Personnel changes for next game

[dd]

We can't airlift new personnel in for next game, but what changes would you be making to our current lineup, I d start with the following

#1- Collaros needs to come back and run our offense

#2- we need Jones back at MLB, Wilson is gone

#3- we need a safety

#4 - Broxton in/Bryant out

[Sir Blue and Gold]

Jake Kelly was the only one who hit anyone on defense last game and it's unlikely he was responsible for a lot of the rushing yards given up. JY sucks but his run defense isn't so hopeless he's counting on the safety to stop the rush most downs. And we gave up basically nothing through the air except for the usual gifts from Deatrick Nichols.

We need a half back more than a safety at the moment. We simply can't let Nichols "Jake Thomas " his way through this season. It's too expensive and too obvious.

[Blue In BC]

Veteran cut down guarantees are rapidly coming into play. Our next game is game 9. So changes during the bye would be appropriate if we plan to release some of those players. From a PR point of view I could live with adding them to the 6 game IR ( if they agree ) to guarantee their pay off the SMS charge.

[Jesse]

I wonder what Vaval in at CB would look like. He's a talented guy.

I like what Smith brings to the defence. Have him at WIL/MLB, bench Wilson.

Defence needs to stay in a base package more and eliminate the constant substitution packages which have to be contributing to all the missed coverages.

Hard to know what to do on offence without knowing who's going to be healthy. You hope that Zach and Broxton are healthy and that Zach can do something with Condell's offence, but the whole offensive scheme looks like it needs to be thrown in the garbage.

[Waffler]

All seems futile without scheme changes.

That said, Peterson needs to play so we can run more. Easier to block for the run and it keeps the QB healthier.

[blue_or_die]

1. Condell should think about the play he wants to call, and then just do the opposite
2. We should take a portion of our defensive gameplan and add a component that possibly focuses on not letting the other team run 377 yards on them
3. Broxton at LT
4. Zach
5. 13th and 14th player added to the field to give a 7 man oline so that nobody touches Zach's neck
6. Give O'Shea a pair

[Donny C]

We can't airlift new personnel in for next game, but what changes would you be making to our current lineup, I d start with the following

#1- Collaros needs to come back and run our offense

#2- we need Jones back at MLB, Wilson is gone

#3- we need a safety

#4 - Broxton in/Bryant out

If the Bombers can only win with Zach (which I disagree with, I don't think he's winning the last game) then the Bombers are in massive trouble in 2027!

Zach is not the saviour, and the Bombers  brought in Brown for exactly this situation.

Either the Bombers overestimated Brown, or their plays and execution stink...and likely both.

[Tecno]

Zach is not the saviour, and the Bombers  brought in Brown for exactly this situation.

But Zach has the full book.  Dru was given maybe 20% of the book last game.  Absolutely nothing over top.  He was given even less than he got vs CGY!  Because he's an INT machine -- just like he was in OTT sometimes.

Just having the whole book opens up the whole game.  It opens up the run.  Opens up the short pass.  Opens up the zone hole sits.  And allows us to take the shots.

The fact that week to week Dru's book moved BACKWARDS is very telling.

Anyone who says Zach wouldn't win that game vs BC is, I hate to say it, nuts.  We'd convert at least half of those ones we FG'd on, and we'd have more hope at the end because Zach wouldn't take that hit, he'd slide.

[Blueforlife]

Wilson stays on but yes play Smith more.

Bryant is aging but must play.

Hard no on Peterson.

Play calling is terrible and this needs a major change.

Zach in only if 110%.

Signing a safety would be good (vet).  Next to impossible.

Something major must change on how we stop the run.

Some great points and debate here.

To suggested Nichols is this years Jake Thomas doesn't show any respect.  Yes Nichols is struggling but no need to be like that.

Rotating on D should remain imo.

Vaval on D isn't a good idea, he is too valuable to play both positions.  He is decent on D.  Emergency replacement.

MOS and all the coaches must adjust.

[theaardvark]

But Zach has the full book.  Dru was given maybe 20% of the book last game.  Absolutely nothing over top.  He was given even less than he got vs CGY!  Because he's an INT machine -- just like he was in OTT sometimes.

Just having the whole book opens up the whole game.  It opens up the run.  Opens up the short pass.  Opens up the zone hole sits.  And allows us to take the shots.

The fact that week to week Dru's book moved BACKWARDS is very telling.

Anyone who says Zach wouldn't win that game vs BC is, I hate to say it, nuts.  We'd convert at least half of those ones we FG'd on, and we'd have more hope at the end because Zach wouldn't take that hit, he'd slide.

Was Brown's playbook actually only 20%?  I could see that being the case game 1 back, but they have had to install much more since then, especially since he ran Condell's O in Ottawa.

Was the "nothing over the top" a scheme issue, or a Dru issue.  Guy threw 4 picks last game, and had a Pick completion % of only 45% (meaning he had 5 picks dropped).  Was his hesitance to throw "over the top" related to scheme or fear? 

If they actually schemed away from it, and cut his legs out (his big complaint about getting demoted in Ott was that he had a better deep ball than Maier), that's bad.  Shows a lack of confidence, which then gets him to question himself.

If it was fear, then what is he doing under centre?

BC abandoned Price after one bad game.  Will he be back?  Rourke it the #1, and Salter just sauntered his way past Price.  Have to hand it to Buck, but I guess 1-5 makes that decision easier.  4-3, its hard to make the change to an unknown in Perkins.

But with 2 beatdowns in a row by teams behind us in the division, I really hope either Zach is back, Elgersma steps up, or they give Perkins his Salter shot.

Dru, especially hobbled, cannot start the next game.

[Blueforlife]

Was Brown's playbook actually only 20%?  I could see that being the case game 1 back, but they have had to install much more since then, especially since he ran Condell's O in Ottawa.

Was the "nothing over the top" a scheme issue, or a Dru issue.  Guy threw 4 picks last game, and had a Pick completion % of only 45% (meaning he had 5 picks dropped).  Was his hesitance to throw "over the top" related to scheme or fear? 

