CFL: Saskatchewan Roughriders Demolish Edmonton Eskimos 34-13

I was hoping for the Roughriders to win, but I did not expect this.

Following the 2007 season, I expected the Roughriders to cross over to the East and finish third there. I thought the Eskimos would finish ahead of the Riders—well, I think now I am wrong.

I change my opinion. I think the same teams will make the playoffs, but the Eskimos to cross-over to the East and the Riders to finish second or third in the West. I know it is only one game, but it was quite lopsided. I was there and I experienced it first-hand.

Marcus Crandell wasn't great at QB for Saskatchewan, but he was better than I expected. He had a good game but he just forced too many passes. He went 19-29 with two interceptions, but also through for two touchdown passes—one to DJ Flick and one to newcomer Adarius Bowman.

Wes Cates also had a very good game, rushing 14 times for 86 yards and two touchdowns.

On the other side of the field, Ricky Ray completed 29 of his 35 passes with one interception. Edmonton did not score a touchdown.

The Eskimos offence wasn't bad, but they could not get it done in the Red Zone. Every time they got there the Riders held them to a field goal. Considering I am a Rider fan, it was a great sight to watch.

One player on the defense who really stood out in the game was James Johnson. He caught two interceptions while running one of them back for a touchdown. I think he is our new star defensive back instead of Eddie Davis.

Although I did not think this at all at the beginning of the season, I think the Riders may finish up to second place in the Western conference now.

For this to happen, fragile Buck Pierce would have to get hurt, which really seems like a possibility after last game.

Last season the BC Lions finished first in the Western conference in the regular season, but this is not because of Jarious Jackson, this was in spite of Jarious Jackson. They had a great team but he was keeping the other team in games. They are now one year older and will finish third in the East unless Pierce stays healthy.