This could be a nothing game for both teams. Could be a lot of starter resting on both sides. But, for the Bombers I would like to see a lot of backups and PR players get a start. Starting with Wilson. It would also be nice to get a look at Bailey (DE) and Vibert on the (OL). Both draft picks this year. Let's see where there at with there development. Dixon 6'4" 250 and Jaworski 6'5" 260, in for Willy and Person. Give SB66 a rest. We have a couple of big boys hanging around on the PR, lets see what they look like in game action.
Wilson doesn't play. Collaros has got to get the offense executing MUCH better than last night and this meaningless game will be a walk through practice to get the O line and recievers moving in the right direction. Last night was pitiful.
Quote from: Pigskin on October 18, 2025, 03:52:38 PMThis could be a nothing game for both teams. Could be a lot of starter resting on both sides. But, for the Bombers I would like to see a lot of backups and PR players get a start. Starting with Wilson. It would also be nice to get a look at Bailey (DE) and Vibert on the (OL). Both draft picks this year. Let's see where there at with there development. Dixon 6'4" 250 and Jaworski 6'5" 260, in for Willy and Person. Give SB66 a rest. We have a couple of big boys hanging around on the PR, lets see what they look like in game action.
Normally this is what we'd expect but I don't expect it this year. The 1st string team needs to get their act together even if it puts some players at risk to injury.
Next year is irrelevant at the moment.
Quote from: dd on October 18, 2025, 03:55:09 PMWilson doesn't play. Collaros has got to get the offense executing MUCH better than last night and this meaningless game will be a walk through practice to get the O line and recievers moving in the right direction. Last night was pitiful.
This O is not getting fixed in one week. It's starts at the top. Our OC either doesn't have clue or he's been out coached. maybe both? ZC8 is beaten up and needs the rest. The man took a pounding last night. And, the OL needs to be totally re-vamped. And, then there the ? around ND10 It will be a miracle to beat Montreal in Montreal in two weeks.
Rest ZC8. He had a shoulder injury last night. He was limping for part of the game. The man is beaten up.
I agree with resting ZC for next week (but play him for a quarter or less) I only wish O'Shea can see the frustration on ZC this isn't working out with OC (Jason Hogan). It was painful to watch in the stands last night and it showed on the field. I listened to the post game and you can hear it in the voices of ZC and BO.
Something just doesn't look right with this team. We need our receivers and O Line to be better in their assignments and protecting ZC.
One more game to sit in the stands and I will cheer our team on with the good and bad. Too bad we didn't get a playoff game to watch in the stands with the Grey Cup being in our city.
What time did OShea rest a quarterback because he was injured, or had taken a beating?
Drew Willie? Matt Nichols? Collaros with a gashed hand in the Grey Cup?
this won't happen.
You're right Markf. Won't happen in a million years. A billion even.
I actually feel sorry for Collaros, he is being physically pummelled and has to play with a bunch of misfits who couldn't make any other team. You can tell he's fed right the F up with the play calling as is BO, and that means there will be a change at OC in the off season. When you're 2 offensive leaders aren't happy, things get changed. O line, give Koko and Neufeld their walking papers, I'd go shopping for a FA tackle and move Bryant to RT. Need a #1 stud reciever to go with Wilson and Demski, keep Sterns for #4 reciever , thinking Cobb could replace Clercius, whos' done nothing all season except for 1 decent catch he's been invisible.
I'd like to see Smith and Shay get reps on D.
Quote from: barbk on October 18, 2025, 05:06:06 PMI agree with resting ZC for next week (but play him for a quarter or less) I only wish O'Shea can see the frustration on ZC this isn't working out with OC (Jason Hogan). It was painful to watch in the stands last night and it showed on the field. I listened to the post game and you can hear it in the voices of ZC and BO.
Something just doesn't look right with this team. We need our receivers and O Line to be better in their assignments and protecting ZC.
One more game to sit in the stands and I will cheer our team on with the good and bad. Too bad we didn't get a playoff game to watch in the stands with the Grey Cup being in our city.
Not sure if I am correct on this but if we win and Calgary and B.C. both lose, can we finish second?
Quote from: markf on October 18, 2025, 05:19:19 PMWhat time did OShea rest a quarterback because he was injured, or had taken a beating?
Drew Willie? Matt Nichols? Collaros with a gashed hand in the Grey Cup?
this won't happen.
Zach literally sits out every year during the last game or two.
Quote from: Blue In BC on October 18, 2025, 04:11:43 PMNormally this is what we'd expect but I don't expect it this year. The 1st string team needs to get their act together even if it puts some players at risk to injury.
Next year is irrelevant at the moment.
we looked like we had it sorted after the Hamilton game. One game isnt going to make any difference... rest him - all we need is for Zac to be injured which is a real possibility with this oline. Let the oline get practice with wilson
Time out
Quote from: RebusRankin on October 18, 2025, 05:36:54 PMI'd like to see Smith and Shay get reps on D.
