The Edmonton Elks and Saskatchewan Roughriders are set to clash in Regina this Saturday for their final regular-season matchup. Because both clubs have already secured postseason berths, they will rely on backup quarterbacks rather than their established starters.

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Jack Coan’s first CFL start in Regina

Saskatchewan Roughriders quarterback Jack Coan is poised to make his professional debut in the CFL this weekend. According to a report by The Canadian Press, the 27-year-old Coan,a former standout at Wisconsin and Notre Dame, has spent three seasons with the Riders waiting for this specific opportunity. Coan most recently appeared in the XFL for the San Antonio Brahmas in 2023 before joining the Saskatchewan roster.

Roughriders head coach Corey Mace has expressed high expectations for Coan,noting that the quarterback has spent significant time developing under offensive coordinator Marc Mueller. While Coan has only completed 14 of 31 passes for 153 yards and one touchdown in limited action this season, he has also proven mobile,rushing 16 times for 54 yards and three touchdowns. The outcome of this game carries weight for Saskatchewan's seeding; a victory could secure third place and a semifinal against the B.C. lions, while a loss might force them into a crossover role in the East Division.

Taylor Powell’s return from a concussion-induced hiatus

The Edmonton Elks will counter with Taylor Powell, who is making his first start since suffering a concussion in mid-August. As reported by The Canadian Press, the 28-year-old Powell previously played for the Hamilton Tiger-Cats, where he recorded 2,874 career passing yards, 14 touchdowns, and nine interceptions. His return to the starting lineup comes as the Elks rest their primary signal-caller, Cody Fajardo, to preserve him for the postseason.

Powell’s experience in the CFL may provide a steady hand for an Edmonton team that has dominated the West Division. While Powell's previous tenure with Hamilton saw him go 4-6 in 10 starts, he has spent the current season observing Fajardo's leadership. This game serves as a crucial test for Powell to prove he can manage the Elks' high-powered offense without relying on flashy plays, focusing instead on ball security and "playing through the smoke."

The Elks' pursuit of a 14-win milestone

Edmonton enters this finale with a 13-4 record, positioning them to potentially achieve their best regular season in nearly four decades. A victory this Saturday would mark the Elks' 14th win, a feat they have not accomplished since their 16-win campaign in 1989. This surge represents a massive turnaround from their 2025 season, where the team finished with a 7-11 record .

The Elks' success is anchored by a defense that currently leads the CFL, allowing only 24.8 points per game through 17 contests. This defensive dominance is a return to form for the franchise, which last led the league in fewest points allowed in 2015. Despite the decision to rest 12 players—including defensive lineman Malik Carney, defensive back Tyrell Ford, and receiver Austin Mack—the Elks remain a formidable opponent as they prepare for the division final on November 7 .

Will Brayden Schager see his first regular-season action?

While the spotlight remains on the veteran backups, several questions remain regarding the depth of the Saskatchewan Roughriders' roster. It remains unclear if rookie Brayden Schager, who has been on the practice roster all season, will be called upon to play if Coan struggles. Additionally, because the Riders' playoff path is still being determined, the exact impact of resting key players like receiver KeeSean Johnson, running back A.J. Ouellette, and defensive lineman James Vaughters remains to be seen. The team is also resting defensive back DaMarcus Fields and offensive lineman Jermarcus Hardrick, leaving much of the game's flow to the secondary and reserve units.