Rider at Blue Bombers pre game thread

[GOLDMEMBER]

The DL and the LB corp need to step up and help the boys in the back!

Alexander you would think should be able to make more of an impact.

On O we need to clean up turnovers Please!

ST it would be nice to see better kick coverage and maybe Grant will look for healthy in the return game.

[buckzumhoff]

We need better kick returns and punt returns.

[dd]

Riders are going to be hungry/looking for a playoff cross over win....Fajardo should have success vs our backend, could upset us.

[pjrocksmb]

Will be a similar game to the one in Regina

[GOLDMEMBER]

Riders are going to be hungry/looking for a playoff cross over win....Fajardo should have success vs our backend, could upset us.

If his stainer OL gives him any time at all?

[TecnoGenius]

Nah.  There's a risk we put up over 50 on them this time.  They just don't play hard outside of Mosaic because they figure they won't get beat up by the fans upon exit.

This game would be important for SSK, but I think they put their concentration and effort into beating HAM the following week.  That one basically gets them 4 points in terms of winning the crossover.  If SSK can manage to beat HAM that game, SSK most likely crosses over.

If IGF has a rockin' large-crowd game for a late Sept, it's going to be hard on SSK.

Just watch, every hole HAM exploited will be filled by Hall for this game.  You aren't going to beat us the same way twice.  If I was SSK, I'd pound the ground with Hickson 50% of the plays and do a lot of speed sweeps with others.  That's their best attack, and it's WPG's weakness.

[Throw Long Bannatyne]

Nah.  There's a risk we put up over 50 on them this time.  They just don't play hard outside of Mosaic because they figure they won't get beat up by the fans upon exit.

This game would be important for SSK, but I think they put their concentration and effort into beating HAM the following week.  That one basically gets them 4 points in terms of winning the crossover.  If SSK can manage to beat HAM that game, SSK most likely crosses over.

If IGF has a rockin' large-crowd game for a late Sept, it's going to be hard on SSK.

Just watch, every hole HAM exploited will be filled by Hall for this game.  You aren't going to beat us the same way twice.  If I was SSK, I'd pound the ground with Hickson 50% of the plays and do a lot of speed sweeps with others.  That's their best attack, and it's WPG's weakness.

I think we will see Zach make amends for a down game in his eyes, he played flawlessly in the last game against the Riders, so he knows exactly what he needs to do to beat that team.

[Tee42]

Coming off a by, additional injuries, and new players trying to learn the playbook. This game will not be as close as you think.
Injuries? Potential people coming off the IR. Lots to learn.

[TecnoGenius]

NOTE: This game (7pm) overlaps the second double-header game in BC (9:30).  Adjust your PVRs accordingly.  The BC game might be mostly done by the time I make it home!

Boy, it would be nice (and funny) if OTT beats BC.  Wow, would that really help us clinch 1st.  Ah, a man can dream.

[Lincoln Locomotive]

As much as the Riders have fallen into the pit of despair.....don't count them out this week....even if their coach said they weren't very good.    Think the players like to hear those comments?   They are pros and despite their shooting themselves in the foot so many times this season....they will want to atone for the 50 burger we served them in the BB.    We are so banged up now and I don't see us picking up any new players that could make an immediate impact especially on defence.    Many posted on here about how lousy a season the TiCats had and then they whipped our butts.....despite the fact that they lost to Montreal the very next week!!  This is the CFL and as we know any team on any given day can win.   I'd be happy with a one point win at this point.....we need to continue finding ways to win games as we close down the regular season.   Backing into the playoffs isn't the way for us to get to Regina in November.

[Lincoln Locomotive]

NOTE: This game (7pm) overlaps the second double-header game in BC (9:30).  Adjust your PVRs accordingly.  The BC game might be mostly done by the time I make it home!

Boy, it would be nice (and funny) if OTT beats BC.  Wow, would that really help us clinch 1st.  Ah, a man can dream.

I can't see this happening unless VA has another stinker of a game.....apparently Burnham is out with a suspected broken wrist.    However, in the CFL anything is possible.   

[Blue In BC]

For what it's worth, from the Riders forum comments.

Clements is expected back at WIL for this game and that Wilson might be back soon as well although not for this game. That's news to me but would be welcome if true.

Clements would be less of a surprise since he's missed 4 games IIRC. If Wilson is able to play and start going into the play offs that would be a giant boost on defence. He's a top player. Pushing Clements to a DI role with Wilson starting is an improvement in our depth situation too.

[Pigskin]

Both teams should be rested and ready to go. Our D has to play much better. Agree our return game needs to be better. We also need to shut down their return game. Alford can be dangerous. ZC8 cannot turn over the like he has been lately. I am hoping for about 30,000 in the stands. 

[Throw Long Bannatyne]

As much as the Riders have fallen into the pit of despair.....don't count them out this week....even if their coach said they weren't very good.    Think the players like to hear those comments?   They are pros and despite their shooting themselves in the foot so many times this season....they will want to atone for the 50 burger we served them in the BB.   

Here's to shoving another hundred burgers down their throats.

[DM83]

What are you talking about burgers?
**** you....its lunch time and now ya got me  thinking about that.

[ModAdmin]

@EdTaitWFC
1h
The @Wpg_BlueBombers
back to work after bye week. Not practising: Greg Ellingson, Drew Wolitarsky, Jackson Jeffcoat, Demerio Houston

[Blue In BC]

@EdTaitWFC
1h
The @Wpg_BlueBombers
back to work after bye week. Not practising: Greg Ellingson, Drew Wolitarsky, Jackson Jeffcoat, Demerio Houston

Bombers are practising 3 days + walk through this week. So it's not impossible that we see some vets getting an extra day off. Woli and Jeffcoat being the two that could fall into that category.

