The Saskatchewan Roughriders are looking for ways to incorporate Kian Schaffer-Baker even more in the offensive game plan.
The second-year receiver’s athleticism is off the charts, so the Riders are experimenting with ways to get him the ball, including taking handoffs from quarterback Cody Fajardo in the backfield.
The product of the University of Guelph is up for the challenge, even if it means venturing into uncharted territory.
“I think the last time I took a handoff was back in high school,” Schaffer-Baker admits. “As a receiver, you’re usually just blocking in the run game anyway, so I definitely don’t mind having the ball in my hands any way I can get it. That’s one thing I love about this offence. We find ways to get the ball into the playmakers’ hands.”
Schaffer-Baker and the Riders are getting set for Saturday night’s contest against the Elks in Edmonton. The game will be a reunion of sorts, with a handful of former teammates swapping green and white for the green and gold of the Elks in the offseason.
“Yeah, Ed (Gainey) is over there now. Mak Henry, Deon Lacey…a whole bunch of guys. It’ll be bittersweet to go out there and give them a little beatdown,” Schaffer-Baker said while chuckling.
Meantime, the CFL has announced that Hamilton linebacker Simoni Lawrence has been fined an undisclosed amount for his high hit on Riders quarterback Cody Fajardo in last week’s season opener, won 30-13 by Saskatchewan.
The Riders and Elks kickoff at 7:30 p.m. Saturday. 620CKRM’s coverage starts with the pre-game show at 4:30 p.m
