https://www.bluebombers.com/2026/08/09/need-to-know-week-11-zachs-back/
While I am happy to see him healthy, I'm not sure this is the best thing for him or the team.
Facing a desperate OTT team with "nothing to lose" that is full of players looking to make a name for themselves, it makes Zach more of a target than usual, IMHO.
On the other side, do we need Zach in the lineup to beat OTT?
I guess he's only missed 3 games officially, because they didn't 6 game him at first. Had they done that, he'd be eligible to practice this week, and back in time to face Montreal.
If he had finished his stint on the 6 game, we get $200k in cap space back. That is a lot, either for a Lewis, or to re-sign players.
I am thinking he is healthier than Dru Brown. So the other option is Elgersma. Zach is the right call. If we sleep on this game, it might be the season.
Collaros had $200K in early money, so the savings on the 6 game IR would be $350K / 18 = $120K maybe? Worth saving but the bigger issue is should he even play again. Each new injury adds to that worry.
As far as needing him the answer is probably less since Brown is also nicked
Either way, I'll be happy if he survives the game without getting hurt again. OL needs to play a lot better.
Quote from: Blue In BC on August 10, 2026, 05:08:51 PMI'll be happy if he survives the game without getting hurt again. OL needs to play a lot better.
Ditto. Especially with regard to the O-line.
It's going to be hard for the OL to play any better. Part of it is they are only so good but part of it is there is no speed in the backfield. Cover A+B and if it's not run, attack the slowest starting QB in the league and voila, you've a master defensive strategist against the Bombers for the last two years.
The doctors cleared him to play, so he plays. We need him, and our team will respond and play much better and more inspired football, I fully expect us to beat Ottawa. On the other hand, if he can't go I wouldn't be putting Elgersma in, I'd be going for Perkins, Elgersma has clearly displayed he isn't anywhere near ready to play and if it wasn't for his passport, wouldn't even be on our roster.
Quote from: dd on August 10, 2026, 05:37:10 PMThe doctors cleared him to play, so he plays. We need him, and our team will respond and play much better and more inspired football, I fully expect us to beat Ottawa. On the other hand, if he can't go I wouldn't be putting Elgersma in, I'd be going for Perkins, Elgersma has clearly displayed he isn't anywhere near ready to play and if it wasn't for his passport, wouldn't even be on our roster.
Doctors clear some players when they say are good to go. Need you be reminded of the Grey Cup where we played Schoen and Demski? In any case, there is not a medical test to determine long term concussion problems.
Monty Python: It's only a flesh wound.
The entire season was and will continue to be on the backs of the OL. If they can get healthy and play better, many other pieces fall into place.
Zach needs to play well get 250 yards plus, take a few hits and dust himself off and things maybe slowly get better in Bomberland.
Almost everything needs to go right for us to turn this ship around but it might. 1st step, our leader needs to calm the waters.
ZC8 doesn't play D or OL. And that's were we need the most help. However, some long drives might help our D. But the OL has to be much better.
Quote from: Pigskin on August 10, 2026, 06:29:17 PMZC8 doesn't play D or OL. And that's were we need the most help. However, some long drives might help our D. But the OL has to be much better.
It is amazing how much a good QB can make an OL look good. And vice versa.
I'm not sure our Oline is as bad as it seems, with the QB's they've had behind them of late. It will be interesting to see if they step up a bit in front of ZC8
Quote from: theaardvark on August 10, 2026, 06:32:29 PMIt is amazing how much a good QB can make an OL look good. And vice versa.
I'm not sure our Oline is as bad as it seems, with the QB's they've had behind them of late. It will be interesting to see if they step up a bit in front of ZC8
The O-line was exposed as a weakness last season. A year later, the only upgrade to the unit is Broxton. Bryant and Neufeld are in the twilight of their illustrious careers. The remaining talent and depth don't appear to be hacking it.
I highly doubt Collaros' return is going to magically provide some punch in the arm for the O-line to collectively elevate its game.
Keeping QBs clean and upright has become a struggle for the unit regardless of who's behind centre.
Quote from: blue_gold_84 on August 10, 2026, 06:55:14 PMThe O-line was exposed as a weakness last season. A year later, the only upgrade to the unit is Broxton. Bryant and Neufeld are in the twilight of their illustrious careers. The remaining talent and depth don't appear to be hacking it.
I highly doubt Collaros' return is going to magically provide some punch in the arm for the O-line to collectively elevate its game.
Keeping QBs clean and upright has become a struggle for the unit regardless of who's behind centre.
It's true. And Bryant really should have retired last year. But I also want to point out that the offensive line is a part of the offense and we shouldn't forget that it's an entire unit together that influences the play and results. If you took Rourke (using him as an example of a fresh legged QB not that I think he's so great) and a more versatile running back and put them behind this offensive line they would look much better. With the personnel we have there is so much pressure and stress on them to play perfectly on every play. Brady can only run through the A and B gap and Collaros (and Dru) needs a flawless (or close to it) pocket. That makes it easy on the defense and requires perfection from the line every single play. It's just a such a tough assignment.
Some good banter here, lots of good opinions. Will be so telling how this working out even by half time. Sounds little might be a little wet. Not sure that will play too much into the game plan but if its slick late and we are up, Bbb might be easier to implement in the slop.