Which players are practising that have been off recently? Players like Hansen, Clements or Wilson for example. Any word on them yet?

[3rdand1.5]

Let's hope Jeffcoat is a maintenance day or two. Honestly offence has done well with Ellingson out, and BOLO has been showing progression, our concerns seem to be defensive. But as mentioned Holm and Parker will have 3 full practices and some "quality" film to review from last week. Alaxander has another full week of practice to communicate better, I expect them to play better. The D-line if Jeffcoat is out does scare me. Faj is mobile and containing him and pressuring him is a key to beating the Riders. If you let him "spin" and get away from pressure, he makes things happen.

[Pigskin]

This will be GE2's 5 games missed on this injury. So, he might start to practice next week.

Might head to practice tomorrow to see what our new DL looks like.

[Pete]

I would be very surprised to see Jeffcoat play this week.. his injury appears to be reoccuring regularly and likely needs more time to completely heal. Last game I couldn't see a specific incident, it just appeared as if he couldnt get a push off. From what we've seen of Wilcox I dont think he can supply the needed pressure. Likely Hall will have to scheme. Wilcox's main role will be to keep Fajsrdo from going wide

[DM83]

Just bring in one of the Hallett Bros and line him up as a spy. of Fajardo.
Someone remind Hall that Fajardo cant throw deep with any accuracy,
their line cant block, so any pattern (intermediate) will take time to develop (Take a inside shade, as Fajardo seems to have trouble on mid range passes)
Bring Pressure (ever since the injury he is extremely doomed back in the pocket)

The spy lays off and when he spins out, he spy would be there,

Put me in coach, defending the Riders should be a gimme.

Now if I am  Sask,  I run the ball up Biggies ***.  Anyone else been asking the question "Where is Bighill?"
And I still want him, but our other LBs are pretty week, as is Rose.  Hallet should be back at safety, and move Alexander to someplace that requires less mobility.  He is not recovered yet to be himself

[Blue In BC]

As usual the daily IR report is useless. 8 players listed and each one listed as " DNP ".

[3rdand1.5]

Apparently Hickson broke his wrist and will be out. Also apparently Domagala got a DUI and was arrested and the Riders have suspended him.

[gobombersgo]

Duke Williams is backing practicing for the Riders.

[ModAdmin]

Dan Clark is back taking reps for the Riders. 

[TecnoGenius]

If no Hickson and no Morrow, then SSK is in deeeeep trouble.  That was their only hope vs WPG.

Duke may still take another week to ease into things.  In any event, he's a clown and their other WRs are better.

Clark is a big boon for SSK if he plays.  Their OL was one of the worst in the league as it stood.  Clark will shore it up.  But will he dress come Saturday?

[pjrocksmb]

https://www.cfl.ca/2022/09/26/riders-bombers-injury-reports-riders-hickson-non-participant-monday/

[Sir Blue and Gold]

Bombers are practising 3 days + walk through this week. So it's not impossible that we see some vets getting an extra day off. Woli and Jeffcoat being the two that could fall into that category.

Which players are practising that have been off recently? Players like Hansen, Clements or Wilson for example. Any word on them yet?

I mean, Jeffcoat sounds like a bad loss but he really hasn't been great this year. Signed that big contract and then got a little comfortable. We'll still miss him, but what we really miss is 2021 Jeffcoat.

[The Zipp]

I mean, Jeffcoat sounds like a bad loss but he really hasn't been great this year. Signed that big contract and then got a little comfortable. We'll still miss him, but what we really miss is 2021 Jeffcoat.

And the kongbo rotation...

[Sir Blue and Gold]

And the kongbo rotation...

Kind of? But it's not significant. 4 sacks in 26 games and basically a tackle a game player. Made sense as a Canadian rotation guy but certainly not good value if he was an American rotating. Not a major factor in the drop off this year I would argue. Jeffcoat, whether hurt or not, has been the main difference.

[GOLDMEMBER]

And the kongbo rotation...

this ^

[TecnoGenius]

On my rewatch of the last game it seems clear our whole DL is weak this year.  I'm not sure you can pin it on one player.  However, others are right that we're not getting what we need out of the DTs.  They are awful at shedding blocks to make plays in the hole.  They are only shedding after the rusher has gone by and then trying to tackle from behind; or worse, playing catchup.

You can't just blame JT.  It's them all.  The DEs too.  And the LBers often stuff the wrong hole and get held and are even worse at shedding the blocks.  That's all the LBs, including Biggie and Rutledge and the NATs.

It's basically how HAM sealed the deal in the last game.  They just ran it down our throats like Powell used to for SSK in '18.  It was actually embarrassing, as that's our game-closing M.O. when we had Harris!!

Add to that the fact that Evans either threw the instant timing route negating our DEs, or they had enough blockers and we schemed poorly so he had all day for the long-developing routes.  Embarrassing.

As others have said, we need more beef in the DT and more rotation to stay fresh.  If that means finding a new Stove or Nevis, so be it.  We need to dress more DL and everyone needs to try harder.

Oh ya, and our blitzes were crap.  They never hit home.  Whether Biggie, Rutledge or a DB, they always got stuffed.  Badly.  This seems to be our new 2022 M.O.: useless blitzing.  Other teams get the blitz through to Zach, why can't we?  Embarrassing.

