Short week for both teams. Bombers will probably only have one practice. They have to figure out the secondary. Might be time to give Mr. Houston a call. I am expecting to see Cam Allen get some first team reps this week.
Good point about Allen
We may be royally screwed. This schedule stinks. I don't really see what they can do in so short a time.
And OTT is on the upswing and looking pretty darn stout with lots of hunger and compete. Dru will want to show up his old team.
Quote from: TecnoGenius on August 10, 2025, 07:22:10 AMDru will want to show up his old team.
I don't think so. The parting of ways was just a promotion for him, we wanted him to stay. I did read that Bighill had our game circled on the calendar though. Maybe we'll play them one more time though.
We lose to these guys we're done for the season.
We don't even have a lot of options to change in the secondary. Allen is it unless one of the cuts after TC is still hanging around town.
I'm surprised Kelly has been playing as much as he has. He may have upside but he came off a long recovery from injury in 2024. He may not be ready mentally or physically to be on the field this much.
Don't like how this is shaping up. Our secondary was weak to begin with, we lose bonds and are really weak at safety, and Brown has got a gun for an arm. We need this win to keep pace in the standings. I think Ottawa will focus on shutting down the run and force us to pass , and we saw what happens when we go away from the run in the second half vs Calgary. We need to keep the ball out of browns hands as he is going to light us up
Woodbey and Allen are the only two DB's left on the PR. Woodbey size at 6'1" 231 is more like a LB.
Quote from: Pigskin on August 10, 2025, 03:16:17 PMWoodbey and Allen are the only two DB's left on the PR. Woodbey size at 6'1" 231 is more like a LB.
Yeah too heavy to cover man
Quote from: dd on August 10, 2025, 02:55:58 PMDon't like how this is shaping up. Our secondary was weak to begin with, we lose bonds and are really weak at safety, and Brown has got a gun for an arm. We need this win to keep pace in the standings. I think Ottawa will focus on shutting down the run and force us to pass , and we saw what happens when we go away from the run in the second half vs Calgary. We need to keep the ball out of browns hands as he is going to light us up
Very good analysis
Ottawa game Critical but not as do or die as some make it out to be
here are the numbers for Wheatfall:
Over his first three games of the season, Wheatfall had 275 receiving yards and two touchdowns. Over his last five outings, he has 120 yards. In four of those games, he failed to reach 25 receiving yards.
no reason not to put Mitchell in his spot at this point - he is invisible and not contributing.
it's either Hogan, Zach or Wheatfall himself contributing to this terrible trend. this isn't one bad game - it's 5 in a row.
who is looking at these trends of disappearing offense and players and doing something about it. we are no longer at the start of the season. get some answers or get someone who can.
if Hogan can't get it straight then demote him and move Jarious into the role.
Quote from: The Zipp on August 10, 2025, 04:36:24 PMhere are the numbers for Wheatfall:
Over his first three games of the season, Wheatfall had 275 receiving yards and two touchdowns. Over his last five outings, he has 120 yards. In four of those games, he failed to reach 25 receiving yards.
no reason not to put Mitchell in his spot at this point - he is invisible and not contributing.
it's either Hogan, Zach or Wheatfall himself contributing to this terrible trend. this isn't one bad game - it's 5 in a row.
who is looking at these trends of disappearing offense and players and doing something about it. we are no longer at the start of the season. get some answers or get someone who can.
if Hogan can't get it straight then demote him and move Jarious into the role.
It seems like Hogan comes out with a decent game plan, but can't adjust on the fly. Calgary threw a different D look at us in the second half and he had no answer.
Quote from: Blue In BC on August 10, 2025, 01:35:00 PMWe don't even have a lot of options to change in the secondary. Allen is it unless one of the cuts after TC is still hanging around town.
I'm surprised Kelly has been playing as much as he has. He may have upside but he came off a long recovery from injury in 2024. He may not be ready mentally or physically to be on the field this much.
What happened to Kramdi at Safety??? Every time I saw him he was back playing SAM and Kelly was getting scorched, great athlete but more of an observer than a participant. Reminds me of Cauchy Muamba in his ineffectiveness.
As for people wishing for the return on Demerio Houston, he was charged with domestic violence so he's likely been blacklisted from the CFL.
I was wondering the same thing about Kelly.
Quote from: The Zipp on August 10, 2025, 04:36:24 PMhere are the numbers for Wheatfall:
Over his first three games of the season, Wheatfall had 275 receiving yards and two touchdowns. Over his last five outings, he has 120 yards. In four of those games, he failed to reach 25 receiving yards.
no reason not to put Mitchell in his spot at this point - he is invisible and not contributing.
it's either Hogan, Zach or Wheatfall himself contributing to this terrible trend. this isn't one bad game - it's 5 in a row.
who is looking at these trends of disappearing offense and players and doing something about it. we are no longer at the start of the season. get some answers or get someone who can.
if Hogan can't get it straight then demote him and move Jarious into the role.
Pass on Mitchell over Wheatie imo, but Mitchell might slowly come on, sure hope he can, I see much promise with Wheatie
Pass on demotion
Both knee jerk imo
Wheatie's disappearing act is troubling
Likely getting a lot of attention and they taking him out of the game, Schoen would open him up on his return.
The OL play has a lot to do with Wheatie'a issue. Can't find him deep when getting chased like a chicken every 2nd play.
Our play at receiver is concerning but I do think Sterns is decent.
Thanks for the stats very telling
Should have just paid the money LaPolice wanted
Quote from: Throw Long Bannatyne on August 10, 2025, 05:20:23 PMAs for people wishing for the return on Demerio Houston, he was charged with domestic violence so he's likely been blacklisted from the CFL.
Won't know until you test it. Hire him and see. CFL allows all sorts of degenerates, historically, so what's one more? DUIs, weed smugglers, verbal woman-abusers, drunks, n'er-do-wells with shady pasts (Johnny Football, Kelly), illegal CFL gamblers...
Someone said Houston charges were dismissed, so that's a big nothingburger compared to the actual convicted vagabonds listed above.
Also start eyeing who we can snipe near the trade deadline from the bottom 3 teams, like EDM and OTT. Trade our 1st & 2nd RDP for Ford from EDM. Problem solved.
Quote from: Pigskin on August 10, 2025, 04:46:52 PMIt seems like Hogan comes out with a decent game plan, but can't adjust on the fly. Calgary threw a different D look at us in the second half and he had no answer.
Ya, and Hogan doesn't seem to know about the long con / setup. You need to bait them intra-game and across weeks into buying your "tendency", only for you to spring a surprised on them. Lapo was the king, and Buck did it his first couple of years (kind of fell off last season).
Teams are feasting on our tendencies (like those wide out picks, and weak screens), and we could 100% use this to our advantage by drawing up plays that WANT the DBs to cheat up and then we hit them with the surprise they're not expecting.
But no, we're very, very vanilla.
However, I do like all the new and higher-frequency draw plays. Even if they don't always work (that's on the hoggies not clearing or the QB not selling it).
Quote from: The Zipp on August 10, 2025, 04:36:24 PMhere are the numbers for Wheatfall:
Wheatie had a great start, now he's back to what he was in '24. Should have never started that caliber player in the GC. And now we have no solutions even after all of the '25 FA, TC and PS? Holy smokes, that's sad.