Quote from: Blue In BC on August 10, 2026, 05:08:51 PMCollaros had $200K in early money, so the savings on the 6 game IR would be $350K / 18 = $120K maybe? Worth saving but the bigger issue is should he even play again. Each new injury adds to that worry.
As far as needing him the answer is probably less since Brown is also nicked
Either way, I'll be happy if he survives the game without getting hurt again. OL needs to play a lot better.
I'm thinking he would have sat if Brown looked decent. I'd hate to see where this team ends up with the next three games looking like the last three games.
We gotta win this game and split the series with the Riders if we want to stay in playoff contention. It'll be on the road, but heck its better than not making it at all.
Welp, there's one way for Zach to silence his critics, pull a rabbit out of his hat and put in a confidence inspiring performance that resembles the Zach of a few years ago.
Quote from: Throw Long Bannatyne on August 12, 2026, 03:29:01 AMWelp, there's one way for Zach to silence his critics, pull a rabbit out of his hat and put in a confidence inspiring performance that resembles the Zach of a few years ago.
Does Collaros have access to a time machine? The 2022-23 version of that QB is long gone.
Zach will be fine, I have no worries about him performing well of anything his absence taught me to appreciate him even more as I didn't like what I saw in brown and elgersma!! He ll be just fine
If Zach is upright more than on the turf, the OL pulls up the shorts and Brady cooks, he will be aok
Quote from: Throw Long Bannatyne on August 12, 2026, 03:29:01 AMWelp, there's one way for Zach to silence his critics, pull a rabbit out of his hat and put in a confidence inspiring performance that resembles the Zach of a few years ago.
Sling nasty baby
Quote from: Blueforlife on August 12, 2026, 11:13:55 PMIf Zach is upright more than on the turf, the OL pulls up the shorts and Brady cooks, he will be aok
Sling nasty baby
Make sure you have plenty of ammo ready to celebrate anything resembling success at home against an 0-7 team.
Quote from: Sir Blue and Gold on August 13, 2026, 01:46:07 PMMake sure you have plenty of ammo ready to celebrate anything resembling success at home against an 0-7 team.
I am cautiously optimistic about Zach. Worried about the OL a bit.
Zach to start.
Dru Brown has been listed as the backup behind Collaros, while Bryce Perkins remains in the third-string role as Winnipeg's short-yardage quarterback.
Canadian backup Taylor Elgersma, who has played twice this season in a relief role, has been placed on the reserve roster.
Quote from: Ridermania on August 13, 2026, 02:29:47 PMCanadian backup Taylor Elgersma, who has played twice this season in a relief role, has been placed on the reserve roster.
I knew it! The argument was who goes to rr. Clearly Perkins has solidly won the SY job. Elgs is clearly only going to be a long term project.
Quote from: Tecno on August 13, 2026, 02:35:07 PMI knew it! The argument was who goes to rr. Clearly Perkins has solidly won the SY job. Elgs is clearly only going to be a long term project.
You called it. I wanted Taylor on AR but this makes sense. Maybe he can play with a mini football in the locker room with the other guys in the PR lol.
Quote from: Blueforlife on August 13, 2026, 02:11:30 PMWorried about the OL a bit.
This remains my biggest concern with the team right now.
Quote from: Ridermania on August 13, 2026, 02:29:47 PMZach to start.
Dru Brown has been listed as the backup behind Collaros, while Bryce Perkins remains in the third-string role as Winnipeg's short-yardage quarterback.
Canadian backup Taylor Elgersma, who has played twice this season in a relief role, has been placed on the reserve roster.
I think everyone knew that once ZC8 and Brownie were healthy, TE13 was going to be the odd man out.
Quote from: Tecno on August 13, 2026, 02:35:07 PMI knew it! The argument was who goes to rr. Clearly Perkins has solidly won the SY job. Elgs is clearly only going to be a long term project.
Nothing new, that's been the plan since they traded for Brown.
Quote from: Throw Long Bannatyne on August 13, 2026, 05:01:11 PMNothing new, that's been the plan since they traded for Brown.
Agreed.
Quote from: Pigskin on August 13, 2026, 03:56:58 PMI think everyone knew that once ZC8 and Brownie were healthy, TE13 was going to be the odd man out.
I wanted Tayor as #3 for developmental purposes but this decision makes sense
There was debate on where the 4th would go.
I'm going to offer a contrarian view and think Elgersma to the reserve is a bad idea. Collaros is a hit away from missing the season and even if he plays about as good as he did last year it's not nearly good enough to have success this fall.
Brown is probably not the QB of the future and while I think he's probably a bit better than Collaros at this stage when healthy and comfortable he's unlikely win many duals with the premier QBs out there right now.
Elgersma is the only quarterback on the roster with the athleticism, age, and raw potential to be elite at the QB position. Having him dress for games and potentially coming in for whenever Collaros gets hurt again has value and would only help his development.
Don't love it. Especially don't love that it represents the continued choice to keep putting out players who are well past being able to help us while making the younger players watch and be continually flogged by O'Shea's annual rookie humblizer program which does more harm than good.
Quote from: Sir Blue and Gold on August 13, 2026, 07:46:19 PMI'm going to offer a contrarian view and think Elgersma to the reserve is a bad idea. Collaros is a hit away from missing the season and even if he plays about as good as he did last year it's not nearly good enough to have success this fall.