If they actually schemed away from it, and cut his legs out (his big complaint about getting demoted in Ott was that he had a better deep ball than Maier), that's bad.  Shows a lack of confidence, which then gets him to question himself.

If it was fear, then what is he doing under centre?

BC abandoned Price after one bad game.  Will he be back?  Rourke it the #1, and Salter just sauntered his way past Price.  Have to hand it to Buck, but I guess 1-5 makes that decision easier.  4-3, its hard to make the change to an unknown in Perkins.

But with 2 beatdowns in a row by teams behind us in the division, I really hope either Zach is back, Elgersma steps up, or they give Perkins his Salter shot.

Dru, especially hobbled, cannot start the next game.

The lack of shots was a big issue 100%.  Either took it away, receivers were not open or not confident on Brown.  Likely a combo platter.  A real good take here.

I believe our success on O will come only if three things happen.
1. OL healthy and figures it out
2. Brady cooks
3. Zach slings nasty med to deep

Bombs and Bbb its our only hope.  Come on hogs! One more year lol.

[BBRT]

I am a strong believer in trend analysis (hence my doctoral dissertation) and the trend line for Bomber personnel and related has trended downward for 3 years at least IMHO. The 2026 talent pool is just not good enough to compete effectively regardless of who you plug and play. And this is not a new issue. IMHO it has been going on for 3 years or so. Too many older veterans past their best before dates and a lack of solid talent bought in to supplement or grow the talent pool. I believe from a top management perspective (Miller and Walters) we are good, however from there on down not sure if changes are needed. Will not happen this year but if Miller wants sold out stadiums in 2027 he will probably need to make some changes within the coaching and scouting ranks.

For 2026 I believe all we will be able to do is make minor cosmetic changes etc. Just my opinion from the outside looking in.

[Blue In BC]

Wilson stays on but yes play Smith more.

Bryant is aging but must play.

Hard no on Peterson.

Play calling is terrible and this needs a major change.

Zach in only if 110%.

Signing a safety would be good (vet).  Next to impossible.

Something major must change on how we stop the run.

Some great points and debate here.

To suggested Nichols is this years Jake Thomas doesn't show any respect.  Yes Nichols is struggling but no need to be like that.

Rotating on D should remain imo.

Vaval on D isn't a good idea, he is too valuable to play both positions.  He is decent on D.  Emergency replacement.

MOS and all the coaches must adjust.

Smith is improving but I did notice he got caught inside on Salter's 1st big run outside. It may not have been his assignment but then a couple of other players missed tackles as well. He's made other what appears to be errors but it's to be expected with just starting to get more reps.

Quit defending K. Wilson. He was a liability last year and that continues this year. You suggest something major to change on the ability to stop the run but decline all the comments about K. Wilson.

I don't know if Vaval is a better option at DB than Moxey. We have Womack as a back up returner and receiver. Vaval could still also be returning kicks.

We also have Jackson who appears to be a SAM or DHB option.

I think the defensive strategy of 10 yards off the ball is hurting the secondary. Nichols didn't forget how to play and often is covering a top receiver.

It's a consideration but we don't know if it's a good one since we don't see every rep in practice. Our defence is more of an issue than any possible " damage " to our return game. 

Other teams have other RB's to use in different situations on their AR. That's something we lack. In the red zone on 2nd and 3 or 4 we give it to Oliveria and he gets stuffed. Defences know what to expect.

Could slipping in Peterson as a variable be effective? Unless we do it we'll never know. The counter point is that if players like Womack, Peterson and Texada are only warm bodies for emergency that is an issue.

Bryant is another issue but whether we have a better alternative is less clear. Collaros was injured on a blindside hit. Moving Broxton to LT OT and leaving Vanterpool at RT may be a necessary change. Our offence has not been great all season. Even less so with Brown learning the playbook.

Do we expect any of Bryant, Nichols or K. Wilson back in 2027?

Status quo is not an option.

[Throw Long Bannatyne]

Smith is improving but I did notice he got caught inside on Salter's 1st big run outside. It may not have been his assignment but then a couple of other players missed tackles.

Quit defending K. Wilson. He was a liability last year and that continues this year. You suggest something major to change on the ability to stop the run but decline all the comments about K. Wilson.

I don't know if Vaval is a better option at DB than Moxey. We have Womack as a back up returner and receiver. Vaval could still also be returning kicks.

I think the defensive strategy of 10 yards off the ball is hurting the secondary. Nichols didn't forget how to play and often is covering a top receiver.

It's a consideration but we don't know if it's a good one since we don't see every rep in practice. Our defence is more of an issue than any possible " damage " to our return game. 

Other teams have other RB's to use in different situations on their AR. That's something we lack. In the red zone on 2nd and 3 or 4 we give it to Oliveria and he gets stuffed. Defences know what to expect.

Could slipping in Peterson as a variable be effective? Unless we do it we'll never know. The counter point is that if players like Womack, Peterson and Texada are only warm bodies for emergency that is an issue.

Condell is continuing the trend of not involving Clercius or MCI in the offence's plans as well as ignoring Cobb and now Nield, tracing back to Ottawa did he ever make good use of his Natl. players?  I see from last years Ottawa roster he employed Luther Hakunavanhu and Daniel Adeboboye who were underused and let go at the end of last season.

[Blueforlife]

Smith is improving but I did notice he got caught inside on Salter's 1st big run outside. It may not have been his assignment but then a couple of other players missed tackles as well. He's made other what appears to be errors but it's to be expected with just starting to get more reps.

Quit defending K. Wilson. He was a liability last year and that continues this year. You suggest something major to change on the ability to stop the run but decline all the comments about K. Wilson.

I don't know if Vaval is a better option at DB than Moxey. We have Womack as a back up returner and receiver. Vaval could still also be returning kicks.

We also have Jackson who appears to be a SAM or DHB option.

