The Saskatchewan Roughriders could have loved a much-needed relaxation in Week 4, however harm woes haven’t helped them but.
When the workforce returned to follow on Sunday, 10 gamers have been unable to take part in workforce actions with three classes remaining till they confronted the Edmonton Elks.
Head coach Craig Dickenson stated: “We’re a bit of extra inspired.” Regina admitted to the media. “Among the guys who missed flights are coming again, that’s a part of it. However the guys that obtained hit, we’re attempting to determine if we are able to get them again this week.”
The 2 gamers caught in site visitors have been defensive finish Pete Robertson and defensive again Amari Henderson, however eight different gamers have been out with medical points, together with six starters.
Gerald Hawkins, who was blown out throughout the Week 3 win over the Calgary Stampeders, was the worst. Dickenson advised reporters the 29-year-old former NFL draft choose stayed house after the break and is scheduled to have quadriceps surgical procedure, which can hold him out of the lineup for an prolonged interval.
After Hawkins went down, Saskatchewan’s offensive line obtained credit score for a poor play-by-play efficiency, with left guard Logan Ferland punting exterior the perimeter and Logan Bondy bringing it inside. Nonetheless, extra modifications could also be wanted this week, as neither middle Peter Godper (hand) nor proper sort out Colin Kelly (sickness) will probably be taking reps on Sunday.
The Raiders are already quick on forwards attributable to a season-ending pectoral muscle pressure suffered by Canadian veteran Phillip Blake. Nonetheless, Dickenson thinks they will make do with what they’ve, no less than within the quick time period.
“Everyone cares about their offensive line, and we’re in that group, however I feel it’s group. They play very onerous and play nicely collectively. I feel they’re nicely skilled by coach Vitale», he stated.
“So long as we’ve got sufficient our bodies, we’ll be nice, however I feel we’re a bit of skinny. Hopefully we generally is a bit more healthy within the coming weeks.”
The offensive line wasn’t the one one affected, as star defensive finish Anthony Lanier (foot) and linebacker Rolan Milligan (again) additionally sat out together with defensive backs Matt Dean (foot) and Rodney Clemons (ankle). Offensively, the apparent one is receiver Jake Wyneck (knee).
The prized free-agent agency was comparatively quiet at the beginning of the 12 months, recording 12 receptions for 111 yards. Nonetheless, the misplaced time generally is a blow to the passing recreation.
“I nonetheless hold my religion. We’ll know extra tomorrow, however we’ll see,” Dickenson stated. “I’m optimistic. He’s feeling higher so we’ll see what the physician says and go from there.
In excellent news earlier within the week, quarterback Trevor Harris absolutely participated within the bye week, citing rib points. Security Jayden Dahlke (again) was a restricted entrant and is headed for an early return after a cautionary stint on the six-game disabled checklist.
Though it was not mirrored within the variety of gamers on the sector, Dickenson felt that the bye week rejuvenated his workforce.
“At the moment was not our most intense day by any means, however it was and thrilling follow and I really feel like the blokes are prepared to come back again and get to work.”
The Raiders (2-1) host the Elks (0-4) on Thursday, July 6 at 9:00 pm EDT.
