Chris Jones on Riders kicking situation: “Tyler’s going to be our kicker”

Riders kicker Tyler Crapigna has missed two crucial field goal attempts in the first two weeks of the season.

One that could have won Saskatchewan the game in Week 1 against the Alouettes and another in double overtime during Week 2 that would’ve forced the Bombers to score a touchdown to win.

Even with all the outrage from Riderville directed at the 24-year-old kicker, head coach Chris Jones says the team is sticking with Crapigna.

“Tyler’s going to be our kicker unless something happens to him,” the Rider bench boss told the assembled media after practice on Tuesday.

“Tyler, he’s probably harder on himself than any of the fans could be. He expects to make every kick and unfortunately for him, he’s been a little off. He just needs to get back on track. He’s been an 86-87 per cent guy for his career. He’s a good kicker. If a guy that’s been that good for a long time to go pull him real quick, it’s a little premature.”

Crapigna has made 47-of-55 field goals (85.5 per cent) in his three-year career, all spent with Saskatchewan.