Ankle injury makes Lions’ Johnson ‘doubtful’ for next game: Buono

SURREY — An ankle injury to running back Jeremiah Johnson has created an opportunity for some B.C. Lions to step up, and coach Wally Buono says he wants his players further down the depth chart to be ready to impress.

Johnson went down in the first quarter of the Lions’ 20-17 come-from-behind victory over the Winnipeg Blue Bombers on Saturday.

The 31-year-old, who has rushed for 222 yards and scored two touchdowns so far this season, is getting rehab and is “very doubtful” for Friday’s match against the Redblacks in Ottawa, Buono said. He added that the coaching staff will have high expectations of whoever ends up being tasked with filling in for Johnson this week.

“We’ve talked to all the players about when you get tapped on the shoulder, we expect big things for you,” he said.

Returner Chris Rainey stepped in to help after Johnson left the game on Saturday, and amassed 43 rushing and 71 receiving yards. He also tallied three punt returns for 51 yards and three kickoff returns for another 81.

Playing dual roles was “a lot,” Rainey said, but he was happy to help his team gut out a win in a “heart-dropping game.”

The 30-year-old said on Monday that he has been bugging Buono about getting more chances to play running back — his favourite position.

“He always says ‘special teams,’ ” Rainey said with a laugh.

No lineup decisions have been finalized for Friday’s game, Buono said, but he doesn’t expect Rainey’s role to change much.