Brown is probably not the QB of the future and while I think he's probably a bit better than Collaros at this stage when healthy and comfortable he's unlikely win many duals with the premier QBs out there right now.
Elgersma is the only quarterback on the roster with the athleticism, age, and raw potential to be elite at the QB position. Having him dress for games and potentially coming in for whenever Collaros gets hurt again has value and would only help his development.
Don't love it. Especially don't love that it represents the continued choice to keep putting out players who are well past being able to help us while making the younger plays watch and be continually flogged by O'Shea's rookie humblizer program which does more harm than good.
I agree with everything here but still think Zach >> Brown. Exactly how I feel but I get the decision. Well said and thanks for sharing, I wonder how many others agree, might be a cool deep dive poll lol.
Browns stock is down right now. Might come up a bit. Taylor is a penny stock in an emerging field lol.
Quote from: Blueforlife on August 13, 2026, 07:51:41 PMI agree with everything here but still think Zach >> Brown. Exactly how I feel but I get the decision. Well said and thanks for sharing, I wonder how many others agree, might be a cool deep dive poll lol.
Browns stock is down right now. Might come up a bit. Taylor is a penny stock in an emerging field lol.
Agree with you. The obvious retort is that Elgersma could be worse. His value is simply in the unknown. But the unknown (hitting the backup lottery ticket) is the only hope for this team in 2026 so I wish we'd try and cash it. If we don't turn up to see what we have no one is going to like where we end up, that much is reasonably clear.
Quote from: Sir Blue and Gold on August 13, 2026, 08:06:22 PMAgree with you. The obvious retort is that Elgersma could be worse. His value is simply in the unknown. But the unknown (hitting the backup lottery ticket) is the only hope for this team in 2026 so I wish we'd try and cash it. If we don't turn up to see what we have no one is going to like where we end up, that much is reasonably clear.
Easier to know what you got if he is on the AR. A good debate.
Quote from: Sir Blue and Gold on August 13, 2026, 07:46:19 PMO'Shea's annual rookie humblizer program
Had to lol at that one. Too true. Though I won't say it's a bad thing, as it seems to have worked over the years.
As for elgs, say you're right. He's hot garbage right now. So we'll lose the next 6, but hope we can stay out of last place to get a crossover? Then he's suddenly gc material? Very unlikely. More likely we just lose everything and miss playoffs.
Now if you wanted to do that and say this is an elgs training year only, maybe you'd have a point. However, how would all the other good players feel about throwing away the season just for elgs? Retention would be a beeeotch come fa27.
And you still have the nagging problem that he might just plain suck forever.
And I don't know why people say he's athletic... He's lumbering, and actually looks less escapable than Zach, which is really saying something.
I think the dp wastage on dru proves without a doubt that elgs is considered a very long term project.
Give him time
I just don't get what some folks see in Elgersma. He has not shown a glimpse or glimmer or anything's no that would suggest he's anything behind centre but still folks seem to think he has potential????Potential to do what? Not fumble the ball, not throw a pick, throw another one hopper?? The guy is TJ Rubley level awful!!!
I guess it's people who watched him play in college. I didn't. But I heard he really lit things up. And since he was in only 3 down programs, in theory he should be able to start sooner than the average IMP.
Clearly, that hasn't materialized yet.
Quote from: dd on August 14, 2026, 05:46:03 AMI just don't get what some folks see in Elgersma. He has not shown a glimpse or glimmer or anything's no that would suggest he's anything behind centre but still folks seem to think he has potential????Potential to do what? Not fumble the ball, not throw a pick, throw another one hopper?? The guy is TJ Rubley level awful!!!
He hasn't had the opportunity to show us anything one way or the other. He's a young guy with a big arm with a good pedigree. We hope he does well in the same way we hope other QB products come in and do well. There typically are not year 1 expectations put on QBs unless something has gone horribly wrong.
But saying he's awful without seeing him play is the same as saying he has potential to be great - you just don't know.
Quote from: Jesse on August 14, 2026, 01:47:53 PMHe hasn't had the opportunity to show us anything one way or the other. He's a young guy with a big arm with a good pedigree. We hope he does well in the same way we hope other QB products come in and do well. There typically are not year 1 expectations put on QBs unless something has gone horribly wrong.
But saying he's awful without seeing him play is the same as saying he has potential to be great - you just don't know.
All true, but we can clearly see he does not have the athleticism of Rourke, Alexander or even Kelly, so how will he compete against them? He looks to be an old school pocket passer with a good arm but poor mobility the likes of Drew Willy, is it even possible to protect him against modern defences?
Modelling him after Trevor Harris or Ricky Ray would take an exceptionally quick mind and years of experience that not many QB's would ever be able to attain. So what's Elgersma's path?
Quote from: Throw Long Bannatyne on August 14, 2026, 02:57:59 PMAll true, but we can clearly see he does not have the athleticism of Rourke, Alexander or even Kelly, so how will he compete against them? He looks to be an old school pocket passer with a good arm but poor mobility the likes of Drew Willy, is it even possible to protect him against modern defences?
Modelling him after Trevor Harris or Ricky Ray would take an exceptionally quick mind and years of experience that not many QB's would ever be able to attain. So what's Elgersma's path?
He's plenty mobile. Or at least significantly more so than Brown or Collaros. He's 2 out of 4 if you're ranking mobility of our QB room. You actually want your young QBs to play from the pocket and not tuck and run before reading it out so I actually think the fact you're regarding him as a pocket passer is a good thing at this stage. Develop there first and then use your legs second.