Wheatie is PR fodder and future dev look at best. He shouldn't be starting.
It could be we are expecting Pokey back and Wheatie is just the placeholder. He's basically a Pokey-lite anyhow. Same body type, same catch style.
I don't know if D.Mitchell will be better. I will say that everyone should watch his presser the other day. He is way more intelligent than I would have guessed, and he is saying all the "right things" (TM), and he seems to have his head screwed on straight. Maybe our sit & wait approach was the right idea!
Quote from: GOLDMEMBER on August 10, 2025, 12:36:44 PMWe lose to these guys we're done for the season.
Ya, OTT and EDM are basically the basement. If we lose to the East basement we're in a whole lot of trouble. How do we beat the powerhouses like HAM, or MTL with Alexander back?
And the 3 games coming up vs SSK...
Not to mention our standings is falling behind real quick... 1-2 more weeks of losses and winning the W will be impossible, even if every other starting QB loses a leg in a car accident. 2-3 more weeks of losses and hosting a playoff will also be impossible.
What we need now is some IR luck on our side, and some IR bad luck on opponents sides.
Quote from: TecnoGenius on August 11, 2025, 01:24:52 AMYa, OTT and EDM are basically the basement. If we lose to the East basement we're in a whole lot of trouble. How do we beat the powerhouses like HAM, or MTL with Alexander back?
And the 3 games coming up vs SSK...
Not to mention our standings is falling behind real quick... 1-2 more weeks of losses and winning the W will be impossible, even if every other starting QB loses a leg in a car accident. 2-3 more weeks of losses and hosting a playoff will also be impossible.
What we need now is some IR luck on our side, and some IR bad luck on opponents sides.
I liked this comment - only because I agree. But I DO NOT like it, because it is reality. So while I agree, I am not happy that I agree
Quote from: TecnoGenius on August 11, 2025, 01:15:07 AMWon't know until you test it. Hire him and see. CFL allows all sorts of degenerates, historically, so what's one more? DUIs, weed smugglers, verbal woman-abusers, drunks, n'er-do-wells with shady pasts (Johnny Football, Kelly), illegal CFL gamblers...
Someone said Houston charges were dismissed, so that's a big nothingburger compared to the actual convicted vagabonds listed above.
Also start eyeing who we can snipe near the trade deadline from the bottom 3 teams, like EDM and OTT. Trade our 1st & 2nd RDP for Ford from EDM. Problem solved.
In my football opinion, Ford is not worth 1st and 2nd round draft picks.
One practice this week and it's closed to the public.
Quote from: Pigskin on August 11, 2025, 01:43:35 PMOne practice this week and it's closed to the public.
I don't blame them on a short week.
Quote from: Pigskin on August 10, 2025, 04:46:52 PMIt seems like Hogan comes out with a decent game plan, but can't adjust on the fly. Calgary threw a different D look at us in the second half and he had no answer.
Decent is a low bar. And his inability to make adjustments only reinforces his ineptitude.
Quote from: blue_gold_84 on August 11, 2025, 03:56:10 PMDecent is a low bar. And his inability to make adjustments only reinforces his ineptitude.
Maybe Hogan should move to the sidelines and communicate with more than just MOS? If he could call a game from there is questionable though.
I see Jackson coaching guys up on the sidelines but without a headset. Must be killing him to not have input. I thought it would be more of a group effort between him and Hogan but it seems pretty regimented. I wonder if we are wasting him. He is a "seen it all" former QB, OC, HC.
Quote from: blue_gold_84 on August 11, 2025, 03:56:10 PMDecent is a low bar. And his inability to make adjustments only reinforces his ineptitude.
Way too early to write him off, he has 8 games under his belt and it has been a mix of good, bad and ugly. I would agree our game plan is fair and then adjustments are key. Takes a bit for a new OC to figure that out.
Quote from: Waffler on August 11, 2025, 04:46:44 PMMaybe Hogan should move to the sidelines and communicate with more than just MOS? If he could call a game from there is questionable though.
I see Jackson coaching guys up on the sidelines but without a headset. Must be killing him to not have input. I thought it would be more of a group effort between him and Hogan but it seems pretty regimented. I wonder if we are wasting him. He is a "seen it all" former QB, OC, HC.
Pass on Hogan on field. Jackson I'm sure is involved. Our club has a team approach, everyone plays as per MOS. Jackson on the sidelines will be helping our QB's develop and will help our young receivers imo. I don't mind Jackson helping more with play calling as needed. I bet MOS wants Hogan to find his way. LIkely a good decision med to long term imo.
Do we think we might see some new faces added to the PR in the next day or two? Obviously, unless they are recent cuts, there is no way they would see the field this week. At least Dawson was here for TC. I suppose it's possible there might be another rookie they liked in TC, but chances are he wouldn't be in game shape.
Regardless we're going to have some movement this week, either due to new injury or some coming off IR.
Cameron Lawson and Micah Vanterpool come to mind.
Will Logan be ready to be considered? He could be that extra returner and used on offence as a rotation player.
Parker on crutches but not going to 6 game IR, threw me. Does he have any chance of a quick recovery and being back this week? Doesn't seem likely but his status is really a TBD.
Clearly Bonds is lost and it could be long term. Allen looks like the only current choice in the secondary. Or is their mindset to just stick with Kelly at safety and Vaval at CB? IDK if Allen is even a choice at CB. How the secondary is re-set is not going to be easy especially on the short week.
Like I suggested last week, I'd go with the 3 man OL if Vanterpool is healthy. What they do to accommodate that ratio change would be up for discussion. Part of that is the lack of choices on the PR for the secondary.
Any other thoughts?
Quote from: Blue In BC on August 11, 2025, 06:27:22 PMDo we think we might see some new faces added to the PR in the next day or two? Obviously, unless they are recent cuts, there is no way they would see the field this week. At least Dawson was here for TC. I suppose it's possible there might be another rookie they liked in TC, but chances are he wouldn't be in game shape.
Regardless we're going to have some movement this week, either due to new injury or some coming off IR.
Cameron Lawson and Micah Vanterpool come to mind.
Will Logan be ready to be considered? He could be that extra returner and used on offence as a rotation player.
Parker on crutches but not going to 6 game IR, threw me. Does he have any chance of a quick recovery and being back this week? Doesn't seem likely but his status is really a TBD.
Clearly Bonds is lost and it could be long term. Allen looks like the only current choice in the secondary. Or is their mindset to just stick with Kelly at safety and Vaval at CB? IDK if Allen is even a choice at CB. How the secondary is re-set is not going to be easy especially on the short week.
Like I suggested last week, I'd go with the 3 man OL if Vanterpool is healthy. What they do to accommodate that ratio change would be up for discussion. Part of that is the lack of choices on the PR for the secondary.
Any other thoughts?
If Parker is back soonish, there is less panic on air lifting a guy or two. Bonds I agree looks bad. I expect a few new faces in the coming weeks as we determine how long term our injuries at at DB.
If we did sign someone, they wouldn't play imo. I am also wondering what other DBs we cut that we could recycle. Yup would take 2-3 weeks to tune em up.
Hopefully Lawson is back, Logan hard to know, he might need more time and we don't want to rush him. Very curious what he could do. I think we are wearing out Vaval by returning and playing D. Also risking injury. We can't afford to lose him.
