,'' said Durant, whose Riders have lost two of their past three games this season. "When you lose, you go back to square one and try to figure out what's wrong. That's what we've been doing. We did that last season, too. You try one thing and it doesn't work. Then you try another. It's all about fundamentals 101, which is playing the game and taking care of the ball. We also have a good defence, so let them play like they can.''
Durant did a better job of ball control in 2009. He completed 14 second-half touchdown passes and was intercepted just nine times. Durant didn't leave any doubt about who the starter was as he guided the Riders to the 2009 Grey Cup game.

Durant wasn't the only member of the Riders to enjoy a resurgence in the second half. Wide receiver Rob Bagg had 26 receptions for 364 yards and two touchdowns before the Classic. Bagg's contributions increased as he had 33 receptions for 443 yards and three touchdowns down the stretch.

"We're way ahead this year of where we were last year,'' said Bagg, who has 27 receptions for 429 yards and a touchdown this season. "We're operating better as a unit. Last year we were all young and still learning about each other. This year, we're advanced in our relationship with Darian in regards to how he reads our body language and how we run our routes. When you combine that with our relationship with the playbook ... that's why we're farther ahead.''
The fact this is a new team compared to the 2009 edition that was beaten 28-27 in the Grey Cup by the Alouettes was emphasized early in the season. Tad Kornegay, who was an all-star linebacker in 2009 but has been pressed into duty as a cornerback in 2010 due to injuries, said it takes time for all teams to come together.

"Things just started to go our way last year,'' Kornegay said. "When you play together for a

while, things just get better. We all played together and we all trust each other.''
The Blue Bombers may also be a cure for whatever ails the Riders. Saskatchewan has outscored the Blue Bombers 163-89 while winning the past five Labour Day Classics. The Riders have also boosted their second-half hopes by sweeping the second half of the series — the Banjo Bowl in Winnipeg — in each of the past two seasons.

"It's a great way to start the second half of the season,'' Kornegay said. "They are both big games and it's a great feeling when you win those games back-to-back.''

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STEVIE BAGGS AND REY WILLIAMS BOTH MAY BE FREE AGENTS

By MURRAY McCORMICK, Leader-

REGINA — The Saskatchewan Roughriders have adopted a wait-and-see approach in regards to their interest in defensive end Stevie Baggs and linebacker Renauld Williams.

Baggs and Williams were both trying to catch on with NFL teams. Baggs was released by the Arizona Cardinals on Friday, when some NFL teams reduced their rosters to 53 players.
Williams, who was attempting to catch on with the Pittsburgh Steelers, was waived Friday after suffering a knee injury in Thursday's 19-3 victory over the Carolina Panthers.

John Chick, who was the CFL's most outstanding defensive player in 2009 with the Riders, wasn't among Friday's early cuts. Chick has been trying out with the Indianapolis Colts. Teams have until 4 p.m. Saturday to announce their rosters.

Brendan Taman, the Riders' general manager, said Friday he's waiting to see if Williams and Baggs clear NFL waivers. The Riders retain the rights to Williams and Chick. Baggs is a free agent and if he doesn't sign with an NFL squad, is eligible to join any CFL team. It's believed that the Cardinals will offer Baggs a berth on their eight-man practice roster.

"I had contact with Stevie's agent (Friday) afternoon,'' Taman said. "He made it very clear that (Baggs') NFL future would be sorted out by the weekend and that it is unlikely he will return to Saskatchewan immediately.''

The extent of Williams's injury clouds the issue for the Riders and other teams. Williams and other CFLers released by NFL teams have a 10-day window to pursue other options. Taman said it was unlikely Williams would be with the Riders for at least two weeks.

Williams had seven tackles and a sack in three pre-season games with the Steelers. Baggs had four tackles with the Cardinals in three pre-season games.
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BOMBERS IN FOR A HOSTILE WELCOME

Saskatchewan Roughriders fans will be attempting to throw the Winnipeg Blue Bombers off their game on Sunday at Mosaic Stadium.
Photograph by: Todd Korol, Reuters files

REGINA — Saskatchewan Roughriders guard Marc Parenteau is well aware that abusing the Winnipeg Blue Bombers is a big part of the Labour Day Classic for fans who sit in the east-side stands at Mosaic Stadium.

