Coach knows why Riders’ Harris thrives at 40

At 40 years old, Trevor Harris is defying age and expectations, proving he remains an elite quarterback in the Canadian Football League. Harris, the Grey Cup MVP last season, is in his 14th CFL season and continues to lead the Saskatchewan Roughriders to the top of the West Division.

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He’s fanatical about taking care of his body. When he was with us in Toronto, he went and got involved in the whole Tom Brady training thing. I think that’s the biggest part of it.

Scott Milanovich, head coach of the Hamilton Tiger-Cats, isn't surprised by Harris's sustained high level of play. Milanovich, who coached Harris in Toronto, noted his fanatical dedication to fitness, even adopting "Tom Brady training" methods during their time together. "He's fanatical about taking care of his body," Milanovich said. "I think that's the biggest part of it."

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I doubt there’s anybody in football that gets the ball out of his hands quicker than Trevor.

Beyond his physical conditioning, Milanovich highlighted Harris's quick release and vast experience as key factors in his effectiveness. "I doubt there's anybody in football that gets the ball out of his hands quicker than Trevor," Milanovich stated. This speed allows Harris to exploit defensive coverages and get the ball away before pass rushers can reach him, frustrating opposing defensive lines.

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With all the plays and coverages he’s seen, when they do call a play that maybe isn’t going to work for the primary receiver, he knows exactly where he needs to go with the ball on the backside, and he gets there quickly.

Harris's current season statistics underscore his prowess. He has completed 73.6% of his passes for 2,655 yards, with 19 touchdowns and seven interceptions. Last week, he threw for 401 yards in a win over Ottawa, marking his third 400-yard game this season. Over his last three games, he has amassed 1,026 passing yards and seven touchdowns.

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That frustrates your D-line because they may be winning on pass rush, but they don’t get home because he gets the ball out.