I would not put Allen at CB full stop. He shows promised but we can't put him into a frying pan his 1st meal LOL.
I wonder if Hallett or Ball are being considered for a bigger role. I don't want Kramdi at safety but Kelly isn't doing well their either. Gotta keep Griffin on the field as much as possible, he is developing well and is versatile.
OL I'm not sure as I'm not as educated on our guys and where they play as I would like to be.
I want to see Woods but likely not ready, he likely needs a few more weeks. Will be telling who does a full practice.
Woodbey is a long shot, some think too big to cover. I don't know anything about him other than being a little on the heavier side.
I think they give Mitchell another game. Not much for options other than Cobb unless McLeod is ready but I wouldn't think so.
Quote from: peg_city on August 10, 2025, 11:00:42 PMShould have just paid the money LaPolice wanted
Did Lapo even consider it? Was there a price he'd take? Was there a chance you could fit any price into the $SMS?
Its not like he's itching to get his first Cup, he did that here in 19 and in SSK 07...
Quote from: theaardvark on August 11, 2025, 06:41:10 PMDid Lapo even consider it? Was there a price he'd take? Was there a chance you could fit any price into the $SMS?
Its not like he's itching to get his first Cup, he did that here in 19 and in SSK 07...
I don't think he was ever in the running imo
Quote from: Blue In BC on August 11, 2025, 06:27:22 PMDo we think we might see some new faces added to the PR in the next day or two? Obviously, unless they are recent cuts, there is no way they would see the field this week. At least Dawson was here for TC. I suppose it's possible there might be another rookie they liked in TC, but chances are he wouldn't be in game shape.
Regardless we're going to have some movement this week, either due to new injury or some coming off IR.
Cameron Lawson and Micah Vanterpool come to mind.
Will Logan be ready to be considered? He could be that extra returner and used on offence as a rotation player.
Parker on crutches but not going to 6 game IR, threw me. Does he have any chance of a quick recovery and being back this week? Doesn't seem likely but his status is really a TBD.
Clearly Bonds is lost and it could be long term. Allen looks like the only current choice in the secondary. Or is their mindset to just stick with Kelly at safety and Vaval at CB? IDK if Allen is even a choice at CB. How the secondary is re-set is not going to be easy especially on the short week.
Like I suggested last week, I'd go with the 3 man OL if Vanterpool is healthy. What they do to accommodate that ratio change would be up for discussion. Part of that is the lack of choices on the PR for the secondary.
Any other thoughts?
Seems this conversation comes up every week, no real advantage playing Vanterpool over Wallace but it does cut down their options on D, which could lead to the removal of Person. If Logan returns let Vaval concentrate on the corner job instead of making even more changes and let Dexter Lawson settle in a bit longer before throwing him into the fire.
Quote from: Throw Long Bannatyne on August 11, 2025, 06:44:33 PMSeems this conversation comes up every week, no real advantage playing Vanterpool over Wallace but it does cut down their options on D, which could lead to the removal of Person. If Logan returns let Vaval concentrate on the corner job instead of making even more changes and let Dexter Lawson settle in a bit longer before throwing him into the fire.
It's me starting that conversation. The question is whether Vanterpool is a better LG than Wallace. If not then stick with Wallace.
I wouldn't remove Person as my 1st choice or at for that matter.. I would consider the following in ranked order of my preference.
1. Ayers: J. Jones is playing on ST's and getting defensive reps that Ayers is not.
2. J. Jones: Only because O'Shea is stuck on players that were here in 2024.
3. D. Mitchell. He didn't make a big impression against the Stamps, but it's too early to " replace " him with Corcoran again.
Still in limbo of additional choices are adding Woods from the PR, but that forces choices different than above or in addition to above.
If Lawson is back then it may be a lessor issue.
I don't think Vaval has to focus only on play at CB if Logan comes on, but it's worth considering I suppose.
Quote from: Blue In BC on August 11, 2025, 07:00:50 PMIt's me starting that conversation. The question is whether Vanterpool is a better LG than Wallace. If not then stick with Wallace.
I wouldn't remove Person as my 1st choice or at for that matter.. I would consider the following in ranked order of my preference.
1. Ayers: J. Jones is playing on ST's and getting defensive reps that Ayers is not.
2. J. Jones: Only because O'Shea is stuck on players that were here in 2024.
3. D. Mitchell. He didn't make a big impression against the Stamps, but it's too early to " replace " him with Corcoran again.
Still in limbo of additional choices are adding Woods from the PR, but that forces choices different than above or in addition to above.
If Lawson is back then it may be a lessor issue.
I don't think Vaval has to focus only on play at CB if Logan comes on, but it's worth considering I suppose.
Agree 1,2,3. Agree Person doesn't come off. Only if Logan is 100% I would have him return full time. Otherwise I would rotate him and Vaval. I don't like starters on D or O at returner but that's just me.
Quote from: Blue In BC on August 11, 2025, 07:00:50 PMIt's me starting that conversation. The question is whether Vanterpool is a better LG than Wallace. If not then stick with Wallace.
I wouldn't remove Person as my 1st choice or at for that matter.. I would consider the following in ranked order of my preference.
1. Ayers: J. Jones is playing on ST's and getting defensive reps that Ayers is not.
2. J. Jones: Only because O'Shea is stuck on players that were here in 2024.
3. D. Mitchell. He didn't make a big impression against the Stamps, but it's too early to " replace " him with Corcoran again.
Still in limbo of additional choices are adding Woods from the PR, but that forces choices different than above or in addition to above.
If Lawson is back then it may be a lessor issue.
I don't think Vaval has to focus only on play at CB if Logan comes on, but it's worth considering I suppose.
Tony Jones has been arguably the best Bomber defender in many games so far this season, Jon Jones will have little chance to replace him unless via injury. When and if Kyrie goes down J. Jones will get his shot to compete for the WIL position against Ayers and rookie Natl. Connor Shay. I'd prefer to see Shay next in line.
Quote from: Throw Long Bannatyne on August 11, 2025, 07:43:24 PMTony Jones has been arguably the best Bomber defender in many games so far this season, Jon Jones will have little chance to replace him unless via injury. When and if Kyrie goes down J. Jones will get his shot to compete for the WIL position against Ayers and rookie Natl. Connor Shay. I'd prefer to see Shay next in line.
The reality is that Ayers is already not next in line for either WIL or MLB. He is getting almost to reps on defence while J. Jones is as well as good work on ST's. To that end, he makes Ayers more dispensable IMO.
I don't think Shay will see any reps at either position in 2025 unless game is out of reach one way or the other. He might be fighting for WIL in 2026, but not today.
Smith seems targeted at SAM.
I know we can't take depth charts as gospel but Cadwallader is shown as next up followed by Novak.
In the last depth chart Cadwallader was shown as next followed by J. Jones. Obviously that changed when Novak went down with injury and J. Jones was added to the AR.
How that fits for 2026 is anybodies guess and it could well be changed as Shay spends time on the AR. Shay would be a ratio breaking player if he can win the role but that's not something we can predict quite yet.
I've also mentioned that I like Ayers but it's a roster size and ratio issue. In 2026, we may lose or choose to let some vets go to free agency., like Wilson.
