The release of Garrett Marino was the main topic of conversation as the Saskatchewan Roughriders returned to the practice field Wednesday in advance of Saturday’s Banjo Bowl re-match with the Blue Bombers in Winnipeg.

Head coach Craig Dickenson says it’s been an unfortunate week with the Marino situation…..

The 28-year-old controversial performer was suspended four games, the longest suspension in C-F-L history, back on July 11 for a “dangerous and reckless low hit” on Ottawa quarterback Jeremiah Masoli and for making disparaging comments about Masoli’s heritage. The Green and White released Marino two days after he levelled Winnipeg quarterback Zach Collaros in the Blue Bombers’ 20-18 win over Saskatchewan.

Meanwhile, in preparing for the Banjo Bowl, the Riders’ offence worked Wednesday with crowd noise playing over the Mosaic Stadium speaker system. Receiver Duke Williams started practice with the first team offence, but retired to the locker-room before the session was done. He’s missed a few games with a foot injury. Plus, defensive lineman Anthony Lanier and offensive linemen Terran Vaughan and Logan Ferland weren’t on the field – their spots occupied by Kooper Richardson and Josiah St. John, respectively.