Elgersma's thrown all of 19 passes for 12 completions, 96 yards, and one TD. In relief duty.
Writing him off at this point in time is pretty unreasonable, especially within the scope of this team's struggles so far this season on offense.
Quote from: dd on August 14, 2026, 05:46:03 AMI just don't get what some folks see in Elgersma. He has not shown a glimpse or glimmer or anything's no that would suggest he's anything behind centre but still folks seem to think he has potential????Potential to do what? Not fumble the ball, not throw a pick, throw another one hopper?? The guy is TJ Rubley level awful!!!
way too harsh, patience pays off, it did with Hall, MOS, management etc. Lots called for their heads early. Comparing him to TJ is disrespectful, fair or accurate imo
Quote from: Jesse on August 14, 2026, 01:47:53 PMHe hasn't had the opportunity to show us anything one way or the other. He's a young guy with a big arm with a good pedigree. We hope he does well in the same way we hope other QB products come in and do well. There typically are not year 1 expectations put on QBs unless something has gone horribly wrong.
But saying he's awful without seeing him play is the same as saying he has potential to be great - you just don't know.
facts, agree all, well said, let him cook and see how his meals are before you says they are bad LOL
Taylor has the tools and resume. Crap shoot if he can be a #1. Willing to wait 2-3 years to find out. Just how it goes. Rare they come on strong from game 1. Like a good brisket, slow smoke it. Might burn a few at 1st but you will serve chef quality after making mistakes LOL.
Quote from: blue_gold_84 on August 14, 2026, 03:37:36 PMElgersma's thrown all of 19 passes for 12 completions, 96 yards, and one TD. In relief duty.
Writing him off at this point in time is pretty unreasonable, especially within the scope of this team's struggles so far this season on offense.
facts are presented above, AC took a few years to learn his craft and became on of best ever
Quote from: Throw Long Bannatyne on August 14, 2026, 02:57:59 PMAll true, but we can clearly see he does not have the athleticism of Rourke, Alexander or even Kelly, so how will he compete against them? He looks to be an old school pocket passer with a good arm but poor mobility the likes of Drew Willy, is it even possible to protect him against modern defences?
Modelling him after Trevor Harris or Ricky Ray would take an exceptionally quick mind and years of experience that not many QB's would ever be able to attain. So what's Elgersma's path?
What?
Quote from: Jesse on August 14, 2026, 04:43:10 PMWhat?
TLB is right. He's one of those limbo qbs, with no real pigeonhole. He could end up looking more like Cody or powell or arbuckle. I guess that would be best case. But he'll never be fast twitch mobile like Alexander and Rourke... And those guys are the ones getting everyone excited.
The good thing is, even a Cody can win a cup it seems!
But there may not be the option of taking forever to dev a pocket passer in today's CFL.
Quote from: Tecno on August 14, 2026, 09:39:42 PMTLB is right. He's one of those limbo qbs, with no real pigeonhole. He could end up looking more like Cody or powell or arbuckle. I guess that would be best case. But he'll never be fast twitch mobile like Alexander and Rourke... And those guys are the ones getting everyone excited.
The good thing is, even a Cody can win a cup it seems!
But there may not be the option of taking forever to dev a pocket passer in today's CFL.
You're doing the same thing as dd, you're ascribing things to him without seeing him play.
Quote from: Jesse on August 14, 2026, 09:49:10 PMYou're doing the same thing as dd, you're ascribing things to him without seeing him play.
Uh, he got basically an entire half in the ham game Zach went out, and a quarter in the bc game. That's quite a lot of looks for a first year kid.
Did he keep us in games and show dynamism like strevy did in his first first year games? Nope.
Even that Love kid in the game last night showed some flashes. Where's elgs flash?
I'm not saying he can't or won't. Just saying he didn't. All of us would have died for first year strevy to be in last game instead of elgs.
You actively said he couldn't, but whatever.
I'll attribute Elgs' half of football to MOS' "lack of balls". When he can only throw to the line of scrimmage, hard to show what you got.
That said, he shouldn't be on the field at all this year unless something has gone horribly wrong - like last time.
Quote from: Tecno on August 14, 2026, 09:39:42 PMTLB is right. He's one of those limbo qbs, with no real pigeonhole. He could end up looking more like Cody or powell or arbuckle. I guess that would be best case. But he'll never be fast twitch mobile like Alexander and Rourke... And those guys are the ones getting everyone excited.
The good thing is, even a Cody can win a cup it seems!
But there may not be the option of taking forever to dev a pocket passer in today's CFL.
I don't think Elgersma is as mobile as any of those QB's including Brown or Collaros, all QB's mentioned so far are fairly light on their feet and prepared to flea when the pocket breaks down, Elgersma just stands there willing to absorb punishment. My QB comparisons would include Taylor Cornelius and Drew Willy, both had good arms but had no ability to scramble when protection broke down. Funny thing is Cornelius could run like a deer once he hit open field and the little DB's could never catch up to him.
I would put Elgs mobility at about what Bo Levi is now at 37 years old. So not too good
So definitely not slippery or elusive like the best QBs in the league are these days
Zach - 21 of 31, 222 yards, 0 TDs 0 INTs
Maier - 28 of 43 for 314 yards, 2 TDs and 1 INT.
