Saskatchewan Roughriders quarterback Trevor Harris has a bruised hip and is questionable for the team’s home opener against the Winnipeg Blue Bombers on Friday night in Regina.
The injury occurred on the Roughriders’ final offensive play of their 17-13 victory Sunday in the season opener against the host Edmonton Elks.
Harris did not practice on Wednesday and had limited action Tuesday when the team returned to practice as backup Mason Fine worked with the first team.
Roughriders coach Craig Dickenson feels that Harris could still start Friday despite missing practice time.
“I mean, he needs the timing for those guys for sure,” Dickenson said. “But I don’t think he needs the reps like maybe a younger quarterback. So we’re lucky that way, we just have to get him to the game.”
The Roughriders (1-0) will be without receiver Derel Walker (knee) and linebacker Derrick Moncrief (shoulder) for the game against Saskatchewan. Defensive back Nick Marshall (shoulder) is listed as doubtful.
Walker scored Saskatchewan’s only touchdown on Sunday. Harris completed 20 of 33 passes for 179 yards with one touchdown and two interceptions against the Elks.
The Blue Bombers (1-0) are coming off a 42-31 home victory over the Hamilton Tiger-Cats on June 9. Winnipeg quarterback Zach Collaros was 21-of-31 passing for 354 yards and three TDs.
The Blue Bombers have won seven straight games against the Roughriders, including three on the road. During the streak that began with the 2019 West Division final in Regina, Winnipeg has outscored Saskatchewan 202-98.
Blue Bombers coach Mike O’Shea said that he is preparing his team as if Harris will play.
“When you get a guy who’s that smart, quick with his reads and gets rid of the ball quickly, it’s tough to play against him,” O’Shea said. “We’re going to play our defense. If we find out he’s not (playing), I don’t know if you’re adjusting much. You’re just talking about it and making sure guys understand maybe the differences, but we’re gonna do what we’re gonna do and they’re gonna do what they’re gonna do.”
Winnipeg will be without offensive lineman Tui Eli (lower leg) and defensive lineman Cam Lawson (knee). Fullback Mike Miller (shoulder) and defensive lineman Jackson Jeffcoat (calf) are also out and were placed on the six-game injured list on Thursday.
–Field Level Media