I would also like to see them get more reps. We took LB Shay at #6, Calgary took OL Fortin at #8 and he's starting. We took Smith at #15 and he has been very good on teams, BC took Findlay at #16 and he's starting at Safety. Unfortunately for both of these guys our LBs have been very solid all season.
Quote from: Jesse on October 18, 2025, 07:07:42 PMZach literally sits out every year during the last game or two.
That's when we've finished in 1st place and are playing well.
Quote from: 55 Stick Car on October 18, 2025, 06:53:18 PMNot sure if I am correct on this but if we win and Calgary and B.C. both lose, can we finish second?
I think so but it's not probable.
Quote from: Blue In BC on October 18, 2025, 11:01:58 PMThat's when we've finished in 1st place and are playing well.
And after that stinker he at least starts and gets the offense in a groove
Quote from: Blue In BC on October 18, 2025, 11:01:58 PMThat's when we've finished in 1st place and are playing well.
But I was responding to posters claiming O'Shea never rests the QB.
Speaking of things that will never happen
Imagine Oshea fires Hogan on Monday, says Zach will call own plays from here out.
That spark alone could wake the whole offence up.
That's not MOS MO, he won't fire in season, he'll wait until the dust settles in the off season, there's no doubt in Brady and Zach tone and body language, they've had enough of the Hogan calling the plays. Given what we have , I'd be ok with Zach calling his own plays, but where has Jarious Jackson been in all of this, our Qb coach, doesn't Zach have at least input to game planning and game calling and we re getting this junk being called??!!
we're more than likely to play Streveler/wilson in this game, the crossover is really almost a given, and if bc somehow manages to lose and we end up in third in the west its no easier.
The thing apart from risking injury to Zac, why would we run our first string offence out against the team were likely to play the next week for a game with little meaning? Would make zero sense
I hope that somehow Ottawa pulls out a win against Hamilton and Mtrl then has to play all their regulars so we have the advantage of prescouting the playoff game. (should we beat Hamilton)
The thing is we're at home and the bombers have their fans to appease as it's the last time this season they ll see them play
I expect Collaros to start and then they ll pull him for Strev and then maybe Wilson but I somehow doubt it. It's all about preparation for the next week and I don't see Wilson playing a role at all
I'd like to see Zach rest up but he likely starts Saturday. Truthfully, I expect the same lineup as last week.
Quote from: RebusRankin on October 19, 2025, 07:21:45 PMI'd like to see Zach rest up but he likely starts Saturday. Truthfully, I expect the same lineup as last week.
We won't know our chances of finishing in 3rd before we play. Lions play after us and if we win and they lose, then that is on the table. I'm not sure what happens if there is a 3 way tie for 2nd. Lions beat the Stamps and we didn't so that may not be in our favour.
At the moment I expect the Stamps to beat the Elks so will eliminate that aspect.
That should mean we play our 1st string team trying to land 3rd place in the West.
Whether or not Demski or Griffin are able to play is in question. There may be more chance that Demski will play but that's no certainly either.
Quote from: dd on October 19, 2025, 03:05:54 AMwhere has Jarious Jackson been in all of this,
I heard on one of the coaches shows a while back that he has become good friends with Richie Hall and you can hear those guys laughing together often. Just conjecture but both guys have been put on the peripheral by MOS. Probably they have that in common. I wonder why MOS doesn't use what talent he has on the staff. I feel like he hired a friend in Hogan and will stand by it until the end of time if necessary.
Practice today starting at 11:40. Looks like it's cool and raining in Winnipeg. Will be interesting to hear what DT has to say about ND10 today.
My Granddaughter check some stats.
Vaughters: 36DTs, 6 QS.
Smith: 20 STs.
Ayers: 19
Cad: 14
Jones: 100 DTs.
LBs: 282 DTs.
ZC8: 254/350 3048 yards. 16 Ints, 17 TDs, 8.7 Avg.
ND10: 67/92 1001 yards. 10.9 avg. 73 longest, 7 TDs, 9 over 30 yards.
Wheat: 41/70 642 yards. 9.2 avg. 52 longest, 4 TDs, 8 over 30 yards.
BO20: 546 yards receiving. Third on the team.
BO20: 201/1163 5.8 Avg. Longest 43 yards, 3 TDs, 31 over 10 yards.
Vaval: Outstanding.
no demski at practice
BO not practicing
Derek Taylor🏈
@DTonOBDB Michael Griffin dressed for today. He's missed the last four games with a knee injury.
Derek Taylor🏈
@DTonOBCam Echols in for Pokey Wilson with the 1s.
Zach at QB with Michael Chris-Ike at RB.
