Saskatchewan Roughriders Break Records in 2022 to 2023: A Story of Resilience and Change
The Saskatchewan Roughriders, one of the most storied franchises in the Canadian Football League (CFL), have always been a team that prides itself on toughness, grit, and passion. However, the 2022 and 2023 seasons have brought a fresh wave of challenges, achievements, and, most importantly, records. The Roughriders, facing adversity and significant changes, have managed to break through various records—some of which signify both positive milestones and areas for improvement. These changes come in the context of a rapidly evolving team roster, front-office shakeups, and a restructured coaching staff.
This article aims to explore how the Saskatchewan Roughriders were able to break records between the 2022 and 2023 CFL seasons, what these milestones represent, and how these developments are likely to shape the future of the franchise.
1. A Season of Transition: 2022 to 2023
The 2022 CFL season was a turbulent one for the Saskatchewan Roughriders. After a promising start, the team faltered and missed the playoffs with a 6-12 record, which was a major disappointment given the high expectations placed on them. The 2023 season, while marked by high hopes for a comeback, also saw significant changes to the team’s makeup—especially on offense and defense.
This period of transition is central to understanding the context in which the Roughriders broke their records. There was a sense of urgency to rebuild and recalibrate, whether it was in the form of new coaching strategies, more competitive player acquisitions, or a focus on youth development. This restructuring would eventually lead to several notable records being broken in 2023, some of which would set new benchmarks for the franchise.
2. Breaking Offensive Records
The Saskatchewan Roughriders’ offense has often been a subject of scrutiny, especially after struggling in 2022. Despite the difficulties, there was a clear commitment to improving offensive output, and 2023 saw remarkable achievements in this area. One of the most significant records set during the 2023 campaign was the team’s offensive yardage total for a single season. The Roughriders managed to break their previous record for total yards gained in a season, which had stood since the early 2000s. This achievement was driven by improved quarterback play, the rise of young offensive weapons, and a more balanced attack, with a significant increase in both passing and rushing yards.
Quarterback play has often been a point of contention for the Roughriders in the past. In 2023, however, new acquisitions and a reshuffled quarterback depth chart allowed the team to find greater consistency and potency in the passing game. This improvement in the air game, paired with an effective rushing attack, was the foundation for the team’s offensive success.
The breakthrough year for the Roughriders’ offense also coincided with individual records. Key players like running back Jamal Morrow and wide receiver Kian Schaffer-Baker set personal career highs in yardage and touchdowns. Morrow, in particular, proved to be a dynamic presence in both the rushing and receiving game, contributing to the team’s record-breaking offensive performance.
3. Defensive Dominance and New Milestones
While the Roughriders’ offense was breaking records, their defense was just as impressive in 2023, setting its own franchise milestones. The team’s defensive unit finished the season with a new high for sacks in a season, shattering the previous record that had stood for almost two decades. This defensive surge was led by a new-look defensive line, with standout performances from players like defensive end A.C. Leonard, who had a career year in terms of pressures and sacks.
The defense’s ability to put consistent pressure on opposing quarterbacks was one of the major reasons behind this record-breaking effort. The defensive line’s dominance in pass rush and run-stopping forced turnovers and gave the Roughriders’ offense more opportunities. Their ability to stay competitive in tight games and keep the score close also contributed to their improved win-loss record in 2023.
Moreover, the Roughriders’ secondary, which had been a weak point in the past, showed noticeable improvement. New acquisitions, including veteran cornerbacks and rising stars in the safety positions, helped the defense become more cohesive. This improvement in pass defense, coupled with the pass rush, allowed Saskatchewan to break the franchise record for interceptions in a single season.
4. Special Teams Success
Special teams, often an overlooked aspect of a team’s overall performance, also played a pivotal role in the Roughriders’ record-breaking 2023 season. The special teams unit achieved new heights in terms of both return yards and field goal accuracy, setting a new record for total return yards in a season. This was largely thanks to the standout performances of return specialists like Mario Alford, who consistently gave the Roughriders favorable field position and sparked momentum-shifting plays.
In the kicking game, veteran kicker Brett Lauther continued his consistency, setting a new record for the longest field goal in franchise history. Lauther’s accuracy in high-pressure situations, particularly late in games, was crucial to Saskatchewan’s ability to close out games and win tight contests. These special teams accomplishments, combined with the offensive and defensive records, made the 2023 season one of the most memorable in the franchise’s history.
5. Organizational and Coaching Changes
The Saskatchewan Roughriders’ ability to break records during the 2022-2023 seasons also owes a great deal to changes at the organizational level. Head coach Craig Dickenson, after a difficult 2022 campaign, was faced with the task of reorganizing the coaching staff and revamping the team’s philosophy. A more collaborative approach between the coaching staff, the front office, and the players allowed for a stronger team culture and improved communication. This shift was critical in helping the Roughriders overcome some of their early-season struggles.
In addition, the front office made a concerted effort to scout and recruit new talent. The 2023 draft class, in particular, proved to be a significant asset, with several rookies making key contributions to the team. The combination of experienced veterans and fresh young talent provided a balanced and competitive roster that helped the team break records.
6. Future Outlook for the Roughriders
As the Saskatchewan Roughriders head into the future, the records set in the 2022-2023 seasons serve as a testament to the resilience and adaptability of the franchise. While the team’s ultimate goal is always to capture the Grey Cup, breaking long-standing records for offensive yardage, defensive prowess, and special teams success bodes well for the team’s long-term trajectory.
With a young, talented roster, improved coaching, and the continued development of key players, the Roughriders are well-positioned to build upon their successes in the coming years. The 2023 season, in particular, is a clear indication that the franchise has the potential to compete for championships, not just in the short term but well into the future.
Conclusion
The Saskatchewan Roughriders’ ability to break multiple records between the 2022 and 2023 CFL seasons is a testament to the franchise’s ability to adapt, overcome adversity, and innovate. From record-breaking performances on offense and defense to the resurgence of special teams, the Roughriders have turned a difficult period into one of renewed hope and achievement. With a strengthened roster, a solid coaching staff, and a renewed focus on development, the Saskatchewan Roughriders are poised to continue making strides toward becoming one of the top teams in the CFL. The 2022-2023 seasons may be remembered not only for breaking records but for laying the foundation for a new era of Roughriders football.
