Drae McCray might get his chance to electrify the CFL this week.<\/p>\n
The Saskatchewan Roughriders\u2019 kick returner is expected to step into the lineup with veteran returner Mario Alford dealing with a hip injury and not practicing.<\/p>\n
Head coach Corey Mace confirmed Alford underwent imaging this week and said, \u201c(this is) probably going to be tough for him to go this week. Dre\u2019s been waiting in the wings, (this is) an opportunity for him to show who he is.\u201d<\/p>\n
McCray is more than ready for the opportunity.<\/p>\n
\u201cIt would mean a lot just being a professional football player in general,\u201d said McCray. \u201cBut being able to play and go out there and represent what this team means and what this fan base is all about, it would mean a lot.\u201d<\/p>\n
Read more:<\/p>\n
McCray turned heads during the preseason with his speed and agility, including a 51-yard kick return in the Riders\u2019 first exhibition game against the Winnipeg Blue Bombers. Despite that bright showing, the coaching staff opted to open the season with Alford, the proven veteran.<\/p>\n
That choice has paid off so far. Alford leads the CFL with an impressive 30.9-yard kick return average and has already found the end zone for a touchdown this season.<\/p>\n
While waiting his turn, McCray has been making the most of his time alongside Alford, soaking up knowledge from one of the league\u2019s best return men.<\/p>\n
\u201cHe just helps me wherever I need,\u201d McCray said.<\/p>\n
\u201cIf he has a tip or something, or if I have a question, sometimes we bounce ideas off each other just to help each other get better. He\u2019s been a really big help and a really good mentor for me.\u201d<\/p>\n
Mace has seen that relationship firsthand and praised Alford\u2019s influence. \u201cMario has been nothing but an extra coach for him as well. That\u2019s just a family environment. He\u2019s the next one to go and put his best foot forward.\u201d<\/p>\n
When asked what makes McCray effective, Mace did not hesitate.<\/p>\n
\u201c(He\u2019s) just fearless,\u201d he said.<\/p>\n
\u201cYou\u2019ve got a bunch of guys screaming down there trying to take your head off. Sometimes we ask you to run in the teeth of it. So you\u2019ve got to have a little bit of a screw loose, which I think Dre does.\u201d<\/p>\n
McCray added that although his routine has not changed drastically this week, he has been even more focused on preparation and leaning on Alford\u2019s insights.<\/p>\n
\u201cJust maybe being more in tune with what the other team is doing and picking Mario\u2019s brain a little bit more,\u201d he said. \u201cJust, \u2018Hey, what happens if this happens or that?\u2019 So just being in tune with him a little bit more.\u201d<\/p>\n
Adapting to the wider field in the CFL has also become second nature for the rookie, who admitted the adjustment took time earlier in camp.<\/p>\n
\u201cIt\u2019s definitely more comfortable now than it was a few months ago,\u201d said McCray.<\/p>\n
The Riders have been dealing with several injuries as they head into a crucial matchup. Wide receiver Sam Emilus (foot) is getting closer to returning to action, while defensive backs Rolan Milligan Jr. (back) and Marcus Sayles (hip) were both back on the field this week.<\/p>\n
McCray knows the waiting game is not easy for any competitive athlete, but he is determined to stay ready and make the most of any chance that comes his way.<\/p>\n
\u201cJust using it as a time to learn,\u201d he said. \u201cI have one of the greatest returners in the CFL right next to me, so if I don\u2019t use it to learn, I\u2019m not a very smart person in that aspect.\u201d<\/p>\n