Looking at the schedule ahead for the Bombers, one could consider this is a game they have to win. Coming off two straight losses, playing in front of a home crowd, with all of the west in the mix for a playoff position.
The latest injury report lists Oliviera, Demski, Nichols and Kramdi as questionable but consider it likely that all will be on the field Friday.
Ed Tait refers to this game as "an 'Exciting Development Opportunity.'. His comments are in the latest 48-Hour Primer (https://www.bluebombers.com/2026/08/26/48-hour-primer-facing-montreals-imposing-offence/) which is a good read.
Not a lot to add here but much to address on the field as Montreal prepares to come, no doubt loaded for bear!
Let's get at it! Go Bombers!
If the BB can't play 4 quarters of football, the Als will crush them.
Derek Taylor:
No changes for the Bombers this week but Deatrick Nichols is a game-time decision.
Redha Kramdi was listed as Questionable. He remains on the 6-Game injured list for a 5th game.
QuoteIf the BB can't play 4 quarters of football, the Als will crush them.
You're right and let's go face it, we haven't played four quarters of football yet this year, and arguably last year as well, so I fully expect a butt whuppin this game.
(https://pbs.twimg.com/media/HQvS3tHXQAACKBP?format=jpg&name=large)
I dont know why I even bother to look at the depth chart, every time it just p****s me off.
We lose a game and make no changes
Our offense once again became stagnant and we do nothing.
We continue to trot out lbs who basically only play special teams
For Pete's sake at least make some moves to show that the previous games performance wasn't satisfactory and stop making like ostriches and take your heads out of the ground
Let's hope Nichols is off and Texada gets a shot.
Quote from: Pete on August 27, 2026, 02:50:02 PMI dont know why I even bother to look at the depth chart, every time it just p****s me off.
We lose a game and make no changes
Our offense once again became stagnant and we do nothing.
We continue to trot out lbs who basically only play special teams
For Pete's sake at least make some moves to show that the previous games performance wasn't satisfactory and stop making like ostriches and take your heads out of the ground
The LBs rotate and play more than teams. The criticism on how we roster LBs is overstated. We are developing the next gen through rotation and play on teams. It will pay off. I would like changes too but we don't have many better options on the PR imo to improve this club. I would like us to sign a FS and a HB.
Good decision on Kramdi, not worth rushing back a key cog. Others said save the SMS, makes sense.
We will get whipped, likely. Do we have a chance, yes if we play like we did 1st half, OL plays well, Brady cooks all game and Zach slings. Oh yes and we need #1d back somehow someway, tall tall order LOL. Ok and a couple turnovers for pts and ST scores LOL.
Quote from: Blueforlife on August 27, 2026, 03:25:25 PMNah let's hope he is ok to play (and 100%) as is > Texada, that said I would be ok with him playing if Nichols is nicked. He has promise. Not a good game to test a new face imo.The LBs rotate and play more than teams. The criticism on how we roster LBs is overstated. We are developing the next gen through rotation and play on teams. It will pay off. I would like changes too but we don't have many better options on the PR imo to improve this club. I would like us to sign a FS and a HB.
Good decision on Kramdi, not worth rushing back a key cog. Others said save the SMS, makes sense.
We will get whipped, likely. Do we have a chance, yes if we play like we did 1st half, OL plays well, Brady cooks all game and Zach slings. Oh yes and we need #1d back somehow someway, tall tall order LOL. Ok and a couple turnovers for pts and ST scores LOL.
You must be watching different games than the rest of us.
Quote from: Pete on August 27, 2026, 02:50:02 PMI dont know why I even bother to look at the depth chart, every time it just p****s me off.
We lose a game and make no changes
Our offense once again became stagnant and we do nothing.
We continue to trot out lbs who basically only play special teams
For Pete's sake at least make some moves to show that the previous games performance wasn't satisfactory and stop making like ostriches and take your heads out of the ground
No surprises once again. When will it end, this is depressing. Nichols probably plays @ 60%. At worst we should have added Texada as a DI in place of Hazen in case he can't finish the game.
5 or 6 players that can't participate fully in practice every day and we trot them out without adding in game injury insurance from the PR.
Quote from: Blue In BC on August 27, 2026, 03:51:37 PMYou must be watching different games than the rest of us.
Nah, Nichols has struggled but is > Texada. Texada hasn't played, you must be confusing practice with games LOL.
Your statement isn't factual and really doesn't reflect anything about what I have posted nor does it provide any value to this topic imo. I think allowing space for everyone's take on the team, roster, etc is important. I have heard the you are watching different games jab before, no need to be like that. Counter arguments are more welcome imo.
Texada in for Hazen I am in for.
If Nichols is 60% he better not play! I doubt he would in that case.
Quote from: Blueforlife on August 27, 2026, 03:25:25 PMNah let's hope he is ok to play (and 100%) as is > Texada, that said I would be ok with him playing if Nichols is nicked. He has promise. Not a good game to test a new face imo.The LBs rotate and play more than teams. The criticism on how we roster LBs is overstated. We are developing the next gen through rotation and play on teams. It will pay off. I would like changes too but we don't have many better options on the PR imo to improve this club. I would like us to sign a FS and a HB.
Good decision on Kramdi, not worth rushing back a key cog. Others said save the SMS, makes sense.
We will get whipped, likely. Do we have a chance, yes if we play like we did 1st half, OL plays well, Brady cooks all game and Zach slings. Oh yes and we need #1d back somehow someway, tall tall order LOL. Ok and a couple turnovers for pts and ST scores LOL.
Ayers and Hazen hardly see any regular reps, and meanwhile Zac struggles to find open targets, a player such as singer who is quick enough to get open early and get yak yards would be an asset
There also seems to be little repercussions for players playing poorly on this team
Quote from: Pete on August 27, 2026, 04:14:26 PMAyers and Hazen hardly see any regular reps, and meanwhile Zac struggles to find open targets, a player such as singer who is quick enough to get open early and get yak yards would be an asset
There also seems to be little repercussions for players playing poorly on this team
Ayers get some reps but others would know better than me. I noticed him in prev. games hard to know! Hazen no clue. The offense has a lot of issues and you are right about Zach but I am find waiting on Singer. He might be good but I don't think he would be an upgrade and would create another roster move which would be likely a greater impact than he would have (at least at 1st). I expect Singer to come on late in the season and hope he shines (or if we have an injury).
agree about the repercussions.
Quote from: Pete on August 27, 2026, 04:14:26 PMThere also seems to be little repercussions for players playing poorly on this team
What "repercussions" would you like to see?
Quote from: Blueforlife on August 27, 2026, 04:04:23 PMNah, Nichols has struggled but is > Texada. Texada hasn't played, you must be confusing practice with games LOL.
Your statement isn't factual and really doesn't reflect anything about what I have posted nor does it provide any value to this topic imo. I think allowing space for everyone's take on the team, roster, etc is important. I have heard the you are watching different games jab before, no need to be like that. Counter arguments are more welcome imo.
Texada in for Hazen I am in for.
If Nichols is 60% he better not play! I doubt he would in that case.
Nichols has not played well in most of 2026. He may have been struggling with an injury all season. The fact he hasn't been able to practice at full all week and is a GTD means he is not 100%.
A healthy Nichols is better than Texada but that's not the question.
Texada played fairly well in pre season. How he looks in practice IDK since I'm in Vancouver. The point of the PR is to have alternatives for players that are injured.
I'm guessing Nichols plays whether he's at 60% or 80%. It's O'Shea's MO.
Quote from: Blue In BC on August 27, 2026, 04:42:59 PMNichols has not played well in most of 2026. He may have been struggling with an injury all season. The fact he hasn't been able to practice at full all week and is a GTD means he is not 100%.
A healthy Nichols is better than Texada but that's not the question.
Texada played fairly well in pre season. How he looks in practice IDK since I'm in Vancouver. The point of the PR is to have alternatives for players that are injured.
I'm guessing Nichols plays whether he's at 60% or 80%. It's O'Shea's MO.
Nichols will play if medically cleared, that's not MOS call. Your other points are on point LOL.
Would be interesting to know how he looks in practice for those that go.
Interesting if he has been nicked (most of year). Never thought of that.
I wouldn't play him unless 90% plus, ideally 100. I hate when you re-injury. Sometimes though like Brady like could just be nicked all year and nurse it and deal with it in the offseason. Hope not.
I am with the group sharing frustration with the roster usage. It was not good enough last week, and we are again leaving the offence sooooo thin....
The offence has nothing everything get's thrown to the defence and special teams....I don't think you could find one sanely rational CFL pundit that believes our receiving core is good enough, couple that with one Canadian back-up for all spots, with Demski still hobbled by his bum ankle.
Then we have the o-line....one back-up in Eli, who is not fully healthy himself and Bryant who is 40 injured and missing ton's of practice time himself.....
Oh and lets also start/play 6 CDN's or 7 on offence, even though the CDN's we are playing are arguably not the best at their positions on the roster.....that way we can stack the defence....except the defence isn't stacked and is actually mediocre....oh and it features 3 CDN starters also...so there is really no need to have 6/7 starting on offence.....pretty sure we will get that free 2nd round pick again....yahhh...it sure has helps us that last few years!
Don't worry though Vaval, is our only true DB back-up with Nichols being a GTD, yes let's potentially hamper our special teams....our only really good unit we employee I mean Chris IKE is CDN so if he has to return, it's even more CDN snaps, not like we have a guy on the PR that can return or anything......or we could put Hallett out at weakside HB, a great CDN special teamer, it's not like MTRL is a prolific passing team anyway....just think of those extra CDN snaps...that wouldn't be setting Hallett up for failure at all, no I mean he has all those quality snaps before at that position... right...right....
Don't worry about all that though we still managed to get 10 LB's on the roster...whew I was so worried we might take off a LB this week.....Our special teams coverage will again be tops in the league...with that being so good, and all that rotation Younger can employee to confuse our guys...errr I mean the other team....who really acres about the offence anyway....
Quote from: Blueforlife on August 27, 2026, 04:43:56 PMNichols will play if medically cleared, that's not MOS call. Your other points are on point LOL.
Would be interesting to know how he looks in practice for those that go.
Not exactly. He's cleared because he did have some practice and is a GTD. At that point O'Shea and Younger will make the final call.
O'Shea always uses the phrase " next man up " and their all " starters ". If Texada is NOT that guy we've had since TC to find a better player even to compete on the PR. So far NADA.
Quote from: 3rdand1.5 on August 27, 2026, 04:48:29 PMI am with the group sharing frustration with the roster usage. It was not good enough last week, and we are again leaving the offence sooooo thin....
The offence has nothing everything get's thrown to the defence and special teams....I don't think you could find one sanely rational CFL pundit that believes our receiving core is good enough, couple that with one Canadian back-up for all spots, with Demski still hobbled by his bum ankle.
Then we have the o-line....one back-up in Eli, who is not fully healthy himself and Bryant who is 40 injured and missing ton's of practice time himself.....
Oh and lets also start/play 6 CDN's or 7 on offence, even though the CDN's we are playing are arguably not the best at their positions on the roster.....that way we can stack the defence....except the defence isn't stacked and is actually mediocre....oh and it features 3 CDN starters also...so there is really no need to have 6/7 starting on offence.....pretty sure we will get that free 2nd round pick again....yahhh...it sure has helps us that last few years!
Don't worry though Vaval, is our only true DB back-up with Nichols being a GTD, yes let's potentially hamper our special teams....our only really good unit we employee I mean Chris IKE is CDN so if he has to return, it's even more CDN snaps, not like we have a guy on the PR that can return or anything......or we could put Hallett out at weakside HB, a great CDN special teamer, it's not like MTRL is a prolific passing team anyway....just think of those extra CDN snaps...that wouldn't be setting Hallett up for failure at all, no I mean he has all those quality snaps before at that position... right...right....
