Reilly takes majority of first team reps as Esks prepare for REDBLACKS

EDMONTON — After an injury scare last week, the Edmonton Eskimos will likely have their star pivot under centre for the Eastern Final.

Mike Reilly took the majority of first team reps during Wednesday’s practice as the Eskimos started preparation to take on the Ottawa REDBLACKS this weekend.

While head coach Jason Maas wouldn’t confirm Reilly as the starter, the quarterback felt “good to go.”

“If I felt like I wasn’t able to play at a full level I wouldn’t be giving our team a good chance to win,” Reilly told reporters after practice.

The 31-year-old left last week’s Eastern Semi-Final during the fourth quarter against the Ticats with an injury to his left hand. He was tackled by Simoni Lawrence with just under 12 minutes left in the final frame and was replaced by backup pivot James Franklin.

When asked after his team’s win in Hamilton if the quarterback would be able to play during the Eastern Final he said, “I don’t have a doubt” and added that he “has played through a lot worse.”

Before his exit, Reilly connected on 10-of-19 passes for 133 yards.

When Reilly and the Esks arrive at TD Place Stadium on Sunday, they will be looking to be the first crossover team in CFL history to make it to the Grey Cup.