Chase Brice to lead inexperienced B.C. Lions lineup in Vancouver Island preseason game

Photo courtesy: Bob Butrym/RFB Sport Photography

The B.C. Lions will take the time to evaluate their newcomers during Saturday’s preseason game against the Edmonton Elks, bringing almost no projected starters to Langford.

Reigning CFL M.O.P. Nathan Rourke will not dress for the game, despite it being played on the outskirts of his birthplace in Victoria. Incumbent backup Chase Brice, who is entering his fourth season with the Lions and has thrown for just 261 career yards, will get the start at quarterback. Athletic rookie Kaidon Salter and recent acquisition Jarret Doege are also expected to see action.

The starting offensive line — Isiah Cage, Anu Una, Brandon Yates, Andrew Peirson, and Josh Donovan — all have previous CFL starts under their belt, though Yates is the only one currently projected to be part of the top unit this year and is playing centre, instead of his regular guard spot.

Receivers Kieran Poissant and Hergy Mayala will get a chance to show off with the first team as they battle to become a third Canadian starter, though first-round pick Nate Demontagnac will also get a chance to show his capabilities. American pass catcher Jermaine Jackson, one of the top performers last preseason, will get a long look at receiver and returner.

Halfback Dionte Ruffin is the only player with previous starting experience listed on the first team defence, though nickel Tyler Coyle and defensive end Hayden Harris have seen action. Punter Carl Meyer is the only player in this game guaranteed to start at his position in Week 1 if he stays healthy.

The Lions have 33 inactive players, comprising the majority of their starters and major offseason acquisitions.

B.C. will host the Elks at Starlight Stadium in Langford at 5:00 p.m. EDT on Saturday, May 23. The weather is expected to be mainly sunny with a high of 21 degrees. The game will not be televised, but can be streamed for free on CFL+.