With the Saskatchewan Roughriders sporting their retro jerseys, it felt like a blast from the past on Thursday night. For the first time since 2013, the Roughriders have opened the regular season with a 4-0 record following a 30-23 win over the Toronto Argonauts.
Saskatchewan’s defence generated five turnovers, including snagging four interceptions from Argos QB Cameron Dukes.
DB Marcus Sayles returned one of those interceptions for a touchdown. DB Rolan Milligan ended the night with two interceptions.
QB Shea Patterson, making his first start in relief of injured starter Trevor Harris, was 15 for 23 with 192 passing yards with a touchdown pass. The former Michigan Wolverine added a touchdown on the ground with a nine-yard scramble.
Toronto opened the scoring with ex-Bomber Janarion Grant returning a punt for 84-yard touchdown, a failed two-point conversion, gave the double blue an early lead.
Saskatchewan walked into the locker room at half-time with a slim 10-9 advantage, thanks to Wide Receiver Samuel Emilus displaying his YAC (Yards After Catch) ability, with an impressive catch and run, eluding multiple Argo defenders resulting in a 34-yard score.
Heading into the 4th quarter, the Roughriders led 20-12, but Toronto tied the game, with a three-yard run by Argos RB Ka’reem Carey followed by a successful two-point conversion.
The green and white defence turnovers proved to be the turning point in the final frame, following Sayles interception, Milligan was able to pick off a Cameron Dukes pass and returned it deep inside of Argos territory.
K Brett Lauther rounded the scoring for the Roughriders going 3 for 4. (48, 28, 11). His only miss was a 57-yard attempt at the end of the first half, that nailed the upright, creating a dead ball.
DB Deontai WIlliams added an interception.
AJ Ouellette contributed 67 rushing yards.
Saskatchewan’s defensive line interior Anthony Lanier II and Micah Johnson added a pair of sacks.
Dukes ended his night 19 for 34 and 206 passing yards along with his four interceptions.
Argos WR Damonte Coxie led all receivers with 76 yards and hauled in five receptions.
Emilus ended up with 54 yards receiving.
Linebacker Jameer Thurman continued his strong start to the season, leading the green and white defenders with eight tackles, including three TFL (tackles for losses) along with forced fumble.
Saskatchewan will travel to Vancouver next weekend for a Saturday night divisional matchup with the BC Lions.