Neither looked great. That first deep throw by Zach resulted in laughter from the section. He just doesn't have an arm anymore. It's all over but the hall of fame celebration for Collaros.
Quote from: Jesse on August 14, 2026, 10:33:52 PMYou actively said he couldn't, but whatever.
Sure: Couldn't
NOW. Might
LATER. So I guess we're in full agreement then, based on the other stuff you said about Elgs.
So, we were worried about Zach's neck, but the title of the thread was prophetic.
Zach took a blow to the back that looked bad. He came back in later, but after a day or two, will that blow start to manifest? As well as playing the rest of the game with it.
Because when Zach comes out, it's always precautionary. He could always go back in. Hit the salts, suck it up, and go back in like, you know, every other qb.
They all feel like garbage after a hit like that. It sucks. But it's your job. If you're not concussed, you stay in.
No doubt Zach's age and history make him feel worse than a younger guy, but it's still a choice to exit the game.
We all knew Zach was going out another 4 weeks with that hit yesterday. Everyone. And everyone was saying that's the end of him. And it was.
Then Zach realized all this, had a moment of clarity, and decided if he still wants to play in the CFL, he has to just suck it up. Like every other qb. Because if he went out another 4, then we'd all be right, and the planning for his retirement party would begin.
Quote from: Tecno on August 15, 2026, 11:07:22 PMBecause when Zach comes out, it's always precautionary. He could always go back in. Hit the salts, suck it up, and go back in like, you know, every other qb.
They all feel like garbage after a hit like that. It sucks. But it's your job. If you're not concussed, you stay in.
No doubt Zach's age and history make him feel worse than a younger guy, but it's still a choice to exit the game.
We all knew Zach was going out another 4 weeks with that hit yesterday. Everyone. And everyone was saying that's the end of him. And it was.
Then Zach realized all this, had a moment of clarity, and decided if he still wants to play in the CFL, he has to just suck it up. Like every other qb. Because if he went out another 4, then we'd all be right, and the planning for his retirement party would begin.
This is a pretty borderline post. Ignorantly speculating on a guys health with his concussion history and telling him to suck it up.
He just missed 4 games. Seems a bit more serious than some smelling salts.
Quote from: Jesse on August 16, 2026, 02:26:29 AMThis is a pretty borderline post. Ignorantly speculating on a guys health with his concussion history and telling him to suck it up.
But we all know it's true. That's why Zach's IR report is always "neck", not "concussion" or "seeing stars". It's a nebulous indefinable thing that Zach & the doctors can make any call they want on whether he's good to go or not. The sum total of diagnosis is "how do you feel"?
But whatever, I don't care, let Zach make his choice. He's earned that right. I'm one of his biggest supporters. I think at this stage if he still wants to have a shot, and also want another year in '27, he needs to just suck it up and ignore the damage. The only other choice is retire. He can't be in 0.5 games, out 4, in 0.5 games, out 4. We all saw how teams will just gun for the concussion hit all game every game. So dirty, but it's the smart play. Knock Zach out and you'll beat WPG 50% more often. I promise you that's what's coming when we meet SSK.
I think Trevor Harris made the exact decision I'm talking about. That zombie-walker hit last season was 100% concussion, and I don't care what anybody says. But he got right up and stayed in, and won the game. And didn't miss the next game. Because he knew it's near the end and he has to do extraordinary things to win the cup (or have a job). So he decided his health came after winning. Just as 99% of young QBs do. This is the decision Zach needs to make. And I think we just saw it... he did. And he chose playing/winning.
Otherwise: explain to me why Zach came back in? When has Zach EVER come back in after a hit like that. I watched the 4 weeks ago hit and they are basically the same hit, except the one this week was WORSE. So how do you explain it, other than a conscious choice to choose not to sit out the next 4 weeks for "precaution".
Quote from: Tecno on August 16, 2026, 03:02:59 AMBut we all know it's true. That's why Zach's IR report is always "neck", not "concussion" or "seeing stars". It's a nebulous indefinable thing that Zach & the doctors can make any call they want on whether he's good to go or not. The sum total of diagnosis is "how do you feel"?
But whatever, I don't care, let Zach make his choice. He's earned that right. I'm one of his biggest supporters. I think at this stage if he still wants to have a shot, and also want another year in '27, he needs to just suck it up and ignore the damage. The only other choice is retire. He can't be in 0.5 games, out 4, in 0.5 games, out 4. We all saw how teams will just gun for the concussion hit all game every game. So dirty, but it's the smart play. Knock Zach out and you'll beat WPG 50% more often. I promise you that's what's coming when we meet SSK.
I think Trevor Harris made the exact decision I'm talking about. That zombie-walker hit last season was 100% concussion, and I don't care what anybody says. But he got right up and stayed in, and won the game. And didn't miss the next game. Because he knew it's near the end and he has to do extraordinary things to win the cup (or have a job). So he decided his health came after winning. Just as 99% of young QBs do. This is the decision Zach needs to make. And I think we just saw it... he did. And he chose playing/winning.
Otherwise: explain to me why Zach came back in? When has Zach EVER come back in after a hit like that. I watched the 4 weeks ago hit and they are basically the same hit, except the one this week was WORSE. So how do you explain it, other than a conscious choice to choose not to sit out the next 4 weeks for "precaution".