I think the defensive strategy of 10 yards off the ball is hurting the secondary. Nichols didn't forget how to play and often is covering a top receiver.

It's a consideration but we don't know if it's a good one since we don't see every rep in practice. Our defence is more of an issue than any possible " damage " to our return game. 

Other teams have other RB's to use in different situations on their AR. That's something we lack. In the red zone on 2nd and 3 or 4 we give it to Oliveria and he gets stuffed. Defences know what to expect.

Could slipping in Peterson as a variable be effective? Unless we do it we'll never know. The counter point is that if players like Womack, Peterson and Texada are only warm bodies for emergency that is an issue.

Bryant is another issue but whether we have a better alternative is less clear. Collaros was injured on a blindside hit. Moving Broxton to LT OT and leaving Vanterpool at RT may be a necessary change. Our offence has not been great all season. Even less so with Brown learning the playbook.

Do we expect any of Bryant, Nichols or K. Wilson back in 2027?

Status quo is not an option.

Don't tell me what/how to post and while I have defended Wilson in the past, I suggested he stays on the AR but give Smith more reps. No need to be like that.  Fake news I don't decline all comments about Wilson but nice try! Lol


2026
WPG   8   22   2   0

His numbers are consistent with his career, near the end, yes.  Good enough to remain on the AR, yes.

Make a lot of good points, didn't notice Smiths mistake but our group at the game thought he looked good.  Did notice Wilson with a big tackle/stuff!

Wilson had a good year last year.  He wasn't a liability imo.  The facts suggest you are wrong, 2nd best tackle total best sack total (matched 2019).  Dems the facts jack.  Played all the game.  D was good last year.
2025
WPG   18   49   2   3

Moxie >>>> Vaval, Vaval on D would be an experiment/future development opportunity.  Would hurt more than help now.  Might pay off for future.

As mentioned before putting Peterson on isn't worth who comes off.  Other ways to give people touches in thr backfield as mentioned previously.  Brady is our guy and needs more touches not less. Now we did swing that too far on Thurs, over compensated.

Do we expect any of Bryant, Nichols or K. Wilson back in 2027? No

I am a strong believer in trend analysis (hence my doctoral dissertation) and the trend line for Bomber personnel and related has trended downward for 3 years at least IMHO. The 2026 talent pool is just not good enough to compete effectively regardless of who you plug and play. And this is not a new issue. IMHO it has been going on for 3 years or so. Too many older veterans past their best before dates and a lack of solid talent bought in to supplement or grow the talent pool. I believe from a top management perspective (Miller and Walters) we are good, however from there on down not sure if changes are needed. Will not happen this year but if Miller wants sold out stadiums in 2027 he will probably need to make some changes within the coaching and scouting ranks.

For 2026 I believe all we will be able to do is make minor cosmetic changes etc. Just my opinion from the outside looking in.

Hard to argue with any of this

[Jesse]

Condell is continuing the trend of not involving Clercius or MCI in the offence's plans as well as ignoring Cobb and now Nield, tracing back to Ottawa did he ever make good use of his Natl. players?  I see from last years Ottawa roster he employed Luther Hakunavanhu and Daniel Adeboboye who were underused and let go at the end of last season.

It was Clercius' first game and he's a back-up. MCI is a FB/ How many reps do you think they'd get? Cobb is the last possible read and Neild seems to be QB dependant. Zach looked his way a lot, but Dru is not.

[Blue In BC]

Don't tell me what/how to post and while I have defended Wilson in the past, I suggested he stays on the AR but give Smith more reps. No need to be like that.  Fake news I don't decline all comments about Wilson but nice try! Lol


2026
WPG   8   22   2   0

His numbers are consistent with his career, near the end, yes.  Good enough to remain on the AR, yes.

Make a lot of good points, didn't notice Smiths mistake but our group at the game thought he looked good.  Did notice Wilson with a big tackle/stuff!

Wilson had a good year last year.  He wasn't a liability imo.  The facts suggest you are wrong, 2nd best tackle total best sack total (matched 2019).  Dems the facts jack.  Played all the game.  D was good last year.
2025
WPG   18   49   2   3

Moxie >>>> Vaval, Vaval on D would be an experiment/future development opportunity.  Would hurt more than help now.  Might pay off for future.

As mentioned before putting Peterson on isn't worth who comes off.  Other ways to give people touches in thr backfield as mentioned previously.  Brady is our guy and needs more touches not less. Now we did swing that too far on Thurs, over compensated.

Do we expect any of Bryant, Nichols or K. Wilson back in 2027? No
Hard to argue with any of this

You can call it fake news but you need a reality check with older veterans that are under performing. If Calgary beats Hamilton today as expected, the Bombers will be essentially in 4th place. We'll have lost to Edmonton, Calgary and BC.

We also finished in 4th in 2025 winning 10 games. So that's 14 wins in 26 games in that time frame. We didn't JUST to lose the Lions, we were destroyed.

It's been a downward team trend which is obvious. Minor tweaks are not enough.

As far as K. Wilson he was a WIL moved to MLB this season.  What he did in the past is irrelevant at the moment.

Something has to give and it's not just reps for this player or that player. Somebody needs to be replace if we want to finish better than a crossover.

[Sir Blue and Gold]

You can call it fake news but you need a reality check with older veterans that are under performing. If Calgary beats Hamilton today as expected, the Bombers will be essentially in 4th place. We'll have lost to Edmonton, Calgary and BC.

As soon as some new players (and hopefully a new defensive coordinator)gets shuffled into position they'll be latest and greatest best ever also and the told-ya-so's can re-commence. The cycle CNA then continue of pretending to know what he's talking about while simultaneously saying the same thing over and over and over.

[Blueforlife]

You can call it fake news but you need a reality check with older veterans that are under performing. If Calgary beats Hamilton today as expected, the Bombers will be essentially in 4th place. We'll have lost to Edmonton, Calgary and BC.

