Williams hoping to top 101-yard performance in Als rematch

Despite his best outing of the season, Duke Williams said he isn’t happy with his performance last week.

“When I watched film, I knew that wasn’t my type of game. That’s not how I really play. That’s not how I attack the ball, and I felt that during the game on the sideline,” the 29-year-old slotback said after Thursday’s practice at Mosaic Stadium.

Williams had 101 yards and a touchdown in the Roughriders’ 37-13 loss against the Montreal Alouettes last Thursday.

The two clubs meet in a rematch on Saturday. Kickoff for the game is set for 5 p.m., and the Green Zone pre-game show begins at 3 p.m.

“The plays I was supposed to make, I didn’t make. I may have had 100 yards, but we didn’t get the (win). I’d take the (win) over 100 yards any day,” Williams said.

The Riders are hoping a good week of practice will lead to a different result this week in front of a home crowd. Saskatchewan only had one full practice before their tough game on the road in Montreal.

Ahead of Saturday’s game, the team had a full week to get ready for their eastern opponents.

“The energy has been great. We’ve got a great week of work in,” Williams said. “When Saturday comes, we will be prepared and put on a show.”

Just as important as putting on a show for the fans on the field is what Williams does on the sidelines before games.

Williams said he always takes the time before games to play catch with kids in the stands.

“That’s something they might not ever forget. I didn’t have that when I was younger,” Williams said.

“If I can change kids’ lives one at a time – not everybody, because I can’t change everybody’s life – but one kid at a time, I’m proud of that.”

When it comes to the Riders’ aerial attack, a new face will be lining up opposite Williams due to an ankle injury sidelining Shaq Evans.

Head coach Craig Dickenson said a decision hasn’t been made as to whether it will be Tevin Jones or Dieuly Aristilde Jr. starting.

Williams said he’s been talking with Jones during practice this week, offering advice to the CFL rookie.

“Stay focused, learn the playbook, and when the opportunity presents itself make sure you put in the work,” Williams said. “Come Saturday, just put on a show and do what you do. You’ve already put in the work, so now you earned it.”

Notes: Dickenson said it’s unlikely defensive back Nelson Lokombo plays this weekend, as he’s still recovering from an injured hamstring. Defensive end A.C. Leonard (foot) and tackle Terran Vaughn (hamstring) are both likely to play.