The Saskatchewan Roughriders should be confident but cautious in their upcoming matchup with the Hamilton Tiger-Cats, according to Wes Cates. Speaking on this week’s edition of X’s and O’s, the former Roughrider noted the Ti-Cats backup pivot, Harrison Frost, has not impressed in his previous outings. The Ti-Cats are 3-6 on the seasons, having lost their two previous games. “He kind of tried to get the ball to all his receivers. They really didn’t do much outside of a couple of decent plays, and then they didn’t even have their run game going,” Cates explained. “Until their offence can really get to chugging along and actually look threatening, maybe have some bigger plays, I’m not too worried about what they’re going to do.” The Riders go into Week 11 first in the Western Conference with a 6-2 record. However, injuries have taken their toll, with many starters like A.J. Ouellette, Samuel Emilus and Kian Schaffer-Baker on the six-game injured list. The roster changes aren’t necessarily all negative, according to Cates. “I think sometimes when you have injuries and you have guys moving around, it actually levels up everybody’s kind of focus and just understanding of the defence or the offence,” he argued. “I think the fact that guys have had to move around and adjust is making everybody just a little more aware of what everybody’s role is, and then that’s helping the defence gel and make more plays. So, I’m excited about that.” Trevor Harris, who has been putting up record numbers in terms of passing yards in recent games, did experience some challenges from the Ti-Cats defence in Week 6. However, Cates chalked it up to the veteran quarterback getting acclimated early in the season. “Last time was just because it was earlier in the season. Just trying to get your land legs under you, so to speak. I think they’ll be fine. I think he’s excited and determined to kind of put his stamp on the season and keep putting up numbers,” Cates noted. “As the receivers get healthy and as the young ones get more acclimated to being in there, I think that the offence is just going to get better and better every week.” The Saskatchewan Roughriders will face off against the Ti-Cats in Hamilton on Saturday, Aug. 15, at 5 p.m. CST.