We also finished in 4th in 2025 winning 10 games. So that's 14 wins in 26 games in that time frame. We didn't JUST to lose the Lions, we were destroyed.

It's been a downward team trend which is obvious. Minor tweaks are not enough.

As far as K. Wilson he was a WIL moved to MLB this season.  What he did in the past is irrelevant at the moment.

Something has to give and it's not just reps for this player or that player. Somebody needs to be replace if we want to finish better than a crossover.

Fake news wasn't in reference to Wilson's play or your analysis it was in reference to how you said I decline all comments about Wilson.

The debate on his performance is a good one and we should continue it.  You make a good point about how he changed positions. That said his stats paint a different picture than what you have said about him.

Its a tough spot for this club.  A bunch a vets near the end and we are on the cusp of a rebuild.

Yes we are a cross over team at best.  Yes we need help on the field and in coaching.

To those that suggest we spell or replace Brady

He leads the league in yards per carry which meets his career high

[Blue In BC]

Fake news wasn't in reference to Wilson's play or your analysis it was in reference to how you said I decline all comments about Wilson.

The debate on his performance is a good one and we should continue it.  You make a good point about how he changed positions. That said his stats paint a different picture than what you have said about him.

Its a tough spot for this club.  A bunch a vets near the end and we are on the cusp of a rebuild.

Yes we are a cross over team at best.  Yes we need help on the field and in coaching.

To those that suggest we spell or replace Brady

He leads the league in yards per carry which meets his career high

Declining comments about Wilson: You want to hold onto players because of their past performance when they are clearly in decline.

I disagree his stats show something different. I even had pointed out earlier an comparison to Sankey in the last game. I'd also point out the stat of giving up 377 yards rushing in the last game. We also gave up 104 yards to Rankin earlier and 124 yards to Rountree.

Today's game: M. Lee at MLB has 3 DT's and 2 sacks as an example. Last week he had 2 DT's against us. McMannis has 2 DT's by half time today.  Last week he had 4 in the game.

MLB's need to make plays that impact the game often. ( Bighill ). He played sideline to sideline.

Regarding Brady in the last game. I've deleted the PVR. However, we were inside the 10 twice early and IIRC he got essentially stuffed and we settled for FG's. Yes it was predictable and our OL can't run block but those are plays he has to be more successful.

I've mentioned the comment about doing the same thing and expecting a different result. The fault is not only with him but the result is predictable.

BTW: The counter point about using Vaval at CB if he's better than Moxey. McAllister and Pimpleton both are used on offence in a significant way but are the primary returner as well. There have been defensive players that have done the same. Although we don't see a CB rotating in and out while you do see an offensive player not play every down.

So it's a bit different and whether Vaval is an upgrade at CB and whether Womak has something to offer as a returner IDK. He may be the next Vaval for all we know or the 1st cut next week.

[Blueforlife]

Declining comments about Wilson: You want to hold onto players because of their past performance when they are clearly in decline.

I disagree his stats show something different. I even had pointed out earlier an comparison to Sankey in the last game. I'd also point out the stat of giving up 377 yards rushing in the last game. We also gave up 104 yards to Rankin earlier and 124 yards to Rountree.

Today's game: M. Lee at MLB has 3 DT's and 2 sacks as an example. Last week he had 2 DT's against us. McMannis has 2 DT's by half time today.  Last week he had 4 in the game.

MLB's need to make plays that impact the game often. ( Bighill ). He played sideline to sideline.

Regarding Brady in the last game. I've deleted the PVR. However, we were inside the 10 twice early and IIRC he got essentially stuffed and we settled for FG's. Yes it was predictable and our OL can't run block but those are plays he has to be more successful.

I've mentioned the comment about doing the same thing and expecting a different result. The fault is not only with him but the result is predictable.

BTW: The counter point about using Vaval at CB if he's better than Moxey. McAllister and Pimpleton both are used on offence in a significant way but are the primary returner as well. There have been defensive players that have done the same. Although we don't see a CB rotating in and out while you do see an offensive player not play every down.

So it's a bit different and whether Vaval is an upgrade at CB and whether Womak has something to offer as a returner IDK. He may be the next Vaval for all we know or the 1st cut next week.

I only said to keep Wilson in AR and spell him with Smith.   Don't try to make the discussion into something different.  I defend the players I like, each situation is unique.  Speaking about my approach in general terms brings nothing to the discussion.  You don't get better by deletion unless next man up is better.  I have always loved Wilson and a few years ago some on the forum dumped on him (injuries).  Bounced back last year and you are trying sell that he was a liability when the stats (facts) tell a different story.  I like to back up my opinions with facts.  Others liked Wilson's game last year.  An attempt to revise history there to fit your current narrative imo.

You have moved on from good vets too early (Harris) before.  Sometimes the greats are like fine wine.  Yes sometimes they spoil.  Wilson  is like box wine at this point, good enough but ok to try something new some weekends lol.

You called Wilson a liability or something similar last year which his stats 100% prove otherwise.

Vaval <<< Moxie at corner

This year lets see how the seasons ends before we judge Wilsons season.  About average I would guess.

Vaval is so special you keep him healthy for teams imo. Any suggestion for him to be spelled makes zero sense imo.

I enjoyed your take, make some good points.

Sankey and Biggie are generational talents.  Not a fair comparison imo.

[Blue In BC]

I only said to keep Wilson in AR and spell him with Smith.   Don't try to make the discussion into something different.  I defend the players I like, each situation is unique.  Speaking about my approach in general terms brings nothing to the discussion.  You don't get better by deletion unless next man up is better.  I have always loved Wilson and a few years ago some on the forum dumped on him (injuries).  Bounced back last year and you are trying sell that he was a liability when the stats (facts) tell a different story.  I like to back up my opinions with facts.  Others liked Wilson's game last year.  An attempt to revise history there to fit your current narrative imo.

