(Regina) The Saskatchewan Roughriders secured a home playoff game with a 39-8 victory over the British Columbia Lions on Saturday night.
The Roughriders improved their record to 9-7-1, putting them three points ahead of the Lions (8-9-0) for second place in the Canadian Football League West. There is only one game left for both teams.
The Roughriders used a tenacious defense to get their hands on the victory. In the first half, they caused four turnovers in seven Lions possessions, including two interceptions, a fumble and a turnover on tries. The British Columbia squad finished the game with six turnovers and lost the ball on downs twice in the second half.
On the second drive of the game, Roughriders defensive back AJ Allen intercepted a pass from quarterback Nathan Rourke and returned the ball to the end zone for a 45-yard touchdown.
CJ Avery also had an interception for the Roughriders while CJ Reavis recovered a fumble after Nelson Lokombo knocked the ball away from Lions receiver Justin McInnis.
By halftime, the impact of the turnovers was evident in the offensive numbers, which were relatively even despite the Roughriders leading 26-8. They had 14 first downs and 224 yards of total offense compared to 11 first downs and 186 yards for the Lions.
The Roughriders, who have now won four in a row, saw Jerreth Sterns and Kian Schaffer-Baker catch a touchdown pass. Brett Lauther made six field goals.
Quarterback Trevor Harris, who was replaced by backup Shea Patterson midway through the fourth quarter, completed 25 of 30 passes for 271 yards and two touchdowns.
Roughriders receiver Samuel Emilus made six catches for a total of 94 yards, which allowed him to cross the 1,000-yard plateau this season.
David Mackie had a two-yard rushing touchdown for the Lions.