Brady Oliveira not practicing for the Bombers today.
Fair to say Dillon Mitchell will not get another chance?
Quote from: Blue In BC on October 18, 2025, 11:01:58 PMThat's when we've finished in 1st place and are playing well.
Yes.
Also worth mentioning are the games where we had large leads, a chance for experience for backup qb.... Zach stays in.
Quote from: Throw Long Bannatyne on October 20, 2025, 07:32:51 PMDerek Taylor🏈
@DTonOB
DB Michael Griffin dressed for today. He's missed the last four games with a knee injury.
Derek Taylor🏈
@DTonOB
Cam Echols in for Pokey Wilson with the 1s.
Zach at QB with Michael Chris-Ike at RB.
Brady Oliveira not practicing for the Bombers today.
Fair to say Dillon Mitchell will not get another chance?
Getting Griffin back would be good heading into the playoffs. Nor sure if Demski is just getting a chance to recover or this means he's finished?
Quote from: 55 Stick Car on October 18, 2025, 06:53:18 PMNot sure if I am correct on this but if we win and Calgary and B.C. both lose, can we finish second?
No, I believe the best we can be is 3rd in the west, or the crossover team.
Quote from: Throw Long Bannatyne on October 20, 2025, 07:32:51 PMDerek Taylor🏈
@DTonOB
DB Michael Griffin dressed for today. He's missed the last four games with a knee injury.
Derek Taylor🏈
@DTonOB
Cam Echols in for Pokey Wilson with the 1s.
Zach at QB with Michael Chris-Ike at RB.
Brady Oliveira not practicing for the Bombers today.
Fair to say Dillon Mitchell will not get another chance?
Why wouldn't Mitchell get another shot?? He's been targetted 21 times caught the ball 19 times (90%)...wish the rest of our receivers where that good at catching the ball!! Sterns is 46 catches on 65 attempts (70%), Wheatfall 41 of 70 (59%), Wilson 21 of 36 (58%), and Clercius 40 of 57 (70%), if anything, maybe Wheatfall gets pulled from the lineup
Quote from: dd on October 20, 2025, 10:54:55 PMWhy wouldn't Mitchell get another shot?? He's been targetted 21 times caught the ball 19 times (90%)...wish the rest of our receivers where that good at catching the ball!! Sterns is 46 catches on 65 attempts (70%), Wheatfall 41 of 70 (59%), Wilson 21 of 36 (58%), and Clercius 40 of 57 (70%), if anything, maybe Wheatfall gets pulled from the lineup
Wheat>>>>Mitchell imo
Quote from: dd on October 20, 2025, 10:54:55 PMWhy wouldn't Mitchell get another shot?? He's been targetted 21 times caught the ball 19 times (90%)...wish the rest of our receivers where that good at catching the ball!! Sterns is 46 catches on 65 attempts (70%), Wheatfall 41 of 70 (59%), Wilson 21 of 36 (58%), and Clercius 40 of 57 (70%), if anything, maybe Wheatfall gets pulled from the lineup
Read that Zach and JJ were not happy with his performance in Edmonton and we're trying to coach him up on the sidelines.
Starting at 5:00 O'Shea's narrative is beginning to run thin, his confidence in the team's ability is based upon past performance and experience of his veteran group and how incredibly hard they work. He's lost the ability to evaluate their performance objectively, you can hear in Derek Taylor's questions he doesn't believe O'Shea's answers are still valid.
Quote from: Throw Long Bannatyne on October 20, 2025, 07:32:51 PMFair to say Dillon Mitchell will not get another chance?
If there's injury he will. Wheatie had mega rust, and really was no better than Mitchell. If Mitchell blew it badly running wrong routes in EDM, then ya, he'll be put at the back of the bench, but we may still need him. I think Mitchell may not be smart enough to execute our O.
What he probably blew is his chances of being on the team next season.
Quote from: dd on October 19, 2025, 06:57:18 PMThe thing is we're at home and the bombers have their fans to appease as it's the last time this season they ll see them play
I think the home crowd will get to see them play again Nov 16, 2025!!
Quote from: Pigskin on October 18, 2025, 08:47:00 PMI would also like to see them get more reps. We took LB Shay at #6, Calgary took OL Fortin at #8 and he's starting.
Ouch. There's proof right there that we're committed to Ko-man long-term. Like it or lump it.
Wow, just watched the MOs interview, he's a master at football psychology, cool as a cucumber, he's confident the offense is going to get it done. Not sure how he can say that after the dismal second half but the offense is going to step it up seeing their coach has their back in probably the darkest moment in the season. He's quietly challenged his leaders, who were very upset after this game,to lead the team and get things right. Dinwiddie and Maas would have lost their ,minds in the media, OShea is like oh ya, all is well, our vets are going to get it done. We ll see what happens.
