Riders contemplating backup quarterback change to Mason Fine in 2021 CFL playoffs

Photo by Ryan McCullough/Ticats.ca

The Saskatchewan Roughriders are pondering a change behind franchise quarterback Cody Fajardo.

Isaac Harker has been the backup for the past two regular seasons, but Mason Fine’s development and performance in limited action during Week 16 has given the Riders a decision to make.

“We’re going to look at Mason. We haven’t made a decision yet, it’s going to be either Mason or Isaac,” head coach Craig Dickenson said.

Harker played all but two series in the loss to the Hamilton Tiger-Cats. He completed 16-of-23 passes for 150 yards with zero touchdowns and two interceptions. It was Harker’s first live game reps since the Banjo Bowl in Week 6 and he did appear to suffer an injury at Tim Hortons Field.

“He’s OK, he’s been getting treatment on his shoulder, but he’s fine, he’s throwing it just fine,” Dickenson said.

Harker’s health would not be a factor in any final decision made by the Riders coaching staff. Saskatchewan hosts Calgary in the West Semi-Final on Sunday at Mosaic Stadium and there could be a rookie backing up Fajardo.