B.C. Lions headed to Western Final after comeback win over the Roughriders

BC Lions Robert Carter Jr. (0) celebrates with teammates Jackson Findlay (33) and Darnell Sankey Darnell Sankey (53) after intercepting a pass during first half CFL West semifinal action against the Saskatchewan Roughriders in Vancouver on Saturday, Oct. 31, 2026. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Rich Lam

The B.C. Lions defeated the Saskatchewan Roughriders 33-26 in the CFL’s Western Semi Final and will face the Edmonton Elks next week—inching closer to the Grey Cup.

The Roughriders took the lead early and held it until the third quarter, when Lions quarterback Nathan Rourke completed two touchdown passes to wide receiver Jevon Cottoy to flip the script.

Photos taken at B.C. Place on Saturday afternoon show the lower bowl packed with fans, some already in costume, hours before Halloween night.

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Rourke threw for three touchdowns, and Lions Kicker Sean Whyte scored on four field-goal attempts, helping lead the way against a Roughriders team that dominated possession for much of the game.

The Lions and Roughriders are familiar foes as well, with Saskatchewan eliminating B.C. from each of the past two playoffs.

B.C. premier-designate Lorne Doerkson posted to X on Friday, challenging Saskatchewan Premier Scott Moe to a friendly wager.

“In the very small chance the Riders win, I’ll reluctantly accept a (Saskatchewan Roughriders) jersey from you,” Doerkson wrote.

“You’re on! You might as well send me your jersey size right now. Go Riders!” Moe wrote, in response.

Doerkson will have the opportunity to give Saskatchewan’s premier a B.C. Lions jersey at their first official meeting, likely after he officially takes over as B.C.’s premier.

The CFL Western Final will be played at Commonwealth Stadium in Edmonton on Nov. 7 at 4:30 p.m. PCT. The Elks led the West Division with a 13-4 record, earning hosting rights and a bye to the Western Final.

If the Lions defeat the Elks next Saturday, they’ll earn their first Grey Cup berth since they won it all in 2011.