Bombers favoured by 7
So, Hamilton, Calgary, BC, Winnipeg win.
Then
ESF - Winnipeg @ Montreal
EF - @ Hamilton
WSF - Calgary @ BC
WF - @ SSK
Derek Taylor🏈
Day 2 of Bombers practice: RB Brady Oliveira (now the league leader in yards from scrimmage) is dressed today after a very reduced day yesterday.
REC Nic Demski remains out (hamstring)
Contract status for MOS and Walters (and Wade)?
Can we see a departure from norms based on contract? Either trying to save the season, or a showing new teams they aren't one trick ponies and have the ability to adapt?
Quote from: markf on October 18, 2025, 05:19:19 PMWhat time did OShea rest a quarterback because he was injured, or had taken a beating?
Drew Willie? Matt Nichols? Collaros with a gashed hand in the Grey Cup?
this won't happen.
Agree. Especially if Collaros wants to play. Oshea always lets his vets decide. Most egregious case was Bighill starting in the Grey Cup. Never should have been on the field. And it cost us.
Having said that, I don't mind if the entire first string offence plays the full game to try and get their act together. And let Brady run wild. He needs to release some of that frustration.
Hamstrings are pretty tricky. Can't see ND10 practicing until middle of next week, if at all.
I am sure MOS will rest Demski this week as well.
Five months into the season and we're still making this many mistakes?? Our old line is the same thing since training camp, what's the excuse there?? Not good enough. Plain and simple.
On the injury side today, only Demski (Hamstring), Woods (Shoulder) and Wheatfall (Not Injury Related) did not practice. All others participated in a full practice.
Quote from: Horseman on October 21, 2025, 07:13:52 PMI am sure MOS will rest Demski this week as well.
O'Shea said he doesnt expect Demski to play thus week but expects him to be ready for the playoffs.
Quote from: ModAdmin on October 21, 2025, 08:10:28 PMOn the injury side today, only Demski (Hamstring), Woods (Shoulder) and Wheatfall (Not Injury Related) did not practice. All others participated in a full practice.
I wonder what the issue with Wheatfall might be yesterday?. He might be ill or have a family / business issue. Seems odd that Echols is getting 1st team reps though.
Did Pokey practice?
Quote from: blue_gold_84 on October 21, 2025, 08:32:40 PMMan, he looks tired.
Maybe why he hides behind the blue shades.
Quote from: Blueforlife on October 21, 2025, 09:56:33 PMDid Pokey practice?
He's not listed on the injury report:
(https://pbs.twimg.com/media/G3ztx2ZXQAAOgRq?format=jpg&name=small)
Quote from: gobombersgo on October 21, 2025, 10:57:07 PMHe's not listed on the injury report:
(https://pbs.twimg.com/media/G3ztx2ZXQAAOgRq?format=jpg&name=small)
Woods injured again? Devin Adams gets another shot or they bring in Kornie which would allow Griffin to play if ready. These import DT's always turn into marshmallows, Big Jake just keeps on trucking.
Hogan sounds like MOS, you know, you know. We are at the end of the season and they are still watching film to see what they can fix.
Please lets move on because this guy is surely lost in his position. It shows by his play calling and players that are tired of him.
Quote from: blue_gold_84 on October 21, 2025, 08:32:40 PMMan, he looks tired.
Those margaritas don't drink themselves on the dock you know!!
(Kidding, I know the brain trust is working hard into the stretch -- but are they working
smart?)
Quote from: Throw Long Bannatyne on October 22, 2025, 12:38:42 AMWoods injured again? Devin Adams gets another shot or they bring in Kornie which would allow Griffin to play if ready. These import DT's always turn into marshmallows, Jake just keeps on trucking.
Hard to get hurt if you don't hit someone. :)
Quote from: Pigskin on October 18, 2025, 04:35:52 PMThis O is not getting fixed in one week. It's starts at the top. Our OC either doesn't have clue or he's been out coached. maybe both? ZC8 is beaten up and needs the rest. The man took a pounding last night. And, the OL needs to be totally re-vamped. And, then there the ? around ND10 It will be a miracle to beat Montreal in Montreal in two weeks.
Rest ZC8. He had a shoulder injury last night. He was limping for part of the game. The man is beaten up.
Agree 100% rest Zach. Playing him would be idiotic if meaningless.
Quote from: GOLDMEMBER on October 22, 2025, 02:18:16 PMAgree 100% rest Zach. Playing him would be idiotic if meaningless.
The game won't be meaningless with the standing still in the mix. We can still finish 3rd if we win and the Lions lose.
Quote from: Blue In BC on October 22, 2025, 02:23:44 PMThe game won't be meaningless with the standing still in the mix. We can still finish 3rd if we win and the Lions lose.
And Calgary has to win for that scenario, too.
