Riders’ Green and White game to take place at SMF Field

Fans will get a chance to see the Saskatchewan Roughriders in game form on Saturday.

The annual Green and White game is to be played at SMF Field in Saskatoon. The intrasquad game will be the first taste of game-like action after a week of training camp.

Kickoff for the game is set for 3 p.m., with action to continue until 5 p.m.

Head coach Craig Dickenson wants to use the game to get the players ready for what a day will feel like once the pre-season and regular season get underway.

“I really want to see the offence get in and out of the huddle and I would like to see the offensive line play well,” Dickenson said. “We’re telling the defensive line to play hard but also be smart so it’s not quite a game sort of look.”

There will be a couple of battles to keep an eye on as players try to earn roster spots.

“Running back is a tough spot and linebackers is a tough spot and those last few spots on the D-line will be tough too,” Dickenson said.

While the Riders signed Trevor Harris to be the team’s starting pivot, the backup quarterback spot is an open battle.

Both Mason Fine, last year’s primary backup, and Jake Dolegala, who played in two games last year, are back at camp trying to show they’ve taken another step in their development.

Joining them is Shea Patterson, who was primarily used as a short-yardage QB with the Montreal Alouettes in 2021. He spent 2022 in the USFL as a member of the Michigan Panthers and New Orleans Breakers.

The Riders appear to be bringing back only one starter from last year’s offensive line to be with the No. 1 unit this season. Both Logan Ferland and Evan Johnson have spent time as the right guard with the starters, though Ferland has seen a majority of reps as camp has gone on.

On the defensive side, the safety position is up for grabs. The team appears to be giving Jayden Dalke most of the reps there during camp but Jaxon Ford and former second-overall pick Nelson Lokombo could battle for playing time.

Prior to the game, Riders president-CEO Craig Reynolds, general manager Jeremy O’Day and Dickenson will provide a state of the franchise. Fans will be able to ask the team’s leadership group questions. That will take place at 1 p.m. at the Gordie Howe Sports Complex.

Gates for the event open at noon.