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Report: Roughriders Coaching Search Down to Two Candidates

The coaching opening for the Saskatchewan Roughriders is reportedly down to two current CFL coordinators.

One of the bigger stories early in the offseason is who will be the next head coach of the Saskatchewan Roughriders.

It's down to two candidates.

The Roughriders are deciding between Toronto Argonauts defensive coordinator Corey Mace and Winnipeg Blue Bombers offensive coordinator Buck Pierce, sources told TSN reporter Farhan Lalji on Monday evening.

November 27, 2011; Vancouver, BC, Canada; Winnipeg Blue Bombers quarterback Buck Pierce (4) looks downfield as he gets pressure from BC Lions defensive tackle Khreem Smith (94) and defensive lineman Keron Williams (9) in the Grey Cup at BC Place Stadium. Mandatory Credit: John E. Sokolowski-USA TODAY Sports

Winnipeg offensive coordinator Buck Pierce was also a former quarterback for the Blue Bombers.

Mace has been a name that has been up for head-coaching jobs for the last year. He interviewed and was a finalist for the Ottawa Redblacks job before Bob Dyce won out.

Toronto has had Mace as their defensive coordinator since 2021. His unit allowed the third-least number of points per game in 2023, giving up an average of just 22. He played a big part in the Argos finishing the season 16-2 before their playoff loss to the Montreal Alouettes in the East Final.

Pierce’s offense with the Bombers had a strong season, leading the CFL in total offense, averaging 417.3 yards per game. Winnipeg made it all the way to the Grey Cup before losing to the Alouettes 28-24. Pierce has been an assistant coach since 2014 and has spent his whole coaching career with the Bombers.

The Roughriders finished their 2023 season with a 6-12 record and decided to not renew the the contract for coach Craig Dickenson. They are hoping to have a head coach named by the end of November.

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