LIVESTREAM CFL Preseason: Saskatchewan Roughriders @ Winnipeg Blue Bombers, May 24, 22:00 CET (10 pm, 4 pm ET)
The Winnipeg Blue Bombers host the Saskatchewan Roughriders at IG Field in a CFL preseason clash, offering both teams a critical evaluation opportunity ahead of the 2025 campaign.
Bombers’ offensive transition
Winnipeg debuts new offensive coordinator Jason Hogan, replacing Buck Pierce, with quarterback Zach Collaros noting Hogan’s “different background” in play-calling and terminology. Though preseason playbooks typically stay vanilla, Collaros emphasized the system’s focus on “clear and concise rules” to help younger players adapt. Running back Matthew Peterson, a Canadian draft acquisition from Hamilton, aims to solidify his role as Brady Oliveira’s backup, blending power and speed reminiscent of the 2023 Most Outstanding Player.
Roughriders’ roster evaluation
Saskatchewan’s starters, including quarterback Trevor Harris and running back A.J. Ouellette, are expected to see limited action, with head coach Corey Mace prioritizing their readiness for the second preseason game. Key veterans like defensive tackle Micah Johnson, safety Nelson Lokombo, and linebacker C.J. Avery will not travel, opening auditions for depth players. Backup quarterback Jake Maier and short-yardage specialist Tommy Stevens will rotate behind Harris, while third-stringer Jack Coan fights for a roster spot.
Watch CFL Preseason: Saskatchewan Roughriders @ Winnipeg Blue Bombers, May 24, 22:00 CET (10 pm, 4 pm ET)
Key position battles
For the Roughriders, the backup running back role remains contested between Thomas Bertrand-Hudon (special teams standout) and Americans Trent Pennix and Mario Anderson. Receiver depth behind starters Samuel Emilus, Kian Schaffer-Baker, and KeeSean Johnson features Dohnte Meyers, Joe Robustelli, and Canadian Dhel Duncan-Busby, who shone late in 2024. Returner Mario Alford faces competition from Drae McCray and Meyers for primary duties.
Defensive depth tests
Saskatchewan’s defensive line, missing Shane Ray and Jared Brinkman, leans on Brandon Barlow (14 sacks since 2022) and ex-NFL lineman Shakel Brown. Linebacker A.J. Allen and safety-turned-linebacker Jayden Dalke aim to carve niches alongside starters Jameer Thurman and C.J. Reavis. In the secondary, newcomers like Tevaughn Campbell compete for rotational roles.
Bombers’ receiver reshuffle
Winnipeg’s revamped receiving corps, after losing Kenny Lawler, Drew Wolitarsky, and Dalton Schoen, features free-agent additions Reggie White Jr., Dillon Mitchell, and Jerreth Sterns. Second-year players Keric Wheatfall, Myron Mitchell, and Kody Case push for roles behind locks Nic Demski and Kevens Clercius. Collaros praised the group’s depth: “There’s eight or nine now… difficult decisions ahead.”
Outlook: Evaluation over outcome
Both teams prioritize roster clarity over preseason results. For Winnipeg, Collaros’s limited reps and Hogan’s scheme installation matter more than scores. Saskatchewan focuses on identifying reliable backups and special teams contributors. Expect a methodical showcase of emerging talent, with physicality in the trenches and receiver battles taking center stage.
Watch CFL Preseason: Saskatchewan Roughriders @ Winnipeg Blue Bombers, May 24, 22:00 CET (10 pm, 4 pm ET)