What are we playing for this week? The chance to go to Calgary or the chance to go to Montreal? It's a wash at best and putting ourselves in an even more difficult position at worst.
Man did we ever shoot ourselves in the foot a lot this season. Good lord.
Quote from: Blue In BC on October 22, 2025, 02:23:44 PMThe game won't be meaningless with the standing still in the mix. We can still finish 3rd if we win and the Lions lose.
I like our chances of getting to the GC through the east as opposed to playing Cal and then Sask at their fields.
Do we even want to win? We are guaranteed the crossover if we lose, and isn't that the easier way to the cup? We'll be playing on the road, and we will have current scouting on MTL, and destroyed HAM recently.
Rest Zach, 3rd on the DC just in case. Start Wilson (we know what Strev can do, lets see if Wilson has anything) and if he drops the ball, finish with Strev.
Put Zach in bubblewrap until the playoff game, no shower injuries, no fingers hitting helmets. There is zero need for him to play. Especially against a future playoff opponent, who will not hesitate to bring it hard and potentially injure the fragile QB.
Zero upside, Mr O'Shea. If he can't figure it out in practice, he's not going to get it done in a live game.
Quote from: theaardvark on October 22, 2025, 04:21:32 PMDo we even want to win? We are guaranteed the crossover if we lose, and isn't that the easier way to the cup? We'll be playing on the road, and we will have current scouting on MTL, and destroyed HAM recently.
Rest Zach, 3rd on the DC just in case. Start Wilson (we know what Strev can do, lets see if Wilson has anything) and if he drops the ball, finish with Strev.
Put Zach in bubblewrap until the playoff game, no shower injuries, no fingers hitting helmets. There is zero need for him to play. Especially against a future playoff opponent, who will not hesitate to bring it hard and potentially injure the fragile QB.
Zero upside, Mr O'Shea. If he can't figure it out in practice, he's not going to get it done in a live game.
Yes we want to win. Quit coming up this BS please.
Why do people think playing Montreal is easier than the West?
Quote from: Jesse on October 22, 2025, 04:35:28 PMWhy do people think playing Montreal is easier than the West?
It doesn't really matter if they are or they aren't. Trying to take a perceived easy way out is not what I want from my team. Play to win and as an old time traditionalist I want to finish in 3rd in the west.
It's one thing to rest veterans when the standings are locked up to prevent new injuries but even that draws a fine line for me as a fan.
Quote from: Blue In BC on October 22, 2025, 04:49:43 PMIt doesn't really matter if they are or they aren't. Trying to take a perceived easy way out is not what I want from my team. Play to win and as an old time traditionalist I want to finish in 3rd in the west.
It's one thing to rest veterans when the standings are locked up to prevent new injuries but even that draws a fine line for me as a fan.
I mostly agree.
Quote from: Jesse on October 22, 2025, 04:35:28 PMWhy do people think playing Montreal is easier than the West?
Montreal is 3 - 5 against the West this year. Granted that they were without their #1 QB for some of that.
Quote from: Freebird on October 22, 2025, 05:00:08 PMMontreal is 3 - 5 against the West this year. Granted that they were without their #1 QB for some of that.
All 5 loses anyway. Davis Alexander is 10-0 as a starter.
If Hamilton wins, then Montreal is playing for 1st.
If Hamilton loses, then Montreal is playing to destroy our confidence as we play them again the next week.
Of course we want to win, but at what cost?
Is it a win if Zach gets nicked? And I don't mean a broken arm, but an actual nick, a bruised shoulder or rib. A strained hammy or ankle. Not enough to sideline him, but enough to make him 95% instead of a rested 100%?
The Ham game is well over by the time we play, not sure who holds the tiebreaker, if Ham wins does MTL have anything to play for? Vice versa if they lose?
If we win against MTL's backups with our backups, isn't that a better win?
And if we lose against MTL's backups with our backups, does it matter?
But if we lose against MTL's backups with our starters, is that season over?
There is literally zero upside to playing Zach. And huge downside. If we do cross over, giving MTL the opportunity to gameplan off the film is a negative.
Resting him makes sense, and MOS *HAS* to reign in Zach and get him to sit. He saw Harris do it last week... and he will rpobably do it again this week, and then have a bye. Harris will be in top form by the WSF.
Quote from: Jesse on October 22, 2025, 05:05:05 PMAll 5 loses anyway. Davis Alexander is 10-0 as a starter.
Alexander played 7 games this year so far, only 2 against the west (Edm - week 3 with Ford as QB, and Cal - week 21 with VAJ as QB on a 2 game losing streak).
His other 5 games were all against Tor (x2) and Ott (x3).
I don't doubt his abilities, but I wouldn't classify him as a barn burner this year.
Quote from: Freebird on October 22, 2025, 05:27:24 PMAlexander played 7 games this year so far, only 2 against the west (Edm - week 3 with Ford as QB, and Cal - week 21 with VAJ as QB on a 2 game losing streak).
