The coach stressed that finishing these specific plays is critical to swinging the momentum of the game.
"We've just got to make the plays. Those are game-changing plays, right?"
Mace said.
Mace concluded his thoughts on the passing matchup with a lighthearted comment regarding the opposing quarterback.
"So you know, hopefully Chad's feeling generous," Mace said.
The head coach smiled as he finished evaluating the upcoming defensive opportunities.
"That'd be really nice," Mace said.
Injury and Roster Updates
Saskatchewan starting tailback A. J.
Ouellette, who rushed for 1,222 yards last season, is unlikely to play due to an ankle injury suffered against the Calgary Stampeders and was placed on the reserve list.
"We looked at some things yesterday and I was thinking maybe we can try to get him out there at game time," Mace said.
Mace decided that risking the long-term health of the running back was not logical at this stage.
"But where it's at right now, I just don't know if it's really worth the risk," Mace said.
The coach confirmed the team would proceed with their current roster depth chart for the game.
"So, as we put it out, that's how we'll roll," Mace said.
Rookie running back Quali Conley, signed on May 16 after being released by Montreal, will start in place of Ouellette.
"As coach (Andrew) Harris teaches us, you never know when your number's going to get called," said the 23-year-old Conley.
Conley explained that his preparation involves maintaining a starter's mindset during all team practices.
"Just stay ready, whether you're on scout team, doing (individual work), act like you're the guy," Conley said.
The rookie emphasized that this focused approach governs his daily preparation.
"That's your mentality," Conley said.
The game is a designated home contest for Toronto, but it was relocated to Regina because of stadium scheduling conflicts tied to the 2026 World Cup.
Toronto leads the CFL by averaging 37 points and 501 offensive yards per game, while Saskatchewan ranks second with 35.5 points and 471.5 yards per game.
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Riders quarterback Trevor Harris enters the matchup with an active streak of 189 consecutive passes without an interception.
