Calgary Stampeders Remain in CFL Playoff Hunt with Win over Saskatchewan Roughriders
The Calgary Stampeders kept their CFL playoff hopes alive with a 26-19 win over the visiting Saskatchewan Roughriders on Friday night.
The Stampeders (5-11) snapped a three-game losing streak, while the Roughriders (6-11) extended theirs to seven games.
Calgary now sits two points behind Saskatchewan for the third and final playoff spot in the West Division, with a game in hand. The Stampeders also took the season series 2-1, which could be beneficial in the event of a tiebreaker.
The Stampeders got off to a slow start, trailing 13-7 at halftime. But they came out firing in the second half, scoring 19 unanswered points to take control of the game.
Calgary quarterback Jake Maier had a solid performance, completing 21 of 29 passes for 252 yards and two touchdowns. He also ran for 38 yards.
Running back Ka’Deem Carey was also a factor for the Stampeders, rushing for 71 yards and a touchdown.
The Roughriders were led by quarterback Cody Fajardo, who threw for 328 yards and a touchdown. But he was also picked off twice.
Saskatchewan receiver Kian Schaffer had a big game, catching six passes for 140 yards and a touchdown.
The Stampeders will look to continue their playoff push next week when they travel to face the Edmonton Elks. The Roughriders will also be on the road, as they take on the Hamilton Tiger-Cats.
Analysis
The Stampeders’ win over the Roughriders was a crucial one, as it kept their playoff hopes alive. With a game in hand, the Stampeders now have a good chance of catching Saskatchewan for the third and final playoff spot in the West Division.
The Stampeders were led by a strong defensive performance, which held the Roughriders to just 19 points. Calgary also got a solid performance from quarterback Jake Maier, who threw for two touchdowns and ran for another.
The Roughriders, on the other hand, are in a tough spot. They have now lost seven games in a row and are facing an uphill battle to make the playoffs.
What’s Next
The Stampeders will look to continue their playoff push next week when they travel to face the Edmonton Elks. The Roughriders will also be on the road, as they take on the Hamilton Tiger-Cats.
