Riders looking to push Bombers to the brink
The 15th annual Banjo Bowl looms, and appropriately, strings are part of the storyline.
Those plucky Saskatchewan Roughriders will look to extend their string of victories to four, whereas the Winnipeg Blue Bombers have strung together three straight losses as they prepare for Saturday’s showdown at Investors Group Field.
The Roughriders’ investment in Chris Jones — their head coach, defensive co-ordinator, general manager and vice-president of football operations — has certainly paid off of late.
After a sluggish start, the Roughriders have reversed their fortunes and are now performing like an elite team, thereby adhering to the expectations that were set out entering Year 3 of the Jones regime.
As for the Blue Bombers, they’re one loss away from absolute chaos.
Coaches will insist, until the eyelids are numb, that each regular-season game is equally important. But, as games in September go, this one is a monster.
A victory would give the Roughriders a 7-4 slate, leaving them in control of their destiny as they pursue the team’s first home playoff game since Darian Durant owned the 2013 West Division semi-final.
Plus, the Roughriders will enter a sweetheart portion of their schedule — three consecutive games against East Division foes — after visiting Winnipeg.
As for the Bombers, a fourth consecutive loss would leave them at 5-7 — after going 12-6 last year — and in a messy situation.
Head coach Mike O’shea, quarterback Matt Nichols and defensive co-ordinator Richie Hall are already under fire from a frustrated fan base that’s upset over a 28-year Grey Cup drought.
Not even a month ago, there was irritation in Rider Nation — fallout from a 3-4 record, a coma-inducing offence and the controversial release of receiver Duron Carter.
Well, guess what?
The Roughriders are 3-0 without Carter, having won three consecutive games against West Division foes.
Should that run of prosperity continue on Saturday, with a victory in the Banjo Bowl, it won’t be long before the Bombers are playing out the string.