The B.C. Lions are getting healthy in time for the pivotal West Division matchup with the Winnipeg Blue Bombers, led by the return of right guard Sukh Chungh.
The Port Coquitlam, B.C. native sat out last week with an ankle injury, but has been a stalwart his eight-year CFL career. The second-overall pick in the 2015 CFL Draft spent four seasons in Winnipeg before coming home, earning a West Division all-star nod in 2018.
Andrew Peirson will be demoted to a backup role as Chungh steps back into the starting lineup, while Tyler Packer has been moved to the practice roster.
Also returning to the lineup after one-week absences are cornerback Jalon Edwards-Cooper and fullback David Mackie. Edwards-Cooper has collected 30 total tackles, an interception and a forced fumble in 13 starts this season, while Mackie has chipped in with six special teams tackles and 31 yards receiving.
Backup quarterback Dane Evans will also be back in the lineup after a stint on the six-game injured list due to a back issue. Rookie Chase Brice will return to the practice roster as a result.
Defensive end Josh Archibald (shoulder) has been placed on the one-game injured list, while fellow defensive lineman Nick Usher will be a healthy scratch.
The Lions (11-4) will host the Bombers (11-4) on Friday, October 6 at 10:00 p.m. EDT. The two teams have split the season series at one game a piece, with the winner of this contest receiving a substantial advantage in the battle for top spot in the West Division.