Jamie Nye: Riders provide sobering financial update

“Who should save the CFL?” could soon become a question that needs an immediate answer, sooner rather than later.

The news that the Saskatchewan Roughriders, the CFL’s flagship franchise, are facing the biggest financial crisis in their history due to COVID-19 is some sobering news.

The Roughriders’ reserves are going to run dry and then what?

The Riders’ finances will be somewhat similar to other teams, but could be a bit better with likely some better sponsorship money and definitely more ticket and merchandise revenue.

So where will this leave the rest of the CFL?

Teams will likely be losing a little bit more than the Riders’ $10-million projection. Randy Ambrosie’s $150-million ask from the feds is now looking a lot more credible.

But should the taxpayer have to save the league? Should we have to get ready to break out the credit card and phone for a telethon?

Or should the private owners like Bob Young, Murray Edwards, Maple Leaf Sports and Entertainment, David Braley and the owners in Ottawa and Montreal dip even deeper into their wallets to save the league?

I know which one I’d prefer, although I know which two it will likely end up being when push comes to shove.