His other 5 games were all against Tor (x2) and Ott (x3).
I don't doubt his abilities, but I wouldn't classify him as a barn burner this year.
I didn't realize that!
I still don't think it's an "easier" path though.
Is the path through the east easier than the west?
Well, instead of playing SSK in SSK with them on a weeks rest, if we played SSK it would be at home, both having played the week before.
If nothing else, that is a huge difference.
HUGE.
So, yes, easier path to the Grey Cup through the east.
Through the east is better. Not much question about it.
In 2019 we did win in Cal and the Bush but we had a fresh Zach and Lapo at the controls.
This year I can't see that happening again. Through the east in Montreal then in Hamilton I much prefer.
No team has ever made it through the crossover. I can't see this 2025 Blue Bombers team being an exception (although, I'd love to be wrong).
Quote from: TBURGESS on October 22, 2025, 05:08:30 PMIf Hamilton wins, then Montreal is playing for 1st.
If Hamilton loses, then Montreal is playing to destroy our confidence as we play them again the next week.
Are you sure about this??
Quote from: Pigskin on October 22, 2025, 06:17:48 PMAre you sure about this??
He's wrong, both teams are 10-7 with Hamilton having the series advantage, if the Ti-Cats beat the RB's the Als have nothing to play for. To keep Alexander's winning streak intact I don't expect they'll start him in this weekend's game.
Mine was the wrong way around. Should have been..
If Hamilton loses, then Montreal is playing for 1st.
If Hamilton wins, then Montreal is playing to destroy our confidence as we play them again the next week.
The only players who did not practice today are...
Nic Demski - Hamstring
Keric Wheatfall - Not injury related.
All others participated in a full practice.
Quote from: Jesse on October 22, 2025, 04:35:28 PMWhy do people think playing Montreal is easier than the West?
It's a wash IMO.
On one hand, the east is the east and that there's a crossover tells you some things about the record of the 2 teams that did manage to make the playoffs and who they had to beat. When Davis is in there and at the top of his game he's as good as the best. But what happens when he comes back? You also have the fact that a crossover team has never made it regardless of how much better they were in the regular season than their opponent.
On the other, the perception is that the west is better and making that argument is not hard at all. VAJ is a toss-up - does good VAJ or bad VAJ show up? When VAJ is good, he's real good. When VAJ is bad, he can lose games almost single handedly. VAJ was warm to start but has chilled out and looked very ordinary. Hopefully there's no hot VAJ to distract us.
Rourke has also had heroic and less-than moments out there.
It won't be easy either way.
Quote from: ModAdmin on October 22, 2025, 08:34:00 PMThe only players who did not practice today are...
Nic Demski - Hamstring
Keric Wheatfall - Not injury related.
All others participated in a full practice.
What's the deal with Wheatfall? Two days and no practice. Even if it's illness or family issue it doesn't appear that he will play this week.
Is he going to be replaced by Mitchell or Echols and / or who was getting 1st team reps?
Woods seems to be ok so that creates the issue of who comes off if Griffin gets added.
It's never a dull week. lol
Not a big wheatfall fan, hoping to see someone else in his spot to see if he can produce more than him, very lackluster last game, as were a bunch of players. But we need someone to seriously step up and make some plays for the offense. Without ND10, we are lifeless at reciever.
Quote from: Blue In BC on October 22, 2025, 12:52:25 PMHard to get hurt if you don't hit someone. :)
Makes zero sense imo. He has been nothing but 100% consistently healthy his entire career while making plays. Previous comment was bang on. Thomas is as reliable health wise as we have had at this position. I prefer to give credit where credit is due.
We need Wheat to play and have a decent game. Huge part of this offense when he is on. Rest up the vets if it's a nothing burger. Otherwise petal to metal.
Weather looks fantastic, hope is on the rise.
East or West doesn't matter. Both sides have good clubs and league has plenty of parity.
Bad weather would benefit us (run game). Exceptional directional punting.
Last week in CJOB our net punting is 4th when adjusted for field position. Our punting has been excellent and sure happy Bomber brass stayed the course. Lots like to rag on our punting and it's heavily overstated imo.
Quote from: Pigskin on October 22, 2025, 06:17:48 PMAre you sure about this??
Hammy has tie breaker I believe already over Montreal. So if they win Montreal has a meaningless game vs Bombers.
Quote from: TBURGESS on October 22, 2025, 05:08:30 PMIf Hamilton wins, then Montreal is playing to destroy our confidence as we play them again the next week.
Why not "then
Winnipeg is playing to destroy their confidence as we play them again the next week"?
Can't it cut both ways? Or are we so down on our team right now that seems impossible?