I agree, Zach knew if he didn't go back in, his job as the starter was in deep jeopardy, another 3-4 weeks off and management contemplates hard decisions. I was surprised and disturbed when he returned so quickly because I thought Brown was playing quite well. Haven't seen Zach play with that level of desperation in a long time, with how this season has been going he's got to know he's one big hit away from missing the playoffs and the end of the line.
Quote from: Throw Long Bannatyne on August 16, 2026, 03:47:57 AMI agree, Zach knew if he didn't go back in, his job as the starter was in deep jeopardy, another 3-4 weeks off and management contemplates hard decisions. I was surprised and disturbed when he returned so quickly because I thought Brown was playing quite well. Haven't seen Zach play with that level of desperation in a long time, with how this season has been going he's got to know he's one big hit away from missing the playoffs and the end of the line.
Agree with most of this from both of you, I just don't think we know Zach took the same damage with this hit that he had from the last one that took him out 4 games. It is speculation at best. Yes this hit looked worse, it's just impossible to know what it did compared to the previous one.
This one could've knocked the wind out of him much more, but spared the whiplash that creates the neck issues. That would make sense since he did come back fairly quickly.
Of course it could be he decided to throw caution to the wind to give him a bit of an extension on his playing and not retiring. But nothing we saw with the hit can be seen as evidence of that, so it is all speculation.
Quote from: Big Daddy on August 16, 2026, 04:27:35 AMOf course it could be he decided to throw caution to the wind to give him a bit of an extension on his playing and not retiring. But nothing we saw with the hit can be seen as evidence of that, so it is all speculation.
Of course, the whole forum is speculation, except for the small amount of actual news reporting. But it's useful to deal in the realm of "probable" and common sense.
But we all know that if you put your pinky on Zach and going "doink!" he goes out of the game. We all know it. That's why we hold our breathes everytime anyone touches him at all. But that didn't happen this time.
I'm going to do my normal rewatch/grading of the game and when I get to the hit I'll do a deep dive and compare with the hit 1 month ago. We should be able to tell frame-by-frame how similar they were, and how Zach's neck reacted. That should help clear things up a bit.
P.S. in response to another post: I'm not telling Zach to "suck it up"
for me, I'm telling Zach to suck it up if he wants to keep playing and/or have a last GC shot. It's wholly his choice, and I won't begrudge him either way. It's just that it's a choice he HAS to now make.
If you've been hit in the back and lost all the air in your lungs, then you know it hurts like hades but you're ready to go back into the game pretty quickly. IMO that's what happened to Zach.
Quote from: TBURGESS on August 16, 2026, 03:38:05 PMIf you've been hit in the back and lost all the air in your lungs, then you know it hurts like hades but you're ready to go back into the game pretty quickly. IMO that's what happened to Zach.
Yes that's what he said happened post game on CJOB I believe.
He also said he would be sore tomorrow.
Hopefully the neck doesn't tighten up too much as a result and he can continue his rehab and stay healthy.
I think it's seriously time for the Bombers to cut Collaros for his own good. Seeing him hit like that, given his history of concussions and other injuries is disturbing. I keep thinking that he is the type of guy who is going to wind up with CTE in 20 years. God bless him.
Then again, I could be overreacting. I get flashbacks of the 90s Flyers and what they put players through.."If you have a heartbeat, you can play!" lol
Quote from: Sir Blue and Gold on August 15, 2026, 04:28:58 AMZach - 21 of 31, 222 yards, 0 TDs 0 INTs
Maier - 28 of 43 for 314 yards, 2 TDs and 1 INT.
Neither looked great. That first deep throw by Zach resulted in laughter from the section. He just doesn't have an arm anymore. It's all over but the hall of fame celebration for Collaros.
Our receivers are waiting for the football on anything over 40 yds....kind of explains why we don't do the deep shots like some are calling for, what for, our Qb can't throw a deep ball!! Stick to what you can do.
Quote from: jets4life on August 16, 2026, 10:08:41 PMI think it's seriously time for the Bombers to cut Collaros for his own good. Seeing him hit like that, given his history of concussions and other injuries is disturbing. I keep thinking that he is the type of guy who is going to wind up with CTE in 20 years. God bless him.
I'd be surprised if all athletes that play contact sports don't end up with varying degrees of CTE, some much worse than others,such as MMA and boxers. It's just a matter of allowing their brains to be examined after death by the people doing the research, Bobby Hull and Stan Makita donated their brains and high levels of CTE development were found in both.
Quote from: dd on August 16, 2026, 10:21:19 PMOur receivers are waiting for the football on anything over 40 yds....kind of explains why we don't do the deep shots like some are calling for, what for, our Qb can't throw a deep ball!! Stick to what you can do.
You're right. It just sucks because in his head he can make that play. It's there. And then he can't. And then the defense scouts that and they end up coming downhill a ton more and everything gets squeezed. It's unfortunate but this season has got to be it. It will only get worse.
Quote from: jets4life on August 16, 2026, 10:08:41 PMI think it's seriously time for the Bombers to cut Collaros for his own good. Seeing him hit like that, given his history of concussions and other injuries is disturbing.
Can't. Won't work. If we cut Zach tomorrow, OTT signs him 5 mins later and he's getting even more concussed there.
If he wants to play, you let him play. Free will and personal responsibility. And who are we to take away his bread and butter. He's got a lovely family to look after, and once the 600k paychecks dry up it might be slim pickings.
