Joe Mcknight of the Saskatchewan Roughriders evades a tackle from Toronto's Thomas Gordon during second quarter CFL action at BMO Field in Toronto on Saturday, October 15, 2016. (CFL PHOTO - Geoff Robins)
One team still had a shot at a playoff spot and another had their playoff chances end a week ago.
But it was the playoff team that is in a downward spiral with the Toronto Argonauts losers of eight of their last nine games hosting a Rider club that won three straight victories and no shot at the playoffs.
That theme continued this afternoon at BMO Field in Toronto.
The 1st quarter was dominated by the Riders defence with a pair of two-and-outs and a forced fumble, but all the offence could muster was a sort Tyler Crapigna field goal and the 3-0 lead.
In the 2nd quarter, the offence and special teams joined the party. The offence was led by newcomer Joe McKnight who had over 100-yards in the first half including a 27-yard carry that set up a 14-yard Ricky Collins Jr. TD catch that at that point, extended the lead to 13-0.
The next time the Riders touched the ball was 47-seconds later when Joe Craig took a Liam Hajrullahu punt up the middle and 71-yards later, the Riders had the 20-0 lead. A lead they held into the locker room at half time.
In the second half, the offence continued to roll, as a short Caleb Holley touchdown reception was bolstered by 54-yard, one-handed grab by Ricky Collins Jr. all to give the Riders the 29-0 into the 4th quarter.
The Argos were finally able to hit the end zone, as Dan LeFevour replaced Drew Willy and hooked up with Brandon Whitaker for a 22-yard touchdown. Hajrullahu tacked on another field, but that’s all Toronto to muster as the Riders cruised to the 29-11 win.
The victory is the Riders 4th in a row and they will carry that streak into Mosaic Stadium next Saturday as they host the Montreal Alouettes.
Joe McKnight was the first 100-yard rusher for the Riders since September 27th of last season at Mosaic Stadium. That day, Jerome Messam ran for 111 yards against the Montreal Alouettes.
It was the first 100-yard rushing game on the road since Anthony Allen ran for 105 yards in Montreal on October 13th, 2014.
Ricky Collins Jr. had over 100-yards receiving for the second time this season.
Rider Leaders
Passing: Darian Durant – 15/22, 164yds, 2TD
Rushing: Joe McKnight – 17/150
Receiving: Ricky Collins Jr – 7/113, 1TD
Defence: Henoc Muamba – 3 Tackles, 1 Sack, 1 Forced Fumble, 3 STT