Don't worry about all that though we still managed to get 10 LB's on the roster...whew I was so worried we might take off a LB this week.....Our special teams coverage will again be tops in the league...with that being so good, and all that rotation Younger can employee to confuse our guys...errr I mean the other team....who really acres about the offence anyway....
Yep. Well said and I think most agree with your concerns.
Quote from: Blue In BC on August 27, 2026, 04:51:20 PMNot exactly. He's cleared because he did have some practice and is a GTD. At that point O'Shea and Younger will make the final call.
O'Shea always uses the phrase " next man up " and their all " starters ". If Texada is NOT that guy we've had since TC to find a better player even to compete on the PR. So far NADA.
Interesting, not sure how it works for all scenarios, I know Brady said needs to get treated and cleared by medical 1st but a grey area when practicing all week, GTD might be a different thing as well, would be interesting to know who is involved in the different situations. I know players often get shots late just before warm up, has happened with Brady pretty sure as he came out late a few games ago. They might just count on Vaval before Texada. I'll be watching for Nichols and Brady an hour before and will post here what I see. I might be too busy snacking to remember LOL. Usually leave my phone along during the game. Who else should I look for that might be nicked?
I think the medical staff is more involved in these decisions than some believe but you point out some interesting stuff.
I think Texada will stick around a couple more years, sure hope he works out.
(https://pbs.twimg.com/media/HQvSs0_XEAErP5-?format=jpg&name=large)
I don't have the energy to complain anymore. Pete and 3rd and 1.5 said it all for me. I gave away my tickets to this one. I want to be able to turn it off at half time if it goes the way I expect. I'm ok with a bad team thats working to get better and trying new things. I'm not ok with MOS playing back this mediocre group week after week. He's lost the plot.
Deatrick Nichols game-time decision for Winnipeg Blue Bombers against Alouettes
https://3downnation.com/2026/08/27/deatrick-nichols-game-time-decision-for-winnipeg-blue-bombers-against-alouettes/
Justin Lawrence returns for Montreal Alouettes against Blue Bombers
The Montreal Alouettes will have Canadian offensive lineman Justin Lawrence back in the lineup when they visit the Winnipeg Blue Bombers on Friday night. The team released its official depth chart on Thursday.
The 30-year-old suffered an ankle injury against the Hamilton Tiger-Cats in Week 1. He has since missed nine straight games
The native of Spruce Grove, Alta. was originally a fifth-round pick in the 2018 CFL Draft by the Calgary Stampeders. He spent three seasons with the team before stints with the Toronto Argonauts and Alouettes.
The six-foot-one, 308-pound blocker has played 107 career regular-season CFL games. He is a two-time All-East Division selection and three-time Grey Cup champion.
Cyrille Hogan-Saindon, who replaced Lawrence at centre, will remain in the starting role. Lawrence will dress as a backup this week.
In a corresponding move, the Alouettes have placed Canadian offensive lineman Braydon Noll on the reserve roster.
Montreal has also placed rookie linebacker Donovan Manuel and defensive back Faion Hicks on the practice roster.
Manuel has made one defensive tackle and two special teams tackles over six regular-season games this year, while Hicks has made five defensive tackles and one forced fumble over five regular-season games.
The Alouettes have made no other changes to their roster for this week's game in Winnipeg.
The Montreal Alouettes (9-1) will visit the Winnipeg Blue Bombers (5-5) at Princess Auto Stadium on Friday, August 28 with kickoff scheduled for 8:30 p.m. EDT. Last week, the Alouettes torched the Ottawa Redblacks, while the Blue Bombers suffered a second-half collapse to lose to the Edmonton Elks.
The weather forecast in Winnipeg calls for a high of 25 degrees and a mix of sun and cloud. The game will be broadcast on TSN and RDS in Canada, and CFL+ internationally. Radio listeners can tune-in on TSN 690 (English) or 99.5 Montreal (French) in Montreal or CJOB 680 in Winnipeg.
https://3downnation.com/2026/08/27/justin-lawrence-returns-for-montreal-alouettes-against-blue-bombers/
I will add this to my previous rant, as the MTRL depth chart is now here....Look at that 2 back-up O-lineman, 2 back-up receivers, and 2 back-up BD's......oh and receiver and DB, both feature designated American's.....4 starting Canadians on offence, but they have the ability to DA snaps on offence, if they choose...and 3 starting CDN's on defence again with the ability to DA snaps if they choose....But only 7 LB's...weak...they must suck at special teams....
It almost feels like they maximized the roster flexibility and are covered for injuries and have given themselves the ability to use the DA rules situationally if they need......silly them just think of all those CDN snaps they won't be employing, they have no chance at that extra 2nd round pick at all....Let's all point and laugh at them for balancing their roster and using the rules allowed to put their best roster together.....it's not like it has been leading them to success....errr oh wait...I mean does the score even matter anyway it is after all the CFL...yah C for Canadian, clearly our roster features more Canadians...so yah...boooya..MTRL!
Agreed. Maas has been eating O'Shea's lunch these last couple years. Not only is the roster construction better his player personnel decisions are significantly better.
Just look how he handled the Davis situation. Fajardo was out despite winning a Grey Cup and Alexander was in.
It's all about winning in Montreal. The same is not true in Winnipeg with O'Shea. He's a culture guy but the culture is more important than the results. It's getting very, very old very fast.
Quote from: Sir Blue and Gold on August 27, 2026, 05:40:15 PMAgreed. Maas has been eating O'Shea's lunch these last couple years. Not only is the roster construction better his player personnel decisions are significantly better.
Just look how he handled the Davis situation. Fajardo was out despite winning a Grey Cup and Alexander was in.
It's all about winning in Montreal. The same is not true in Winnipeg with O'Shea. He's a culture guy but the culture is more important than the results. It's getting very, very old very fast.
To That I Can Only Say AMEN!!!!!
Quote from: blue_gold_84 on August 27, 2026, 04:21:12 PMWhat "repercussions" would you like to see?
Cut their playing time or move them to injured list or pr. In certain cases where performance continues to decline cut them
We cant afford to carry players just cause they are vets
Win lose or draw (ok wait no ties), it's always a great outing and the weather looks good, hope the crowd comes, the fair weather fans starting to show their true colours. A packed house does matter. I didn't even need my ear plugs last game. LETS GO BOMBERS.
The beauty of this league is that you can always enjoy the talent on the other side of the field and they are stacked. Ding ding, should be fun. A tight game would be great.
Bombers could never win again and I'll keep going. The CFL is just so special and the game is changing. Not the time to skip.
Quote from: Pete on August 27, 2026, 05:44:00 PMCut their playing time or move them to injured list or pr. In certain cases where performance continues to decline cut them
We cant afford to carry players just cause they are vets
I agree on vets not getting free passes, but I don't think arbitrary punishment like that would solve anything.
Quote from: blue_gold_84 on August 27, 2026, 07:11:03 PMI agree on vets not getting free passes, but I don't think arbitrary punishment like that would solve anything.
Not really arbitrary more like identifying players that are hurting you and doing something about it
Quote from: Pete on August 27, 2026, 08:46:24 PMNot really arbitrary more like identifying players that are hurting you and doing something about it
What do you think that would accomplish, would they win more games? Might work if they had better players waiting to take their place, but I don't think that's the case. Come up with a list of players that deserve to sit and we can examine the backup plan.
Quote from: Throw Long Bannatyne on August 27, 2026, 08:51:43 PMWhat do you think that would accomplish, would they win more games? Might work if they had better players waiting to take their place, but I don't think that's the case. Come up with a list of players that deserve to sit and we can examine the backup plan.
Sit K. Wilson and insert Tezino who was a standout in the UFL. Side to side LB.
Add vanderpool and let Bryant get healthy same with Nichols get well and put Vaval in with Singer to help on returns.( If the replacements end up being better make rhe move)
In terms of backups if they aren't good enough bring in some new players
.all we seem to bring in is linebackers.
We should be looking at safety as well as Kelly is mediocre at best
Quote from: Blue In BC on August 27, 2026, 09:43:34 PMSit K. Wilson and insert Tezino who was a standout in the UFL. Side to side LB.
Tezino has been with the team for about a week, do you really believe that would work?
Quote from: Throw Long Bannatyne on August 27, 2026, 08:51:43 PMWhat do you think that would accomplish, would they win more games? Might work if they had better players waiting to take their place, but I don't think that's the case. Come up with a list of players that deserve to sit and we can examine the backup plan.
Kyrie can sit or move to a depth role. It should be Smith in that spot with Kramdi moving back to SAM when healthy. Jones in the middle.
Nichols has been ineffective. I'd be trying out Vaval or another db there and seeing if play improves.
There needs to be another option at safety.
We've said this before, but less subbing in and out during drives. The play clock runs faster now and there's been too many missed coverages. Keep it simple stupid.
On offence, it would have been smart to play Broxton at LT in training camp to see what was the best mix of players. Big Stan has been a liability and Zach's obliviousness to blitzes compound the problem. But there are tackle options on the PR and a proactive team would be looking at them during practice or adding one to the AR as an option as 6th OL to layer in some reps. As has been said, several of our OL are dealing with things and we are setting ourselves up for failure only having Eli rostered.
Neild has made far more mistakes than plays. Cobb is irrelevant. The offence is league worst. Easy place to try out another receiver. Game plan them a few plays. See if you get a spark.
Quote from: Jesse on August 27, 2026, 10:59:16 PMKyrie can sit or move to a depth role. It should be Smith in that spot with Kramdi moving back to SAM when healthy. Jones in the middle.
Nichols has been ineffective. I'd be trying out Vaval or another db there and seeing if play improves.
There needs to be another option at safety.
We've said this before, but less subbing in and out during drives. The play clock runs faster now and there's been too many missed coverages. Keep it simple stupid.
On offence, it would have been smart to play Broxton at LT in training camp to see what was the best mix of players. Big Stan has been a liability and Zach's obliviousness to blitzes compound the problem. But there are tackle options on the PR and a proactive team would be looking at them during practice or adding one to the AR as an option as 6th OL to layer in some reps. As has been said, several of our OL are dealing with things and we are setting ourselves up for failure only having Eli rostered.
Neild has made far more mistakes than plays. Cobb is irrelevant. The offence is league worst. Easy place to try out another receiver. Game plan them a few plays. See if you get a spark.
Kyrie ain't sitting but I don't mind your LB trio at all
Quote from: Throw Long Bannatyne on August 27, 2026, 10:26:23 PMTezino has been with the team for about a week, do you really believe that would work?
Nope would make things worse
Would get lit up
Has anyone heard if there will be a flyover during the anthem? I haven't seen anything about it and the Bombers usually mention it. It would be disappointing if there wasn't one. That might just be the one highlight of tonight's game...
Quote from: TrueBlue75 on August 28, 2026, 04:13:29 PMHas anyone heard if there will be a flyover during the anthem? I haven't seen anything about it and the Bombers usually mention it. It would be disappointing if there wasn't one. That might just be the one highlight of tonight's game...
Never see it anyway.
Any one looking for a shot to go tonight!Quote@DarrinBauming
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/sarcastica For everyone suggesting all kinds of changes, why? This team is gelling, just needs more time together, and time for the co-ordinators to develop plans that take advantage of the skills of the players they are forced to use by the GM.
/-sarcasticaAnd yes, that was the Sarcastica font. We are in the "not learning from history" part of the season. Yes. we could possibly limp into the playoffs, as only 33% of teams miss. We can be a 34th percentile team and get rewarded with a playoff game in the East. And out.