Maybe someone can get defensive stats on Ayers and J. Jones. Neither shows any DT's yet but I have seen J. Jones on the field a few times. He's also paid a bit more than T. Jones, so they must feel he's " next " in line somewhere. That could even include in game replacement for Tony if he's injured.
There is still Woods to be considered, I feel we could use him and either Jones/Ayers comes off.
Hopefully we see Cam Allen in but Im not holding my breath.
Other than that Lawson if healthy may check in for Smeckle. I agree we could use Vanderpool back in with Randolph moving to guard where he seems more effective but dont know who you would take off
It didnt seem like Persons got many reps last game in fact Smeckle played more than he did.
Quote from: Pete on August 11, 2025, 08:36:35 PMThere is still Woods to be considered, I feel we could use him and either Jones/Ayers comes off.
Hopefully we see Cam Allen in but Im not holding my breath.
Other than that Lawson if healthy may check in for Smeckle. I agree we could use Vanderpool back in with Randolph moving to guard where he seems more effective but dont know who you would take off
We're all wondering the logic of not dressing Woods and moving him to the PR instead of bumping an import LB. Maybe he's not in game shape or maybe he's not considered better than one of our DT's. I find that a bit hard to believe but I'm also not seeing him in practice.
I'm not sure if Vanterpool is a better choice at RT with Randolph moving to LG. I just think the OL could be better with 3 import OL. Last week I thought we might see some combination of that with Lofton then he ends up on 6 game IR.
I listed who and the ranking of who I'd take off if we choose some combination of 3 Import OL and need to adjust the ratio.
Short week and if they haven't made that decision before tomorrow then I doubt we see that.
We won't even have any idea about Lawson or Vanterpool health until we see the daily IR report. Even then we showed Lofton as limited last week and then moved to 6 game IR.
Noting that I would have considered speaking with Dozier to fill our spot at safety. Maybe they did and he choose the Argos instead.
Maybe they feel Allen is ready or Kelly will continue to start. We'll see how this works out against D. Brown that is racking up the yardage passing.
Quote from: Blue In BC on August 11, 2025, 08:56:39 PMNoting that I would have considered speaking with Dozier to fill our spot at safety. Maybe they did and he choose the Argos instead.
Maybe they feel Allen is ready or Kelly will continue to start. We'll see how this works out against D. Brown that is racking up the yardage passing.
Easier to grab him as a lot closer than here.
I think Ayers will be a long term Bomber. I would like to see him get more reps this year to see what we got. But we are very deep at LB so who knows what will happen next year. We also have to get our draft picks some reps. Tough to do with our rock solid LBs.
Woods will come on soon I think. Would be nice next week if someone can report on how he looks at practice.
Quote from: Pete on August 11, 2025, 08:36:35 PMThere is still Woods to be considered, I feel we could use him and either Jones/Ayers comes off.
Hopefully we see Cam Allen in but Im not holding my breath.
Other than that Lawson if healthy may check in for Smeckle. I agree we could use Vanderpool back in with Randolph moving to guard where he seems more effective but dont know who you would take off
It didnt seem like Persons got many reps last game in fact Smeckle played more than he did.
Smeckle did get a lot of reps and was decent I thought. Person was so great the previous. Let's hope we continue to get more out of our DL.
We likely roll with Kelly again. Allen could come on as a depth roll and give him a few reps or on ST.
Quote from: Blueforlife on August 11, 2025, 10:14:37 PMEasier to grab him as a lot closer than here.
I think Ayers will be a long term Bomber. I would like to see him get more reps this year to see what we got. But we are very deep at LB so who knows what will happen next year. We also have to get our draft picks some reps. Tough to do with our rock solid LBs.
Woods will come on soon I think. Would be nice next week if someone can report on how he looks at practice.
Smeckle did get a lot of reps and was decent I thought. Person was so great the previous. Let's hope we continue to get more out of our DL.
We likely roll with Kelly again. Allen could come on as a depth roll and give him a few reps or on ST.
Ayers, Wilson, Cadwallader, Gauthier, J. Jones and Weitz are all potential free agents in 2026. So Ayers as the example might choose to leave in free agency for a larger role and more money.
I mentioned I don't see him as close to next in line at WIL, so we may choose to let him test free agency. He'll be coming off an ELC so that might come into play.
For that matter I don't know what you see in Ayers to think he'll be a longtime Bomber. He fills a role but an import ST player isn't that difficult to find and replace.
Unless the team feels he's a strong candidate to start in 2026, then it's time to move on. Wilson might be back so that factors into the depth chart.
We haven't seen Woodey on the AR yet but he might be the replacement depth piece going into TC 2026.
Quote from: Blue In BC on August 11, 2025, 10:27:01 PMAyers, Wilson, Cadwallader, Gauthier and J. Jones are all potential free agents in 2026. So Ayers as the example might choose to leave in free agency for a larger role and more money.
I mentioned I don't see him as close to next in line at WIL, so we may choose to let him test free agency. He'll be coming off an ELC so that might come into play.
We haven't seen Woodey on the AR yet but he might be the replacement depth piece going into TC 2026.
I would try to keep most of them but might be time to move on from Gauthier. Not sure if he is getting his run D reps like before. Likely not. I see him on teams. Hard to keep all these names, will be a few fresh faces and perhaps a pick or two.
Woodbey needs reps so we can evaluate.
Most these names will come down to money. Can save a few bucks by going next gen.
Wilson been great, if healthy this year I want him back.
Quote from: Blueforlife on August 11, 2025, 10:30:30 PMI would try to keep most of them but might be time to move on from Gauthier. Not sure if he is getting his run D reps like before. Likely not. I see him on teams. Hard to keep all these names, will be a few fresh faces and perhaps a pick or two.
Woodbey needs reps so we can evaluate.
Most these names will come down to money. Can save a few bucks by going next gen.
Wilson been great, if healthy this year I want him back.
Well wee drafted 3 Canadians this season. It's reasonable to think they will progress going into 2026. Exactly what their roles will be is not entirely clear but we have a general idea.
Gauthier isn't getting defensive reps except on 3rd and short. I think that will continue during the rest of the season. He still works on ST's, but I think that will also decline as Shay and Smith get experience. Novak was on T's as well and doing quite well.
Smith has 9 ST's while Novak, Shay and Gauthier have 3. So that seems like a trend and succession plan.
Gauthier is not a bad player, but age, roster size, SMS and succession plan all come into play.
The same applies to the others. Free agency, wanting a bigger role or being on a team perceived to have a better chance at play off money are assessments player make going into free agency.
From my point, standing pat and keeping everybody is not the best idea. Woodbey could already be part of the 2026 plan based on what he might be doing in practice. IDK since I don't got to practice.
IMO I'd think Woodbey is already redundant based on the number of LB's we already have. We need new CB's on the PR and not another LB.
Quote from: Blue In BC on August 11, 2025, 10:42:07 PMWell wee drafted 3 Canadians this season. It's reasonable to think they will progress going into 2026. Exactly what their roles will be is not entirely clear but we have a general idea.
Gauthier isn't getting defensive reps except on 3rd and short. I think that will continue during the rest of the season. He still works on ST's, but I think that will also decline as Shay and Smith get experience. Novak was on T's as well and doing quite well.