Good thing 2022 is the "year of our O", because we're gonna need it down the stretch.  Don't get me wrong, our D is still good, even though this all sounds very negative.  It's just that we don't seem to be improving into these last games like we should.  They all need to get very serious, and fast, if we want to win playoff games.  Lucky for us, other teams aren't too hot this year either, and they all have their own troubles.

[BLUEBOMBER]

I am not worried yet.. but it's getting a bit concerning...

[GOLDMEMBER]

The Rider game will be very telling after the bye. More of the same against the bush whackers  then yes we have big concerns with this DL group

[DM83]

Techno,

Your post hit  the nail on the head.

My co-horts offered up the idea, our boys are older, and eventually, they hit the wall. I too, have pitied our blitzes, and the DE's kind of suck Willie seems to be going through the motions and seems to think he doesnt have to attempt to rush sometimes.

We also have not replaced the injured, or guys that left.

Although you have not directly said it, I see for the firs time? this season, you are expressing concerns of a serious nature.  Some posters, may say all will be fine, but based on the lack of play making....... our defence sucks.  You are right, If I am Sask I am running the entire game.  The front seven have been  on a downword slide for a few games now.  Point being we are not going to win a play-off game with this shoddy performance.

[Blue In BC]

Riders have lost Hickson for the season so their running game won't be very good. I see they cut Keion Adams one of their DE's. He had 17 DT's in 7 games and might be worth a look as a dpeth guy and / or depending if Jeffocoat is out for any length of time. He's had 16 CFL games under his belt and 26 DT's overall.

[Lincoln Locomotive]

Pretty much agree with Techno on just about all points made in his last post.    Our takeaways are lacking this season as well where we used to make a few a game.   This season not so much and our front four hasn't been nearly as effective without Nevis or Stove in the middle on rotation.   The Riders lost both their RBs which means they will have to run with a new back...however our run defence could make a new star out of whoever replaces Hickson....who had great success against us.    
Luckily our O and not our D has been the difference this year and even in defeat against the Cats the O scored enough points to win most games.  
Hoping we get Elingson back and that Janarion Grant gets back up to speed.   He has been a non-factor in his first couple of games back.  It helps when we can flip the field or score off of our special teams which haven't been that special with all the injuries we've sustained.    Fact is most teams are losing key players as well....especially in the West....
We really need a win after the bye and after that arse-whipping we were handed by Hamilton.    

[Throw Long Bannatyne]

Derek Taylor

No Stanley Bryant for a second straight day (ankle).

Geoff Gray continues at LT. Interesting to see how they?ll use Couture/Kolankowski if Bryant can?t go.

This is a Tweet

ALSO

Spotted WR Carlton Agudosi no longer wearing a walking boot. No idea what a timetable for him would be, but it?s progress.

(He implied he was done for the year at the time of the injury)

[Blue In BC]

Derek Taylor

No Stanley Bryant for a second straight day (ankle).

Geoff Gray continues at LT. Interesting to see how they?ll use Couture/Kolankowski if Bryant can?t go.

This is a Tweet

ALSO

Spotted WR Carlton Agudosi no longer wearing a walking boot. No idea what a timetable for him would be, but it?s progress.

(He implied he was done for the year at the time of the injury)

Interesting. I think Bryant can use the vet day and this may be nothing more than that. However it may mean a game off.

If he doesn't play I would have thought Hardrick would move to LT and Neufeld to RT with Couture at RG. Although 1 change is better than 3 changes on the OL. All of that is if Gray can play well at LT and not get Collaros injured. Hence the idea of Hardrick taking his spot.

[Throw Long Bannatyne]

Interesting. I think Bryant can use the vet day and this may be nothing more than that. However it may mean a game off.

If he doesn't play I would have thought Hardrick would move to LT and Neufeld to RT with Couture at RG. Although 1 change is better than 3 changes on the OL. All of that is if Gray can play well at LT and not get Collaros injured. Hence the idea of Hardrick taking his spot.

Gray has subbed in for Bryant at LT at least 3 times including almost an entire game replacing Richmond late last season against the Stamps, he's looked great in that time and did not allow any sacks.

[Blue In BC]

Gray has subbed in for Bryant at LT at least 3 times including almost an entire game replacing Richmond late last season against the Stamps, he's looked great in that time and did not allow any sacks.

Richmond started 1 game when we activated all those PR players after locking up 1st place. He got hurt and Gray as our 6th OL took over at LT as an in game replacement.

I don't know that indicates he was or should be the best option at LT.

We have 4 import OL on the PR and IIRC Richmond was possibly due to start practising this week. In theory we'd still have roster space to activate another import as depth at worst.

One change starting as opposed to two on the OL seems a better option.

If these imports and the global aren't capable why are they still here?

[Pigskin]

If Richmond is still on the 6 game, 14 games into the season I can't see him in the lineup this year. We have some good young American talent on our roster including Muljo (24) who is 6'6" 314 and played LT in college. Lofton (29) who has some CFL experience 6'4" 293. Fornadel (23) 6'5" 314, Witt (24) 6'2" 305, was a very good OL in college.

[Jesse]

Interesting. I think Bryant can use the vet day and this may be nothing more than that. However it may mean a game off.

If he doesn't play I would have thought Hardrick would move to LT and Neufeld to RT with Couture at RG. Although 1 change is better than 3 changes on the OL. All of that is if Gray can play well at LT and not get Collaros injured. Hence the idea of Hardrick taking his spot.