Is that the goal? If so, we are right on track to attain it.
Or, we could TRY to get better. We could IDENTIFY areas we are struggling in, and make changes. Show the FANS we are trying, and show the PLAYERS there are consequences for not achieving the minimum goals. Especially at home.
Zero changes to the roster, with a number of known injury issues and HEALTHY replacements who literally could not be worse on the PR, is this the message you want the fans to hear? We'd rather be loyal to a broken vet than give a young player a chance to succeed and be the next one, or fail and open a spot for another player to try.
I'm not saying wholesale changes of every player that has been mentioned in this thread. But darn it, one? Two, maybe?
My picks, Nichols IR for Tex, Vanterpool to RT, Broxton to LT and Bryant to RR for a game, let him rest. Singer for Cobb, Boulaine for Hazen to balance ratio.
And give Dru or Bryce (or both) a series or two. Rest Collaros, let him watch what MTL is doing, and mix things up. Each has a distinctly different style that the D will have to adapt to. Keep them guessing.
Quote from: TrueBlue75 on August 28, 2026, 04:13:29 PMHas anyone heard if there will be a flyover during the anthem? I haven't seen anything about it and the Bombers usually mention it. It would be disappointing if there wasn't one. That might just be the one highlight of tonight's game...
Should see if SAAB wants to send some Gripens over for a demo. Seems that's about the sum total Canadian Fighter Jets get used for, lets see how well they function doing their main job /-sarcastica
I don't have anything specific to say this week. Play good I guess? Don't do all those things that make us lose?
Hoping we keep it close and competitive and make for a fun night at the stadium. There's always the Rum Hut if not.
Realistically, I just hope the boys in blue and gold have fun tonight. Maybe they'll surprise us with a hard-fought effort at home.
I'll be crushing a few crafties regardless. Happy Friday!
Quote from: Throw Long Bannatyne on August 27, 2026, 10:26:23 PMTezino has been with the team for about a week, do you really believe that would work?
Yes. It's not working with Kyrie. The Riders added Roberson and activated him in 11 days. He could be told what his assignment was on each play.
Essentially: Find guy with ball and tackle him. lol
Quote from: Blueforlife on August 28, 2026, 12:24:53 AMKyrie ain't sitting but I don't mind your LB trio at allNope would make things worse
Would get lit up
How do you make those changes at LB without sitting Kyrie? We're already expecting to get lit up by the Als.
In my studying and grading of Kyrie, he's not usually the main problem. I'm fact, often he's not the problem at all. Sometimes he's the only one getting penetration and shedding blocks to make tackles.
Hate on a lot of players, but ease up a bit on Kyrie.
How about looking at ceresna, who is vastly underperforming his salary and expectations. He almost never makes a stop on runs through his gap. And he quits faster than anyone on plays.
Last game it was Woodbey who did all the screwing up and cost us big in the 2nd half. If griffin was in we likely win that game. Woodbey is not ready.
Quote from: Tecno on August 28, 2026, 10:19:37 PMIn my studying and grading of Kyrie, he's not usually the main problem. I'm fact, often he's not the problem at all. Sometimes he's the only one getting penetration and shedding blocks to make tackles.
Hate on a lot of players, but ease up a bit on Kyrie.
How about looking at ceresna, who is vastly underperforming his salary and expectations. He almost never makes a stop on runs through his gap. And he quits faster than anyone on plays.
Last game it was Woodbey who did all the screwing up and cost us big in the 2nd half. If griffin was in we likely win that game. Woodbey is not ready.
We added Santos-Knox in free agency so that would appear to suggest K.Wilson was on the bubble. I agree he's not the only player that is an issue but he is never the less an issue. He's not a side to side capable LB and that's what we need to help improve our defence.
JSK had 80 DT's in 2025. K.Wilson had 49 DT's. So far this year only 29 DT's.
Watch the inside Als run game tonight and see if he's a factor or a liability. I don't see him making may TFL or at the LOS. We give up 5 - 8 yards often right up the gut.
Nichols officially out.
Vaval starting at corner, Williams covering HB.
Quote from: Jesse on August 28, 2026, 11:06:15 PMNichols officially out.
Vaval starting at corner, Williams covering HB.
Ok. Are we adding another import on the roster? Either as a back up returner or DB? Or even Jaworski.
Quote from: Blue In BC on August 28, 2026, 11:03:28 PMWe added Santos-Knox in free agency so that would appear to suggest K.Wilson was on the bubble. I agree he's not the only player that is an issue but he is never the less an issue. He's not a side to side capable LB and that's what we need to help improve our defence.
JSK had 80 DT's in 2025. K.Wilson had 49 DT's. So far this year only 29 DT's.
Watch the inside Als run game tonight and see if he's a factor or a liability. I don't see him making may TFL or at the LOS. We give up 5 - 8 yards often right up the gut.
We should have went all in and got Sankey, the guy's a beast and no way any team runs up the gut on him. We have flyweights playing a heavyweight position.
Quote from: Blue In BC on August 28, 2026, 11:13:38 PMOk. Are we adding another import on the roster? Either as a back up returner or DB? Or even Jaworski.
from Ed Tait:
Deatrick Nichols out;
Major Williams to half;
Trey Vaval at CB and
Ridge Texada on the roster
They are going to test Vaval. We'll see now if he can do both jobs or not. He'll be more tired than he's been all year.
Quote from: gobombersgo on August 28, 2026, 11:23:41 PMfrom Ed Tait:
Deatrick Nichols out; Major Williams to half; Trey Vaval at CB and Ridge Texada on the roster
That should give another option when we want a 6 DB defensive set. Once we lost Ball to injury we had a gap in filling that role.
Its going to be a sell out.
Quote from: gobombersgo on August 28, 2026, 11:23:41 PMfrom Ed Tait:
Deatrick Nichols out; Major Williams to half; Trey Vaval at CB and Ridge Texada on the roster
Sweet. It can't possibly be worse.
Updated depth chart
https://static.cfl.ca/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/MONTREAL-at-WINNIPEG_AUGUST-28-NEW.pdf (https://static.cfl.ca/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/MONTREAL-at-WINNIPEG_AUGUST-28-NEW.pdf)
Ya, I see Nicols in civvies. Texada dressed and warming up. I think this will be great to get a look at someone other than Nicols. If it goes great Nicols may be cough injured the rest of the season.
Update: no one booed the band when they performed at the Tailgate.
Bingo appears to be absent the updated Bombers app. It never did work for me. Then again my Fido mobile service is virtually unusable all game, so it's pretty irrelevant to me. Rogers must put their discount subsidiaries on throttle. I see people in front of me watching full speed streaming videos all game!! I can barely load this text only site!
sweeett flyover
mos has some stones tonight
Quote from: The Zipp on August 29, 2026, 12:41:18 AMmos has some stones tonight
I liked it..but dang you never know.
That was...weird.
Good drive...like that we started with a TD. Woo!
Quote from: The Zipp on August 29, 2026, 12:36:44 AMsweeett flyover
Loved the sharp turn on the first flyover!
Two terrible throws by Collaros to start the game.
Quote from: Sir Blue and Gold on August 29, 2026, 12:58:26 AMTwo terrible throws by Collaros to start the game.
Did you miss the first drive where it ended in a TD? That was the start of the game.
I figured the forum would come alive when something went wrong. Shameful really.
Great sack..love it! More please!
Quote from: tlf on August 29, 2026, 01:00:51 AMDid you miss the first drive where it ended in a TD? That was the start of the game.
I figured the forum would come alive when something went wrong. Shameful really.
You mean the PI we got because Collaros couldn't throw the route?
Saw it. What a great "play".
that was shameful...there is no organization or concept or stategy on the field...there were so many montreal players open
Quote from: Go_Big_D on August 29, 2026, 01:05:43 AMthat was shameful...there is no organization or concept or stategy on the field...there were so many montreal players open
Great sack followed by a flawed concept from Younger which makes no sense.
Beautiful! Nield is playing!
Nice catch Tommy 2Drops
It's a pretty good start all things considered.
I dislike how other teams make it look so easy vs our defence. Mtl makes it look like childs play.
Hahah Jordan Younger is so bad. Not even competitive.
lol...where in the hell is the defence??
davis looks like flutie out there
he is very good
our defence is not
Quote from: Go_Big_D on August 29, 2026, 01:21:00 AMlol...where in the hell is the defence??
Since it is Armed Forces Night I will just say they are AWOL.
Good play to Pokey. It'd be nice to see him have a good game
RTP...wow Awe.. how surprising.
Above average play calling so far by Condell.
Quote from: Sir Blue and Gold on August 29, 2026, 01:28:50 AMAbove average play calling so far by Condell.
I'm so far surprised and okay with it. Let's hope it stays for 4 quarters
LOL Alexander is a hothead
Jake Kelly is just a disaster out there. Every series he's on there he's just a free bingo space.
Quote from: Sir Blue and Gold on August 29, 2026, 01:43:15 AMJake Kelly is just a disaster out there. Every series he's on there he's just a free bingo space.
not ready for prime time in any way.
defence has looked not ready on the first play of the drive two times in a row
Bad coverage, to be fair Snead is good. But that D is horrific.
If our secondary could kindly get their stuff together, we have a chance at winning. So tired of whiffing on tackles...
between kelly moxey and woodbey they are like pile ons
Quote from: Pete on August 29, 2026, 01:46:00 AMbetween kelly moxey and woodbey they are like pile ons
Pilons. Pile ons they'd be actually tackling lol
Wow nice play by snead. We had him last season and let him go right?? Good thing, we don't want our receivers making touchdown plays like that!!!
Quote from: tlf on August 29, 2026, 01:28:25 AMRTP...wow Awe.. how surprising.
[/quoteQuote from: tlf on August 29, 2026, 01:28:25 AMRTP...wow Awe.. how surprising.
there should be a fine for.That as well. Driving a player into the ground is an attempt.to.injure. This guys been doing it for.years get.him out of the league already
Quote from: dd on August 29, 2026, 01:48:07 AMWow nice play by snead. We had him last season and let him go right?? Good thing, we don't want our receivers making touchdown plays like that!!!
I don't recall him being here. He's been in MTL for years
Tommy 2drops
tommy take a seat neild
oh noooo Tommy nooooo
Tommy Nield fumbles but the roster management decision is the real problem. Guy who has been terrible all season comes up empty when we need him is not surprising to anyone but O'Shea.
Man, from the time Neild caught that ball to the fumble was such a trip.
The guy just can't get out of his own way.
Tough break for Neild as he was back g a good half. That was a hem of a bit by montreal. I don't recall that type of big by our defence all year. Our offense has done well to score 24 points on montreal, but montreal has worse almost as many points in only 11 minutes of possession!!!!! It only takes them 3 or 4 plays and they a ore a TD. Our D has got to step up as one half and get a stop or 2
Fumble on the goal line could be the difference between winning and losing. We'll see. Offence playing well. The defence has not showed up.
Quote from: dd on August 29, 2026, 02:00:07 AMTough break for Neild as he was back g a good half. That was a hem of a bit by montreal. I don't recall that type of big by our defence all year. Our offense has done well to score 24 points on montreal, but montreal has worse almost as many points in only 11 minutes of possession!!!!! It only takes them 3 or 4 plays and they a ore a TD. Our D has got to step up as one half and get a stop or 2
Funny enough, if Younger is going to suck anyway, it's better he suck quickly so our offense can get back on the field. JY is the king of 8 minute drives where he still gives up a TD. At least he's being aggressive even if he's just as bad at that as he is with his other looks.
He sure has trashed a formidable unit that Hall brought up and developed.