Smith has 9 ST's while Novak, Shay and Gauthier have 3. So that seems like a trend and succession plan.
Gauthier is not a bad player, but age, roster size, SMS and succession plan all come into play.
The same applies to the others. Free agency, wanting a bigger role or being on a team perceived to have a better chance at play off money are assessments player make going into free agency.
From my point, standing pat and keeping everybody is not the best idea. Woodbey could already be part of the 2026 plan based on what he might be doing in practice. IDK since I don't got to practice.
IMO I'd think Woodbey is already redundant based on the number of LB's we already have. We need new CB's on the PR and not another LB.
Can't argue with any of that and thanks for the details and stats, very telling. Yup we need CBs and safety. Depth at DB as well. Haven't noticed Gauthier on 3rd and short, will look for him.
Having this year's draft picks develop is critical. And yes they might save us a dime and bump the vets.
Quote from: Blue In BC on August 11, 2025, 07:00:50 PMIt's me starting that conversation. The question is whether Vanterpool is a better LG than Wallace. If not then stick with Wallace.
I wouldn't remove Person as my 1st choice or at for that matter.. I would consider the following in ranked order of my preference.
1. Ayers: J. Jones is playing on ST's and getting defensive reps that Ayers is not.
2. J. Jones: Only because O'Shea is stuck on players that were here in 2024.
3. D. Mitchell. He didn't make a big impression against the Stamps, but it's too early to " replace " him with Corcoran again.
Still in limbo of additional choices are adding Woods from the PR, but that forces choices different than above or in addition to above.
If Lawson is back then it may be a lessor issue.
I don't think Vaval has to focus only on play at CB if Logan comes on, but it's worth considering I suppose.
Well, you are persistent on getting Ayers out of the lineup. But, I can't see it happening. Ayers is just to good on teams. I like JJ, and he made a few plays on teams against the Argo's. However he disappear against Calgary.
Quote from: Pigskin on August 11, 2025, 11:04:20 PMWell, you are persistent on getting Ayers out of the lineup. But, I can't see it happening. Ayers is just to good on teams. I like JJ, and he made a few plays on teams against the Argo's. However he disappear against Calgary.
LOL
My point being is that I like Ayers but I'd prefer a player that is going to get reps on defence. On the current roster J. Jones is that player. We have 3 new Canadian LB's, Kelly, Ball and J. Jones all added to ST's.
If we choose to make a ratio change like adding Vanterpool, then an import has to come off.
I've explained why I think Ayers is not in the long term plans as a starter and is just a very good ST player. I'm not sure if " too good " still applies against our new candidates.
So if we are able and choose to add Vanterpool, would would you take off if it was up to you?
I think O'Shea will take off J. Jones because that's the way he operates. A 2nd year guy over a player that has only played in 2 games.
As I asked, anyone got defensive reps for those two players?
Quote from: Pigskin on August 11, 2025, 11:04:20 PMWell, you are persistent on getting Ayers out of the lineup. But, I can't see it happening. Ayers is just to good on teams. I like JJ, and he made a few plays on teams against the Argo's. However he disappear against Calgary.
Yeah I see value in Ayers as well, tough choices coming up. Ayers is versatile, knows our system and has upside.
Quote from: Blueforlife on August 11, 2025, 11:51:14 PMYeah I see value in Ayers as well, tough choices coming up. Ayers is versatile, knows our system and has upside.
All the reason to increase roster size by a couple of players. Can keep the same number of Canadians starting. So many injuries every year and having a couple of extra players would help. Also could / would give some development time as well.
It's a financial issue though even if those are ELC players. Players looking at the next contract wouldn't be on ELC so hard to know where to draw that line.
I'm not questioning his value but trying to determine where he fits in both now and in future.
Quote from: Ridermania on August 11, 2025, 01:14:40 PMIn my football opinion, Ford is not worth 1st and 2nd round draft picks.
Very easy to say when you're sitting in SSK's position right now. In normal circumstances Ford isn't worth much (given his price), but our DB situation isn't normal and is only getting worse. We cannot win games while we have 1-2 free bingo rail and corner routes for decent QBs to pick on all night.
Think Henderson and Fields and Dalke for you last season... Remember how useless the SSK DB corps was in '24? Ya, that's our pain now.
NFL cuts can't come quick enough
Quote from: Blue In BC on August 11, 2025, 08:48:48 PMI'm not sure if Vanterpool is a better choice at RT with Randolph moving to LG. I just think the OL could be better with 3 import OL. Last week I thought we might see some combination of that with Lofton then he ends up on 6 game IR.
Our results were definitely better when Vant was LG. I don't see anything particularly wrong with Wallace, but the wins come easier when Vant is in there. He may be doing more than is immediately obvious.
I don't know what Lofton's problem is, but the dude needs to just play. IR most of the start of the season, IR now. Ankle or something? Tape it up, numb it up, and get the heck on the field like every other team does.
We will not win anything with Randolph at RT. They've figured him out. Heck, we might do better with Neuf bumping out there. Unfortunately, we have zero options with Lofton out and Randolph sucking at OT. (I think he's a good OG though!)
Quote from: Blueforlife on August 11, 2025, 07:16:00 PMAgree 1,2,3. Agree Person doesn't come off. Only if Logan is 100% I would have him return full time. Otherwise I would rotate him and Vaval. I don't like starters on D or O at returner but that's just me.
If we have no better solution at CB than Vaval, and if Logan is healthy, both dress and every kick we have 2 guys back returning. Pick your poison. Do the odd reverse.
Bonus: put some plays on O for Logan to mix things up.
Quote from: Blue In BC on August 11, 2025, 06:27:22 PMDo we think we might see some new faces added to the PR in the next day or two?
You'd think so! Every other team does. Just look at how quickly MTL brought in C.Evans and that other guy.
I'm no fan of Evans (washed up), but it was a very good move as he's MTL-start-ready. That's exactly what we need. Cough Houston cough.
But no, "we're happy with what we have in house", whatever that means.
And I'm half-dreading the announcement we are re-hiring Bridges... Maybe Roc is available. :o Can LDW play CB? :P
Quote from: TecnoGenius on August 12, 2025, 01:40:51 AMIf we have no better solution at CB than Vaval, and if Logan is healthy, both dress and every kick we have 2 guys back returning. Pick your poison. Do the odd reverse.
Bonus: put some plays on O for Logan to mix things up.
Like it, like the reverse, good to give Vaval a break or two 👍 👌
Quote from: TecnoGenius on August 12, 2025, 01:44:06 AMYou'd think so! Every other team does. Just look at how quickly MTL brought in C.Evans and that other guy.
I'm no fan of Evans (washed up), but it was a very good move as he's MTL-start-ready. That's exactly what we need. Cough Houston cough.
But no, "we're happy with what we have in house", whatever that means.
And I'm half-dreading the announcement we are re-hiring Bridges... Maybe Roc is available. :o Can LDW play CB? :P
Injuries mean we've got some open spots somewhere on the roster. I'd say there is room for at least a couple. They may only be early add PR players but make use of open spots.
If there is another experienced CFL DB like we did late last year when injuries added up ( Taylor ).
