Reilly, Eskimos overcome shaky start to beat Roughriders

The Edmonton Eskimos (13-4) are winners of seven straight regular-season games for the first time since 1995-96 following a 35-24 victory Saturday over the Saskatchewan Roughriders (2-14).

Eskimos quarterback Mike Reilly brought his A-game to Mosaic Stadium at Turner Field, completing 29 of 39 passes for 377 yards, three touchdowns, and one interception. He also chipped in a score on the ground, along with 35 rushing yards on eight carries.

The first-place Eskimos needed Reilly in top form once the defense - which had given up 23 or fewer points over their previous eight outings - allowed the Roughriders to jump out to an early 21-3 lead during the opening minutes of the second quarter. Edmonton ultimately responded with 21 straight points to lead the game 24-21 at halftime.

Wide receiver Adarius Bowman came up big as Reilly's go-to receiver, hauling in 12 receptions for 208 yards, including a late second-quarter touchdown.

The Roughriders were led by the efforts of Keith Price and Brett Smith under center, who each threw a touchdown while combining for 275 passing yards.

Edmonton will finish off its regular season next weekend against the Montreal Alouettes. A win at Commonwealth stadium, or a Calgary Stampeders loss in one of their final two games, will send the Eskimos directly to the West Division Final.