Table of Contents
In a notable matchup at Princess Auto Stadium, the Saskatchewan Roughriders defeated the Montreal Alouettes 25-17, securing their fifth Grey Cup championship. Quarterback Trevor Harris, who has navigated numerous challenges in his career, achieved a long-held ambition as a starting quarterback.
At 39, Harris exhibited remarkable skill, throwing for 302 yards and completing 23 of 27 passes, setting a Grey Cup record with an 85.2 percent completion rate. This victory marked his third Grey Cup win and his first as a starting quarterback, underscoring his resilience and commitment to the sport.
Historic performance and tactical execution
The Roughriders’ success stemmed from a collective team effort rather than individual accolades. Harris’s performance was bolstered by Sam Emilus, named the game’s top Canadian player with ten receptions for 108 yards. Additionally, A.J. Ouellette made a significant contribution with a game-high 83 rushing yards and a touchdown.
Defensive strategies that made a difference
Defensively, the Roughriders demonstrated their strength by intercepting Montreal’s quarterback Davis Alexander three times. Alexander, who had previously enjoyed a successful winning streak, faced considerable pressure from Saskatchewan’s defense, which capitalized on his errors. Despite dealing with a hamstring injury that limited his mobility, Alexander completed 22 of 34 passes for 284 yards but struggled to establish a rhythm throughout the match.
Key moments that defined the match
As the game unfolded, key moments underscored the Roughriders’ determination. Early in the game, Saskatchewan scored through a series of strategic plays, with Harris connecting with his receivers for essential yardage. The first half concluded with Saskatchewan leading 15-7, following a well-executed drive that ended with Ouellette’s rushing touchdown.
The second half saw Saskatchewan increase their lead. Following a 38-yard kickoff return by Mario Alford, Harris led a quick drive resulting in a touchdown by Tommy Stevens, extending their advantage to 22-7. The excitement of the 32,343 fans in attendance was evident as they witnessed the Roughriders reclaim their championship title after a 12-year drought.
Challenges faced and lessons learned
Despite the Roughriders’ comfortable lead, the Alouettes mounted a late-game challenge, demonstrating their tenacity. A touchdown from Stevie Scott III in the third quarter narrowed the score to 25-14. However, the Alouettes’ efforts ultimately fell short as Saskatchewan’s defense held strong, sealing the victory with a fumble recovery in the end zone.
As the final seconds elapsed, Alexander attempted to guide his team for one last offensive push, but the Roughriders’ defense thwarted his efforts, securing the championship. This victory not only enriched the Roughriders’ storied legacy but also marked a significant chapter in Trevor Harris’s career as he reflects on his future in the league.
In the aftermath, Coach Corey Mace expressed pride in the team’s performance and highlighted the importance of teamwork in achieving their objectives. The Roughriders celebrated their return to championship glory, with plans for a victory parade in Regina, ensuring that the memories of this hard-fought triumph will resonate with fans for years to come.