The 2019 Saskatchewan Roughriders season was the 62nd season for the franchise in the Canadian Football League (CFL) and the 110th overall. The team was led by head coach Danny Barrett and general manager Jeremy O'Day, and played its home games at Mosaic Stadium in Regina, Saskatchewan.
Regular season
- Record: 13 wins, 5 losses (13–5)
- Division standing: 1st place in the West Division, securing the team’s first first‑place finish since 2009.
- Key statistics: The Roughriders ranked among the league’s top offensive units, averaging approximately 29.5 points per game, and posted a strong defensive showing, allowing roughly 24.2 points per game.
Significant events
- Early in the season, starting quarterback Zach Collaros suffered a season‑ending Achilles tendon injury (June 30, 2019) after a collision in the opening game against the BC Lions. Jeremiah Masoli assumed the quarterback duties for the remainder of the season.
- The team achieved a notable five‑game winning streak from Weeks 5 through 9, which contributed to its ascent to the top of the West Division.
- Saskatchewan’s defense recorded multiple turnovers, including a franchise‑record 23 interceptions over the regular season.
Postseason
- West Division Semi‑Final: The Roughriders received a first‑round bye and hosted the West Semi‑Final on November 16, 2019. They defeated the Calgary Stampeders 33–12, advancing to the West Final.
- West Division Final: On November 24, 2019, Saskatchewan faced the Winnipeg Blue Bombers at Mosaic Stadium. The Roughriders led 11–0 entering the fourth quarter but ultimately lost 15–11 after a late‑game rally by Winnipeg. The defeat eliminated the Roughriders from the playoffs.
Awards and honours
- CFL All‑Stars: Defensive back Andy Fant was named a CFL West Division All‑Star.
- Team awards: The Roughriders presented the Jake Gaudaur Memorial Trophy (team MVP) to running back Kian Ragland for his contributions throughout the season.
Season impact
The 2019 campaign marked a significant improvement over the previous two seasons (2017: 10–8, 2018: 12–6) and re‑established the Roughriders as a competitive force in the West Division. The season also highlighted depth at quarterback after Collaros’ injury and underscored the importance of defensive playmaking in the team's success.
References
- Canadian Football League official statistics (cfl.ca) – 2019 season data.
- Saskatchewan Roughriders 2019 media guide and press releases.
- Game summaries and box scores from the 2019 CFL season.