Quote from: blue_or_die on October 22, 2025, 02:47:47 PMWhat are we playing for this week? The chance to go to Calgary or the chance to go to Montreal? It's a wash at best and putting ourselves in an even more difficult position at worst.
Well, there is one nice thing about crossing over... the traveling fans can finally go to a new city rather than CGY/SSK like we always do. If I go to the ESF I always love visiting MTL and my son has never been there. That's a bonus vs yet another trip to CGY (as much as I love CGY!).
Honestly, I can't see O'Shea resting ZC the whole game.
Maybe for a half at best.
He won't play Wilson, it will be Strev.
Quote from: Blueforlife on October 23, 2025, 03:25:43 AMMakes zero sense imo. He has been nothing but 100% consistently healthy his entire career while making plays. Previous comment was bang on. Thomas is as reliable health wise as we have had at this position. I prefer to give credit where credit is due.
We need Wheat to play and have a decent game. Huge part of this offense when he is on. Rest up the vets if it's a nothing burger. Otherwise petal to metal.
Weather looks fantastic, hope is on the rise.
East or West doesn't matter. Both sides have good clubs and league has plenty of parity.
Bad weather would benefit us (run game). Exceptional directional punting.
Last week in CJOB our net punting is 4th when adjusted for field position. Our punting has been excellent and sure happy Bomber brass stayed the course. Lots like to rag on our punting and it's heavily overstated imo.
You should watch how players get injured. Most of the time it's taking or giving a hit. Perhaps getting fallen on by someone blocked into you and ending up in the pile.
He had another game last week and didn't record a sack or TFL. Where are those plays you speak about?
2025 is his worst statistical season since his 2nd year in the CFL in 2013. What he did 3 or 4 years ago is irrelevant now.
Quote from: Tecno on October 23, 2025, 06:52:38 AMWhy not "then Winnipeg is playing to destroy their confidence as we play them again the next week"?
Can't it cut both ways? Or are we so down on our team right now that seems impossible?
We've had 1 intimidating game all year. If we get a 2nd one, I'll be extremely surprised.
Quote from: TBURGESS on October 22, 2025, 05:08:30 PMIf Hamilton wins, then Montreal is playing for 1st.
If Hamilton loses, then Montreal is playing to destroy our confidence as we play them again the next week.
It's the other way around, if Ham loses Mtl will be playing for first, if Ham wins they secure 1st place in the east and our game means nothing to Mtl.
Regardless, if we lose, we crossover.
I still contend that the road to the GC includes beating SSK.
We have a better chance of that here at home than at Mosaic against a SSK team coming off a bye.
If winning a playoff game is your goal, not crossing over might be the better option.
If wining a GC is your goal, crossover all the way, baybee.
Quote from: theaardvark on October 23, 2025, 04:18:48 PMRegardless, if we lose, we crossover.
I still contend that the road to the GC includes beating SSK.
We have a better chance of that here at home than at Mosaic against a SSK team coming off a bye.
If winning a playoff game is your goal, not crossing over might be the better option.
If wining a GC is your goal, crossover all the way, baybee.
The way I read this, bolded lines 1 and 2 both contradict bolded line 3. Am I wrong?
I just realized that I'm going to Montreal on Sunday Nov 2, and there's no way my wife will let me go a day early so I can go watch a football game live.
Oh man I hope it's Calgary :-\ :-\ :-\
Game is sold out making it a full season worth of sellouts.
Quote from: Sir Blue and Gold on October 23, 2025, 07:06:27 PMGame is sold out making it a full season worth of sellouts.
(https://media.tenor.com/c4AZXR3wUyoAAAAM/you-love-to-see-it-howard-gayle.gif)
Best franchise in the league - bar none.
Quote from: Sir Blue and Gold on October 23, 2025, 07:06:27 PMGame is sold out making it a full season worth of sellouts.
Hope we can do better next year. ;)
Quote from: Blue In BC on October 23, 2025, 01:33:43 PMYou should watch how players get injured. Most of the time it's taking or giving a hit. Perhaps getting fallen on by someone blocked into you and ending up in the pile.
He had another game last week and didn't record a sack or TFL. Where are those plays you speak about?
2025 is his worst statistical season since his 2nd year in the CFL in 2013. What he did 3 or 4 years ago is irrelevant now.
He has played here for a decade and has always played the same way. You should give credit where its due imo. A consistently healthy player who has stayed that way while making plays. Yes his stats are down but he still rotates and even at the end of his career he still remains consistently healthy. Perhaps we can celebrate that rather than taking a shot at him at the end of a good run.
The discussion is not about performance, it's about Thomas's ability to stay healthy. Jake has never been a high stats guy.
What he did over the last decade is 100% relevant to the discussion about him continuing to be healthy. The original poster pointed that out and you are now changing the narrative.
