The Saskatchewan Roughriders are facing an unexpected challenge ahead of their game against the Edmonton Elks this Saturday. Following a closed practice on Thursday, the team had held out hope that Right Tackle Jacob Brammer would be able to start despite his recent injury scare. However, after initial optimism, the Riders have confirmed that Brammer will not be available for the matchup.
Brammer's Injury
Brammer, who left Wednesday’s workout with the assistance of a cart, was not immediately ruled out for the weekend's game. Head Coach Corey Mace had initially suggested that the injury might not be as severe as it appeared and was waiting for the results of a final test before making a conclusive statement. Unfortunately, the results revealed a hamstring injury that will sideline Brammer for the upcoming contest.
The Next Man Up
With Brammer out, the spotlight shifts to Brandon Council as the next man up. Council, an Auburn University graduate, is in his second season with the Roughriders. He did not participate in the team’s training camp in Saskatoon and was subsequently placed on the suspended list. Council rejoined the team on July 19, following the placement of Jermarcus Hardrick on the six-game injured list.
Council’s absence from training camp was due to a job he had taken in Auburn during the off-season, which temporarily paused his football career. However, upon being informed of the team's need for him, Council responded promptly. “They tell me they need me and I answered the call,” he remarked, highlighting his commitment and readiness to contribute.
Council's Return
The right tackle started 12 games for the CFL club in 2023, but began the year on the suspended list after accepting an offer for a job at Auburn — his alma mater.
“They preach family back there (at Auburn) and it’s true,” the 27-year-old offensive lineman said. “They are still waiting on me for when I’m done so that’s the definition of family.”
The Riders offensive line has been dealing with the injury bug this season, with Council being the ninth player to start along the five-man unit. Right guard Logan Ferland, centre Peter Godber and left tackle Trevor Reid are the only three to start every game this season for the 5-2 Riders.
Left guard Philip Blake suffered a quad injury in Week 2 against the Hamilton Tiger-Cats. Ryan Sceviour, who spent the previous five seasons with the Calgary Stampeders, has started for Blake since then.
Meanwhile, Jermarcus Hardrick suffered a quad injury in Week 6. Jacob Brammer started in his place for two games but suffered a hamstring injury as the team prepared for the game against the Edmonton Elks. Kickoff for the game is set for 5 p.m.
Council joined the Riders on July 19 after the injury to Hardrick.
“No hesitation. I said I’m there,” Council said. “I talked to my job and they said, ‘We understand, go help. Go answer the call,’ so I came and answered the call.
“The guys are family here. I built a bond with them last year and it was good to see them again and line up next to them again and call them my brothers.”
Filling the Gap
The opportunity Council had at Auburn was helping athletes and explaining to them the advantages of the NCAA’s NIL (name, image, likeness) policies that allow athletes to make money from promotional materials that use them.
“It’s a new position because of the way NIL shaped the world and the game. It was good to have somebody in place who had been through NIL and played the sport as well,” Council said.
“I was able to come back and report to the kids on how to be financially smart in what they do.
“Kids are able to get a head start financially in the world coming out of college and it is good for them, especially people who don’t come from money. They are able to give back to their family and community.”
The Tar Heel, N.C., product spent three seasons at Auburn University (2020-22) where he lined up at all five positions along the offensive line over 27 games played.
Prior to transferring to Auburn, Council spent three seasons at the University of Akron (2017-19), with starts at left and right tackle, left guard and centre.
He said it just goes to show how much of a family Auburn is when they allowed him to leave but have a job when he got back.
“When Auburn says we’re a family, I’m a walking testament to that,” Council said. “Them allowing me to come and live my dream but allow me to come back and work at the university, I’m forever indebted to that.”
Council admits it’s tough to see a young player like Brammer go down with an injury.
“I remember watching Brammer, he has a bright future. He’s an amazing player and a tough kid, you hate to see it,” Council said. “I was even learning stuff from watching him and how he takes his sets and stuff.
“I’m glad to help the team out and when Brammer gets healthy, I know he’ll be ready to go again.”
Council has also had to hit the books to get up to speed as there’s a new coaching staff in place this season with offensive co-ordinator Marc Mueller now calling the plays.
“I’ve been through like five coaching changes throughout my career but I am used to it,” Council said. “Here’s a night and day difference. I love the staff.
“Playwise, I’m locked in and learned them. I just put my head in the books soon as I first landed.”
While he has only been practicing a few weeks, he feels confident he is ready to go.
“I like to think it’s like riding a bike — that mentality you want to be out there never leaves,” Council said. “Even when my time is up, I’m ready and mentally locked in.”
The Road Ahead
As the Roughriders prepare to host the Edmonton Elks on Saturday, the team and fans alike will be closely watching how Council steps into the critical role left vacant by Brammer’s injury. The game promises to be a test of adaptability and resilience for Saskatchewan as they navigate this setback.
