Roughriders' Preseason Loss to Blue Bombers Raises Concerns About Strategy and Kicking Game

2025-05-25
Roughriders' Preseason Loss to Blue Bombers Raises Concerns About Strategy and Kicking Game
Leader Post

The Saskatchewan Roughriders kicked off their CFL preseason with a loss to the Winnipeg Blue Bombers, but the performance raised more questions than answers. While head coach Craig Dickenson downplayed the importance of the first preseason game, suggesting a shift in usual strategic approaches, the Roughriders’ kicking game and overall execution warrant closer examination.

Strategic Shifts: Experimentation Over Victory?

Dickenson acknowledged a deliberate effort to deviate from the team’s standard in-game strategies. This wasn't necessarily about lacking a desire to win, but rather about utilizing the preseason to test various approaches and evaluate players in different roles. However, the results weren’t ideal. The Roughriders appeared hesitant at times, and the decision-making process seemed less decisive than fans are accustomed to.

“We’re trying some different things, seeing how guys react in certain situations,” Dickenson explained. “It’s not always about winning the game; it’s about developing our players and finding what works best for us.” While experimentation is a valid preseason strategy, the Roughriders need to find a balance between innovation and effective gameplay.

Kicking Game Woes: A Major Concern

Beyond the strategic adjustments, the Roughriders' kicking game was a significant area of concern. Missed field goals and inconsistent punting created opportunities for the Blue Bombers and hampered the Roughriders’ offensive momentum. The special teams unit, often a crucial component of a winning team, looked shaky against Winnipeg.

“We’ve got to clean that up,” Dickenson stated bluntly. “Our kicking game needs to be much more reliable if we want to be successful this season.” Finding a consistent kicker and improving the overall performance of the special teams unit will be a priority heading into the next preseason game.

Looking Ahead: What Needs to Change?

The Roughriders have two more preseason games to address these issues. While the outcome of these games isn’t as important as the performance, the team needs to demonstrate improvement in both strategy and execution. Specifically, they need to:

  • Refine Strategies: While experimentation is good, the team needs to identify which strategies are effective and which need adjustment.
  • Improve Kicking Accuracy: The kicking game needs a significant boost in reliability.
  • Strengthen Special Teams: Overall performance of the special teams unit needs to be elevated.

The Blue Bombers’ victory served as a wake-up call for the Roughriders. They have the talent to contend in the CFL, but they need to address these early concerns if they want to be a serious championship contender. The remaining preseason games offer a valuable opportunity to fine-tune their approach and ensure they are ready for the regular season.

Fans will be watching closely to see how the Roughriders respond to this early challenge. The journey to the Grey Cup begins now, and every game, even the preseason ones, matters.

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