Quote from: Blueforlife on October 23, 2025, 10:45:05 PMHe has played here for a decade and has always played the same way. You should give credit where its due imo. A consistently healthy player who has stayed that way while making plays. Yes his stats are down but he still rotates and even at the end of his career he still remains consistently healthy. Perhaps we can celebrate that rather than taking a shot at him at the end of a good run.
The discussion is not about performance, it's about Thomas's ability to stay healthy. Jake has never been a high stats guy.
What he did over the last decade is 100% relevant to the discussion about him continuing to be healthy. The original poster pointed that out and you are now changing the narrative.
What he did in the past is irrelevant. Haven't you ever heard " what have you done for me lately" in sports? Sports is a performance based issue.
Get your head out of 5 years ago.
It's not hard to stay healthy when you don't make any tackles!! How are you going to get hurt??
Quote from: Blue In BC on October 23, 2025, 11:33:52 PMWhat he did in the past is irrelevant. Haven't you ever heard " what have you done for me lately" in sports? Sports is a performance based issue.
Get your head out of 5 years ago.
The discussion has nothing to do with performance
It has to do with Thomas's ability to stay healthy. Two of us believe credit is due for that. Not a complex argument, you don't seam to be able to grasp what we were talking about. My head is considering his 13 years here, never mind 5 lol. Get your head out of 2025 lol.
The ability for a player to stay healthy is a significant factor in their long term ability to provide value to their organization. Have you ever heard of durability, reliability and dependability? What has he done lately? Play every game without injury which was the other posters point.
Quote from: dd on October 24, 2025, 12:58:37 AMIt's not hard to stay healthy when you don't make any tackles!! How are you going to get hurt??
We were discussing his ability to stay healthy
196 tackles 33 sacks 5 fumble recoveries over 222 games over 13 seasons
An incredible run at staying healthy. That's all we were saying.
Injuries happen during tackles but also happen on other contact plays and non contact plays. Claiming they don't occur unless you get tackles is a false argument.
Facts
Jake Thomas - CFL.ca https://share.google/ZW7UDbDSuDazJLNIS
It's to bad we can't discuss or give Thomas credit without having posters taking shot at him. He deserves more respect for his service as a decent rotational Canadian depth player for us. I believe even role / dpeth players should be celebrated. They make contributions to the club just like the stars do. Can't all be studs.
For the sake of keeping this on topic, let's drop it. We can discuss Thomas on that thread if needed.
Quote from: Stretch on October 23, 2025, 07:35:41 PMHope we can do better next year. ;)
Could happen if we add a few more seats somewhere or expand the standing space! :o
Quote from: blue_or_die on October 23, 2025, 07:03:40 PMI just realized that I'm going to Montreal on Sunday Nov 2, and there's no way my wife will let me go a day early so I can go watch a football game live.
Yikes! That would make your wife more difficult than mine! I say that's impossible. Change the ticket now and say the airlines cancelled the Nov 2 flight ;) ;) ;)
Quote from: theaardvark on October 23, 2025, 04:18:48 PMIf winning a playoff game is your goal, not crossing over might be the better option.
Ya, except we've lost to CGY 3 times already this season. We haven't come anywhere close to cracking the horsey code. And if they dress Biggie (50/50?) he'll probably be trying to maim someone -- he hasn't played against us yet.
I wouldn't say a CGY SF game would be any easier than a MTL SF game.
Quote from: Tecno on October 24, 2025, 04:44:49 AMYa, except we've lost to CGY 3 times already this season. We haven't come anywhere close to cracking the horsey code. And if they dress Biggie (50/50?) he'll probably be trying to maim someone -- he hasn't played against us yet.
I wouldn't say a CGY SF game would be any easier than a MTL SF game.
If VA is hot he is as good as Alexander
If he is not Cgy is very beatable imo
Alexander's consistency makes Mtl the favs imo
Quote from: Tecno on October 24, 2025, 04:44:49 AMYa, except we've lost to CGY 3 times already this season. We haven't come anywhere close to cracking the horsey code. And if they dress Biggie (50/50?) he'll probably be trying to maim someone -- he hasn't played against us yet.
I wouldn't say a CGY SF game would be any easier than a MTL SF game.
Either way it's going to be tough to get a win on the road
Montreal and BC are the two hottest teams right now and we're going to play one of them next week.
Don't we play either Calgary or Montreal next week.
Quote from: 55 Stick Car on October 25, 2025, 04:43:19 PMDon't we play either Calgary or Montreal next week.
If the Lions win then they finish in 2nd place after defeating the Stamps twice. We will be playing the Als again if that happens.
Winnipeg is crossing over unless Winnipeg wins and BC loses.
Quote from: gobombersgo on October 25, 2025, 04:47:38 PMWinnipeg is crossing over unless Winnipeg wins and BC loses.
Bombers did their part today.