I mentioned Dozier before the Argos signed him but don't know if he was approached. Of course we added Lawson but that was before we lost Bonds this week. So maybe bad timing or maybe he said no. IDK.
Who is still left out there?
Quote from: TecnoGenius on August 10, 2025, 07:22:10 AMWe may be royally screwed.
We're 4-4 and approaching the halfway mark. We've lost 4 games and 3 of them to the league's best team by a mile, the last one on their turf by a single point. Geez Louise.
We have always looked at the regular season as a process of getting ready for the playoffs. As long as we squeak into a playoff spot we can run the table by winning 3 in a row like we did in 2019. What could be more fun than that in a Grey Cup hosting year?
What would you rather do, win now, maybe go on a heater like we did last year by winning 10 straight, and lose the Grey Cup at home, or win 3 in a row and win the Grey Cup at home?
I am certain this management group has every intention of hoisting that cup in front of our fans and will do everything possible to make that happen. After 5 straight Grey Cup appearances I have every confidence in them. No one is asleep at the wheel.
Quote from: J5V on August 12, 2025, 03:43:26 AMWhat would you rather do, win now, maybe go on a heater like we did last year by winning 10 straight, and lose the Grey Cup at home, or win 3 in a row and win the Grey Cup at home?
I love your optimism. But...
Every team is improved this season, except us (and maybe BC; and TOR will be great when Kelly returns). We run a huge risk of not even making the playoffs, or making the "never gotten to a cup" crossover spot.
And even if we make it legit into the W playoffs, beating powerhouse SSK or CGY in their barns is a tall ask, let alone beating them both in a 3-game path.
The main reason we've made it to the cup so many times is we have won the W in reg season so many times since 2019. You get a critical bye and then only need to plan for 1 game.
At this point we don't have the luxury of worrying or thinking about the cup game. We need to focus on getting to the cup. Just getting to the home cup would be a massive win for this year, and placate nearly everyone. And with our home crowd completely sold out we may be able to beat anyone by sheer crowd force-of-will (like SSK in '13).
I haven't given up on #1 in W yet. We need to make big moves immediately if we want a shot. Then we pray for bad luck for SSK and CGY. That's the only real path to the cup. But it has to start now.
Quote from: Blue In BC on August 12, 2025, 03:06:44 AMWho is still left out there?
DBs still listed as FAs on cfl.ca (maybe not updated recently?):
Lindley NAT
Cranston NAT
Harry NAT
Leonard IMP
Alexander IMP
Hallett NAT
Taylor IMP
Roberson IMP
Statz NAT
Thompson NAT
Dominique NAT
Hutter NAT
Purifoy IMP
Lee IMP
Most are NAT nobodies, probably ELC DP guys who weren't good enough for the CFL.
However, assuming the list is still accurate, there's some interesting names there:
Leonard, Roberson, Purifoy, Lee. Older guys, but certainly CFL-ready if they're still in shape. If we took a flyer on Nick Taylor, why not one of the other guys?
Thompson was here I think vying for FS a couple of years back.
The key is get someone who is a natural CB. Or a great FS so Parker can roll to CB when he returns.
Quote from: J5V on August 12, 2025, 03:43:26 AMWe have always looked at the regular season as a process of getting ready for the playoffs. As long as we squeak into a playoff spot we can run the table by winning 3 in a row like we did in 2019. What could be more fun than that in a Grey Cup hosting year?
I think most would be okay with that, but finishing third and trying to get past both the Stampeders and the Riders - in whichever order - could be a taller order than it was in 2019.
The season doesn't truly start until Labour Day Weekend, but sitting at .500 right now makes the next two games very crucial, IMO.
Quote from: TecnoGenius on August 12, 2025, 11:47:01 AMDBs still listed as FAs on cfl.ca (maybe not updated recently?):
Lindley NAT
Cranston NAT
Harry NAT
Leonard IMP
Alexander IMP
Hallett NAT
Taylor IMP
Roberson IMP
Statz NAT
Thompson NAT
Dominique NAT
Hutter NAT
Purifoy IMP
Lee IMP
Most are NAT nobodies, probably ELC DP guys who weren't good enough for the CFL.
However, assuming the list is still accurate, there's some interesting names there:
Leonard, Roberson, Purifoy, Lee. Older guys, but certainly CFL-ready if they're still in shape. If we took a flyer on Nick Taylor, why not one of the other guys?
Thompson was here I think vying for FS a couple of years back.
The key is get someone who is a natural CB. Or a great FS so Parker can roll to CB when he returns.
Not an encouraging list. I'd consider one of our cuts in TC before any of these players. We brought Nick Taylor back but he had been with the team previously and had solid experience.
Is Bridges on speed dial? :P
Bombers have given up 18 plays over 35 yards?? That's far to many.
Right now I am seeing 28, good AQ, but a good chance of rain to start the game.
Quote from: Pigskin on August 12, 2025, 02:43:09 PMBombers have given up 18 plays over 35 yards?? That's far to many.
Right now I am seeing 28, good AQ, but a good chance of rain to start the game.
I'm from the Jack Well's school of weather forecasting and assuming its going to turn out nice again...it better because I'm cycling to and from the game.
Quote from: TecnoGenius on August 12, 2025, 11:47:01 AMDBs still listed as FAs on cfl.ca (maybe not updated recently?):
Lindley NAT
Cranston NAT
Harry NAT
Leonard IMP
Alexander IMP
Hallett NAT
Taylor IMP
Roberson IMP
Statz NAT
Thompson NAT
Dominique NAT
Hutter NAT
Purifoy IMP
Lee IMP
Most are NAT nobodies, probably ELC DP guys who weren't good enough for the CFL.
However, assuming the list is still accurate, there's some interesting names there:
Leonard, Roberson, Purifoy, Lee. Older guys, but certainly CFL-ready if they're still in shape. If we took a flyer on Nick Taylor, why not one of the other guys?
Thompson was here I think vying for FS a couple of years back.
The key is get someone who is a natural CB. Or a great FS so Parker can roll to CB when he returns.
Also out there somehwere ex-Bomber Donald Rutledge recently cut by the Argos, wasn't here long but he had good size for a DB.
Quote from: J5V on August 12, 2025, 03:43:26 AMWe're 4-4 and approaching the halfway mark. We've lost 4 games and 3 of them to the league's best team by a mile, the last one on their turf by a single point. Geez Louise.
We have always looked at the regular season as a process of getting ready for the playoffs. As long as we squeak into a playoff spot we can run the table by winning 3 in a row like we did in 2019. What could be more fun than that in a Grey Cup hosting year?
What would you rather do, win now, maybe go on a heater like we did last year by winning 10 straight, and lose the Grey Cup at home, or win 3 in a row and win the Grey Cup at home?
I am certain this management group has every intention of hoisting that cup in front of our fans and will do everything possible to make that happen. After 5 straight Grey Cup appearances I have every confidence in them. No one is asleep at the wheel.
Love it my friend, everyone keep your head up, ok maybe the Bomber receivers and returners too LOL
Quote from: gobombersgo on August 12, 2025, 09:01:40 PM
Very cool interview and a lot of the things he says here are the reasons I believe this team can win it all.
Quote from: Throw Long Bannatyne on August 12, 2025, 06:57:41 PMAlso out there somehwere ex-Bomber Donald Rutledge recently cut by the Argos, wasn't here long but he had good size for a DB.
