Saskatchewan Roughriders defensive back James Burgess Jr. is settling into his current role as the starting field side cornerback for the team. On Saturday, the Alabama State product made a splash play when he stepped in front of a pass attempt from Chad Kelly for his first CFL interception. Burgess Jr. said the play was instinctual. “So, I was playing two routes honestly, and I saw a dig and I waited on him to throw it, baited him a little bit then went and got it. I tried to score, but we’ll take it,” he said with a chuckle. With players shuffling in and out of the lineup all season for the Riders due to injury, head coach Corey Mace said he has seen a multitude of players stepping up and performing, with Burgess Jr. being no exception. “Just happy for the kid. Obviously happy for him making a good play for the team, but it’s just kind of who he’s been within the time he’s been with us. So, it was great to see him put the drills to the field, for lack of a better term,” Mace said. Burgess Jr. is about to get his first taste of the storied Labour Day Classic. He said rivalry games light a fire under him. “It’s a big rivalry and I love a rivalry game. I’m ready to come make some plays and I’m looking to get another pick. So, I’m ready to come into a great atmosphere, rivalry game, great atmosphere, you gotta love it,” he said. The defensive back will make his second straight home start on Sunday. He told CTV News that he feels blessed to have this opportunity after he was originally released by the team after training camp. Burgess Jr. will be looking to intercept the visiting Blue Bombers’ quarterback Zach Collaros during the two teams’ first meeting of the year in the 61st Labour Day Classic.
