Gainey has high hopes for season

MURRAY MCCORMICK

Ed Gainey is looking for more in 2018.

The Saskatchewan Roughriders’ defensive halfback led the CFL with a career-best 10 interceptions in 2017. He wants to surpass that number in 2018.

“The bar for me has been set at 10, but I’m going to go higher,” Gainey said after Wednesday’s closed practice at Mosaic Stadium. “I want to try to break the interception record this year.’’

The 28-year-old has two single-season records in mind. Terry Irvin set the Riders’ single-season record for interceptions in 1984 with 11. The CFL mark of 15 picks in a single season was established in 1972 by Al Brenner.

“I set the bar high last year and I will definitely try to lift it,’’ said Gainey, who set a Roughriders record with four interceptions in a 41-8 win over the B.C. Lions on Aug. 13.

“The expectations are already set and I can’t come out with anything less.”

Gainey enjoyed a breakout year in 2017 with the aforementioned picks, an interception return for a touchdown and 48 defensive tackles. He was named a CFL all-star for the first time in his six-year career.

On Tuesday, Gainey was ranked 15th on TSN’S list of the top 50 CFL players. It was the first time he had been included in the list. Gainey was also the topranked defensive back.

“It’s always good to get recognized because you don’t want your hard work to go unnoticed,’’ Gainey said. “For TSN to put me up there is a blessing and a privilege. I really appreciate it.

“I always wanted to come up here and make a name for myself in this football league. I have a few years left on my contract and I’m planning on giving everything that I can to the Roughriders. I’m never going to settle.”