Call your local meteorologist: Marc Mueller projects nothing but sunny skies and balmy conditions in Saskatchewan — no matter what the thermometer says.
After winning the 112th Grey Cup, the Roughriders’ offensive coordinator can experience the type of offseason that he heard stories about as a child while sitting at the knee of his grandfather, legendary quarterback Ron Lancaster.
“It’s awesome. I used to hear him say that it didn’t matter how cold the winter between ’66 and ’67 was because it was the best winter ever, and hopefully that’s what it’s like this time,” Mueller told 3DownNation while walking off the confetti-laden field at Princess Auto Stadium.
“This is unbelievable to be a part of the organization where my grandpa won a Grey Cup. My dad won the second one as the assistant general manager in ’89. It’s unreal, and I’m happy that a whole bunch of really good people believed in me to be in this position.”
Saskatchewan has hoisted the championship trophy just five times in the organization’s 115-year history. With the Green and White’s 25-17 victory over the Montreal Alouettes in Winnipeg, a member of Mueller’s immediate family has been involved in 60 percent of those titles, dating back to the very first one.
“Right now, I’m happy to win this game and to be a part of this group. And if they let me be one forever, I’d love to be one,” Mueller said about his future with the Riders.
The former University of Regina quarterback has already won a pair of Grey Cups in his career, both as an assistant coach with the Calgary Stampeders. This one was unique, allowing him the opportunity to build off the legacy of his grandfather, whose statue stands outside Mosaic Stadium.
“When the ball got knocked down, we realized we were gonna win because the CFL is crazy. That’s a good football team, and that’s a well-coached team in Montreal. Hats off to them, too. It feels amazing. Proud of everybody. These guys work hard. They deserve it. This is great. It’s awesome,” Mueller said.
The 36-year-old has called offensive plays for his 39-year-old QB for two seasons, including during his 112th Grey Cup MVP performance. The six-foot-three, 212-pound passer completed 23-of-27 passes for 302 yards and set a championship game completion percentage record at 85.2.
“For me, personally, he means everything. I’m so grateful that I got to meet Trevor Harris, that I got to work with him, that I got to be his coach, that I got to be his friend. He’s amazing. I’m so grateful that I got to be his teammate,” Mueller said.
“It took us a little bit to find our rhythm. Once we did, I knew it was a matter of time before we’d start blowing the lid off. We left some plays out there as always; it’s tackle football, pro football. They’re a very, very good defence, and I couldn’t have more respect for [Noel] Thorpe as a D coordinator, but we got it done. Marc Mueller’s the man,” Harris said post-game.
