RedBlacks look to extend East lead vs. surging Roughriders

It's a mismatch at first glance, but the Ottawa RedBlacks will want to be in sharp form Friday night when they host a last-place Saskatchewan Roughriders team looking to extend a two-game winning streak.

The RedBlacks have a hold on first place in the East, but have dropped four of their last six decisions. The Roughriders, on the other hand, are the laughing stock of the CFL, but have strung together back-to-back wins for the first time all season and enter the matchup with a 3-10 overall record.

Ottawa quarterback Trevor Harris continued his solid play last week, throwing for nearly 500 yards against the BC Lions, but was unable to lead his team to victory. He's now thrown 15 touchdowns this season, while committing only three interceptions.

His counterpart, Darian Durant, had 276 yards and a touchdown through the air in last week's surprise victory over the Hamilton Tiger-Cats, but has been generally mediocre this year, with 10 touchdowns and seven picks to his name.

While the Riders have struggled this season, there are signs of a turnaround building in Regina. Saskatchewan's defense surrendered just 18 points to the Ticats last week, and has held their last three opponents below 24 points.

They'll be tested Friday in the nation's capital with the league's No. 2 passing offence and No. 4 rushing offence.

Ottawa boasts a solid defence as well, ranking fifth in the CFL in points allowed.