I expect Bryant to play - but if he didn't, I very much expect a 1 for 1 replacement. I really don't think they would make that many moves on the OL. It would screw everything up and also go against the team's "everyone is a starter" mantra.

[Blue In BC]

If Richmond is still on the 6 game, 14 games into the season I can't see him in the lineup this year. We have some good young American talent on our roster including Muljo (24) who is 6'6" 314 and played LT in college. Lofton (29) who has some CFL experience 6'4" 293. Fornadel (23) 6'5" 314, Witt (24) 6'2" 305, was a very good OL in college.

Alexander missed 13 games and he was back last week. So that's not really a deciding factor that he's been out that long. The difference is that Alexander was a starter and Richmond was depth previously.

The imports on the PR might have some talent but it's a bit early to say they are " good, bad or average ".  Lofton has been here the longest and does have some CFL experience.

I would think each of the imports is projected primarily at one spot on the OL. Which is 1st projected as " next man up " at LT I don't know. Obviously each may have some experience at multiple positions but where has their primary experience been.

In 2021 Richmond is the survivor ( sort of ) from the PR and did get activated to play LT. Is he close to healthy and would he be better than the other OL?  The other OL have been here and probably had some more recent practice time.

So if Bryant isn't playing this week, we'll see what change they make.

[Pigskin]

Alexander missed 13 games and he was back last week. So that's not really a deciding factor that he's been out that long. The difference is that Alexander was a starter and Richmond was depth previously.

The imports on the PR might have some talent but it's a bit early to say they are " good, bad or average ".  Lofton has been here the longest and does have some CFL experience.

I would think each of the imports is projected primarily at one spot on the OL. Which is 1st projected as " next man up " at LT I don't know. Obviously each may have some experience at multiple positions but where has their primary experience been.

In 2021 Richmond is the survivor ( sort of ) from the PR and did get activated to play LT. Is he close to healthy and would he be better than the other OL?  The other OL have been here and probably had some more recent practice time.

So if Bryant isn't playing this week, we'll see what change they make.

Richmond hasn't practiced yet this year, so he's not going to be replacing SB66 if he is out for this game.

[Pigskin]

I am expecting both Wilcots to start on Friday, backed up by Massie. Can't go out there with just two DE's.

[TecnoGenius]

Techno,
Although you have not directly said it, I see for the firs time? this season, you are expressing concerns of a serious nature.  Some posters, may say all will be fine, but based on the lack of play making....... our defence sucks.  You are right, If I am Sask I am running the entire game.  The front seven have been  on a downword slide for a few games now.  Point being we are not going to win a play-off game with this shoddy performance.

Hey, that's sharp of you to notice.  Ya, I'm more often the PJ rah-rah type around here.  But when your team gets 48 put up on you by a heretofore garbage East team and you can't make a stop with 9 mins left to save your life... you have to start looking at why.  I took the cue from many other posters who saw it before I did.  They were right.  And it's not the DBs per se... it's those front 7...

There is a chance we're too negative and the guys just needed their bye as they were all gassed.  Maybe.  The next game will answer that question.  We'll all be happier if we put up 48 on SSK whilst they get 3.  But just being able to stop drives will be a big win for our D.

We still have one of the best teams in a long time, and are still better than basically every team.  But we're not '19 or '21 Bombers, so we are all starting to notice the cracks as we may have peaked and are on the downward slope.  The hope is it won't be too obvious until after a deep playoff run.

But I'm now on board with the idea that come '23 we'll be seeing a lot of new faces at DL/LB and more than a couple retirements/releases.  I'm sure KW's already on it.  I just hope we handle the vets and faves with style.

In any event, even if we our D plays like hot garbage we should win vs the completely hopeless Greenies this week.

[Blue In BC]

I am expecting both Wilcots to start on Friday, backed up by Massie. Can't go out there with just two DE's.

If Jeffcoat comes out then Wilcots makes sense. Which other DI would you take out to put Massie in? Cooper would seem to be the odd man out. I only base that on the fact Cole has been on the roster much longer.

[M.O.A.B.]

With Riders' seemingly not having Morrow or Hickson for this game, I can see the Bombers sitting Walker in favor of Wilcots. If Jeffcoat is nicked then Massie will draw to the lineup.
I think we will use a heavy rotation of DE's with Jefferson, Wilcots, Cooper and Massie to get to Fajardo. Probably, that's the only changes we will see this week.

I expect Bryant to play.

[Jesse]

With Riders' seemingly not having Morrow or Hickson for this game, I can see the Bombers sitting Walker in favor of Wilcots. If Jeffcoat is nicked then Massie will draw to the lineup.
I think we will use a heavy rotation of DE's with Jefferson, Wilcots, Cooper and Massie to get to Fajardo. Probably, that's the only changes we will see this week.

I expect Bryant to play.

As long as we're doing this, I'll be happy. Been keeping the Jeff's on the field far too much.

[DM83]

Well we  have had a few great years around the old ballyard these past few years.  Thanks Bombers.

But now in 2022, its a whole new season.  Teams have been surprised by their lousy QB play.  Except the Bombers.  Never before in my 65 years have I seen tree QBs I would pay to watch ply (and I am  with those pinnacle lounge no amenities seats.. Man service  must have plumetted 200% since the stadium opened.)

However, I fear its time to start re-tooling. Ya can't make the club from the tub.  It seems like our talented roster is all nicked up.  Kudos to everyone for fighting through it.  I think we are seeing the slow decline beginning.

