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Between The Lines: Roughriders' Mitch Picton on being ready

Friday’s Saskatchewan Roughriders game in Winnipeg was all about opportunity, as eight new starters got a chance to play in the contest.
Dave Thomas
Dave Thomas
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Between The Lines with Dave ThomasHarvard Media

Friday’s Saskatchewan Roughriders game in Winnipeg was all about opportunity, as eight new starters got a chance to play in the contest.

Veteran receiver Mitch Picton was on the field and caught five passes for 71 yards. These were his first receptions since July 11, and he talked about being ready.

“I mean, you've got to stay ready, prepare every week like you're starting. That's something I feel like I've done my whole career, and when they call your number, you have the opportunity to make a play, you've got to do it or else, this is pro sports, and you're not going to be sticking around for too long. So, I'm just trying to prepare like I'm the starter every week and make a play when the ball comes my way.”

Two of those five catches were spectacular, including a sideline reception in the third quarter, during which he kept both feet in bounds.

“Scramble rules, sometimes play breaks down, and there are always two or three of those in a game where we have to make some yardage and a play. So, I felt a little softness in the defence, was able to find a spot on the sidelines, and Jake threw a great ball to get it out to me.”

The other catch was over Jamal Parker in the fourth quarter, and Picton used the Winnipeg DB’s helmet to help him make it.

Picton talked about mentoring the younger players on the roster to be ready to make their play.

“Regardless of how many reps you're going to get or you think you're going to get, you always have to stay ready. On the sidelines, always be ready to go, or even if it's just in practice, you make sure you're locking on the playbook and know your assignments, so that when your number does get called, you're ready to go.”

AND that’s between the lines for Sheppard Realty in Regina. Specializing in farm and ranch real estate in Saskatchewan. Call Harry, Justin or Devan at 352-18-66.