You have moved on from good vets too early (Harris) before.  Sometimes the greats are like fine wine.  Yes sometimes they spoil.  Wilson  is like box wine at this point, good enough but ok to try something new some weekends lol.

You called Wilson a liability or something similar last year which his stats 100% prove otherwise.

Vaval <<< Moxie at corner

This year lets see how the seasons ends before we judge Wilsons season.  About average I would guess.

Vaval is so special you keep him healthy for teams imo. Any suggestion for him to be spelled makes zero sense imo.

I enjoyed your take, make some good points.

Sankey and Biggie are generational talents.  Not a fair comparison imo.

Many of us thought bringing back K. Wilson was a mistake and noticed his downward spiral more than in just this season.Read the off season comments if you can find them or even TC questioning what the heck. He has not had anything approaching a good season.  Keeping him on the AR with less reps does nothing for succession planning or roster management. At best it's a maybe decision skewed by already using a DI spot on Ayers.

You want to wait once again to see how the season works out? From 2022 to date we've won less games every season. We're trending badly at the moment with no apparent answers. Tied with the Stamps for 3rd / 4th and they are a better team at the moment.

Many weren't interested in Sankey when he was available. Go figure.

I see McMannis now has 5 DT's. In the 2nd half I noticed in the 3rd Q, he stopped an RB from getting a 1st down. He had a TFL, a near int and a couple of other important plays.

I'm not sure if I wanted to move on from Harris early but if we didn't then we wouldn't have developed Oliveria. SMS is always a consideration when making these decisions. Succession plan, injury history, age etc etc.

Yards per carry is a very good  stat. I'd like the stat on how many shorter 2nd down plays he doesn't make the play necessary. I mentioned the 2 times we settled for FG's when the necessary run didn't succeed. It is something we see often late in games when teams know he'll be running out the clock and are forced to end up punting. Getting 3 yards when you need 2 and the opponent knows you'll get the ball type of situation.

Yes Vaval is special. So is McAllister and he scored 3 TD's on us last week.. The Bombers used Grant on offence in the past. Last year we would have used Logan on offence if Vaval didn't beat him out as the returner. 

An argument could be made that he isn't better than Moxey as a CB but the argument that he shouldn't see double duty is not. History is full of players that have had that kind of dual role including in Winnipeg.

Moxey is taking a lot of heat but IMO it's more soft coverage by JY that are the issue.

Next game is against the Redblacks. It might be time to " test " some changes. That's a risk but so would losing to them be bad bad news.

It's not the 1st time the " board " has questioned roster choices and lack of use of the entire roster.

Having said that about on offence, I'm wondering if the constant rotation on defence is really working out for the best. The defence is making a lot of mistakes and that might be part of it.

[Throw Long Bannatyne]

It was Clercius' first game and he's a back-up. MCI is a FB/ How many reps do you think they'd get? Cobb is the last possible read and Neild seems to be QB dependant. Zach looked his way a lot, but Dru is not.

Who is Clercius a backup to, Cobb?

[Jesse]

Who is Clercius a backup to, Cobb?

Just any Canadian receiver. Technically listed behind Neild, I think.

[Blueforlife]

Many of us thought bringing back K. Wilson was a mistake and noticed his downward spiral more than in just this season.Read the off season comments if you can find them or even TC questioning what the heck. He has not had anything approaching a good season.  Keeping him on the AR with less reps does nothing for succession planning or roster management. At best it's a maybe decision skewed by already using a DI spot on Ayers.

You want to wait once again to see how the season works out? From 2022 to date we've won less games every season. We're trending badly at the moment with no apparent answers. Tied with the Stamps for 3rd / 4th and they are a better team at the moment.

Many weren't interested in Sankey when he was available. Go figure.

I see McMannis now has 5 DT's. In the 2nd half I noticed in the 3rd Q, he stopped an RB from getting a 1st down. He had a TFL, a near int and a couple of other important plays.

I'm not sure if I wanted to move on from Harris early but if we didn't then we wouldn't have developed Oliveria. SMS is always a consideration when making these decisions. Succession plan, injury history, age etc etc.

Yards per carry is a very good  stat. I'd like the stat on how many shorter 2nd down plays he doesn't make the play necessary. I mentioned the 2 times we settled for FG's when the necessary run didn't succeed. It is something we see often late in games when teams know he'll be running out the clock and are forced to end up punting. Getting 3 yards when you need 2 and the opponent knows you'll get the ball type of situation.

Yes Vaval is special. So is McAllister and he scored 3 TD's on us last week.. The Bombers used Grant on offence in the past. Last year we would have used Logan on offence if Vaval didn't beat him out as the returner. 

An argument could be made that he isn't better than Moxey as a CB but the argument that he shouldn't see double duty is not. History is full of players that have had that kind of dual role including in Winnipeg.

Moxey is taking a lot of heat but IMO it's more soft coverage by JY that are the issue.

Next game is against the Redblacks. It might be time to " test " some changes. That's a risk but so would losing to them be bad bad news.

It's not the 1st time the " board " has questioned roster choices and lack of use of the entire roster.

Having said that about on offence, I'm wondering if the constant rotation on defence is really working out for the best. The defence is making a lot of mistakes and that might be part of it.

Some very good points and a well written summary.  The last point I might start to waiver on.  For years when D was dominant the rotation was king.  One of the teams that played earlier mentioned the complexity of their systems and how it was a balance between confusing players and not being to one dimensional.  A fine line the Bombers must walk.  Reminds me of late Dave Ritchie how he made all his stars play teams.  An interesting way to deploy the roster but perhaps not how I would approach it.  In the end rotation brings development opportunity.  Vets also can be more consistent.

This club has lots of soul searching.  For someone that has been so positive for so long, the tides have turned but perhaps we can surf this final surge to the playoffs and Zach can sing us a swan song for the ages. 

What's your summary on Ayers impact.  With the D playing so poorly he disappeared a bit or am I wrong? Is he a beast on teams.

These deeper dives on club are really enjoyable man.  While we sometimes battle, the very essence of this forum is on full display. 