Defensively since the first bye, what are we 1-2, and its the way we lose, is concerning.
Defensively we are not competitive.

Bighill?is he still playing?
Rose what happened to him? He  can't cover anyone
Outside LBs, oye vey?  really bad.
D Line  Willie seems to be taking the year off, not much determination getting to the QB, Thomas  his usual self, Jefferson would still be the best if he wasn't injured.  The other American defensive tackle... what's his name?  I will assume he is a run stopper, gap control, blocker eating guy, taking 2 o linemen to control him, thereby freeing up the ends.??

Defenses called.  Well we don't blitz  because traditionally  that equates to man coverage.  So that means a  zone defence, to not expose the DBs.  So what does Hall do?

If it's me, I am re-installing a zone blitz.  Almost 1/2 of the QBs can not read coverages. Fajardo, Adams, Arbuckle, Hamilton's guy,
But everyone has  players out with injury, so as we say, the real season starts after Labor Day.  As already noted Bombers are 1-2, and with the  Hamilton game Ritchie Hall has to be feeling a huge change in Lack of effort by the front seven......zero sacks.  When is the last time that happened.

Defending Fajardo is easy.
1.) if his first read is covered he is dead.
2.) contain to his right, he is good on the roll right plays
3.) He's got the best weakside spin move in the world.  Put a spy (which would be an agile guy)
4.) He has surprisingly lousy accuracy on deep balls
5.) That leaves crossing patterns short, and the run game.

Take it away, and voila 48-0 Bombers.  If not we could see them be successful.

[Blue In BC]

With Riders' seemingly not having Morrow or Hickson for this game, I can see the Bombers sitting Walker in favor of Wilcots. If Jeffcoat is nicked then Massie will draw to the lineup.
I think we will use a heavy rotation of DE's with Jefferson, Wilcots, Cooper and Massie to get to Fajardo. Probably, that's the only changes we will see this week.

I expect Bryant to play.

Has Cooper actually had any reps on defence? He has no stats and I haven't noticed him on the field except for ST's. In that sense I don't see Walker coming off in order to keep him on the roster.

In theory Cooper should have the size and skills to rotate in at DE. If we don't plan on having him do that, then Walker shouldn't be bumped. Even with a lesser run game from the Riders we need to collapse the pocket with an inside rush as well as from the outside.

Against the Ti Cats we did neither. We gave 10 yard cushions to receivers as well and that's a formula for failure.

Note that I'm not particularly impressed with Walker but at least he's getting some reps on defence.

[Blue In BC]

Rhetorical question: We have a bunch of players that have been on the 1 game IR for some time. None seem to be practising or even expected to be back for more considerable time, possibly not in 2022.

Why weren't those players placed on the 6 game IR? Other teams are adding players to the 6 game IR. Teams can, have and will have players off 6 game IR early before the end of the season.

So what's the deal?  Is this good financial management of SMS? Is there an expectation that Hansen or Taylor could be back before the end of the season?

I can see Woli back soon in theory. I'm not sure why Clements will miss his 5th game this week if his injury indicated a 6 game IR stint?

So much for transparency about injuries and the daily IR report.

[Sir Blue and Gold]

Rhetorical question: We have a bunch of players that have been on the 1 game IR for some time. None seem to be practising or even expected to be back for more considerable time, possibly not in 2022.

Why weren't those players placed on the 6 game IR? Other teams are adding players to the 6 game IR. Teams can, have and will have players off 6 game IR early before the end of the season.

So what's the deal?  Is this good financial management of SMS? Is there an expectation that Hansen or Taylor could be back before the end of the season?

I can see Woli back soon in theory. I'm not sure why Clements will miss his 5th game this week if his injury indicated a 6 game IR stint?

So much for transparency about injuries and the daily IR report.

What is not transparent about it? If they went to the 6-game they would have no possibility to practice and no updates at all. Since they are on the one game we can at least see if they practice or not. As for your question about whether it is good financial management I think I'll give Walters the benefit of the doubt as he has significantly more data than we do on all of these players.

[Pigskin]

With Riders' seemingly not having Morrow or Hickson for this game, I can see the Bombers sitting Walker in favor of Wilcots. If Jeffcoat is nicked then Massie will draw to the lineup.
I think we will use a heavy rotation of DE's with Jefferson, Wilcots, Cooper and Massie to get to Fajardo. Probably, that's the only changes we will see this week.

I expect Bryant to play.

I agree. Bryant will play. Also, we have to have three DE's in the games. If Hassell or Cooper have to come out, so be it. Cooper at 223lb. is not a DE. he's more LB but bombers have him list as a DB.

[LXTSN]

Has Cooper actually had any reps on defence? He has no stats and I haven't noticed him on the field except for ST's. In that sense I don't see Walker coming off in order to keep him on the roster.

In theory Cooper should have the size and skills to rotate in at DE. If we don't plan on having him do that, then Walker shouldn't be bumped. Even with a lesser run game from the Riders we need to collapse the pocket with an inside rush as well as from the outside.

Against the Ti Cats we did neither. We gave 10 yard cushions to receivers as well and that's a formula for failure.

Note that I'm not particularly impressed with Walker but at least he's getting some reps on defence.

I haven't really seen him at DE at all. If he has actually played a snap or 2, I missed it.
Bombers are at their best when they are able to sub in and out on the D-line. The OL has to stay in all game, but if the DL can keep fresh, that's a huge advantage!