In fact, he'd tell you it's the name of the game.

"You're talking about young kids using special words that would be rated R in a movie theatre behind you and they incorporate that into your name," recalls Parenteau, who played for Winnipeg in the 2006 Classic. "Let's just say that 'Parent' was hyphenated with another word and then 'eau.' It was classy."

The 2010 edition of the Blue Bombers no doubt will hear some colourful language Sunday when it visits Mosaic Stadium. Former Bombers who now toil for the Roughriders are happy to be on the other side of the matchup — and the other side of the field.

"On that side of the field, the fans are all green; there's not a lot of blue and gold," says Saskatchewan backup quarterback Ryan Dinwiddie, who first experienced Labour Day as a Bomber in 2006. "There's definitely some heckling.

"You'll hear some random things that make you laugh a little bit, but there are some things that might hurt some guys' feelings. It's all in good fun."

"There's a lot of jibberish," adds Parenteau. "People seem to be intoxicated. I'm pretty sure that day we lost, so it wasn't that bad. It seems like if you're winning, they take it out on you. If you're losing, they give you a break."

But not much of one.

Luckily for Doug Berry, he got to use a headset as a buffer. Besides, the former Winnipeg head coach noted, he has the ability to tune out the fans who try to throw him off his game.
"I'd hear something every now and then, but it was like, 'Forget about it. You can't get involved with it,' " says Berry, who's now the Roughriders' offensive co-ordinator.

"For the fans, they're just looking for somebody who will bite. It's like throwing the bait out for the fish: Which one is going to bite? If you can find a player or a coach who will bite, you've got'em. They're out of the game."

Dan Goodspeed was forewarned about the fans before making his first trip to Regina in 2005, so the former NFLer felt prepared.

He wasn't.

"People said, 'Get ready for this. You're going to see some things that you've never seen before: People with watermelons on their heads, guys with spikes and shoulder pads,' " recalls the Roughriders' right tackle, who played four seasons with Winnipeg. "I said, 'Like the fans of the (Oakland) Raiders do?' They said, 'Yeah, but worse.'

"It was more than what I was led to believe was going to happen. That bench is definitely a bad place to be."

The city as a whole can be rather, uh, unpleasant for the Bombers and their fans during the weekend. For many years, the anti-Winnipeg sentiment — along with the prevalent party atmosphere — prompted the Bombers to stay in Moose Jaw until game day.

"When I got to Moose Jaw, I thought it was Regina, to be honest," Parenteau says. "I had never been to Regina. I was like, 'This is Regina? It's tiny!' Someone said, 'No, we're in Moose Jaw.' I said, 'Where's Moose Jaw?' They said, 'It's about a half-hour away because it's too crazy to go in town and sleep there.' "

"When we got in here the next day, it was just a zoo. That's the best way to describe it. There were barbecues everywhere, there was more tailgating than usual and I think people were spiking their beverages for some reason. It was crazy in here."

But the zany goings-on also help make Labour Day a true football experience.

Goodspeed says the intensity of the Bombers-Roughriders rivalry reminds him of the annual disagreements his college team, the Kent State Golden Flashes, had with the Akron Zips. That kind of hatred, he says, was missing during his time in the NFL.

For Dinwiddie, the Classic helped create an internal tug of war for him.

"You're supposed to hate Saskatchewan, but being a 'Pegger, you kind of respect them for the crowd and the way the crowd gets involved," Dinwiddie says. "The way the players feed off the emotion, you can tell it's a special place here — even though you're on the other side. I'm just glad to be here and glad to be a part of it."

ihamilton@leaderpost.canwest.comRead more: http://www.leaderpost.com/Blue+Bombers+hostile+welcome/3480043/story.html#ixzz0yXAyI2zL