Zach is barely conscious
Receivers can't catch / hang on to ball
MTL making it look easy
Stupid penalties
Go Blue in the 2nd half
Quote from: Sway on August 29, 2026, 02:04:05 AMZach is barely conscious
Receivers can't catch / hang on to ball
MTL making it look easy
Stupid penalties
Go Blue in the 2nd half
None of this seems accurate.
we played our best offensive half of the year, but still too many mistakes ie drops Olivera Wilson and Nield with a fumble. Now our d has to show up especially on Als first drive of the 3rd qtr, something we've had issues with all year
fully expecting a second half collapse...surprise me bombers!!
Als prob put up 50.
Just an aside Awe is one of the dirtiest players in the league
massive swing.
Eyes emoji
Horse collar?
Alexander down...oh he seems fine.
that's what we need Pokey tp do. Nice
tell me we can't find someone better than cobb
Same old Osh
he stepped out
Quote from: Sway on August 29, 2026, 02:28:59 AMSame old Osh
Did you see the beginning of the game?
Quote from: tlf on August 29, 2026, 02:30:53 AMDid you see the beginning of the game?
Yup,
Challenged 1st play of game
Got it on maybe the weakest PI I've seen this year
He stayed in
Quote from: tlf on August 29, 2026, 02:34:00 AMHe stayed in
From what I saw, his foot was up at an angle with only the edge of it on the ground, while the rest of his foot was over the line but not touching.
So... in.
If Osh can challenge that pick play he has too
Is all I'm saying
Alexander's mobility may be limited. Have to key in on that. Will Younger realize that?
Ohhh Gmack on CJOB just mentioned Alexander's hamstring injury from Grey Cup... I wonder if he rejigged that.
Brady Ball in the 2nd half... Missed this last game.
They know we're gonna run most of the time on the 1st down.
He was down.
The right call was made?? whoa.
I thought progress forsure was stopped
He wasn't down in the classic sense though
do these refs know what they are doing ??
is that neufeld again??!!
no excuse
Jeeezzz Neufeld!!!...get em out of the game!! second penalty of the game....what a meathead
Stupid penalty Neufeld.
Stupid Neufeld
Geez dude, FIFO
How could he be so stupid???
MOS needs to lose it on patty - stop being a friend
demski to the locker room
MOS has to start cracking the whip on these idiots like neufeld
texada stride for stride with philpot
I would like many more points against this team. 16 is not enough of a lead for me
Quote from: The Zipp on August 29, 2026, 02:59:07 AMtexada stride for stride with philpot
24 year old speed. Makes a difference.
Quote from: The Zipp on August 29, 2026, 02:59:07 AMtexada stride for stride with philpot
Davis Alexander REALLY wanted a call for that LOL.
finally!!!
masterclass in using the clock
Man! We did it. Surprised and happy. Condell called a heck of a game. Squeezed every lemon out of Collaros and the offense tonight.
This is our team guys!!
Warming up for Sask.
i don't think alexander has had a whopping like this in his cfl career
Quote from: The Zipp on August 29, 2026, 03:10:06 AMi don't think alexander has had a whopping like this in his cfl career
I aint mad about it but he may be :)
Montreal getting it handed to.them. Love seeing Maas and Alexander whine and bark at.the refs!!! They aren't as good as they think they are!!!
Look at Alexander carrying on like a spoiled brat. Looks good on you buddy!!!
The performance by the Bombers is a pleasant surprise
JY reminds us who is in charge on that last drive haha. Not to worry!
Just run the ball
we had nobody back to field the ball there. Why?
Quote from: tlf on August 29, 2026, 03:22:37 AMwe had nobody back to field the ball there. Why?
I think they thought montreal.was.going to short kick it/onside kick it
I'm still uncomfortable with this score
Guys...we're going to beat Montreal!! Woohoo! Take that haters (and TSN Panel).
Zacs best game this year and Condells play calling was outstanding
Man did we need that one. Hopefully that helps us get on a roll.
Vaval and Texada on defense helped. A much more aggressive defense ended up turning the tide.
Condell had his best game of the season. Pretty close to perfect play calling. Zach had juuussst enough in the tank.
Probably not Montreal's best effort but who cares. We're still swinging.
Impressive statement game.
Condell called a good game. Zach played well and so did Brady. I think Zach had a bit more time.
Our receivers showed up..love it!
The D had some struggles, but some good moments too.
It was nice to see Alexander rattled so much.
Crowd was good. Great win, keep it going!
whats scary is we could have easily scored two more tds. And Alexander looked like a crybaby, not a good look on him
OLine - YAHOO
Zach - WONDERFUL
OLI - TREMENDOUS
Nichols moved to 6 game IR. If he's out for an extended time we need to add a DB to the PR. Vaval and Texada both played well but we did give up 4 passing TD's as a group.
I'd still like to know if Hazen played on ST's and how he did. I didn't see him on TV.
What a ******* great game.
So much fun.
Quote from: Blue In BC on August 29, 2026, 03:38:57 AMNichols moved to 6 game IR. If he's out for an extended time we need to add a DB to the PR. Vaval and Texada both played well but we did give up 4 passing TD's as a group.
I'd still like to know if Hazen played on ST's and how he did. I didn't see him on TV.
Feel bad for him and hope he gets better but for the team and as far as winning is concerned, that's actually great news.
They just brought up the first challenge of the game on the radio, that was a big moment. Led to the TD.
No INTs for ZC8, great game for him. Willy's knockdown was good too.
So many good moments. It's nice to see us play up to our potential,
Quote from: Sir Blue and Gold on August 29, 2026, 03:40:29 AMFeel bad for him and hope he gets better but for the team and as far as winning is concerned, that's actually great news. He's done.
He played on teams. Mostly the cover team.
Quote from: Pigskin on August 29, 2026, 03:42:14 AMHe played on teams. Mostly the cover team.
Did he appear to be doing his assignment well? He didn't record a stat but that may not have been his role. I'll re-watch the game over the weekend.
Regardless, it doesn't seem to maximize the use of the roster.
As I said earlier in the week, we would have to play a near perfect game. Well, we didn't but we still managed to win. Still some questionable tackling, some stupid penalties, some dropped balls. TC has taken some heat, but he called a very good game tonight.
Shutting down Montreal's running game to only 51 yards was outstanding.
Who did Clercius replace and when did he come in? Good size receiver and good hands today.
Texada played not to bad for the amount of time seeing the field this year.
Enough playing so many LBers because the beating our receivers are taking our next man up should be getting some playing time.
QuoteNichols moved to 6 game IR. If he's out for an extended time we need to add a DB to the PR. Vaval and Texada both played well but we did give up 4 passing TD's as a group.
I'd still like to know if Hazen played on ST's and how he did. I didn't see him on TV.
He has been the weak link in our secondary all year, no surprise he's out and we beat the #1 team. It's good we re straightening this thing out but we re trending in the right direction
Quote from: dd on August 29, 2026, 04:03:56 AMHe has been the weak link in our secondary all year, no surprise he's out and we beat the #1 team. It's good we re straightening this thing out but we re trending in the right direction
Kelly is still pretty weak.
We are the best team in the league
A good 60 minutes of football by the defence and offence....special teams were ok as well....one of Zach's best games of the season and Brady....well he's always one of our best. Zach spread the ball around well..,.White, Wilson, Nield, Clercius and Demski. They put a lot of pressure on Alexander and that was à contributing factor in quite a few 2 and outs! I didn't see this coming actually and TBH I thought Montreal would steam roll us.....but we did them instead!
QuoteKelly is still pretty weak.
Yes he is, but we beat the #1 team with him in the lineup. You take Nichols out, put Vaval in and you handily beat the #1 team, to me that is no coincidence. Yes, we played very good offensively, and defensively holm was making plays, Texada was running step for step with philipot, no way that happens if nichols was covering, that's a TD for Montreal.
I like the trajectory we are on are on right now in the last 2 weeks, we ve showed that we can run with the leagues top teams and beat them. Now onto Regina and beat the riders on LDC!!
Let's keep Texada in the line up please.
QuoteLet's keep Texada in the line up please.
He had excellent coverage on the leagues #1 deep threat, so ya, he stays in the lineup!!
Credit where credit is due - that was probably the best game we've played in 3 seasons. Not perfect - tackling in the first half was bad, but managed to keep the intensity up. Way to go boys.
Officiating was awful. Maltos Diaz clubbing Vaval in the neck out of bounds, the non contact blocking downfield on Wilson, some blatant double fisted holding
Defense actually looked like they wanted to hurt people. Jones was a beast.
If we can keep that intensity up against Sask we might make the playoffs
No American DB left on the PR. Time to sign Houston. Fletcher is playing well. 13 DTs, 3 QS. Like this kid size and speed and in TC. Really has fit in well with our D.
Brady with another 100 yard game. He must be getting close to passing AH33 for most 100 yard games.
Quote from: Pigskin on August 29, 2026, 04:55:39 AMBrady with another 100 yard game. He must be getting close to passing AH33 for most 100 yard games.
Harris had 29 and I believe Brady now has 26.
First impressions:
UND band was exceptionally entertaining. Their formation precision could teach our D a thing or 2. They also stayed post-game and played a bunch more songs on the field with everyone standing right there with them, including us! No one booed. My kids loved it. Best halftime show ever, outside a GC?
Super great game. I knew we could pull it off... even won $$ on it! That's the type of game we expect from the Bombers. Keep it up. SSK is ripe for the picking with all of their injuries and Trevor playing like Brohm. We could easily be 2nd in the W in 3 weeks.
Looked like everyone in the stands was having a great time. Our little section was buzzing. High 5s everywhere.
Good job WFC!
*** someone get this info to WFC, too important to wait for Tecno Takes:
1Q3:08 The Condell-cam has our freakin' call chart showing right on the wall with fish-eye lens! Holy Moses!! Someone do something about that! Our guys need to see what the TSN booth cam is going to look like before they start the broadcast! I can read everything, and so can the opponent! I really hope they change the numbering scheme up every game or we could be screwed by cheatin' teams.
Quote from: Pigskin on August 29, 2026, 04:11:51 AMKelly is still pretty weak.
whiff by Kelly on Tyler Snead td.he actually seems to knock down Moxey who is about to to tackle Snead.
https://www.reddit.com/r/CFL/s/hRSk1WWR47
Why he's a starter is a puzzle.
Quote from: Jesse on August 29, 2026, 04:35:02 AMLet's keep Texada in the line up please.
Otherwise known as the guy worse than Kelly if we're applying Singer / Cobb logic (although I'm being a bit unfair there and know it).
O'Shea needs to get more comfortable with playing his younger players. There were a few times Vaval was beat cold but recovered because he's the superior athlete. Moxey and Nichols can both sit for the rest of the year.
Maybe everyone doesn't need to be 32 years old.
It was an interesting game with turnovers and near turnovers. There was some of everything in this game.
The offence kept the Als off the field which is not an easy thing to do. The defence made some good plays.
I don't remember Alexander being such a whiny baby when things don't go his way. Bombers got into his head early. I am glad he didn't suffer a serious injury.
Quote from: Pigskin on August 29, 2026, 04:11:51 AMKelly is still pretty weak.
He's easily the weakest part of this team. I'm cutting the bombers some (reggie) slack though because we're down to our third string safety.
Quote from: tlf on August 29, 2026, 03:28:04 AMGuys...we're going to beat Montreal!! Woohoo! Take that haters (and TSN Panel).
was Henoc being his usual dick self?
Quote from: Jesse on August 29, 2026, 03:39:26 AMWhat a ******* great game.
So much fun.
watched it outside at Bélair. Looked awesome to be there.
Quote from: peg_city on August 29, 2026, 02:31:20 PMHe's easily the weakest part of this team. I'm cutting the bombers some (reggie) slack though because we're down to our third string safety.
