The stage is set for Canadian football supremacy as the Saskatchewan Roughriders prepare to battle the Montreal Alouettes in the 112th Grey Cup championship this Sunday at Winnipeg's sold-out Princess Auto Stadium.
Championship History and Stakes
This marks Saskatchewan's first Grey Cup appearance since their 2013 victory, while Montreal aims to secure their second championship in three years after previously winning in 2023. The historical significance isn't lost on either team, with the Alouettes chasing their ninth franchise title and the Roughriders seeking their fifth championship after previous wins in 2013, 2007, 1989, and 1966.
Roughriders head coach Corey Mace expressed the weight of this opportunity, stating: "It was something that was heavy on my mind, on my heart, the fact that the team only has four to celebrate. We're here and we have an opportunity to change that. It would mean everything to the people of that province and the fan base scattered all over the world."
Key Roster Changes and Adjustments
The Roughriders face significant receiver challenges heading into the championship game. American receiver KeeSean Johnson remains on the injured list with a knee injury sustained in Week 19, while his replacement, fellow American Joe Robustelli, is also unavailable after suffering a head injury during the West final.
These absences create opportunities for other players to step up. Ajou Ajou will get the start at wide receiver, with Mitch Picton joining the roster as a backup in place of Dhel Duncan-Busby. The receiving corps will be completed by Samuel Emilus, Kian Schaffer-Baker, and Tommy Nield as Canadian starters, while Dohnte Meyers serves as the lone American starting receiver.
Defensively, the Roughriders are leveraging ratio flexibility by starting American Mike Rose ahead of Canadian Ali Saad along the defensive line. Both players saw significant action in the West final as Saskatchewan effectively utilized the designated American rule.
Road to the Championship
The Roughriders' journey to this year's Grey Cup represents a story of redemption and consistent excellence. After falling just short of a championship appearance in 2024 with a West final loss to the Winnipeg Blue Bombers under first-year coach Corey Mace, Saskatchewan exploded out of the gate in 2025 with four consecutive victories.
The team suffered their first loss in Week 6 against Calgary but immediately responded with another four-game winning streak, including a decisive 34-6 victory over Montreal in Week 9. This impressive run propelled the Roughriders to an 8-1 record, matching only the 2013 squad for the best start in franchise history.
Though the team dropped to 8-2 after a second loss to Calgary, their dominant regular season performance has positioned them for this championship opportunity against a familiar opponent.
As Coach Mace emphasized, "We've got work to do. Obviously, Montreal is not just going to give it to us. The boys are dialed; they're working hard. It's going to be a challenge, but they're ready for that."
The 112th Grey Cup promises to deliver high-stakes drama as two determined franchises clash for Canadian football's ultimate prize, with roster adjustments and championship legacies adding compelling layers to this highly anticipated matchup.
