The B.C. Lions will have one of the league’s most dangerous receiving weapons back in the lineup when they host the Saskatchewan Roughriders on Friday.
Dominique Rhymes is slated to make his return from the six-game injured list this week after recovering from a knee injury. In six games this season, the Murray State product has caught 22 passes for 316 yards and five touchdowns.
The 31-year-old Rhymes was a CFL all-star for the first time in his career last season, collecting 85 receptions for 1,401 yards and 11 touchdowns. His return bumps Canadian receiver Justin McInnis out of the starting lineup despite a recent statistical tear from the Arkansas State product.
Also making their return to the lineup is Canadian weakside linebacker Bo Lokombo, though American Josh Woods will retain his starting job in the short term. The 32-year-old missed just two games with a rib injury and boots 66 defensive tackles through 12 games played, in addition to two special teams tackles, three sacks, two tackles for loss, three pass knockdowns, and an interception.
Striking a blow to the Lions’ chances will be the loss of right guard Sukh Chungh (ankle) to the one-game injured list. Andrew Peirson will get the start after losing his left guard spot to David Knevel last week, while Tyler Packer dresses as the sixth man. Fullback David Mackie (knee) will also be on the shelf this week, opening the door for veteran Canadian running back Kienan LaFrance. Versatile linebacker and special teamer Isaiah Guzylak-Messam is also slated to return.
Backup quarterback Dane Evans (back) has been added to the six-game injured list after going down in warmups last week. Practice roster quarterback Chase Brice will draw into the lineup. Also headed to the six-game are Global linebacker Maxime Rouyer (groin) and Canadian receiver Daniel Petermann, while defensive lineman Amir Siddiqi drops to the practice roster.
The Lions (10-4) will host the Riders (6-8) on Friday, September 29 at 10:30 p.m. EDT. The two teams have split the season series, with Saskatchewan most recently pulling off an upset victory in Week 11.