Yes, he's total butt out there, but in no world would we be starting him if we had our preferred options. In that sense I guess he's doing ok.
He reminds me of Roc. Before we cut Roc he would generally be in the right place but had no ability to do something there! Never turning to play the ball. Weak tackler, etc.
Kelly was fine as extra safety in the max zone look we love so much. But he can't be left alone like we've been doing. He may get better, but we're talking a couple of years, not this season!
At this point I'm not convinced he's a better starter than Hallett, who was pretty bad himself in the couple of starts he got. I know Hallett at least will blow a dude up if he's in the general vicinity.
Quote from: Blue In BC on August 28, 2026, 09:13:41 PMHow do you make those changes at LB without sitting Kyrie? We're already expecting to get lit up by the Als.
Rotate
Best game we've played in about 3 years. Looked like a great team against a great team for the whole 60 minutes. More of that please!
Quote from: Sir Blue and Gold on August 29, 2026, 12:33:18 PMOtherwise known as the guy worse than Kelly if we're applying Singer / Cobb logic (although I'm being a bit unfair there and know it).
O'Shea needs to get more comfortable with playing his younger players. There were a few times Vaval was beat cold but recovered because he's the superior athlete. Moxey and Nichols can both sit for the rest of the year.
Maybe everyone doesn't need to be 32 years old.
This is what players need to do under this coaching philosophy. You get an opportunity and you make the most of it. In the past few weeks we've seen Smith, Vaval, and now Texada take that opportunity.
We've also seen guys get a shot and be invisible and we never see them again.
Quote from: Sir Blue and Gold on August 29, 2026, 12:33:18 PMOtherwise known as the guy worse than Kelly if we're applying Singer / Cobb logic (although I'm being a bit unfair there and know it).
O'Shea needs to get more comfortable with playing his younger players. There were a few times Vaval was beat cold but recovered because he's the superior athlete. Moxey and Nichols can both sit for the rest of the year.
Maybe everyone doesn't need to be 32 years old.
Also, do you know who I didn't see out there at all?
Things this game showed/reinforced:
1. Zach can still play a complete game and be good to great, can take a lick and just needs a few plays to shake it off
2. OL when in sync can protect and creates good holes for Brady
3. White and Wilson are amazing and while not elite, close enough for #1 receivers in my books
4. Brady will not be benched or spelled for Peterson, full stop and is still near the best in the land
5. Brady is worth every penny
6. Our depth at LB is our strength, they help on teams (block anybody?) rotate at LB to keep us fresh and dropped back as DBs to help our depth there
7. OC can call an elite game, I'll eat bird on this one, playing calling was as good as I can remember, creativity was A+, variety was on point, execution was smooth, run and throw mix was perfect
8. Smith will be a beast
9. Texada with seasoning should at least be a good depth guy
10. TJ is a top LB
11. Youngers schemes can work against a top team, QB and offense
12. We can plan great in all 3 phases for 60
13. The fair weather crowd has reduced the actual butts in the stands a little more than I like
14. Clercius is starting to flash
15. Cobb isn't good enough, I really hope he would at least get a ball, there was one thrown to him but somebody screwed up that one
16. Daniels is a key piece, blocks and get touches
17. Vaval can play D (rotate) and doesn't impact his energy on returns, lots of bird for me on this one, seams very durable and physical
18. We can beat a top team, I didn't expect that but was encouraged by half a good game last week lol
19. Our run D can be amazing, did not see that coming
20. We are still in the hunt as long as we at least split with Sask
21. This game means nothing unless can do it again (Doug Browns thoughts not mine, but on point)
22. DL is very good unit
Do you know what this game showed me? We don't get up for every game or prepare for every game like we do for the top team..and we should. The Coordinators need to work on that.
Enjoyable game, let's do this on repeat!
Quote from: tlf on August 29, 2026, 03:37:38 PMDo you know what this game showed me? We don't get up for every game or prepare for every game like we do for the top team..and we should. The Coordinators need to work on that.
Enjoyable game, let's do this on repeat!
Is that even possible?
Quote from: J5V on August 29, 2026, 03:41:00 PMIs that even possible?
Did we think last night was going to happen? Of course it is!
Quote from: Jesse on August 29, 2026, 03:15:35 PMAlso, do you know who I didn't see out there at all?
Haha it's true. You're right. It's annoying he has to be on the roster at all. But whatever.
Quote from: Blueforlife on August 29, 2026, 03:18:19 PMThings this game showed/reinforced:
1. Zach can still play a complete game and be good to great, can take a lick and just needs a few plays to shake it off
2. OL when in sync can protect and creates good holes for Brady
3. White and Wilson are amazing and while not elite, close enough for #1 receivers in my books
4. Brady will not be benched or spelled for Peterson, full stop and is still near the best in the land
5. Brady is worth every penny
6. Our depth at LB is our strength, they help on teams (block anybody?) rotate at LB to keep us fresh and dropped back as DBs to help our depth there
7. OC can call an elite game, I'll eat bird on this one, playing calling was as good as I can remember, creativity was A+, variety was on point, execution was smooth, run and throw mix was perfect
8. Smith will be a beast
9. Texada with seasoning should at least be a good depth guy
10. TJ is a top LB
11. Youngers schemes can work against a top team, QB and offense
12. We can plan great in all 3 phases for 60
13. The fair weather crowd has reduced the actual butts in the stands a little more than I like
14. Clercius is starting to flash
15. Cobb isn't good enough, I really hope he would at least get a ball, there was one thrown to him but somebody screwed up that one
16. Daniels is a key piece, blocks and get touches
17. Vaval can play D (rotate) and doesn't impact his energy on returns, lots of bird for me on this one, seams very durable and physical
18. We can beat a top team, I didn't expect that but was encouraged by half a good game last week lol
19. Our run D can be amazing, did not see that coming
20. We are still in the hunt as long as we at least split with Sask
21. This game means nothing unless can do it again (Doug Browns thoughts not mine, but on point)
22. DL is very good unit
Quite a few points I disagree with you on. Too many to go into detail on each.
However our defence in the 1st half was not very good. If not for our offence winning TOP and field position, it might have been a different story.
Theis only had 8 rushes so I wouldn't be blushing about our run defence either. It's still a weakness when teams choose to use it. Montreal is primarily a strong passing team.
Kick coverage and return game were not our best outing. Blocking a punt was an exceptional play at a critical time.
It's easy to overlook the flaws when we dominate in one area. In this game our offence owned the Als.
Quote from: Blue In BC on August 29, 2026, 05:31:38 PMQuite a few points I disagree with you on. Too many to go into detail on each.
However our defence in the 1st half was not very good. If not for our offence winning TOP and field position, it might have been a different story.
Theis only had 8 rushes so I wouldn't be blushing about our run defence either. It's still a weakness when teams choose to use it. Montreal is primarily a strong passing team.
Kick coverage and return game were not our best outing. Blocking a punt was an exceptional play at a critical time.
It's easy to overlook the flaws when we dominate in one area. In this game our offence owned the Als.
All three phases played very well imo and the folks on CJOB said the same (including Brown). Yes the D was a little leaky to start but held Alexander to 200 yards passing until garbage time, which is exceptional.
We eliminated the run full stop. The run D was exceptional.
Our D good better as the game went on.
Easy not to give credit when trying to sell ones own narrative.
One game isn't a huge deal but enough to celebrate and give props to. One of the best and most complete games in a very long time.
Our kick coverage was below average Our return game was fine imo. We had exceptional field position all game. We had better kickoffs and punts than them.
Yes they are a passing team but you are giving us no credit for our strong run D and great game from the D. Here are the facts (googled, not fact checked)
The Montreal Alouettes lead the CFL averaging 118.8 rushing yards per game for the 2026 season.Key Rushing StatsTeam Rank: 1st in the CFLTop Rusher: Travis Theis stands third in the league with a 6.6-yard average.
They run the rock well, they have the best offense imo and Theis is a beast that we made look very average. We took away the run as it simply wasn't working.
Quote from: Blueforlife on August 29, 2026, 06:50:11 PMAll three phases played very well imo and the folks on CJOB said the same (including Brown). Yes the D was a little leaky to start but held Alexander to 200 yards passing until garbage time, which is exceptional.
We eliminated the run full stop. The run D was exceptional.
Our D good better as the game went on.
Easy not to give credit when trying to sell ones own narrative.
One game isn't a huge deal but enough to celebrate and give props to. One of the best and most complete games in a very long time.
Our kick coverage was below average Our return game was fine imo. We had exceptional field position all game. We had better kickoffs and punts than them.
The Als hardly had the ball in the 1st half and scored 3 TD's. That is not good defence. OTOH, we shut them down in the 2nd half until the last few minutes when we went into prevent defence. Giving up 2 quick TD's in short play drives is more than shaky. One drive was 3 plays.
We didn't eliminate the run. Our offence got up early, stayed up and controlled the TOP. The Als didn't try to run the ball.
Talk about a poster trying to sell his own narrative. Look in the mirror and put the pom poms down.
We only punted twice and the Als returned those for 34 and 18 yards respectively. That is not good by any definition. 6 K/O returns for 24.5 yard average. Also not very good.
Quote from: Blue In BC on August 29, 2026, 06:59:05 PMThe Als hardly had the ball in the 1st half and scored 3 TD's. That is bot good defence. OTOH, we shut them down in the 2nd half until the last few minutes when we went into prevent defence. Giving up 2 quick TD's in short play drives is more than shaky. One drive was 3 plays.
We didn't eliminate the run. Our offence got up early, stayed up and controlled the TOP. The Als didn't try to run the ball.
Talk about a poster trying to sell his own narrative. Look in the mirror and put the pom poms down.
Ah the personal shots return. Wow. No pom poms just my opinion, calling it like I see it. Please stop making it personal. Thanks, for the hundredth time.
We stopped the run full stop. Als are best at it. You tried to down sell it and I provided the facts. Here are more Als had 51 yards on the ground, 4.6 average. Less than half of normal. That is a complete shutdown. We got to Alexander, rattled him and D did good enough against the pass late to limit his effectiveness. DL got in his face, key point.
The D started weak as mentioned and tightened up. We limited the best team to 200 yards in the air and nothing on the ground until garbage time. That a big victory for the D.
Never said the D didn't have things to clean up, which they do. It was too easy for them 1st half to get TDs but we cleaned that up 2nd half and stuffed them big time. If we had a good FS and got Kramdi back on LB we would be decent.
We went prevent late in the game which worked perfectly. We were in control of this game for most of it. Could have put up 55 pts if everything went our way.
We played a good game and you are understating the success to sell your narrative a little here imo. I'm trying to sell mine too for sure but lets keep the debate going without making it personal. I deeply value your posts and opinions.
One thing I thought sucked yesterday was the refs.
I just re-watched some of the highlights and Wilson's second TD on the lob pass looked like it grazed his face mask again.
Should he learn to catch a little further out from his body?
Quote from: Blueforlife on August 29, 2026, 07:08:47 PMAh the personal shots return. Wow. No pom poms just my opinion, calling it like I see it. Please stop making it personal. Thanks, for the hundredth time.
We stopped the run full stop. Als are best at it. You tried to down sell it and I provided the facts. Here are more Als had 51 yards on the ground, 4.6 average. Less than half of normal. That is a complete shutdown. We got to Alexander, rattled him and D did good enough against the pass late to limit his effectiveness. DL got in his face, key point.
The D started weak as mentioned and tightened up. We limited the best team to 200 yards in the air and nothing on the ground until garbage time. That a big victory for the D.
Never said the D didn't have things to clean up, which they do. It was too easy for them 1st half to get TDs but we cleaned that up 2nd half and stuffed them big time. If we had a good FS and got Kramdi back on LB we would be decent.
