The Saskatchewan Roughriders’ offensive line has been decimated by injuries, and the situation isn’t getting better in the Banjo Bowl.
The team announced on Friday that starting centre Peter Godber (ankle) would be placed on the six-game injured list. Left guard Zack Fry (elbow), who was only starting due to previous injuries to Philip Blake and Ryan Sceviour, will join him on the shelf. That brings the total number of Rider offensive linemen out long-term up to six, with tackles Jermarcus Hardrick and Jacob Brammer also on the six-game.
Defensive tackle Micah Johnson had to step in along the offensive line mid-game for the second time this season in the Labour Day Classic, but the team has now found more permanent solutions. Versatile veteran Logan Ferland will move over to centre, while Canadian Noah Zerr and American Nick Jones get their first career starts in the guard spots. Brayden Noll will dress as the sixth man.
Also heading to the six-game this week is promising young receiver Dohnte Meyers (shoulder), who racked up 24 receptions for 349 yards and a touchdown in just five games. Rookie Canadian Ajou Ajou will slide into the starting lineup, with fellow draft pick Dhel Duncan-Busby coming on as insurance.
On defence, this week will mark the return of Canadian defensive back Jaxon Ford and the CFL debut for rookie linebacker Nick Wiebe, both of whom were injured for the first two-thirds of the year. Another rookie linebacker, Melique Straker (hip), has been placed on the six-game, while veteran Canadian DB Kosi Onyeka heads to the practice roster.
The Saskatchewan Roughriders (5-6-1) will visit the Winnipeg Blue Bombers (6-6) for the Banjo Bowl rematch on Saturday, September 7 at 3:00 p.m. EDT.
