Saskatchewan Roughriders prioritize rest and family during CFL bye week

The Saskatchewan Roughriders are embracing their second bye week of the Canadian Football League season as a vital chance to reset and recharge. This break offers players a much-needed respite from the demanding schedule, allowing them to focus on personal well-being and family.

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I'm going to pack the kids and the wife in the car and whoever wants to open up a lake house, we'll just show up.

Head coach Corey Mace plans to spend time with his family, heading to a lake house with his children and wife. Running back A.J. Ouellette is looking forward to relaxing, getting out of the city, and enjoying nature, with plans that include a vet appointment and an early birthday celebration by a lake. For many players, especially fathers, the bye week is a precious opportunity to connect with loved ones, even if extensive travel isn't feasible due to the demands of the league.

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Chilling, vet appointment tomorrow, got to remember that, and then going to find a lake to kind of celebrate the birthday early.

Quarterback Trevor Harris humorously noted, "I play in the wrong league to be travelling on a bye week with a family of six." Despite the personal plans, the primary goal remains recovery. "I'm going to rest, get back in the building, hit the tubs, take care of my body 'cause we all know it's a long season, so you got to do those things in order to play 18 games," said wide receiver Samuel Emilus.

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I play in the wrong league to be travelling on a bye week with a family of six.

The timing of the break is particularly beneficial given the team's growing injury list. Players like Rolan Milligan Jr., Nelson Lokombo, and Quali Conley have a chance to heal and potentially return to action. As the Roughriders return to the field, the focus will shift back to business, with quarterback Tommy Stevens stating, "We still have a lot of work to do to get better." The team aims to recharge and prepare for their upcoming game against Edmonton on July 23, where they will compete for the top spot in the West division.

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I'm going to rest, get back in the building, hit the tubs, take care of my body 'cause we all know it's a long season, so you got to do those things in order to play 18 games.