He was always just a SAM. Tough to turn him into a legit speed cover DB. And we don't need another IMP SAM because we have Griffin, who is just as good.
We need some legit fast corners.
Quote from: blue_gold_84 on August 12, 2025, 01:58:54 PMIs Bridges on speed dial? :P
Pretty sure we burnt that bridge(s). :P :P :P
Quote from: Blue In BC on August 12, 2025, 01:58:20 PMNot an encouraging list. I'd consider one of our cuts in TC before any of these players. We brought Nick Taylor back but he had been with the team previously and had solid experience.
The Taylor thing was an admission we failed in '24 FA and roster/trade management.
If you're going to drop in a vet-FA-cut like Taylor, you need to do it waaaay sooner so the unit has time to gel. Taylor didn't have the gel with the newest guys, get the comms down, etc, and didn't help at all in the GC.
So whatever we do, do it sooner rather than later. Make some moves NOW! Don't panic in 6 more weeks when we find out Vaval or whoever is no better than Bridges. (Not saying that's true, but it certainly is possible.)
Quote from: TecnoGenius on August 13, 2025, 05:51:23 AMThe Taylor thing was an admission we failed in '24 FA and roster/trade management.
If you're going to drop in a vet-FA-cut like Taylor, you need to do it waaaay sooner so the unit has time to gel. Taylor didn't have the gel with the newest guys, get the comms down, etc, and didn't help at all in the GC.
So whatever we do, do it sooner rather than later. Make some moves NOW! Don't panic in 6 more weeks when we find out Vaval or whoever is no better than Bridges. (Not saying that's true, but it certainly is possible.)
We failed again with recruitment and depth on the PR at DB, DL and receiver. Essentially we went with the holdovers from 2024.
I think many of us thought / saw that when final cuts were announced. It was like " really "??
Quote from: Blue In BC on August 13, 2025, 01:35:58 PMI think many of us thought / saw that when final cuts were announced. It was like " really "??
Tru dat. Cuts: "really". Scouting: "really". And 2 years of FA: "really". The only "big name" in FA in the last 2 seasons was Kenny. (Not that we didn't pick up a couple/few quality
middling guys in FA, not to diminish their success.)
The problem is all the new powerhouse teams went nuts in FA, and they're reaping the rewards.
Do you assemble a talented group of players through scouting and free agency and then attempt to implement a process that brings that group of players together to be the team capable of winning a championship at the end? Teams like Toronto and Calgary come to mind.
Or do you take a core of proven champion-calibre teammates and attempt to implement a process that builds on that core to become the best team capable of winning a championship at the end? The Bombers come to mind. I suspect both methods can work but I also suspect that one method will produce more consistent results.
Quote from: J5V on August 14, 2025, 01:13:11 AMOr do you take a core of proven champion-calibre teammates and attempt to implement a process that builds on that core to become the best team capable of winning a championship at the end? The Bombers come to mind. I suspect both methods can work but I also suspect that one method will produce more consistent results.
There's a lot of luck involved. Did your promising scout ELC finds pan out? MTL 2023 they sure did, and so they were powerhouse in '23 and '24 while still all on ELC.
Did your splash vet FA guy get season-ended in week 3? Luck.
I think the main job of the GM is to try to anticipate how the scouts did, and judge how the draft went, and then to fill any holes and have a "plan B" via FA. KW & co failed badly at this this season, even at REC where we clearly made moves to try to avoid getting burned like in '24.
For far too long we've treated high-end FA with disdain (exempting Kenny, who is special as an ex-Bomber). And we could because our scout+DP guys always turned up 1-2 superstar gems. But scouting has been iffy since Rigmaiden left, and horrible since Ted left. Yet we don't detect this and up our FA game?? That's on the GM.
I'm not sure many people care right now about "consistent results". Sure, we may be in an ok position in '26 (especially if we have $400k of '25 SMS to pre-spend in Dec)... but everyone and their dog wants us in the home cup. Even WFC (WM), because an empty stadium for CGY vs HAM will cost us $1M+ in lost revenue. And the fan ire & blowback will be epic.
Quote from: TecnoGenius on August 14, 2025, 01:29:11 AMThere's a lot of luck involved. Did your promising scout ELC finds pan out? MTL 2023 they sure did, and so they were powerhouse in '23 and '24 while still all on ELC.
Did your splash vet FA guy get season-ended in week 3? Luck.
I think the main job of the GM is to try to anticipate how the scouts did, and judge how the draft went, and then to fill any holes and have a "plan B" via FA. KW & co failed badly at this this season, even at REC where we clearly made moves to try to avoid getting burned like in '24.
For far too long we've treated high-end FA with disdain (exempting Kenny, who is special as an ex-Bomber). And we could because our scout+DP guys always turned up 1-2 superstar gems. But scouting has been iffy since Rigmaiden left, and horrible since Ted left. Yet we don't detect this and up our FA game?? That's on the GM.
I'm not sure many people care right now about "consistent results". Sure, we may be in an ok position in '26 (especially if we have $400k of '25 SMS to pre-spend in Dec)... but everyone and their dog wants us in the home cup. Even WFC (WM), because an empty stadium for CGY vs HAM will cost us $1M+ in lost revenue. And the fan ire & blowback will be epic.
Great points Tecno, well stated. I don't think we are at risk of an empty stadium even if it is CGY and HAM (that hurt to type that - it won't happen). Too many tickets are sold already - I don't know what the count is, but we have a lot of STH (myself included) that have already committed for them and took the $100 per seat discount by re-upping for another 3 years (I think that was the deal? Same as last GC here?).
So I can't see us losing any money on hosting the GC no matter who gets in.
For sure everyone here (including WFC) wants us in that game though, and I am sure they are focusing on everything they can do to make that happen. This isn't a group that rests on it's past accomplishments and takes fans for granted - they are engaged, and committed to putting a winning team on the field.
Quote from: Big Daddy on August 14, 2025, 01:55:09 AMGreat points Tecno, well stated. I don't think we are at risk of an empty stadium even if it is CGY and HAM (that hurt to type that - it won't happen). Too many tickets are sold already
Oh, I don't think we'll lose money. We're almost sold out already. But us not being in it (or worse: hated rivals being in it!) will cost us actual butts-in-seats and all the concession/tchotchke revenue.
What happens is, as soon as we are eliminated a ton of STH will list their tix in the aftermarket. And if the forecast is cold come the week before GC, then the huge dump will begin.
It's not a dump on WPG fans: this happens in every city, every GC, every fan base. It's how I score cheap GC tickets year after year (except this year of course)...
Quote from: TecnoGenius on August 14, 2025, 02:50:41 AMOh, I don't think we'll lose money. We're almost sold out already. But us not being in it (or worse: hated rivals being in it!) will cost us actual butts-in-seats and all the concession/tchotchke revenue.
What happens is, as soon as we are eliminated a ton of STH will list their tix in the aftermarket. And if the forecast is cold come the week before GC, then the huge dump will begin.
It's not a dump on WPG fans: this happens in every city, every GC, every fan base. It's how I score cheap GC tickets year after year (except this year of course)...
if sask is in and Bombers aren't i have a buyer for our GC tickets lined up. i will attend for any team but sask. Cant do it.
