Michiko Araki
In their first week back at the Den, the BC Lions (0-1) return to BC Place for their first home game of the season to face the Saskatchewan Roughriders (0-2). The Roughriders, coming off of a 42-40 overtime loss to the Toronto Argonauts last week, will face off against a hungry Lions team looking for their first win of the season.
Last season, the Lions and the Roughriders had a split record, with the Lions winning 26-13 on the road and losing 16-20 at home late in the season. With both teams looking to get a win on the board, this game will prove to be a key West Division tilt!
Not sure what to look out for? Here’s 3 things to know heading into the game:
Lulay vs. Glenn: 2014 Lions quarterback matchup
After a devastating early season loss of starting quarterback Darian Durant, several changes have been put into place for the Riders this season, including former Lion Kevin Glenn taking his place at quarterback. Look for an exciting matchup between last season’s quarterbacks as Kevin Glenn and Travis Lulay go head to head in familiar stomping grounds. So far this season, Glenn has completed 46 of 58 passes for a 79.3% completion rate for 597 yards and two TDs over two games, while Lulay has completed 18 for 32 for a 56.3% completion rate for 254 yards and 1 TD in his one regular season game.
Leone and the vet
For a Lions team that had difficulties finishing in the red zone last week, all eyes were on K/P Richie Leone to get points on the board. Last week, Leone showed fans his composure as he made both of his field goal attempts and also successfully put a point on the board for the convert after Austin Collie’s TD. With the return of former Lion Paul McCallum to BC Place as a Roughrider, there will be even more pressure for Leone to perform and win over the hearts of Lions fans.
Lions rookies turning heads
Even with a strong veteran core on offence led by Andrew Harris, Travis Lulay, and Manny Arceneaux, the rookies are looking to make their presence known to the fans this season. With several key additions to the team including speedy draft pick Shaquille Murray-Lawrence at running back and NFL vets Austin Collie and Cam Morrah at receiver, Coach Tedford’s up-tempo offence is in good hands. Collie scored his first ever CFL touchdown last week against the REDBLACKS, while Murray-Lawrence showcased his speed as he returned a kick for a recalled touchdown in his first ever CFL game. Although they’re new to the league, you can guarantee that they’re looking to make a name for themselves early on in the season.