Saskatchewan Roughriders quarterback Trevor Harris hoists the Grey Cup after Saskatchewan defeated the Montreal Alouettes during the 112th CFL Grey Cup, in Winnipeg, on Sunday, November 16, 2025.
The Saskatchewan Roughriders ended a 12-year championship drought by defeating the Montreal Alouettes 25-17 on Sunday, claiming the 112th Grey Cup. Green and white confetti blanketed the stadium as Riders fans celebrated in their Prairie rival’s backyard.
A Historic Win for Saskatchewan Roughriders in Bomber Territory
After years of watching Winnipeg dominate the West, the Riders made their mark. Defensive tackle Micah Johnson said, “It feels even better to do it here. I know they’re mad.”
This marks Saskatchewan’s fifth CFL championship and their first since 2013. The victory was a long-awaited payoff for the franchise and its loyal fanbase.
Trevor Harris: A Career-Defining Performance
Quarterback Trevor Harris, 39, led the Riders with a flawless postseason. He went 23-for-27, threw for 302 yards, and had zero turnovers, earning Grey Cup MVP honors.
Harris’s journey has been long and challenging. Since entering the CFL in 2012, he endured injuries, demotions, and stints with multiple teams. But with Saskatchewan, everything clicked.
Head coach Corey Mace praised Harris, saying, “When I first took this job, Trevor was the first person I called. Tonight’s the night.” Harris humbly replied, “I don’t want to make this moment about me. This is about the team.”
Defense Holds Strong in Crucial Moments
Saskatchewan’s defense played a pivotal role in securing the championship. With less than seven minutes left and Montreal threatening to score, defensive back Marcus Sayles recovered a fumble, sealing the win.
Sayles also had an interception on Montreal’s opening drive. Defensive back C.J. Reavis said, “We’re the best defense in the world, and we showed it today.”
Offense Shines With Key Contributions
Receiver Samuel Emilus, a Montreal native, earned Most Valuable Canadian with 10 catches for 108 yards. Running back A.J. Ouellette rushed 17 times for 83 yards and a touchdown, also contributing 32 receiving yards.
Riders kicker Brett Lauther missed a late 39-yard field goal, but the defense maintained composure. Lauther admitted, “That turnover is going to live in Rider history forever.”
Montreal’s Struggles and Injuries
Alouettes quarterback Davis Alexander, hampered by a hamstring injury, struggled under pressure. He completed 22-of-34 passes for 284 yards but threw three interceptions and no touchdowns, marking his first multi-interception game of the season.
Despite his talent, Montreal could not overcome the Riders’ balanced attack and disciplined defense.
Mace Transforms the Team in Two Years
The turnaround from the 2023 season has been remarkable. Under former coach Craig Dickenson, Saskatchewan went 6-12 and lacked discipline.
Coach Corey Mace revitalized the team culture in just two seasons, guiding the Riders back to the Grey Cup. Defensive back Antoine Brooks Jr. said, “They wanted some noise to be made, and that’s what we did.”
A Celebration for Saskatchewan
The victory was more than a championship—it was a statement. Riders players, coaches, and fans celebrated a hard-earned triumph over adversity, injuries, and rival teams.
“This is exactly how it was supposed to end,” said Mace, as Saskatchewan claimed their place atop Canadian football once again.
