It’s my Parting Shot for my Roughrider Tuesday Tidbits…..

       First and foremost, kicking in the clutch was the difference in Saskatchewan’s 30-29 victory in Toronto on Saturday. Thanks Tips…you’re likely saying, or at least thinking! But, in all seriousness, place-kicking has been an advantage for the Green and White in almost every game this season…to the point that last year’s excellent job has been forgotten with Rider Nation asking, Tyler Who?!

       I’ll go further. Not only is Brett Lauther a shoo-in to be Saskatchewan’s Special Teams player-of-the-year and Top Canadian, but he should get serious consideration for Most Outstanding Player! Who has been better or more consistent?!

       Zach Collaros had a bounce-back game. No, he didn’t pass for over 300 yards once again. But, he did lead the Roughriders to three offensive touchdowns and he did rediscover Namaan Roosevelt as a “go-to” target! That can only be a good thing heading into the final five games of the regular season!!

       On the negative side, the Green and White defence has had its stumbles since their second bye week. Charleston Hughes is getting double-teamed and pressure on the opposition quarterback has been sparse for the most part…even with blitzes. That exposes the secondary as they can’t stay with their receiver coverage forever!

       So, the Riders are 8-and-5…alone in second place, which means hosting the West semi-final. My questions to you…with Calgary four points ahead and holding a game-in-hand, are the Stampeders too far ahead to catch for first place? How many more games does Saskatchewan have to win to, A) clinch a playoff spot? B) make sure they stay within the West Division for the post-season and C) insure they host the Western semi-final? My answers are Yes, two, three and three…so long as one of the victories is over Edmonton on Thanksgiving Day!

       That’s my Parting Shot, I’m Les Lazaruk…