Roughriders prepare for dynamic Elks tailback
The Saskatchewan Roughriders are preparing to face Edmonton Elks tailback Justin Rankin, who has been a significant offensive threat during the 2026 season. Rankin has demonstrated dynamic explosiveness, making him a dual threat in both rushing and receiving. He is currently on pace to become the first CFL player to achieve 1,000 yards in both rushing and receiving in the same season.
Roughriders Defensive Line Coach Micah Johnson highlighted Rankin’s versatility, noting his ability to impact the game in multiple ways. Johnson explained that Rankin is dangerous whether he is handed the ball or used in the screen game, where he releases from the backfield to catch passes. His ability to operate in open space makes him particularly difficult to tackle, akin to a punt returner.
After six games this season, Rankin has accumulated 522 rushing yards, averaging 7.1 yards per carry, and has caught 32 passes for 343 yards. These statistics put him on track for 1,566 rushing yards and 1,029 receiving yards for the season. Johnson emphasized the importance of defensive players maintaining their assigned gaps to prevent Rankin from exploiting openings, as he is adept at selling inside moves and bouncing to the edge, where he becomes extremely dangerous.
Strategies to contain Rankin
The B.C. Lions have been the only team this season to effectively limit Rankin’s production. In two recent games against the Lions, Rankin was held to 28 rushing yards on 14 carries. In contrast, he recorded 494 rushing yards on 60 carries in the Elks’ other four contests. This suggests that the Lions’ approach could offer insights for the Roughriders as they prepare for their upcoming home-and-home series with Edmonton.
Roughriders Head Coach Corey Mace indicated that the team reviews strategies from other teams that have found success against their opponents. While acknowledging that various factors like game situations and play-calling can influence outcomes, Mace stated that the team analyzes all available information weekly, not just when facing the Elks, to identify potential tactics they can implement. Ultimately, Mace stressed that the focus remains on the Roughriders’ own defensive execution to stop the opponent.
The upcoming game between the Elks and Roughriders at Mosaic Stadium is a significant matchup, with both teams vying for first place in the West Division. The Elks currently hold a 5-1 record, while the Roughriders are 4-1. This contest is expected to be physically demanding, both in the trenches and in the open field, as both teams possess strong defensive units. The Roughriders and Elks rank as the top two teams in net offence allowed, suggesting a defensive battle.
Both defenses are particularly strong against the pass, featuring talented secondaries. The Roughriders encountered difficulties against the run-heavy Calgary Stampeders in Week 3, securing a close 40-37 victory. The Elks also rely heavily on their ground game and efficiency, with Rankin being a key component. Despite facing some injuries on their offensive line, the Elks aim to maintain Rankin’s high average of 7.1 yards per carry.
The Elks are currently dealing with more injuries, including impact players like linebacker Nick Anderson and defensive tackle Jordan Williams, along with several offensive linemen. However, they have managed to fill these defensive gaps effectively. They will face a balanced Saskatchewan offense led by quarterback Trevor Harris, a strong receiving corps, and a powerful run game featuring A.J. Ouellette and a robust offensive line.
A notable aspect of this matchup is the contrast in turnover performance: Edmonton averages nearly four forced turnovers per game, while Saskatchewan has been effective at protecting the ball. The game will be broadcast live on Thursday night.
Historical context of dual-threat running backs
The pursuit of a 1,000-yard rushing and 1,000-yard receiving season is a rare feat in the CFL. The closest attempt to this achievement was made by Andrew Harris during his time with the Winnipeg Blue Bombers in 2017, when he rushed for 1,035 yards and had 857 receiving yards. Harris is now the Roughriders’ Running Backs Coach.
Among Roughriders, Tim McCray came closest to the double 1,000-yard mark in 1989, finishing with 1,285 rushing yards and 749 receiving yards, earning him the team’s Most Outstanding Player award during their second championship season. Other notable dual-threat performances for the Roughriders include Ed Buchanan in 1964, who recorded 1,390 rushing yards and 681 receiving yards, and Mike Saunders in 1994, with a 1,205-yard rushing and 613-yard receiving split.
The Roughriders’ exclusive 700-700 club features Ken Carpenter, who had 726 rushing yards and 784 receiving yards in 1956, and Ray Purdin, with 809 rushing yards and 771 receiving yards in 1962. Craig Ellis holds the Roughriders’ record for receiving yards by a running back, achieving 977 yards on 102 catches in 1985, alongside 569 rushing yards that year. The CFL expanded its regular season from 16 to 18 games per team in 1986.
The Elks and Roughriders are set to face off on Thursday night.
Read Also
Source: riderville.com