We went prevent late in the game which worked perfectly. We were in control of this game for most of it. Could have put up 55 pts if everything went our way.
We played a good game and you are understating the success to sell your narrative a little here imo. I'm trying to sell mine too for sure but lets keep the debate going without making it personal. I deeply value your posts and opinions.
One thing I thought sucked yesterday was the refs.
Watch the 1st half of the game again. You're overstating what the defence accomplished or didn't accomplish. You see things though blue tinted glasses. Our offence owned the 1st half. The defence did not based on the scores they gave up and the small amount of time they had to score.
While the exact portion of that yardage gained in the first half isn't explicitly separated in the game logs, the vast majority of their production came before halftime as quarterback Davis Alexander and wideout Tyler Snead connected on three first-half touchdowns to keep the game a close, high-scoring affair before Winnipeg's defense shut them down later in the game.
While exact minute-by-minute possession logs aren't broken down by quarter in the game statistics, the first quarter opened with Winnipeg eating up a massive portion of the clock
The Winnipeg Blue Bombers put together sustained offensive sequences that chewed up a massive chunk of time, but the Montreal Alouettes stayed dangerously close due to quick-strike scoring plays and a monumental defensive play right before the whistle.
Bombers won TOP 33:51 to 26:09 ( approx 8 minutes )
Bombers ran 63 plays compared to 51 and 33 to 23 in the 1st half
Quote from: Blueforlife on August 29, 2026, 07:08:47 PMAh the personal shots return. Wow. No pom poms just my opinion, calling it like I see it. Please stop making it personal. Thanks, for the hundredth time.
Which personal shot?
The only thing said was about a poster pushing their own narrative and you were the one who said it.
ahhh, The BFL rhetoric kills this forum again
Haven't seen a Good/Bad/Ugly thread for this game so here goes:
Good:
Collaros
Pokey Wilson
Oliviera
Run Defence
Taxada (good game in first start)
Special Teams (3/3 FG's, punt block)
Royal Blue uniforms
Bad:
Pass defence (4 TDs allowed)
fumble by Nield
Ugly:
Lack of tackling on Snead TD
Pj is right, we took away the run. You guys must not play fantasy, because like every other game theiss is a great pick. He's often well over 100 and a couple TDS.
Mtl will run on you if you let them. The difference is that they won't fight it if you take it away. We took it away, simple as that. Theiss barely got anything per run, most runs. So mtl just quit except for a token run once in a while to pretend to keep us honest.
Quote from: Blue In BC on August 29, 2026, 08:17:54 PMWhile the exact portion of that yardage gained in the first half isn't explicitly separated in the game logs, the vast majority of their production came before halftime as quarterback Davis Alexander and wideout Tyler Snead connected on three first-half touchdowns to keep the game a close, high-scoring affair before Winnipeg's defense shut them down later in the game.
While exact minute-by-minute possession logs aren't broken down by quarter in the game statistics, the first quarter opened with Winnipeg eating up a massive portion of the clock
The Winnipeg Blue Bombers put together sustained offensive sequences that chewed up a massive chunk of time, but the Montreal Alouettes stayed dangerously close due to quick-strike scoring plays and a monumental defensive play right before the whistle.
Bombers won TOP 33:51 to 26:09 ( approx 8 minutes )
Bombers ran 63 plays compared to 51 and 33 to 23 in the 1st half
https://static.cfl.ca/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/CFL-2026-Gm-56-WPG-vs-MTL-Final-Stats.pdf (https://static.cfl.ca/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/CFL-2026-Gm-56-WPG-vs-MTL-Final-Stats.pdf)
TOP was WPG-37:50 MTL 22:10
there is a break down of TOP by quarter and for each drive
Plays were 72-51 with a break down of plays and yards per drive in the drive chart. No break down by quarter or by half anymore.
Quote from: Stats Junkie on August 29, 2026, 10:15:13 PMhttps://static.cfl.ca/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/CFL-2026-Gm-56-WPG-vs-MTL-Final-Stats.pdf (https://static.cfl.ca/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/CFL-2026-Gm-56-WPG-vs-MTL-Final-Stats.pdf)
TOP was WPG-37:50 MTL 22:10
there is a break down of TOP by quarter and for each drive
Plays were 72-51 with a break down of plays and yards per drive in the drive chart. No break down by quarter or by half anymore.
Man we owned then in TOP
Quote from: Tecno on August 29, 2026, 10:05:14 PMPj is right, we took away the run. You guys must not play fantasy, because like every other game theiss is a great pick. He's often well over 100 and a couple TDS.
Mtl will run on you if you let them. The difference is that they won't fight it if you take it away. We took it away, simple as that. Theiss barely got anything per run, most runs. So mtl just quit except for a token run once in a while to pretend to keep us honest.
Thanks for the props bud and a good summary which frames it better than I do
Quote from: Blueforlife on August 29, 2026, 10:28:57 PMMan we owned then in TOP
I told you that several times. Losing TOP early and being out scored forces opponents to go more of a passing game. The Als are a very strong passing team. Again, that is why my position is we did not take away the run game because of the defence. Our offence made that happen.
You seem to suggest that credit goes to our defence.
Our defence had a horrible 2nd half against the Elks followed but a bad 1st Q against the Als. Our 2nd half against the Als was very good with constant pressure on Alexander.
Going into the 4th Q we were leading 34 - 21 and still dominating TOP. Opponents don't run in that circumstance.
Loved the post game interviews by O'Shea and Zack, O'Shea was very supportive of Neufeld and his physical brand of kick *ss football, I do too, couldn't care less about the chintzy penalties they called he was sending a message of dominance to the Montreal D line and it worked, we dominated them. Loved Zach's comment and support of condell saying he's the best offensive play caller he's ever played for, which is great to publically state your support for a guy who's been criticized and somewhere Lapp is crying quietly in the corner!!
Quote from: dd on August 29, 2026, 11:07:33 PMLoved the post game interviews by O'Shea and Zack, O'Shea was very supportive of Neufeld and his physical brand of kick *ss football, I do too, couldn't care less about the chintzy penalties they called he was sending a message of dominance to the Montreal D line and it worked, we dominated them. Loved Zach's comment and support of condell saying he's the best offensive play caller he's ever played for, which is great to publically state your support for a guy who's been criticized and somewhere Lapp is crying quietly in the corner!!
Zach seems to be quite buttoned up and defensive in this interviews lately since temporarily getting knocked out of the Ottawa game with Condell also coming under attack weekly. Also coincides with him playing with more intensity since that hit, so I'll gladly accept the trade off. Seems to be a trend with the oldest vets stepping up their games to fend off the criticism they've been subjected to this season and this includes Stanley.
Quote from: Blue In BC on August 29, 2026, 05:31:38 PMQuite a few points I disagree with you on. Too many to go into detail on each.
However our defence in the 1st half was not very good. If not for our offence winning TOP and field position, it might have been a different story.
Theis only had 8 rushes so I wouldn't be blushing about our run defence either. It's still a weakness when teams choose to use it. Montreal is primarily a strong passing team.
Kick coverage and return game were not our best outing. Blocking a punt was an exceptional play at a critical time.
It's easy to overlook the flaws when we dominate in one area. In this game our offence owned the Als.
I hope you realize the Bombers were playing against the best offence in the league with a few of the most talented players and were not about to shut them down completely, please take the stats with a grain of salt.
Quote from: Blue In BC on August 29, 2026, 10:38:19 PMI told you that several times. Losing TOP early and being out scored forces opponents to go more of a passing game. The Als are a very strong passing team. Again, that is why my position is we did not take away the run game because of the defence. Our offence made that happen.
You seem to suggest that credit goes to our defence.
Our defence had a horrible 2nd half against the Elks followed but a bad 1st Q against the Als. Our 2nd half against the Als was very good with constant pressure on Alexander.
Going into the 4th Q we were leading 34 - 21 and still dominating TOP. Opponents don't run in that circumstance.
We took away the run all game
We played good in all three phases,called a great game, credit goes to most of the club, minus the under performers or ones that have struggled often, Kelly, Cobb etc.
The Als are #1 run team unless Google was wrong, yes as deadly passing as there is but we also took that away for the most part
Quote from: Blue In BC on August 29, 2026, 10:38:19 PMI told you that several times. Losing TOP early and being out scored forces opponents to go more of a passing game. The Als are a very strong passing team. Again, that is why my position is we did not take away the run game because of the defence. Our offence made that happen.
You seem to suggest that credit goes to our defence.
Your TOP idea is correct once we were up 16. But at all times before that MTL was fully allowed to run. A high-powered O doesn't care if they are down 10, or even 14; especially before the 4th Q.
If Theis was getting explosions and good average early, they would have run him a lot more. The reason Theis didn't get those things is because the D stopped them, just as they stopped Rankin early vs EDM. The only difference is EDM insists on sticking with Rankin (adding in those hitch screens), and MTL doesn't care as much because Alexander + Philpot can normally kill every D.
Ironically, once Alexander was nicked MTL should have gone to running MORE. Once again, a high-powered O sputters against our D where a dink & dunk motif would have succeeded. I had a feeling MTL wouldn't get the plot, and that's why I bet on WPG.
Quote from: dd on August 29, 2026, 11:07:33 PMO'Shea was very supportive of Neufeld and his physical brand of kick *ss football, I do too, couldn't care less about the chintzy penalties they called he was sending a message of dominance to the Montreal D line and it worked
I don't like the penalty. Find a way to beat them down within the whistles and without getting caught. You know, like other teams do.
Yoshi teabags DL and LB on like every other run play. That's the way you do it. You can mess with their heads and make them feel worthless without taking any flags.
We just got lucky it was after yards were gained. Look at where dumb penalties put us on that 2nd & 30 drive. While MOS is publicly defending Neuf, you can bet he's telling him exactly what I just did above.
Quote from: dd on August 29, 2026, 11:07:33 PMLoved Zach's comment and support of condell saying he's the best offensive play caller he's ever played for, which is great to publically state your support for a guy who's been criticized and somewhere Lapp is crying quietly in the corner!!
That was a bit wild! Especially since he has only been playing for him for a few months. Kind of a snub to Buck, and yes Lapo -- though Brady didn't have a big role yet under Lapo.
I'm ok with it, though I wonder how sincere it is vs just hyping up your current situation. So far I'm happy with Condell, and I can see what he's trying to do. He's a Lapo-like multi-game setup guy, where we should get more payoff as the season gets deeper. And everyone forgets Condell took HAM to 2 cups (vs us) and came an O/T INT away from winning one. Oh ya, including maybe 1 legit reg season loss that same year.
Quote from: Throw Long Bannatyne on August 30, 2026, 12:51:52 AMZach seems to be quite buttoned up and defensive in this interviews lately since temporarily getting knocked out of the Ottawa game with Condell also coming under attack weekly. Also coincides with him playing with more intensity since that hit, so I'll gladly accept the trade off. Seems to be a trend with the oldest vets stepping up their games to fend off the criticism they've been subjected to this season and this includes Stanley.
I, after Zach was knocked out for 4 games, said that Zach would have to decide if he wanted to be in health precaution mode like he always is, or decide that in his last 1-2 seasons that he wanted a shot at winning big again. In the latter case he needs to just decide to play through the hits and the spiraling head-birds. He needs to answer every "are you ok?" question with "yes", no matter what.
And that's precisely what he has decided to do. He's taken, what, 3 hits now that in every other season would have him leave the game. But not now. And a Zach who has thrown caution to the wind for his swansong is a very dangerous Zach indeed.
Quote from: dd on August 29, 2026, 01:48:07 AMWow nice play by snead. We had him last season and let him go right?? Good thing, we don't want our receivers making touchdown plays like that!!!