[Throw Long Bannatyne]

I haven't really seen him at DE at all. If he has actually played a snap or 2, I missed it.
Bombers are at their best when they are able to sub in and out on the D-line. The OL has to stay in all game, but if the DL can keep fresh, that's a huge advantage!

I believe it's the key to the Richie Hall's defence, if they sustain a strong rush fewer flaws in the secondary are exposed.

[Blue In BC]

What is not transparent about it? If they went to the 6-game they would have no possibility to practice and no updates at all. Since they are on the one game we can at least see if they practice or not. As for your question about whether it is good financial management I think I'll give Walters the benefit of the doubt as he has significantly more data than we do on all of these players.

Every week nearly every player is listed as DNP or questionable to play on Bomber daily IR report. That would make sense for a player on the 6 game IR but not as much as a player on the 1 game IR for the 5th straight week ( Clements ).  Where or what are the " updates " you mention??? The only possible update is when the new depth chart is posted before the game. Aside from that we have no idea what changes might happen.

Miller has been DNP and questionable nearly all year and yet he plays every week.

I mentioned Taylor who we believe is lost for the season. He's not practising so why isn't he on the 6 game IR?

This seems transparent to you? Walters obviously has more data than us but that's the point of transparency.

Other teams have players seriously injured: Hickson, Burnham and Dennis last week. Those teams immediately announce surgery required, probably done for the season and placed on 6 game IR a few days after their last game. That's transparent

[Horseman]

With both Rider RB's out, I would expect to see Kienan LaFrance carrying the rock for the Riders.

[Blue In BC]

With both Rider RB's out, I would expect to see Kienan LaFrance carrying the rock for the Riders.

12 carries from 2019 to date and only 3 carries in 2022. He should have the white flag available early.

[DM83]

Keenan LaFrance as a man tailback? I love the Manitoba  boys, but that would be a big reach.
No, unlikely to happen.

[blue_gold_84]

With both Rider RB's out, I would expect to see Kienan LaFrance carrying the rock for the Riders.

Simply by default. Hardly a ringing endorsement and I fully expect the Riders' run game to struggle on Friday.

[M.O.A.B.]

...and the Bombers signed DE Keion Adams

[DM83]

Is he the guy CJOB is from the Ridera?

[Blue In BC]

...and the Bombers signed DE Keion Adams

Doesn't hurt to add him to our PR.

[Pigskin]

Keion Adams 7 Games, 17 DT's, 2 sacks. He's not the biggest DE at 6'2" 240, but the kid has some speed. Nice add by the bombers. Glad to see we are looking at some DE depth.

[M.O.A.B.]

I would like to think he practiced with the team today and I will not be surprised if he will be in the lineup as a replacement for the injured.

[TecnoGenius]

Other teams have players seriously injured: Hickson, Burnham and Dennis last week. Those teams immediately announce surgery required, probably done for the season and placed on 6 game IR a few days after their last game. That's transparent

Ya, I'm watching Dickenson The Lesser's pressers daily now (not sure why), and it's astounding how up front he is about injuries.  Basically spills all the beans about injuries as well as when guys are coming back or expected to play, etc.  Astounding for this fan who is used to seeing the MOS "we know nothing, we see nothing" routine.

Of course, MOS is 12-2 and Dickenson The Lesser 6-8... so besides fan groaning, maybe MOS is doing it the right way. 

With both Rider RB's out, I would expect to see Kienan LaFrance carrying the rock for the Riders.

They brought in some young IMP to be RB also.  Not sure if they ride with just him or do a rotation with LaFrance.  I think LaFrance can do better than you guys think.  He has wheels, if not much power.

I would like to think he practiced with the team today and I will not be surprised if he will be in the lineup as a replacement for the injured.

I would really hope we would not dress Keion Adams for the SSK game.  Who knows where his loyalties lie.  Wait until next game.

[Pete]

I would really hope we would not dress Keion Adams for the SSK game.  Who knows where his loyalties lie.  Wait until next game.

Zero loyalties... if he does get in, his only interest is going to be in performing well so he can get another chance of being in the next game. If anything he'd want to show Sask they made a mistake letting him go

[GOLDMEMBER]

Zero loyalties... if he does get in, his only interest is going to be in performing well so he can get another chance of being in the next game. If anything he'd want to show Sask they made a mistake letting him go

this ^

[John T.]

Defensively since the first bye, what are we 1-2, and its the way we lose, is concerning.

Since the first bye, we are 3-1.

[The Zipp]

Sask
Ham
Bye
Sask
Edmonton

An easy stretch of our sched and we are 1-1...win the next two and first place is very close and the ability to rest some players is there

[PurpleReign]

LaFrance only had one good year with Ottawa in his career. He has literally been a bust in the CFL.

[M.O.A.B.]

I would really hope we would not dress Keion Adams for the SSK game.  Who knows where his loyalties lie.  Wait until next game.

Keion Adams @civilSAVAGE1
11h
See y'all real soon.

Keion Adams @civilSAVAGE1
11h
Funny how life works.

Keion Adams @civilSAVAGE1
Sep 27
It's a reassuring thing to be wanted.

Keion Adams @civilSAVAGE1
Sep 26
I'm at the this point in my life where I don't want to be around people who are not self aware. Continuously putting themselves in bad positions, making bad life choices, toxic ways/lifestyles, no priorities, lacking accountability etc.

[The Zipp]

Keion Adams @civilSAVAGE1
11h
See y'all real soon.

Keion Adams @civilSAVAGE1
11h
Funny how life works.

