By Joel Gasson

PREVIEW: Saskatchewan Roughriders vs Hamilton Tiger-Cats

Jul 28, 2012 | 9:11 AM

It's a re-match of week one at Mosaic Stadium, as the Roughriders host the Hamilton Tiger-Cats (4p.m., TSN).

It was the opening night for the CFL when the Riders beat up the Ti-Cats 43-16, sending shock waves across the country. However, much has changed for both teams since that game. Saskatchewan hasn't come close to matching that kind of offensive out put, and Hamilton has scored at least 36 points a game since.

“If you look at that, I think it was just those guys being in a new offense and not knowing each other,” said head coach Corey Chamblin of the Hamilton offense in week one.

Their offense may have peaked last week, when they shredded the Alouettes defense, lead by quarterback Henry Burris, who had a near perfect passer rating of 156.3.

“We're just playing with more confidence,” said Burris. “It's more of a mental thing in this game.”

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If the Ti-Cats improved offense isn't enough of a story line, it's also the return of some guy named Andy Fantuz, who will step on the field at Mosaic Stadium for the first time in colours other than green and white.

“I guess a boo sounds like tuz,” joked Fantuz. “That's how they used to cheer me here, so I'll just pretend it's a cheer, no matter what they're saying.”

Fantuz admits that it was definitely weird arriving in Regina for the first time, and not be met with the swarm of media and fans, like he used to see after road games.

Fantuz isn't the only offensive weapon the Riders have to worry about, running back Chevon Walker and receiver Chris Williams present significant threats too. Walker of course burned the Riders for a 93 yard run in week one, and Williams has been sensational on kick returns so far this season.

“I think it's essential, you have to get to him” said defensive lineman Tearrius George of getting pressure on Burris. “He's the key component to their offense.”

The Riders could be in a little bit of trouble if they don't get to Burris, with defensive backs Eddie Russ and Woodny Turenne missing with injuries, leaving the secondary a little thin in terms of depth. If that match up to start the season is any indication, then linebacker Tyron Brackenridge will be the one to cover Andy Fantuz.

“Being a back up in our secondary is just as good as a starter,” said Brackenridge of the apparent lack of depth. “Everyone's been preparing, playing fast.”

Overall, the line up is getting a minor overhaul with defensive back Macho Harris making his debut because of those injuries. Also in are receivers Taj Smith and Terence Jeffers-Harris, along with defensive linemen Chris Ellis and Mick Williams.

Defensive lineman David Veikune, receiver Justin Harper and linebacker Daren Stone have also been removed from the line-up.

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