You're thinking Sterns. He's riding MTL pine right now (or was injured?). I think Spieker once he got healthy won that spot. One of our decent RECs from '25 can't even break the desired MTL AR.
Easy to confuse them, though, as they are both total shrimpken waterbugs.
Quote from: Tecno on August 30, 2026, 06:35:58 AMI don't like the penalty. Find a way to beat them down within the whistles and without getting caught. You know, like other teams do.
Yoshi teabags DL and LB on like every other run play. That's the way you do it. You can mess with their heads and make them feel worthless without taking any flags.
We just got lucky it was after yards were gained. Look at where dumb penalties put us on that 2nd & 30 drive. While MOS is publicly defending Neuf, you can bet he's telling him exactly what I just did above.
I hope he did.
In a closer game those penalties could have killed us.
They were stupid and there should be no justifying it.
But if you are in Osh old boys club you get a free pass.
Quote from: Throw Long Bannatyne on August 30, 2026, 01:13:16 AMI hope you realize the Bombers were playing against the best offence in the league with a few of the most talented players and were not about to shut them down completely, please take the stats with a grain of salt.
Yes. Did you see the Als complete a 2nd and 20 when Alexander rolled left, poured himself a coffee and read a newspaper before he found a receiver wide open. No Bomber is sight while he viewed the field.
How about the 37 yard TD play where several players botched tackles?
Yes I know that was the best offence in the CFL. It's one thing for an offence to make a good play. It's another to allow a 70 yard drive in 3 plays.
Quote from: Tecno on August 30, 2026, 06:32:51 AMYour TOP idea is correct once we were up 16. But at all times before that MTL was fully allowed to run. A high-powered O doesn't care if they are down 10, or even 14; especially before the 4th Q.
If Theis was getting explosions and good average early, they would have run him a lot more. The reason Theis didn't get those things is because the D stopped them, just as they stopped Rankin early vs EDM. The only difference is EDM insists on sticking with Rankin (adding in those hitch screens), and MTL doesn't care as much because Alexander + Philpot can normally kill every D.
Ironically, once Alexander was nicked MTL should have gone to running MORE. Once again, a high-powered O sputters against our D where a dink & dunk motif would have succeeded. I had a feeling MTL wouldn't get the plot, and that's why I bet on WPG.
Why run when you can pass for 10+ yards? Are you seriously defending the Bomber defence in the 1st half?
Quote from: Blue In BC on August 30, 2026, 01:28:15 PMYes. Did you see the Als complete a 2nd and 20 when Alexander rolled left, poured himself a coffee and read a newspaper before he found a receiver wide open. No Bomber is sight while he viewed the field.
How about the 37 yard TD play where several players botched tackles?
Yes I know that was the best offence in the CFL. It's one thing for an offence to make a good play. It's another to allow a 70 yard drive in 3 plays.
Agree, both of these plays were sloppy and sad. Willie had to keep contain on the 2nd. and 20. And, on the 37 yard TD our tackling was a gong show.
Nice win on Friday. A pleasantly surprising performance by the offense - probably their best game as a unit all season.
Still in the hunt!
Quote from: Pigskin on August 30, 2026, 01:43:24 PMAgree, both of these plays were sloppy and sad. Willie had to keep contain on the 2nd. and 20. And, on the 37 yard TD our tackling was a gong show.
Part of the problem with Willy and Ceresna chasing the sack lead is they sometimes abandon containment responsibilities in an attempt to boost their sack numbers. Just giving fans what they want.
Quote from: Blue In BC on August 30, 2026, 01:29:59 PMWhy run when you can pass for 10+ yards? Are you seriously defending the Bomber defence in the 1st half?
Sort of. They weren't that bad. It's the mtl d bad? They gave up more yards and points than our d did.
The o always has the advantage, that is the nature of football.
I maintain our run d was very good all night, and especially so in the first half.
Remember, we didn't just stop theis, we stopped qb/rb hybrid Alexander from running too!!
Quote from: Sway on August 29, 2026, 02:31:59 AMChallenged 1st play of game
Got it on maybe the weakest PI I've seen this year
Interestingly, in another game this week (either the OTT or the SSK game) there was the exact same DPI, and it was unflagged. And it was challenged. And it was upheld.
There was only ONE tiny difference: the DB did not have his arm on the REC's arm. He still had the left hand on the hip, and seemed to turn the REC. But no arm-bar.
So it would appear the main thing that got us the challenge win was the hip-hand twist AND the arm-bar. Or maybe just the arm-bar. But the hip-hand twist, which usually/often was enough, was not enough in this other game.
And I thought the hip-hand twist in the 2nd game was more egregious than the minor twist in our game.
It's hard to figure out exactly what the command standard is any given season. It does change subtly.
Quote from: Sir Blue and Gold on August 29, 2026, 03:19:26 AMJY reminds us who is in charge on that last drive haha. Not to worry!
You're not analyzing it correctly. MTL's drive started at 4Q4:55 and took 2m32s, or more than half the remaining time in the game.
Letting them get a TD in 2:32 is not a failure, it's a wild success when up 3 majors. We get 1 or 2 first downs then we win. The best MTL could ever hope is to match our 2018 "MTL Miracle" game, which took us 1:44 to get 2 TD. So all we'd have to do is get them down to 1:44 still down 2 majors. Even worse for MTL is they needed 2 2PATs too. Virtually impossible, and I'd say totally impossible if we get them to 1:44.
Quote from: tlf on August 29, 2026, 03:22:37 AMwe had nobody back to field the ball there. Why?
At the stadium I thought WPG screwed up not having Vaval deep. But on TV I can see that we totally knew they might kick deep. Holm was already deeper than the rest and he was geared up to run backwards -- zero hesitation and even cheating up to it.
I think they've reviewed this scenario, and schemed the best response. Obviously they feel the extra guy playing the OSK is more useful than the returnability of Vaval deep. Clearly they've practiced this with Holm as "the man". I wonder if that little kick Holm did on the ball was by accident though? Or is that to give him more time to recover. Remember, Holm is probably the 2nd or 3rd fastest guy on our team.
Quote from: Blue72 on August 29, 2026, 04:00:39 AMWho did Clercius replace and when did he come in? Good size receiver and good hands today.
Clercius was in a fair bit, often for extra downfield blocking, like for screens. On my Tecno's Takes (upcoming) he has 5 good blocking assists, in addition to his good catch (I think -- stats page is down right now).
That makes him about on par with Daniels, who is on the field a lot more.
As for who he comes in for, it seems to be Cobb, who is rarely out there with all of these bigger sets. But sometimes it might be Nield (or both when it's Daniels/Eli + Clercius out there)
Quote from: bluengold204 on August 29, 2026, 04:21:29 AMWe are the best team in the league
Cute thing, my 7 y.o. (who was at the game) said the same thing. She's like "we beat the best so we're the best, daddy!". I was trying to explain football isn't quite like boxing, but then I was like, nah: let her have this win (after losing all the rest of the stinkers at home this season).
One thing we for sure did show, though: if we make it to the cup via the West, MTL isn't a lock to win. And if we go through the East, they aren't a lock to eliminate us.
There is some question as to whether the Demski fumble should have ben overturned
To me the league needs to make a rule clarification
Jow is it a player can swing a haymaker to attempt to punch out a ball from a player that is basically tied up and defenseless? And even if they partially contact the players arm why isnt it roughing, I mean if its all ball i get that its a football play but often its a wild swing
The punching the ball out is a risky play as if you strike the player, you should get a game ejection over the punch, hit the ball and you're a hero. Risky play. I've seen it at the high school level and have kicked a bunch of players out as they attempted to punch the ball out but punched the player in the gut by mistake, that's an ejection every time.
Have they ever called it in the cfl?
I doubt it, at the pro level, they have perfected the '6" ninja punch' as Luke Willson calls it, not so at the high school level where inexperienced kids are throwing haymakers at their opponent and have zero accuracy, its an easy call to make, you can't punch people like a lunatic claiming you were trying to knock the ball out!!
Quote from: dd on September 01, 2026, 03:57:17 AMI doubt it, at the pro level, they have perfected the '6" ninja punch' as Luke Willson calls it, not so at the high school level where inexperienced kids are throwing haymakers at their opponent and have zero accuracy, its an easy call to make, you can't punch people like a lunatic claiming you were trying to knock the ball out!!
Earlier in the season I saw a player throw 2 or 3 shots trying to punch the ball out, it absolutely looked like he was wailing on the ball carrier and should have been penalized. What's allowed next a flying elbow smash???
Quote from: Throw Long Bannatyne on September 01, 2026, 04:44:19 AMEarlier in the season I saw a player throw 2 or 3 shots trying to punch the ball out, it absolutely looked like he was wailing on the ball carrier and should have been penalized. What's allowed next a flying elbow smash???
Ya, I remember that one. SY I think. They'll often take wild swings at arms in SY over-the-tops. The controlled punch-directly-at-the-ball is ok, but what if it's fully 2-arm wrapped? Then you're just punching arms, which are unpadded and that don't feel great.
We haven't seen it too much since then so maybe the league sent out a reminder to the teams on what they'll start flagging in the future. From what I can tell the league sends out memos regularly, whether to all teams, or just to the team requesting clarification (like MOS says he asks for every week). The problem is, it's Super Cereal Secret that they don't make public so we're all left guessing.
Quote from: dd on September 01, 2026, 02:01:16 AMThe punching the ball out is a risky play as if you strike the player, you should get a game ejection over the punch
No, and the difference is the whistle. You can basically do anything you want that isn't a HC or FM within the whistles. But if you do almost anything
after the whistles, that's what gets flagged.
Sure, you can't just start punching the guy randomly say in the back or leg, but you can legally punch wildly anywhere near the ball, and people do almost every play, especially when there is more than 1 defender on the carrier. But not after the whistle!
And I think that's ok, because how do you police that otherwise? It's not flag football.
Quote from: Pete on September 01, 2026, 01:42:34 AMThere is some question as to whether the Demski fumble should have ben overturned
To me the league needs to make a rule clarification
Jow is it a player can swing a haymaker to attempt to punch out a ball from a player that is basically tied up and defenseless? And even if they partially contact the players arm why isnt it roughing, I mean if its all ball i get that its a football play but often its a wild swing
First, how the ball came out is irrelevant. If he just dropped it I bet they call it the same way. The only issue for this weird overturn is the timing. Command decided it was "long enough" in the state of no progress and fully encircled/wrapped up.
Exactly like they did in another game earlier in the season. And this is all well and good.
And you are 100% correct that CFL needs to announce the "change" publicly. We should be able to read the memo, or hear their rationale. And that memo would read "we are now enforcing the forward progress rules on the books even if no whistle blows at the time".
Make me commish. I'll be the most transparent and by-the-book-or-change-the-book commish ever. No fan will ever be confused again. 8)
Tecno's Take - Not Late At All Edition
good
zach 24.5
brady 15
pokey 9
perkins 7.5
white 7
nield 6.5
jones 6.5
holm 6.5
willie 6
vaval 5
demski 5
els 4.5
smith 4
stan 3.5
clercius 3.5
major 3
eli 3
daniels 3
ceresna 3
wallace 2.5
neuf 2.5
cadwall 2.5
broxton 2.5
texada 2
fletcher 2
woodbey 1.5
reese 1.5
kyrie 1.5
kelly 1.5
ike 1.5
cobb 1.5
1 or less: shay, novak, lawson, gatkouth, castillo, moxey, hallett, clark, ayers
bad
kelly 3.5
major 2.5
wallace 1.5
vaval 1.5
ike 1.5
woodbey 1
pokey 1
neuf 1
neild 1
cobb 1
brady 1
0.5 each: zach, white, moxey, jones, hallett, els, cadwall, broxton
1Q9:35 2nd & goal from the 3: reporter post-game asked MOS and he is indeed correct: we only have 11 on the field for this snap. Could be why no one sealed the edge for Perkins' outside run.
