Sayville’s Coan earns spot on Saskatchewan Roughriders’ roster

The final cuts are in from up north, and Sayville’s Jack Coan is officially a Saskatchewan Roughrider.

The 25-year-old quarterback made the CFL squad as one of two backups to veteran starter Trevor Harris. The Regina-based Canadian squad opted to keep Coan, while cutting two veteran quarterbacks, Mason Fine and Antonio Pipkin.

Coan is thrilled to be a member of the Roughriders, who open their season Saturday, June 8, at Edmonton. The game will be broadcast on TSN at 4 p.m. (EDT).

“I’ve had a great experience in the CFL so far. I’ve enjoyed learning the new rules, and different schedme on offence and defense,” said Coan, who played last spring in the XFL for the San Antonio Brahmas. “Saskatchewan is a great organization full of good people.”

Playing parts of both Roughrider pre-season games, Coan completed seven of 11 pass attempts for 43 yards. Saskatchewan won both contests. He will wear No. 14 and be considered a rookie.

Coan is the fourth former Notre Dame quarterback to play for the Roughriders. Fighting Irish alums Frank Tripucka (1953-58, 1959, 1963), Tom Clements (1979) and Tony Rice (1990 regular season) preceded him.

After three season with Wisconsin, Coan transferred to Notre Dame. Playing one season with the Irish, Coan led the 2021 Irish to an 11-2 record, which included a 35-33 Fiesta Bowl loss to Oklahoma State on Jan. 1, 2022. He completed five touchdowns passes and threw for 509 yards, both Fiesta Bowl records.

Five things Jack oughta know about Regina, Saskatchewan

If he hasn’t found out already, here are five important things Jack Coan will learn about the Roughriders and the city of Regina, Saskatchewan:

1. Saskatchewan Roughriders Fandom: The Roughriders have a passionate and dedicated fan base, often referred to as the “Rider Nation.” The city comes alive on game days.
2. Historical Significance: Regina is home to the Royal Canadian Mounted Police Training Depot, where all Mounties have been trained since 1885.
3. Economic and Educational Center: Regina is a key economic hub in Saskatchewan, known for its contributions to the oil, natural gas and agricultural sectors. Additionally, the University of Regina, a public institution that offers a wide range of academic programs and contributes to the city’s youthful and dynamic atmosphere.
4. Cultural Hub: Regina is known for its vibrant cultural scene, with the Conexus Arts Centre hosting a variety of performances, including concerts, theater productions, and ballets.
5. Wascana Centre: One of the largest urban parks in North America, Wascana Centre is a sprawling green space that features walking trails, picnic areas, and the picturesque Wascana Lake. It’s a great place for outdoor activities and relaxation.

Five things Jack now knows about the CFL

1. Field Size: CFL fields are larger, measuring 110 yards long and 65 yards wide, compared to the NFL’s 100 yards by 53.3 yards.
2. Team Size: CFL teams have 12 players on the field. NFL teams have 11.
3. Downs: The CFL uses three downs to advance the ball 10 yards, unlike the NFL, which uses four downs.
4. Play Clock: The CFL play clock is 20 seconds, shorter than the NFL’s 40-second play clock.
5. Scoring: The CFL includes a “rouge” or single point, awarded for certain kicks that go out of the end zone or are not returned from the end zone.

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