The Saskatchewan Roughriders lost in more ways than one last night.

     Just days after losing one of their greatest players ever, the Riders lost their second-straight game to the BC Lions, lost two more players to injury, and lost sole possession of first in the CFL West Division.

     The Green and White committed eight turnovers in a 27-24 loss to the Lions at Mosaic Stadium, including a turnover on downs at the BC two-yard line late in the game.

     Head Coach Ken Miller says the high amount of turnovers is uncharacteristic of how they've been able to play, and says if they would have been able to convert deep in opposition territory, there's a chance that the end of the game would not be so consequential.

     Two offensive players, Tailback Wes Cates and Centre Jeremy O'Day, left the game with injuries, and Miller says their abscence was noticeable when they were on the Lions' goal line.  He adds that they should have tried different kinds of plays for that situation, but if the offensive line had been healthy, they would have gotten a touchdown with no problem.

     Before the game, Rider Nation paid tribute to legendary Quarterback Ron Lancaster, who passed away last Thursday.  Flags at the stadium flew at half-staff; fans took part in a moment of silence before kick-off; and the Riders wore their retro uniforms and decals with Lancaster's number 23 on their helmets to honour the "Little General".  Also, special commemorative markings were painted on the Taylor Field turf at both 23-yard lines.

     The Riders fall to 8-4 and into a first-place tie with Calgary, who beat Toronto 34-4 in the other game yesterday.

     Edmonton visits Montreal today, where an Eskimos win will result in a three-way tie for first in the West.  The Lions are tied with Edmonton for third right now.

     The Riders' next game is in Montreal next Sunday.