1Q9:11 Love the 1st Perkins SY TD: we overload the right side, moving Stan there and putting in Eli. Daniels takes Stan's LT spot! MTL realizes it too late, and can't adjust in time.
1Q7:34 I thought "Ike doesn't make that IB mistake", and I don't think he did. Refs see someone fall down with someone behind and they just flag a ST IB. Ike never pushed him, in fact he tried to hold him up; it was their feet that collided, like an accidental DPI situation. Not sure if that qualifies to be flagged. Could have been challenged, but no way you figure that out in ~35s (I couldn't). I think the MTL guy sold it a bit, too.
1Q3:44 Crowd really didn't like that Maltos late UR hit on Vaval. Unflagged by the blind refs, of course. CFL has been flagging that late hit (2-3 steps OOB) all season -- but crickets for us. EITS can't call down a flag?? When he gets a fine this week, it'll be proof crowd was right. Even MOS is smirking at that one. Oh ya, and doubly egregious because Diaz basically punched him in the face instead of trying to tackle or bump.
1Q3:08 The Condell-cam has our freakin' call chart showing right on the wall with fish-eye lens! Holy Moses!! Someone do something about that! Our guys need to see what the TSN booth cam is going to look like before they start the broadcast! I can read everything, and so can the opponent! I really hope they change the numbering scheme up every game or we could be screwed by cheatin' teams.
2Q12:05 The Snead walk-in busted coverage is the exact same play EDM ran on us. Have a REC crossing out to in, get invisible and small behind the line and switch back out. It was Major's assignment, and Jones as WILL as backup: both were chasing the play as they both botched it. We didn't film study the mistakes from the EDM game? Every team will take their tiniest REC and use this against us, because you can't track these tiny guys behind the dense line! Figure out a solution Younger! 2Q10:18 THe Awe RTP on Zach, that's a huge whack on Zach. Lifting him way up and suplexing him with his whole weight, and pretty sure Zach's back-of-helmet whacks the turf, which is usually the Zach-out-for-4-weeks thing. I'm glad we got it, but it's a judgement call by the ref, as Zach was slightly jumping already and the hit wasn't late at all. I'd say the full-body-weight follow-through (not the suplex) is what did it. Awe could have just lifted him up and held onto him and set him down nicely when the whistle went.
2Q5:43 Holm takes a wicked blindside block from MTL hoggie #68. That's what springs Philpot on a big hitch screen. #68 is slightly moving back towards his line, though somewhat parallel (starts at the 43 and the hit is back at the 41). The hit is "forceful" and blows Holm up. No flag. Ironic, because later I'm pretty sure we take a blindside or crackback penalty. Haha, Luke even highlights it on replay and he doesn't even mention the fact it's illegal, and Dustin even says "imagine not seeing that guy coming and then he gets ya"... ya, that's the whole point of the rule!
3Q14:57 First time I've ever seen Shay do anything. He was in beast mode on ST on KO, miles faster than everyone, whacks his blocker and goes and makes the tackle on first contact. Very nice! Probably won't get a stat because there was a UR-FM by MTL? If he keeps this up, he'll get noticed (finally).
3Q10:18 The Chaos Fumble, went like this: Alexander(M) Jones(W) Theis(M) Kyrie(W) Jones(W). The funniest thing is: is this ball incomplete? It was clearly a forward pass: underhand shuttle. But the only one who ever has it for any length of time is Theis, and he doesn't have it very long (1 sec?) before he's fumbling it (without contact). Hot potato!
3Q8:52 The phantom illegal block downfield: Luke is right, what penalty is this supposed to be? Blocking downfield is when you are engaging your D guy, like holding him and trying to block him out. Pokey here just comes back and gets in the way. You're allowed to get in the way. And the coming back to the line part is irrelevant as that's not what the refs called, and in any case nothing was forceful. Again, he was just in the way. And Luke is also correct in that the hold on the play before was bogus because it was the DL guy who dragged Neuf to the ground, not the other way around! They should make called holds challengeable. It's dumb that cheating DL can get away with faking a take down just because the refs can't figure it out in realtime.
3Q0:00 Demski's fumble: this is the same overturn they made a few weeks ago when EITS called down "forward progress" even though no on-field whistle went. I noted it at the time as new precedent. Now we get another example of it. I hate it because it breaks precedent, but I also like it because it is by the rule book -- is the player fully wrapped up? Yes. Is the player no longer advancing? Yes. So by the book he's DBC. This may be a new thing to compensate for the command memo passed down a few seasons ago to almost always "let it play out". That was in response to refs blowing whistles way too early on fumbles, etc. And if you're going to do that (where refs used to blow it dead faster) then you do need some way to compensate, otherwise you're always favoring the fumble vs DBC. In other words, the on-field call cannot get priority when you've purposely said "don't make quick on-field calls" in these fumble situations. As usual, this would go over a lot better with fans if the league would just issue the memos publicly and list their revised standards. Instead you are leaving fans (and clearly HC's like Maas) apoplectic with confusion and anger. P.S. I checked the one angle where you can see Demski's helmet almost hit the ground, but upon studying it 100% does not touch the ground before the punch-out.
4Q2:39 If you ever question is big crowd noise helps, check this play out. No REC knows their assignment. Alexander is frustrated. Is even throwing his arms up because no one around him knows anything.
Nield actually did something (...then he didn't). His jumping catch with the DB draped all over him was pretty spectacular and not something we see any Bomber not named Kenny doing. And the later ladder-climb/hit-take was also quite exceptional.
MTL gets Beauchemin, we get Kelly. Theirs makes an insane impossible GL stop. Ours bumps into people and lets them get TDs. It doesn't seem fair. P.S. Doesn't Nield weigh anything? Both guys are full on braced for impact and yet Nield stops completely dead, with zero give by their FS. Weird.
Boy, Jones is a monster: what is he not good at?
OL quite astounding in all aspects.
Told y'all Cadwall is the future Mike Miller / Gauthier forever-STer doing special things.
D all coming to pile on, stopping the infamous MTL tandem blocks.
Texada: didn't see him much all 1st H. But we were doing all sorts of weird sets in the 4th. Like no-Moxey, and both Vaval & Texada in with Holm & Major. If Moxey wasn't nicked, is this them experiementing with new looks? Giving Texada a good look-see for later-season roster planning? Or just up 23...
I always wonder if anyone does any work in the off-season in terms of schemes to beat the guys who hosed your previous season. This is the first time all season I've seen any indication that anyone agonized over that final ESF loss, and came up with better plans. Is this finally me getting what I wanted? This doesn't look like just one week of practice and new wrinkles. This looks like a complete plan to deal with MTL and its high-powered O and D.
So why did we win instead of pulling a '25ESF? We had an answer for nearly every single thing Thorpe did. Watch carefully at every snap and you'll see 1-2 REC watching the misdirection of Thorpe on how many are coming. They all read it near perfectly and went hot on cue, and all in a near perfect way. We especially excelled at the LoS crosser -- The Condell Special. Zach was great a seeing things, even the blindside risk, and put a great touch on all the hots. Pass rush blocking was above par, and I'm not sure Brady screwed it up even once. On D we confused #10 and stopped the run, and that was good enough. They weren't expecting the Texada/Holm/Major/Vaval set. We kept Kelly out of one-on-ones to a fair degree. We really had a near perfect MTL-killing plan on all phases.
Injuries:
Hazen looked dazed on a ST collision early. Demski didn't finish. Not much Moxey later in the game?
Zach's calf all taped up? Can't see a brace. What's up with that? Probably related to that one sack he took vs EDM where he was touching his knee & limping.
The officials then need to do a much better job of whistling plays down. Would solve this issue
The other thing is officials tend to let the play linger as the command center can then reverse if need be but the issue when becomes tje call on the field takes priority which doesn't seem right
Quote from: Pete on September 01, 2026, 04:50:36 PMThe officials then need to do a much better job of whistling plays down. Would solve this issue
The other thing is officials tend to let the play linger as the command center can then reverse if need be but the issue when becomes tje call on the field takes priority which doesn't seem right
Which is why in my post I'm convinced this new "eits whistle" is in reaction to the let it play out mentality.
It's all very reactionary:
Plays are whistled dead too early, real fumbles are being stopped to early -> don't blow whistle until you're sure they are dbc: "let it play out"
Plays are being left going too long, whistles are all late, clearly "forward progress" situations are never called on the field -> allow eits to call down forward progress, even absent any whistle. Command decides when the play is dead, not the on field refs.
The first solution created the second problem.
It's not without merit, but it's all completely opaque and we're left to figure this out on our own! Just communicate!!
I haven't seen Maas so angry since he was edm hc. Dude is gonna stroke out on the field. I think it's actually healthier if he breaks some headsets rather than bottle it up.
Looks like the Bombers really got under Alexander's skin.
Davis Alexander: Montreal Alouettes, Winnipeg Blue Bombers 'don't like each other'
https://3downnation.com/2026/09/02/davis-alexander-montreal-alouettes-winnipeg-blue-bombers-dont-like-each-other/ (https://3downnation.com/2026/09/02/davis-alexander-montreal-alouettes-winnipeg-blue-bombers-dont-like-each-other/)
Quote from: Throw Long Bannatyne on September 02, 2026, 06:44:13 PMLooks like the Bombers really got under Alexander's skin.
Davis Alexander: Montreal Alouettes, Winnipeg Blue Bombers 'don't like each other'
https://3downnation.com/2026/09/02/davis-alexander-montreal-alouettes-winnipeg-blue-bombers-dont-like-each-other/ (https://3downnation.com/2026/09/02/davis-alexander-montreal-alouettes-winnipeg-blue-bombers-dont-like-each-other/)
He and Maas were upset that a horse collar wasn't called on him when he turned the ball over. The Bomber player grabbed the top of the jersey, not the collar, and did not cause a change in direction, no call should have been made, the refs did the right thing and they can get p*ssed off all they want.
Quote from: dd on September 03, 2026, 01:59:41 AMHe and Maas were upset that a horse collar wasn't called on him when he turned the ball over. The Bomber player grabbed the top of the jersey, not the collar, and did not cause a change in direction
The rule does not require a change of direction or even the classic pulling back motion.
I've seen it called where the dude just has his hand there. However, as a turnover command had the full ability to flag it. They didn't.
Yes, I was a bit surprised at a few calls. Looks like once again command is setting new precedent without telling the fans.
You can bet Maas sent a huge request for clarification this week.
Quote from: dd on September 03, 2026, 01:59:41 AMHe and Maas were upset that a horse collar wasn't called on him when he turned the ball over. The Bomber player grabbed the top of the jersey, not the collar, and did not cause a change in direction, no call should have been made, the refs did the right thing and they can get p*ssed off all they want.
He was upset multiple times. I remember one play when T. Jones came in on a blitz and caused some pressure causing Alexander to throw the ball away. Never came close to touching him but they were jawing back and forth.
He was rattled the entire second half.
Quote from: Jesse on September 03, 2026, 03:04:31 PMHe was upset multiple times. I remember one play when T. Jones came in on a blitz and caused some pressure causing Alexander to throw the ball away. Never came close to touching him but they were jawing back and forth.
He was rattled the entire second half.
He brings it upon himself. He likes to play it all cool and chirp everyone up thinks he's some tough guy, but all that does is fire up the opposition. Looks good on him, he behaved like a spoiled brat crying all game. Just shut your mouth and play the game man, but talkm about a guy who loves to get all the attention!!!