Saskatchewan Roughriders playing most projected starters in Saskatoon preseason finale

Courtesy: Saskatchewan Roughriders

The Saskatchewan Roughriders are set to showcase the majority of their projected starting lineup when they host the Winnipeg Blue Bombers for their preseason finale in Saskatoon on Saturday.

Among the players getting run with the first team unit at positions that remain up for grabs is Desmond Evans, a defensive end who has drawn comparisons to Willie Jefferson. Jaylen Pate and Chico Bennett Jr., who both started last week, are listed with the second unit.

In other key battles, former Bomber Devin Adams will get his second start at defensive tackle with Caleb Sanders inactive, while former B.C. Lion Josh Woods gets the nod at weakside linebacker. Dhel Duncan-Busby has the edge to become the team’s third Canadian receiver, but Jaylen Johnson, who caught just one pass for nine yards last week, is stepping into the vacant American spot. Jonathan Kim continues to get top billing over Alex Hale in the kicking competition.

The offensive line appears to be the only position group not dominated by projected starters, as Jermarcus Hardrick and Zack Fry sit out. Reigning J.P. Metras Trophy winner Erik Andersen will play left guard, Jacob Brammer is kicking out to right tackle, and rookie American Jaison Williams will get the chance to audition with the starters at right guard.

As for the backup quarterback battle, Jack Coan remains listed ahead of Brayden Schager, despite the latter’s promising preseason showing against Calgary. However, short-yardage specialist Tommy Stevens has been bumped to the bottom of the depth chart, indicating he may no longer be in consideration for passing reps.

The Riders and Bombers will kick off from Griffiths Stadium in Saskatoon at 7:00 p.m. EDT on Saturday, May 23. The weather is expected to be sunny with a high of 24 degrees. The game is not being televised, but can be viewed on the CFL’s free streaming platform, CFL+.