You just didn't believe fully in late stage injury plaqued Harris like I did.  I was slightly exaggerating.  Unless my memory fails me, then forgive my ignorance

Sankey just too $.  Moxie isn't part of the solution but also not our biggest problem.

A healthy Kramdi will balance out the D a bit imo.  That's a few games away likely and might be too late.

[Tecno]

Was Brown's playbook actually only 20%?  I could see that being the case game 1 back, but they have had to install much more since then, especially since he ran Condell's O in Ottawa.

Yes, Dru's book was totally smaller in the BC game vs the CGY game.  I don't know the exact percentage, but I called the CGY game maybe a 35% book (because he's so new here), and the BC game 20%.  It's roughly correct.

They went and ripped up every single deep option for Dru for BC.  If there was any go routes, they were for clearing only.  By some time in the 2nd Q BC had figured this out.  Watch how their DBs adjust.  Absolutely no one respected anything over, and cheated up to everything under.

Was the "nothing over the top" a scheme issue, or a Dru issue.  Guy threw 4 picks last game, and had a Pick completion % of only 45% (meaning he had 5 picks dropped).  Was his hesitance to throw "over the top" related to scheme or fear?

Dru's a slinger.  Just like Zach.  He takes what looks good and loves that medium pass.  Plus Dru is the "zero emotion" iceberg that doesn't get rattled.  So 100% Dru was told and forced to take a limited book with no shot options.  He was also told he had to get the ball out super quick because the OL was going to be turnstiles.  Can't take shots with a garbage OL.

To be fair, it wasn't necessarily a bad game plan by Mafia... In theory a zero-turnover O should have won that game because it was against a garbage no-throw QB.  By the time it was apparent BC was able to win by just running, it was too late to change course and glass Dru was gonzo anyhow.

If they actually schemed away from it, and cut his legs out (his big complaint about getting demoted in Ott was that he had a better deep ball than Maier), that's bad.  Shows a lack of confidence, which then gets him to question himself.

They totally had no confidence Dru wouldn't throw 4 more picks.  Why wouldn't they?

Final word: If the plan was to do run/short/run/short ad nauseum to lull BC into cheating up, then hitting them with the free deep home runs, then by mid/late 2nd Q you would have made those shots.  I was waiting for it all 1st Q.  But we never changed, we never took those shots.  After 1-2Q's of nothing but dink & dunk there would have been a ton of seams and posts and gos that would have been open.  That is the proof that Dru was handicapped.  We even had a lot of the 3rd Q for Dru to take advantage of a cheating-close D, and we didn't.  (Neither did Elgs, but he went to the Brohm School of Throwing To the Turf, so...)

[Tecno]

I believe from a top management perspective (Miller and Walters) we are good, however from there on down not sure if changes are needed. Will not happen this year but if Miller wants sold out stadiums in 2027 he will probably need to make some changes within the coaching and scouting ranks.

For 2026 I believe all we will be able to do is make minor cosmetic changes etc. Just my opinion from the outside looking in.

Good post.  I agree with almost everything you said.

But there's a problem.  We may already be in a downward spiral.  Like CGY circa 2019.

So many top retentions and new FA acquisitions said they chose WPG because they want to win.  That's pretty normal, especially if you want guys to sign here for a bit less than they are worth.  If we are no longer winning -- worse, we suck total butt and lose everything -- then there will be an exodus of players.  And to retain the loyal guys you'll still have to offer more $, like 20-25% more per guy.  And you'll attract zero people in FA unless you massively overpay.

If Mafia have created a throwaway year (not purposely), then anyone who's contract is up next FA will probably be gone or very costly.  But if we try very hard to improve, and maybe get an airlift or two, and we manage to be a .500 team and one-and-done, we're hampering our ability to use this year as a tryout/dev/improve year, trying to setup up '27 to be better.  You are darned if you do, darned if you don't.

If we can't even beat OTT, whether with Zach or Dru, and give that sad sack of misfits their first win (kind of like we did to BC, as I maintain their other 1 win was fake), then 100% this should be a throwaway season.

[Tecno]

If this is a throwaway season, I am immediately benching/cutting/trading:
Nield
Cobb
Stan
Nichols
Moxey
maybe Kyrie

I'm instead starting Singer, Corcoran, Vant, <insert HB here, maybe via trade/couch>, Vaval/the-backup/or-Bonds.  Yes, Corcoran isn't great, but the idea is to shake things up and give the younger guys with maybe some upside more reps.  If they suck, start one of your IMPs or find a dropped DP REC from the last 1-2 seasons -- there's lots.

And Smith and Shay are starters immediately.

As for QB, you make Zach & Dru take pay cuts or they're traded away/cut.  You make Dru sign a 2-3 year deal at a massive discount.  Zach decides what his future is and you lock him into it (probably done after '26).  Then you tell the QBs they stay in and play.  If you get sacked and you are owies, you stay in.  If you don't stay in you're benched/traded/cut.

And I seriously consider starting Elgs.  I don't care how much he sucks.  Tell him it's ok to suck -- we WANT him to suck.  Just get reps and learn on the fly, tell him we have total faith it will make him a legit 2027 starter.  Tell all the fans in every presser and radio show that Elgs is allowed to suck and this is the plan and don't boo him.  Tell them he's the future Rourke and this pain must be tolerated.

If this sounds like a C.Jones "rebuild year", then I guess it is, and I'm finally starting to see why he did it all the time.  Sometimes the play and players are just SO BAD that "there has to be consequences".

[Tecno]

Could slipping in Peterson as a variable be effective? Unless we do it we'll never know. The counter point is that if players like Womack, Peterson and Texada are only warm bodies for emergency that is an issue.

You know better than anyone that to AR Peterson we lose a guy who is probably better at ST.  After that ST performance vs CGY, I'm not sure I want to see a "worse" cover team.

Not everyone is JA27 who is also good at ST.

