Saskatchewan Roughriders

Cody Fajardo retains Riders’ starting QB job despite Week 11 benching

by
3Down Staff
August 25, 2022

The Saskatchewan Roughriders are turning back to Cody Fajardo for the second part of their home-and-home against the B.C. Lions, despite unceremoniously benching him a week ago.

Fajardo is listed as the team’s starting quarterback for the Friday night rematch at BC Place, while backup Mason Fine — who took over before halftime during their 28-10 loss in Week 11 — remains in the second position.

The 30-year-old incumbent completed 8-of-13 pass attempts for 41 yards and two interceptions in a little less than two quarters of action in front of the hometown crowd a week ago. Fine entered the game and immediately led Saskatchewan’s only touchdown drive of the night, finishing 16-of-26 for 210 yards, a touchdown and an interception.

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Fajardo acknowledged this week that the benching was a painful experience, but the Riders have kept the faith in their franchise pivot and offered a shot at redemption.

The Nevada product has struggled this season due to a porous offensive line and a nagging knee injury. In nine starts, Fajardo has completed 155-of-231 passes for 1,827 yards, 10 touchdowns and nine interceptions while rushing 41 times for 157 yards and five majors.

The Riders are scheduled to kickoff against the Lions at 7:30 p.m. local time in Vancouver on Friday.