Roughriders to start Gale vs. RedBlacks

The winless Saskatchewan Roughriders face a tough task Friday against the first-place Ottawa RedBlacks, and will have to do so without starting quarterback Darian Durant.

Head coach Chris Jones confirmed Wednesday that Mitchell Gale will make the start at quarterback as Durant continues to nurse an ankle injury suffered last week against the BC Lions.

Gale was strong in relief of the two-time All-Star, throwing for 247 yards and a touchdown, but was unable to lead the team to victory in a 40-27 loss. With the high-powered RedBlacks offense coming to Regina, Gale will have to continue his solid production to keep pace with the East-leading club.

Durant suffered a season-ending Achilles injury in the first game of the 2015 campaign.