Michiko Araki
Chris Rainey can’t wait to return to Calgary.
If there’s one thing Lions fans know, it’s that Rainey is a fun player to watch on the field. A clogged playing field with a swarm of players coming after him? That doesn’t faze the returner – not even a little bit.
In his second appearance with his new team, Rainey electrified fans with a 98-yard kickoff return against the RedBLACKS, and he was only getting started.
A week later, Rainey shocked the Stampeders and whizzed down the field for not just one, but two returns for touchdowns that would help the Lions stay in the game until the fourth quarter. After recording a 103-yard punt return and 103-yard kick return for touchdowns that game, Rainey also garnered CFL Player of the Week Honours.
“That was my first time in the house,” he explains. “So when I got [to McMahon Stadium] I was like, in my first time here, what can I do to leave a mark? So I did that, gave it all on special teams, and hopefully I can do it again.”
Now, in the playoffs, Rainey has a chance to face that same Stampeders team all over again, and he’ll be a huge factor for the Lions heading into the game.
“[I] can’t change nothing. I’ve always had the same routine,” he explains about preparing for the upcoming tilt. “I’m a tradition guy. But it’s all the marbles on the floor, so it’s go hard or go home. Play smart, no turnovers, do whatever you can to help the team win, and make sure you leave it all out there.”
Although he’s had the opportunity to make some great plays, his role on special teams has allowed him to contribute to the team, and he says that’s what really matters.
“I just like helping the offence get field advantage and get field position. I just love to help the team win. I’m just a playmaker who can score a touchdown on any given day.”
One thing’s for sure – all eyes will be on Rainey during the game on Sunday, and he won’t disappoint!
