Another winless pre-season is over for the CFL’s Saskatchewan Roughriders, who haven’t won an exhibition game since 2014.
No big deal. The Roughriders looked OK on Thursday, particularly on offence, before surrendering a late lead and losing 35-29 to the visiting Winnipeg Blue Bombers.
Starting quarterback Zach Collaros commanded an effective offence, tossed two touchdowns, completed two-thirds of his passes and survived a couple of decent hits, to the delight of Riders supporters who have been worried all off-season about his health.
Tailback William Powell, a free-agent signing, played long enough to show he’ll be Saskatchewan’s primary offensive weapon, capable of slipping through holes or powering through tacklers.
First-year head coach Craig Dickenson will huddle with his coaches to determine the roster moves that must be made by Saturday. There may be some concerns about the defence after surrendering 72 points in two games, but the starting offence looks good enough to make the Roughriders competitive.