By Justin Blackwell

Roughriders practice in the snow

Nov 19, 2010 | 5:44 AM

The Saskatchewan Roughriders once again had to deal with the weather at practice Thursday as they prepare for the CFL West division final against the Calgary Stampeders.

Blizzard-like conditions forced the team to concentrate on a practice dealing with a snow covered field, a wind blowing snow in all directions, and the players huddled around the heaters trying to stay warm.

But it was good for the players as conditions in Calgary are the same. And come kick off on Sunday, what they practiced in Thursday could be what they play in.

The defense might be called upon a lot as Calgary's running game could be front and center. Linebacker Barrin Simpson said the Riders have a plan.

“The plan is to get after them,” said Simpson. “We'll tweak some stuff. We'll change the way we're doing some things and how we want to attack. It'll all show on game day.”

Budget woes

Golf and curling centre faces grim season without financial boost

2h ago

Raiders AGM

Raiders impact on Prince Albert local economy continues to go up: AGM report

21h ago

Court proceedings

'The impact of this trauma will echo for generations': court case surrounding La Ronge woman's death reaches conclusion

Dec 11, 2024

Defensive tackle Keith Shologan says the weather won't affect the game plan.

“We have stuff to come in and play well against the run,” said Shologan. “We're going to play the same kind of defense we've been playing all year. As long as we're playing decent football and we're doing things as a team, we'll be alright.”

So who has the advantage if blizzard like conditions grace the West final?

“I think possibly the offensive line,” said head coach Ken Miller. “They know where they're going.

“And I think if there's passing, the receivers have an advantage. They know where they're going and defenses have to react,” said Miller.

As for Simpson, he practiced in the snow Thursday and said the ankle that forced him to miss the West semi-final is much better. He expects to play Sunday.

As for defensive back Omarr Morgan, he missed practice once again with a bone bruise to his knee. Miller is cautiously optimistic he'll be ready to play.