Quote from: The Zipp on August 14, 2025, 03:04:45 AMif sask is in and Bombers aren't i have a buyer for our GC tickets lined up. i will attend for any team but sask. Cant do it.
Ya, LOL. I'm actually very curious to see what wins out if SSK is in it:
1) WPG fans dumping their GC tickets
or
2) SSK fans snapping up the cheap GC tickets
Can green fans drive over to the tune of 10,000-15,000? Probably not. But it sure would be funny!
I'll go regardless, as I quietly become one of those "go to every cup" guy for some reason. Heck, I might even cheer for green because if you satiate that hunger, they may be easier to beat next season. But if CGY is in it? ABC rules.
Quote from: TecnoGenius on August 14, 2025, 03:08:47 AMYa, LOL. I'm actually very curious to see what wins out if SSK is in it:
1) WPG fans dumping their GC tickets
or
2) SSK fans snapping up the cheap GC tickets
Can green fans drive over to the tune of 10,000-15,000? Probably not. But it sure would be funny!
I'll go regardless, as I quietly become one of those "go to every cup" guy for some reason. Heck, I might even cheer for green because if you satiate that hunger, they may be easier to beat next season. But if CGY is in it? ABC rules.
Sorry to be that guy that points out discrepancies, but I think you will appreciate this and re-think. You said you "might even cheer for green", yet your tag, postscript, whatever it's called at the bottom of every post says "Never go full Rider!".
So - no matter what, don't go full rider (I don't capitalize the enemy - kinda like talking about the leafs...). Cheering for them in the GC is going full.
I'm sure I'll be there as well, unless someone offers me enough to cover my ST's next year to go and my beloved Blue are not there.
I think it would be a good time to bring back Rasheed Bailey.He was an excellent blocker on run plays and very consistent on catching the ball.
Quote from: Big Daddy on August 14, 2025, 03:50:24 AMSorry to be that guy that points out discrepancies, but I think you will appreciate this and re-think. You said you "might even cheer for green", yet your tag, postscript, whatever it's called at the bottom of every post says "Never go full Rider!".
Ya, I may feel differently if they have just hosed us in a WDF... I won't commit to cheering for anyone quite yet. But anything is possible.
I still think we'll be in it, anyhow. 8)
Thanks for the face slap. :o
Quote from: 55 Stick Car on August 14, 2025, 05:24:12 AMI think it would be a good time to bring back Rasheed Bailey.He was an excellent blocker on run plays and very consistent on catching the ball.
Maybe a good idea. But I'm 99% sure we won't. Sterns may have more upside as REC. Maybe. Certainly isn't as good a blocker, though.
I still think all the chips have to be put on Pokey. And Schoen needs to be re-activated and stay healthy. If both won't/can't come to pass, THEN we have to make some panic moves (couch or trade). Also, if we had a great OL, nearly any REC would look good and make plays (see: CGY & SSK).
I don't think anyone sitting on the couch is better than what we have.
I also feel like our receivers would be more successful if Zach was given a little more time in the pocket or if our offence was a little more conducive for some quicker routes and/or screens, much like we did in the first half against Calgary.
Quote from: Jesse on August 14, 2025, 03:44:04 PMI don't think anyone sitting on the couch is better than what we have.
I also feel like our receivers would be more successful if Zach was given a little more time in the pocket or if our offence was a little more conducive for some quicker routes and/or screens, much like we did in the first half against Calgary.
Critical game. Let's see how it goes.
Quote from: Jesse on August 14, 2025, 03:44:04 PMI don't think anyone sitting on the couch is better than what we have.
I also feel like our receivers would be more successful if Zach was given a little more time in the pocket or if our offence was a little more conducive for some quicker routes and/or screens, much like we did in the first half against Calgary.
Re-watched the second half of the last game last night, Zach has to be more decisive, lingering in the pocket too long led to a number of sacks. If the primary target is not open, he needs to get back to using his legs to move away and extend plays to keep out of the reach of defenders. So many times the pocket collapses on him and he seems to have no awareness he needs to get rid of the ball immediately.
They also have to balance using Brady as a receiver or a blocker, too many times he's sneaking off towards the flat when Zach could have used his protection.
He holds the ball. He always holds the ball. Even with a fantastic receiver core in 2021-23 he held the ball. He has admitted it in interviews so this isn't a new trend or a hot take. He's a hard QB to pass protect for. It worked when he had the foot speed to get himself out of trouble. It doesn't anymore. Ball needs to come out or he's going to continue to make things way harder than they need to be. He needs to play faster with his head now that his body is slower. It's the only way 37 year old QBs have success. People have been saying that since early last year.
Quote from: Sir Blue and Gold on August 14, 2025, 07:30:11 PMHe holds the ball. He always holds the ball. Even with a fantastic receiver core in 2021-23 he held the ball. He has admitted it in interviews so this isn't a new trend or a hot take. He's a hard QB to pass protect for. It worked when he had the foot speed to get himself out of trouble. It doesn't anymore. Ball needs to come out or he's going to continue to make things way harder than they need to be. He needs to play faster with his head now that his body is slower. It's the only way 37 year old QBs have success. People have been saying that since early last year.
all true - also easier to do that when you have prime Bryant and Hardrick blocking for you.
father time is a cruel taskmaster - the elusiveness is pretty much gone.
remember how fast Mike Reilly went from hero to zero? his o-line wasn't great but ours isn't that much better.
If Sask makes the GC, I would go and yell my loudest when they are on offence. HATE, HATE, HATE them...did I mention I HATE them!!!!!!!!
Quote from: The Zipp on August 14, 2025, 07:37:48 PMall true - also easier to do that when you have prime Bryant and Hardrick blocking for you.
father time is a cruel taskmaster - the elusiveness is pretty much gone.
remember how fast Mike Reilly went from hero to zero? his o-line wasn't great but ours isn't that much better.
The Lions really mismanaged his second stint there. He put up solid numbers in 2019 and 2021 but those were some really bad teams as I recall. Remember that 45-0 drubbing at IGF in late October 2021?
And then he just retired.
the reason Harris has managed to stay good for so long is his quick read and release, BLM has worked on this part of his game as well, for Zac to become effective he needs to as well.
Quote from: Throw Long Bannatyne on August 14, 2025, 06:36:11 PMRe-watched the second half of the last game last night, Zach has to be more decisive, lingering in the pocket too long led to a number of sacks. If the primary target is not open, he needs to get back to using his legs to move away and extend plays to keep out of the reach of defenders. So many times the pocket collapses on him and he seems to have no awareness he needs to get rid of the ball immediately.
If you watch, for 2+ seasons Zach has
no ability to find the escape hole. When he gets the happy feet and starts scrambling he always run straight to a defender. And if you look carefully you'll see there's always 1-2 wide open escape routes the other direction. He's like the reverse Mahomes.
Maybe we need to give him drills where our D surrounds him and he needs to find the escape path. Just do that for 4 hours every day.
Either solve that our upgrade our OL so he has the Ricky Ray-level protection he requires.
If losing 4 out of the last 5 aren't a wake up call for the team, then I don't know what would be.
Get it together. Somebody needs to make a play, not be the negative result of one the Redblacks plays.
GO BOMBERS.