Well unfortunately it looks like the BC Lions won’t be playing in the Grey Cup at BC Place this year after a 28-19 playoff loss to the Saskatchewan Roughriders on Saturday.
To say this game kept fans on the edge of their seats would be an understatement. This game really was a crazy moment that had a lot go on during its 4 quarters. I saw this game with my family on the T.V. and even some of them were on their toes with this game as this will decide who goes to the grey cup. Either, The Lions or The Roughriders?
Recapping from what was seen in the game, Lets look at how everything played out, how Saskatchewan beat the Lions and how the lions can learn from this to bounce back for next season.
This game was honestly filled with some intense plays, crazy turnovers, and impressive defence on both sides. However, it ended with the Roughriders ultimately outmanoeuvring the Lions and leading them to the Grey Cup. For the first quarter, the lions came out strong and got the first touchdown of the game. However, the Roughriders responded back fast with them passing the lions 13-6 by the second quarter, but The Lions fought back and tied the game just before halftime began. With the score tied, this game looks like it was going to be a close one as when one side scored the other quickly responded back. This continued into the third round with both teams responding to touchdowns and countering the plays in a pretty strategic ways as clock counted down to the end.
TOUCHDOWN JUSTIN MCINNIS!
Vernon Adams Jr. buys time, McInnis hauls it in, we are TIED in Saskatchewan! #GCPlayoffs on TSN & RDS
📱: Stream on CFL+ pic.twitter.com/tF2g77fBII— CFL (@CFL) November 2, 2024
However the moment that changed everything in this game was when the Roughriders intercepted the ball late into the 3rd quarter which ended the neck and neck back and forth with the Lions. This turnover allowed Saskatchewan to get the upper hand and follow it up with a touchdown, pushing their lead further. Although the Lions did respond with a drive of their own, it failed due to a few penalties and incomplete passes which ultimately slowed their progress immensely. While they did manage to add points to the board, It still wasn’t enough as the Roughriders had another opportunity which led them to taking the win in the 4th quarter.
FIRST CFL INTERCEPTION FOR NELSON LOKOMBO!
The @sskroughriders take over with a late fourth quarter lead! #GCPlayoffs on TSN & RDS
📱: Stream on CFL+ pic.twitter.com/grPFAYXFch— CFL (@CFL) November 3, 2024
Even though the BC Lions lost, they have the opportunity to come back stronger next season. With a roster full of young talent and a dedicated coaching staff, they’ve built a solid foundation which led to a great run the first half of the season. By focusing on key areas for improvement in the offseason, the Lions can return with renewed focus and aim to reach the next grey cup and take home the win.