Never in a million years do we cut Collaros, he's a hall of famer for what he's done in Winnipeg alone, such an idea is crazy talk.
Quote from: jets4life on August 16, 2026, 10:08:41 PMI think it's seriously time for the Bombers to cut Collaros for his own good. Seeing him hit like that, given his history of concussions and other injuries is disturbing. I keep thinking that he is the type of guy who is going to wind up with CTE in 20 years. God bless him.
Then again, I could be overreacting. I get flashbacks of the 90s Flyers and what they put players through.."If you have a heartbeat, you can play!" lol
Serious time to understand our leader will not be cut. Great way to give up on the season and guarantee failure. It ain't over till the fat lady sings.
Zach will never be cut, or not offered a new contract. He has meant too much to the team. Not saying he should play... I still think leaving him on the 6 game, we would have won against OTT without him, and the Esks would be a toss up sans Zach, and coming back after 6 weeks of no hits, I think he'd be in much better shape to face the end of the season, playoffs, rested.
Quote from: theaardvark on August 17, 2026, 03:27:12 PMZach will never be cut, or not offered a new contract. He has meant too much to the team. Not saying he should play... I still think leaving him on the 6 game, we would have won against OTT without him, and the Esks would be a toss up sans Zach, and coming back after 6 weeks of no hits, I think he'd be in much better shape to face the end of the season, playoffs, rested.
Can only take it one game at a time, 50% chance he gets swacked again in the Elks game, question is does he get up and continue playing or go stand on the sidelines for the rest of the game looking pensive? So not good odds, at some point the team needs Brown to step up and show he's capable of taking over and winning more games than he loses, in no realm of the imagination is this year's version Grey Cup bound.
Quote from: Blueforlife on August 17, 2026, 03:33:59 AMSerious time to understand our leader will not be cut. Great way to give up on the season and guarantee failure. It ain't over till the fat lady sings.
The fat lady is warming up over the next 2 games, Edmonton and Montreal.
Quote from: Blue In BC on August 17, 2026, 05:12:21 PMThe fat lady is warming up over the next 2 games, Edmonton and Montreal.
She may lose her voice!!
I prefer to let the games play out before I determine who is singing the blues lol
Quote from: theaardvark on August 17, 2026, 03:27:12 PMZach will never be cut, or not offered a new contract. He has meant too much to the team. Not saying he should play... I still think leaving him on the 6 game, we would have won against OTT without him
You're assuming all else is equal. It's not. OTT D had to defend the whole field for Zach. With dru in they only have to defend about 20y in every direction.
This is part of the reason Brady was more open and had more space.
Zach being in changes everything.
Quote from: Tecno on August 18, 2026, 02:40:11 AMYou're assuming all else is equal. It's not. OTT D had to defend the whole field for Zach. With dru in they only have to defend about 20y in every direction.
This is part of the reason Brady was more open and had more space.
Zach being in changes everything.
Not sure why you'd say Dru has a 20yd window. Maybe Condell isn't calling as many deep throws, but there is no doube Dru has every bit the armstrength Zach does, and has enough experience that you can open the playbook for him.
Quote from: theaardvark on August 19, 2026, 03:40:32 PMNot sure why you'd say Dru has a 20yd window. Maybe Condell isn't calling as many deep throws, but there is no doube Dru has every bit the armstrength Zach does, and has enough experience that you can open the playbook for him.
Agree, Brown has shown in the past he has very good ball placement, not going to judge his arm by one poorly planned outing.
Yes, when dru was in for us we didn't let him play the whole field. Thus the flat wasn't as open.
Not saying dru can't... But whether he can or not is irrelevant if we won't let him chuck it.
How many weeks of dru starting would mafia require before giving him the whole field? So yes, what I posted about Zach is completely true.
Dru threw 4 picks on 8 tries 20+, which is 1 more than he completed. It's not that we didn't give him a chance. It's that he didn't well with the chances he had.
Yeah, it was really only in the BC game we stopped allowing him to make deeper attempts. That whole game was played like they didn't think they needed to try.
The question we should be asking is has Zach Collaros done enough to warrant a swan song year even though it's going to end in disaster? Ditto for Bryant who's play is at least only largely getting Collaros hit more which seems like a closed feedback loop of decision making that prioritizes honoring the player instead of winning.
I suppose the question is: are you entertained? O'Shea likely doesn't care either way.
We can be assured that Collaros is not the starter next year, and Bryant not the LT.
Broxton is the LT, for sure.
Is it Dru at QB? Does Tyler get a shot? Can we give Perkins some meaningful reps yet?
Or do we see Diego Pavia give the CFL a shot?
Thank you Zach for the GC's, but you know, its time.
Zach has shown these struggles since the second half of 2023, the Edmonton game in late August that year where he went out due to injury. Its been 3 years of these type of performances and fans debating about him. This needs to be his last year.
Quote from: theaardvark on August 22, 2026, 05:28:22 PMWe can be assured that Collaros is not the starter next year, and Bryant not the LT.
Broxton is the LT, for sure.
I would not bet money on Zach not starting next season. He's still better than Dru, though maybe not by much. And if we start Dru all '27 we aren't going to be a great team. If we cut Zach and he still wants to play, another team will pick him up as backup, or he'll start in a dumpster-fire team like HAM or OTT.
