Latest loss has Rider fans lamenting
Rider fans knew it was a rebuilding year. But after Saturday's 53-7 hammering in Hamilton, some are wondering what to make of the Rider rubble.
Long time fan Mike Scofield was asked to pinpoint the problem areas.
"Offence, defence, coaching special teams, no leadership. None," said Scofield.
Marty Fayant was more personal in his criticism.
"I think they gotta get rid of (Darian) Durant," said Fayant.
Durant was under constant pressure during Saturday's Tiger-Cat mauling. He threw four interceptions.
After last year's 3-15 record, the Riders cleaned house. With an impressive CFL resume, and fresh off his Grey Cup winning season in Edmonton, Chris Jones was hired to lead the Riders back to the promised land.
The head coach and general manager now sports a 1-7 record. And recently, the Riders were fined $60,000 for practicing with unsigned players.
Some fans who were sweet on Smith are beginning to sour.
"This season is in the toilet. Right now, it looks like an experiment that's failed," said Dave Trenley. "I think Chris has his own way of doing things and they're not going to change anything there. I don't have faith about what's going to happen in the future."
But there are fans who feel better about the future, if not the current state of Riderville.
Wayne Turgeon says a rebuild doesn't happen in one season.
"I like Chris Jones. I like what he's doing with the team," said Turgeon. "I just think we have to be patient."
Leslie Kelly feels the same.
"I don't think we should give up on him. Give him a chance," said Kelly.
Jones and the Riders' next chance for redemption is Friday night, a homecoming of sorts in Edmonton against his former team. But Commonwealth Stadium has been a graveyard for the Riders over the years. Mike Scofield is almost certain the Green and White will get buried again.
"Well, I've given up," sighed Scofield.
