New Roughriders Coach Corey Mace Ready to Turn Things Around
The tone was uplifting and hopeful as the Saskatchewan Roughriders introduced Corey Mace as the 45th coach in franchise history. Ahead of his introductory press conference, Mace expressed excitement to be coming into a new situation and taking over in his first head coaching job in the CFL.
“Saskatchewan is an incredibly special place, and I could not be more excited to be the next head coach of this storied franchise,” Mace asserted. “I am committed to bringing Rider Nation a team they can be proud of both on and off the field, and to give back to this province that gives our organization so much.”
The Roughriders struggled in 2023, going 6-12 on the season and facing multiple injuries to key positions before deciding to not renew head coach Craig Dickenson’s contract. Still, Mace knows the potential the team has when they are at full strength.
New Roughriders coach Corey Mace as a member of the Calgary Stampeders coaching staff.
“I think people in the football community understand there’s a lot of talent on this roster,” Mace stated. “The team was hit with a lot of injuries as well. That’s part of the game. Opportunities like this don’t really come up to be able to take over a team.”
When asked whether he can turn the team around, Mace’s response was simple:
“We will be the ones to get it done. Absolutely.”
Mace started his coaching career with the Calgary Stampeders, working with their defensive line for six years before he was hired as defensive coordinator for the Toronto Argonauts in 2022. Last season, his defensive unit led the league in seven different defensive categories.
Mace, who has won three Grey Cups in his career, will now be focusing on the offense as well. He has already had discussions with veteran quarterback Trevor Harris, who spent a good portion of last season injured and is looking to come back stronger in 2024.
“Yesterday, we had a great conversation,” Mace confirmed. “I think the trajectory of the season for this organization changed a little bit when obviously he got hurt. He’s been an outstanding quarterback in this league for many years.”
Mace has a lot of work ahead with a roster featuring 30 pending free agents and a coaching staff that needs to be built. Despite the uncertainty ahead, the Roughriders are looking forward to 2024, and to turning the tide on what has been a struggle of late.
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