The Saskatchewan Roughriders have had a tumultuous time when it comes to their depth chart in recent weeks.
But things are finally starting to calm down on the injury front for them as they prepare to take on the Hamilton Tiger-Cats in Hamilton on Saturday night.
One change to the lineup is a major one, though, as Star’Corius Thomas will get his first CFL start at running back after signing with the team at the end of June.
Thomas slots in for Quali Conley, who tried to make a go of it this week despite an injured hamstring but was unable to do so. As a result, Thomas will take the field with Thomas Bertrand-Hudon as his backup.
Riders coach Corey Mace spoke earlier this week about how the team has maintained its continuity and chemistry despite the raft of injuries, and pointed out that communication is the key.
“I think that bodes well for how we practice and how these guys communicate in their meeting rooms,” Mace said. “That’s because it is a big element, it’s not just there’s someone there at a new spot. There’s reps and reps and reps of communication, be it at practice and in game, that you’re not sharing with somebody new that you’re communicating with.
“So it’s just a credit to how the guys work in meeting rooms and having those conversations and dialogues. It’s part of being professional and these guys have been doing their job.
The only other change to the lineup sees Windsor product and former Calgary Stampeders receiver Vyshonne Janusas make his Riders debut. He’ll enter the lineup at slotback backing up D’Sean Mimbs.
After some question as to who would be kicking this week, Alex Hale gets another chance to show his stuff after a solid showing against Ottawa last week.
Offensive lineman Jez Janiver moves to the practice roster to make room for Janusas.
Linebacker and team interceptions lead Josh Woods is a game-time decision, as was the case last week.
Conley joins offensive linemen Daniel Johnson and Zach Fry on the one-game injured list, with 13 players currently on the six-game injured list.
Other than that, the lineup remains largely the same as last week’s 42-20 win over the Ottawa Redblacks.
The Rider Broadcast Network will have the pre-game show beginning at 2 p.m. on Saturday, with Teagan Witko and Wes Cates joined by a host of guests. Dave Thomas and Luc Mullinder will then have the game call, with kick-off at 5 p.m.