You'd have to bench Novak, or Ball, or similar.  If Peterson was clearly better at ST, then he'd already be on the AR -- even with a healthy Brady.

Plus, not sure Brady would take kindly to Peterson sets coming in in the red zone just to give us some speed and edge threat... You want to be the one telling Brady he has no speed and can't reach the edge?

Thus, while the idea has merit, and might even get us more TDs, it won't happen here because of politics and culture.  It's simply not our way.

[Tecno]

Condell is continuing the trend of not involving Clercius or MCI in the offence's plans as well as ignoring Cobb and now Nield, tracing back to Ottawa did he ever make good use of his Natl. players?

But Condell is using a shedload of Daniels, who is already a superior blocker and has better hands than Ike.  Clercius is getting some field time -- much more than Corcoran did as the "backup".

WPG has always been a team that ignores the droppers and whiffers.  Whether Zach or Dru, if you suck at 1-2 targets, you ain't getting more targets.  And that often carries over to the next game.  Hard to say how much of that is QB choice vs OC -- but it's a real effect.

As for Condell & NAT RECs in general -- great question!  I'm trying hard to remember what NATs Condell had in HAM in '19 and '21... Anyone remember?  Surely it was only 1-2 NAT RECs.

If Condell in general doesn't like/trust NATs then Houston we have a problem, because we are starting 3+1 on our O (REC/RB)!

[Waffler]

If this is a throwaway

"Play to the final whistle" MOS would be part of a throw away season? We'd have to be mathematically eliminated. In the CFL that happens very late.

[Blue In BC]

Some very good points and a well written summary.  The last point I might start to waiver on.  For years when D was dominant the rotation was king.  One of the teams that played earlier mentioned the complexity of their systems and how it was a balance between confusing players and not being to one dimensional.  A fine line the Bombers must walk.  Reminds me of late Dave Ritchie how he made all his stars play teams.  An interesting way to deploy the roster but perhaps not how I would approach it.  In the end rotation brings development opportunity.  Vets also can be more consistent.

This club has lots of soul searching.  For someone that has been so positive for so long, the tides have turned but perhaps we can surf this final surge to the playoffs and Zach can sing us a swan song for the ages. 

What's your summary on Ayers impact.  With the D playing so poorly he disappeared a bit or am I wrong? Is he a beast on teams.

These deeper dives on club are really enjoyable man.  While we sometimes battle, the very essence of this forum is on full display. 

You just didn't believe fully in late stage injury plaqued Harris like I did.  I was slightly exaggerating.  Unless my memory fails me, then forgive my ignorance

Sankey just too $.  Moxie isn't part of the solution but also not our biggest problem.

A healthy Kramdi will balance out the D a bit imo.  That's a few games away likely and might be too late.

I don't dislike Ayers. He is a very good ST player but is not used on defence that often. Roster size and ratio are limiting for every CFL team. The Bombers don't have a DI on offence except Calvillo.

My position is that we cannot afford to have him in the role he fills. Compare his stats to Smith and it's not a contest. Smith is a Canadian.

Many said Sankey was too expensive but we don't know what his SMS is or even whether we considered him. He's not shown in the top 10 LB's in the CFL. # 10 is listed at $141K ( T. Richards a Canadian ) so in theory he's less than that.

Cost for performance across the roster is complicated. We pay many players big $$$ and have chosen to allow others to leave past a certain thresh hold.

Rotation on defence has it's pros and cons but it has to work. It's not anymore. I mentioned games won since 2022: 15, 14, 11, 10 and this year we're 4 wins to date.  You have to have the personnel to match your strategy.

[Blue In BC]

You know better than anyone that to AR Peterson we lose a guy who is probably better at ST.  After that ST performance vs CGY, I'm not sure I want to see a "worse" cover team.

Not everyone is JA27 who is also good at ST.

You'd have to bench Novak, or Ball, or similar.  If Peterson was clearly better at ST, then he'd already be on the AR -- even with a healthy Brady.

Plus, not sure Brady would take kindly to Peterson sets coming in in the red zone just to give us some speed and edge threat... You want to be the one telling Brady he has no speed and can't reach the edge?

Thus, while the idea has merit, and might even get us more TDs, it won't happen here because of politics and culture.  It's simply not our way.

That's a valid point but we started using Novak and Ball as soon as they were activated. Who they replaced isn't quite clear. The point is that we have 12 players on ST's but only 1 RB. Our roster is full of ST players so IMO it's less of an issue than one we might have at RB as an alternative look. We did add and then take off Jackson after 1 game ( replaced by Woodbey ). In theory he'd be a back up DB if needed but Woodbey is a big add going forward.

I'd also point out other teams have the same issues and most seem to have 2 players at RB in every game. Or at least a DI that rotates in for some plays on offence.

If I had to make a choice I consider taking Shay off the AR. He doesn't seem to be in the mix on defence and he's not a great ST player. I'm still trying to figure out why we traded up to draft him and then don't use him. Was it a draft mistake.

[Tecno]

I'd also point out other teams have the same issues and most seem to have 2 players at RB in every game. Or at least a DI that rotates in for some plays on offence

But not every team... A few teams are one rb only teams and have been for years. CGY is one. HAM is usually one. BC too, historically, but not right now.

Most teams will AR two, but the other has to be a good STer or another role like FB. That's not the same as the heavy rotation teams like MTL, EDM, etc.

The jury is out on what's better. I'm not convinced either way is superior. Though it you lose a guy who's good at other things because of it, especially a DI, then I question its value.

The every down aspect, and the free dress backup of a FB makes the extreme Brady price a bit more palatable.

[Blue In BC]

But not every team... A few teams are one rb only teams and have been for years. CGY is one. HAM is usually one. BC too, historically, but not right now.

Most teams will AR two, but the other has to be a good STer or another role like FB. That's not the same as the heavy rotation teams like MTL, EDM, etc.

The jury is out on what's better. I'm not convinced either way is superior. Though it you lose a guy who's good at other things because of it, especially a DI, then I question its value.