Keion Adams @civilSAVAGE1
Sep 27
It's a reassuring thing to be wanted.

Keion Adams @civilSAVAGE1
Sep 26
I'm at the this point in my life where I don't want to be around people who are not self aware. Continuously putting themselves in bad positions, making bad life choices, toxic ways/lifestyles, no priorities, lacking accountability etc.

Start 'em

[Throw Long Bannatyne]

Ya, I'm watching Dickenson The Lesser's pressers daily now (not sure why), and it's astounding how up front he is about injuries.  Basically spills all the beans about injuries as well as when guys are coming back or expected to play, etc.  Astounding for this fan who is used to seeing the MOS "we know nothing, we see nothing" routine.

Of course, MOS is 12-2 and Dickenson The Lesser 6-8... so besides fan groaning, maybe MOS is doing it the right way. 

They brought in some young IMP to be RB also.  Not sure if they ride with just him or do a rotation with LaFrance.  I think LaFrance can do better than you guys think.  He has wheels, if not much power.

I would really hope we would not dress Keion Adams for the SSK game.  Who knows where his loyalties lie.  Wait until next game.

I don't think they'll dress him this Friday, but why would he have any loyalty to the team that just cut him?  Smart move by Walters, avoids all the expense and paperwork of bringing a new import into Canada and can be had for the price of a plane ticket from Regina.

[TecnoGenius]

I don't think they'll dress him this Friday, but why would he have any loyalty to the team that just cut him?  Smart move by Walters, avoids all the expense and paperwork of bringing a new import into Canada and can be had for the price of a plane ticket from Regina.

Oh you don't want to know all the rabbit holes my brain capable of going down vis a vis Regina and their ex-players.  Maybe the Durant thing pushed me over the edge.

Back to the player himself: Riderfans has been saying he's ineffective for months now.  They are happy he's gone.  I won't vouch for the veracity of their claims, after all, they are wearing green.

[Pigskin]

Adams: 7 games, 17 DT's, 2 sacks.   Avg. 2.5 DT per game.

Jeffcoat:  11 games 18DT's, 3 sacks.  Avg. 1.6 DT per game.

I would say his numbers are pretty good. And knowing the Riders D inside and out is priceless.

[ModAdmin]

Sort of surprised to hear Rider fans bad mouthing Bomber fans/stadium.  Winnipeg as well is getting a bad rep on their forum.  I guess losing does that to you.  Hope the Bombers come to this game hungry and motivated.  Pretty sure Mike O'Shea will have them ready regardless of who is next up for any injured players.

[TecnoGenius]

Sort of surprised to hear Rider fans bad mouthing Bomber fans/stadium.  Winnipeg as well is getting a bad rep on their forum.  I guess losing does that to you.

Ya, I think it's sore losers.  Not even sure some of those guys are telling true stories.  I've never seen behaviour like they describe in any stadium.

In recent years I've been to CGY stadium twice and SSK stadium twice and I've always been treated great.  The worst you get is apathy, and that's ok.

When I see greenies (or any other non-WPG fan) at IGF I always go out of my way to welcome them and good-game them, etc, if I can.  For the Banjo Bowl I was talking to a really drunk group of ladies after the game and they started out a bit tetchy but lightened up a lot when I told them I was at the LDC and loved it in Regina at their new stadium.  Ended up having a bunch of laughs with them as we walked, and they were badmouthing / crying about Cody.   

We should always be nice to IGF-visiting green fans because at the very least they are adding big $$ to the WFC bottom line.  And that's a good thing.

[Waffler]

Back to the player himself: Riderfans has been saying he's ineffective for months now. 

Collaros was comparatively ineffective there too. He was not a fan of the offense they made him run. 

As far as LaFrance, he's a vet and coming in fresh and motivated. I expect he's got one or two very good games left.

[Jesse]

Sort of surprised to hear Rider fans bad mouthing Bomber fans/stadium.  Winnipeg as well is getting a bad rep on their forum.  I guess losing does that to you.  Hope the Bombers come to this game hungry and motivated.  Pretty sure Mike O'Shea will have them ready regardless of who is next up for any injured players.

We've had big crowds.

No offense to anyone here, but you throw that many people together and fill them full of beer and you're going to have quite a few jerks in the mix.

[GOLDMEMBER]

Oh you don't want to know all the rabbit holes my brain capable of going down vis a vis Regina and their ex-players.  Maybe the Durant thing pushed me over the edge.

Back to the player himself: Riderfans has been saying he's ineffective for months now.  They are happy he's gone.  I won't vouch for the veracity of their claims, after all, they are wearing green.

maybe just maybe

[DM83]

What's techy? Did you get  number?    sounded like a bonus, besides an entertaining game.  I too, love going to Regina, never had a problem.  I find the Regina folks to be the same as Winnipeggers.

[GOLDMEMBER]

What's techy? Did you get  number?    sounded like a bonus, besides an entertaining game.  I too, love going to Regina, never had a problem.  I find the Regina folks to be the same as Winnipeggers.

Other than getting viciously yelled by a chick rider fan for apparently taking her cab during the LDC I have had no problems there in years. A bouncer appointed us the cab but she was a rude little b%#?**?#

Some Riderfans can take off eh but 90% are fine.

[M.O.A.B.]

Hoping Willie's bulletin board material will not bite him in the *** and cause us this game.