Yes, there is no way Stan plays another year -- his fast twitch & reflexes are shot. It's not him, it's just age. We've found the upper limit for even the CFL all-time best OL, and that limit is his current age minus 1.
Yes, Broxton goes back to LT -- and all that RT run block development gets flushed into the toilet and we're back to square one with a new guy.
Quote from: Tecno on August 23, 2026, 02:43:47 AMI would not bet money on Zach not starting next season. He's still better than Dru, though maybe not by much. And if we start Dru all '27 we aren't going to be a great team. If we cut Zach and he still wants to play, another team will pick him up as backup, or he'll start in a dumpster-fire team like HAM or OTT.
Yes, there is no way Stan plays another year -- his fast twitch & reflexes are shot. It's not him, it's just age. We've found the upper limit for even the CFL all-time best OL, and that limit is his current age minus 1.
Yes, Broxton goes back to LT -- and all that RT run block development gets flushed into the toilet and we're back to square one with a new guy.
It would seem really odd to bring Zach back for another season if he continues to underperform this year. Like what is the point of continuing on in a losing direction? This year was supposed to be his chance at redemption, given a fair opportunity to show he can still compete with the best QB's in the league, yet he continues to fall short. For better or worse I think the ball will be handed off to Brown next season whether he's better or not, it's time to ditch Zach's huge contract and invest it elsewhere.
Quote from: Tecno on August 23, 2026, 02:43:47 AMI would not bet money on Zach not starting next season. He's still better than Dru, though maybe not by much. And if we start Dru all '27 we aren't going to be a great team. If we cut Zach and he still wants to play, another team will pick him up as backup, or he'll start in a dumpster-fire team like HAM or OTT.
This team isn't great with either QB behind centre. Relying on Collaros beyond this season seems pretty foolish, though.
Quote from: blue_gold_84 on August 24, 2026, 02:34:55 PMThis team isn't great with either QB behind centre. Relying on Collaros beyond this season seems pretty foolish, though.
Not sure relying on Collaros THIS season isn't foolish. The difference between losing with Collaros and losing with Dru/Bryce is that in the second instance, we get live fire development.
I hope that we start seeing more platooning of QB's the rest of the year. Save some mileage on Zach for the playoffs. Put Dru or Bryce in for a series once a half, or even once a quarter. Make the D make adjustments, and if one shows a hot hand, they get the second half. Or until they stall.
It's so weird that we make adjustments at RB or Rec based on the hot hand, but never at QB. Its not like we have a QB room with 1, 2, 3 definitively placed. Sure, when he's on, Zach is the #1, but most of the time its a 1A/1B with Dru, and I'm not sure Bryce isn't 1C. Not because Dru or Bryce at that great, but because 2026 Zach really isn't.
Quote from: theaardvark on August 27, 2026, 04:24:01 PMNot sure relying on Collaros THIS season isn't foolish. The difference between losing with Collaros and losing with Dru/Bryce is that in the second instance, we get live fire development.
I hope that we start seeing more platooning of QB's the rest of the year. Save some mileage on Zach for the playoffs. Put Dru or Bryce in for a series once a half, or even once a quarter. Make the D make adjustments, and if one shows a hot hand, they get the second half. Or until they stall.
It's so weird that we make adjustments at RB or Rec based on the hot hand, but never at QB. Its not like we have a QB room with 1, 2, 3 definitively placed. Sure, when he's on, Zach is the #1, but most of the time its a 1A/1B with Dru, and I'm not sure Bryce isn't 1C. Not because Dru or Bryce at that great, but because 2026 Zach really isn't.
I doubt we see any platooning of QB's this year. If we lose another couple of games we may see a line drawn in the sand choosing the " next " starter. Spin the wheel and choose one.
Our QB play has not been great but it's not the only problem as we all know. OC, DC and overall talent are problems.
Quote from: Blue In BC on August 27, 2026, 04:35:23 PMI doubt we see any platooning of QB's this year. If we lose another couple of games we may see a line drawn in the sand choosing the " next " starter. Spin the wheel and choose one.
Our QB play has not been great but it's not the only problem as we all know. OC, DC and overall talent are problems.
Yeah we have what we will play. There won't be wheel spinning though, we will play them in order but at the same time I would give all three a taste if we tank.
Quote from: theaardvark on August 27, 2026, 04:24:01 PMNot sure relying on Collaros THIS season isn't foolish. The difference between losing with Collaros and losing with Dru/Bryce is that in the second instance, we get live fire development.
I hope that we start seeing more platooning of QB's the rest of the year. Save some mileage on Zach for the playoffs. Put Dru or Bryce in for a series once a half, or even once a quarter. Make the D make adjustments, and if one shows a hot hand, they get the second half. Or until they stall.
It's so weird that we make adjustments at RB or Rec based on the hot hand, but never at QB. Its not like we have a QB room with 1, 2, 3 definitively placed. Sure, when he's on, Zach is the #1, but most of the time its a 1A/1B with Dru, and I'm not sure Bryce isn't 1C. Not because Dru or Bryce at that great, but because 2026 Zach really isn't.
When have you ever seen adjustments at RB or WR?
Quote from: Jesse on August 27, 2026, 11:02:28 PMWhen have you ever seen adjustments at RB or WR?
Not adjustments at who plays, but who gets the touches. And every game we see adjustments as to who gets the most targets, and how many touches Brady gets, quarter by quarter.