The Saskatchewan Roughriders, reigning Grey Cup champions, are expected to make the 2026 CFL playoffs based on history. However, winning a postseason game has been a challenge for the team after previous championships.
Historical Playoff Performance After Grey Cup Wins
In 1967, 1990, 2008, and 2014, the Roughriders qualified for the playoffs the season after winning the Grey Cup. Yet, only the 1967 squad managed to win a playoff game, defeating the Edmonton Eskimos 21-5 in the West semifinal before losing the Grey Cup 24-1 to the Hamilton Tiger-Cats.
In contrast, the 1990 team fell 43-27 to Edmonton, the 2008 squad lost 33-12 to the B.C. Lions, and the 2014 team was defeated 18-10 by Edmonton, all in the West semifinal.
Coach Mace's Perspective
Head coach Corey Mace, the reigning CFL coach of the year, downplays the focus on defending the title. “We’re not defending really anything,” Mace said after the first day of rookie camp. “Our next game is not for a trophy. We’re working like we’re starving. Everybody across the league wants to play in that last game of the year. We’ve got to go earn the right to do that.”
Mace’s approach emphasizes starting fresh, a sentiment echoed by quarterback Trevor Harris and tailback A.J. Ouellette.
Strategic Path to the Grey Cup
The Roughriders could avoid the West semifinal by finishing first in their conference, earning a bye and home-field advantage for the West final. This season marks the last where only one win is needed to reach the Grey Cup; in 2027, eight of nine teams will qualify for a more complex playoff format.
Despite the historical odds, the Roughriders are determined to forge their own path in 2026.