[Sir Blue and Gold]

Everyone in except Jeffcoat: https://twitter.com/Wpg_BlueBombers/status/1575485549162504192/photo/1

[Throw Long Bannatyne]

Everyone in except Jeffcoat: https://twitter.com/Wpg_BlueBombers/status/1575485549162504192/photo/1

They need D-line rotation, hopefully we'll get to see Cooper play tomorrow, rotating in a DT as a rush end did not work at all last game and Willy needs help gettin' after it.

[GOLDMEMBER]

Hoping Willie's bulletin board material will not bite him in the *** and cause us this game.

oh oh what did Willie say?

[M.O.A.B.]

oh oh what did Willie say?

This is what I got from the other fan forum. I haven't read the whole article though because of pay wall.

"Any chance they get to make a mistake, every week, they pretty much do it. There are some good guys on their team, it's just the lack of leadership. Like I said, there's some good guys on the team, but the guys that are out there making mistakes seem to not care," Bombers defensive end Willie Jefferson told the Free Press after Tuesday's practice.

"They're just out there to play for themselves, not trying to play for the team, not trying to play for the organization or the city. That is a city driven team, you know what I'm saying? For you to not have that on your mind going out there to play, it's hard to be disciplined. So, that's something that we preach over here. We want to play together, we want to be disciplined, and we want to play a clean game, but that's something that they don't do over there."

[Lincoln Locomotive]

This is what I got from the other fan forum. I haven't read the whole article though because of pay wall.

Coupled with their own coaches comments about "not being very good".....expect a different Rider team on Friday.   Willie usually can back up his trash talking but you can expect the Riders to come out with retribution on their minds.....especially after we embarrassed them in the Banjo Bowl. 

[Pigskin]

If this is our lineup, I am a little concerned for our D. Cooper at 224 is too small for a DE. He is slightly bigger than our LB's. Still no Clements?? DB's all the same which I expected. Will be there second full game together they should be better.  

[Jesse]

This is what I got from the other fan forum. I haven't read the whole article though because of pay wall.

That was the only quote from Willie.

Neufeld and MOS had quotes, but they were more along the lines of, they're and good team and we can't take them lightly, etc.

[M.O.A.B.]

If this is our lineup, I am a little concerned for our D. Cooper at 224 is too small for a DE. He is slightly bigger than our LB's. Still no Clements?? DB's all the same which I expected. Will be there second full game together they should be better.  

I think the 224 is misleading. He was 240 during college.

https://www.nfldraftdiamonds.com/2021/12/dejaun-cooper-2/
https://goyotes.com/sports/football/roster/dejaun-cooper/11473
https://monmouthhawks.com/sports/football/roster/dejaun-cooper/10311

[GOLDMEMBER]

This is what I got from the other fan forum. I haven't read the whole article though because of pay wall.

yah not the smartest thing to blurt out in the media.

[M.O.A.B.]

Stop thinking that Cooper is DB. He is a DE.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rLp0d2Zn938

[Blue In BC]

Stop thinking that Cooper is DB. He is a DE.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rLp0d2Zn938

On the main page in the article about Bailey it showed Cooper in coverage as a DB. He played safety in the US so I think it's fair to call him a DB more than a DE? I suppose he could also be considered a LB as well.

[DM83]

He plays everywhere.  Can he play QB?  Riders need one don't they?

[Pigskin]

Stop thinking that Cooper is DB. He is a DE.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rLp0d2Zn938

Right under the highlights it says 6"3" 240, #8 OUTSIDE LB.  Now the Bombers have him listed as 6' 3" 224. So, is he a DE?

[TecnoGenius]

maybe just maybe

ROTFL    Thanks Goldie, I needed that.

[TecnoGenius]

What's techy? Did you get  number?    sounded like a bonus, besides an entertaining game.  I too, love going to Regina, never had a problem.  I find the Regina folks to be the same as Winnipeggers.

tetchy: adj. peevish, testy, irritable (wouldn't you be with Cody as your QB?)

Number?  Haha, my wife would kill me.  Although, if I was single, it may have been an option! 

You nailed it DM83: Regina is like Winnipeg-lite.  The fans are so similar; that's what makes it so funny when one side is bashing the other as vastly different/bad.  I hate the Riders, but I've never hated the green fans.  Us two provinces in the center have the most devoted, best, loudest fans in the CFL.

[TecnoGenius]

If this is our lineup, I am a little concerned for our D. Cooper at 224 is too small for a DE. He is slightly bigger than our LB's. Still no Clements?? DB's all the same which I expected. Will be there second full game together they should be better.  

I think leaving the DB corps the same is pigheadedness; sticking too much to the "next man up" thing instead of doing an effective shuffle.

SSK is going to pick on that field side all night long.  I expect a lot of go/post routes to pick on Holm.  I'd be leery about blitzing BA.  He should stick back and shadow Holm and see if we can't turn the picking-on into INTs.

At least SSK will have no run game.  I would do cheetah pass rush all night long and ignore the run.  Let the LB or DBs worry about the odd LaFrance run.  LaFrance can have some good runs, but it's not something we have to focus on.  Instead, use the manpower to find a way to stop the quick pass & timing routes, which HAM showed is the way to beat us.

[squonk]

Sellout?

[DM83]

Techno, perfect assessment,  good game. For the Blue

[theaardvark]

Sellout?

I think the better term for the attendance (33,000+) would be full house.

Many, many of the seats were not sold, but rather presented to either participants in the festivities, or others wearing orange shirts.  Nothing wrong with that, it made for a great atmosphere, and who knows how many new fans. 

Still, I'd say over 30k in paid attendance...