The every down aspect, and the free dress backup of a FB makes the extreme Brady price a bit more palatable.

Do we need a FB, a TE, an extra OL and 3 Canadian receivers? It makes our offence very vanilla. We choose to not keep Augustine over MCI and Peterson and switched to an actual TE in the trade off.

Our offence is not exactly lighting up the league.

Calgary has often used a receiver that is a DI as an alternative look. This year it's McCallister who is the primary returner. I've mentioned that we would have used Logan in that role if Vaval didn't beat him out as the returner. Sometimes it's the choice whether the returner is a defensive back up or offensive back up.

Not having an offensive player as a DI is a liability IMO. That doesn't change the issue for Peterson, but our depth is zero if Wilson or White get injured in game.

Anyway, I am expecting at least a minor airlift of new faces for our PR. I see the Riders just added the UFL defensive player in 2025 to their AR for yesterdays game. Others like Maudlin and Lemon have been added to rosters recently. Start with newbies on the PR and see what develops from there.

I would bump 1 current starter depending on health of possible replacements. At this point I don't even care which one but we need a shake up. One of Bryant, K. Wilson, Ayers or Moxey. Giving up nearly 90 points in the last 2 games and 121 in the last 3?

We're on our bye and need to come out ready to play against a struggling Redblack team that might be 0 - 8 by the time we see theme. Playing a team that desperate is our weakness.

[Blueforlife]

If this is a throwaway season, I am immediately benching/cutting/trading:
Nield
Cobb
Stan
Nichols
Moxey
maybe Kyrie

I'm instead starting Singer, Corcoran, Vant, <insert HB here, maybe via trade/couch>, Vaval/the-backup/or-Bonds.  Yes, Corcoran isn't great, but the idea is to shake things up and give the younger guys with maybe some upside more reps.  If they suck, start one of your IMPs or find a dropped DP REC from the last 1-2 seasons -- there's lots.

And Smith and Shay are starters immediately.

As for QB, you make Zach & Dru take pay cuts or they're traded away/cut.  You make Dru sign a 2-3 year deal at a massive discount.  Zach decides what his future is and you lock him into it (probably done after '26).  Then you tell the QBs they stay in and play.  If you get sacked and you are owies, you stay in.  If you don't stay in you're benched/traded/cut.

And I seriously consider starting Elgs.  I don't care how much he sucks.  Tell him it's ok to suck -- we WANT him to suck.  Just get reps and learn on the fly, tell him we have total faith it will make him a legit 2027 starter.  Tell all the fans in every presser and radio show that Elgs is allowed to suck and this is the plan and don't boo him.  Tell them he's the future Rourke and this pain must be tolerated.

If this sounds like a C.Jones "rebuild year", then I guess it is, and I'm finally starting to see why he did it all the time.  Sometimes the play and players are just SO BAD that "there has to be consequences".

Slow roasting Taylor is my preferred path, regardless of how good we are.  Rushing him could cause issues.

Flip side that's the only way to learn.

As soon as some new players (and hopefully a new defensive coordinator)gets shuffled into position they'll be latest and greatest best ever also and the told-ya-so's can re-commence. The cycle CNA then continue of pretending to know what he's talking about while simultaneously saying the same thing over and over and over.

None of this is remotely accurate, fair,not called for and borderline personal shot.  Would appreciate that we talk ball / personell changes.

The forum, including me will continue to debate any changes to the team in a subjective manner based on our own personal opinions and varied takes.

No need to be like that.  None of us have all the answers but allowing space for all opinions and posting styles is what makes this place great.  Collectively we boil things down as a group pretty well.

Some like to claim folks as one dimensional or paint them with a single brush, when overtime we all vary in how we support the club, what we post and how we react to the ups and downs this organization has.  The crest of success is behind us and we will all continue to call it like we see it as the next wave builds or crumbles.

[dd]

If this is a throwaway season, I am immediately benching/cutting/trading:
Nield
Cobb
Stan
Nichols
Moxey
maybe Kyrie

I'm instead starting Singer, Corcoran, Vant, <insert HB here, maybe via trade/couch>, Vaval/the-backup/or-Bonds.  Yes, Corcoran isn't great, but the idea is to shake things up and give the younger guys with maybe some upside more reps.  If they suck, start one of your IMPs or find a dropped DP REC from the last 1-2 seasons -- there's lots.

And Smith and Shay are starters immediately.

As for QB, you make Zach & Dru take pay cuts or they're traded away/cut.  You make Dru sign a 2-3 year deal at a massive discount.  Zach decides what his future is and you lock him into it (probably done after '26).  Then you tell the QBs they stay in and play.  If you get sacked and you are owies, you stay in.  If you don't stay in you're benched/traded/cut.

And I seriously consider starting Elgs.  I don't care how much he sucks.  Tell him it's ok to suck -- we WANT him to suck.  Just get reps and learn on the fly, tell him we have total faith it will make him a legit 2027 starter.  Tell all the fans in every presser and radio show that Elgs is allowed to suck and this is the plan and don't boo him.  Tell them he's the future Rourke and this pain must be tolerated.

If this sounds like a C.Jones "rebuild year", then I guess it is, and I'm finally starting to see why he did it all the time.  Sometimes the play and players are just SO BAD that "there has to be consequences".

None of this is going to happen. We aren't benching anyone, not MOS style. He'll coach them up. MOS style is to not give up, rather fight until the bitter end with the guys you have.

Elgersma should never see the field again this season. He is beyond brutal/not ready to play.

Defense needs to REALLY pick it up. I expect to see Jones back at MLB, still need to figure out who and how we replace Kramdi as his injury creates ratio issues.

[Blueforlife]

None of this is going to happen. We aren't benching anyone, not MOS style. He'll coach them up. MOS style is to not give up, rather fight until the bitter end with the guys you have.

Elgersma should never see the field again this season. He is beyond brutal/not ready to play.

Defense needs to REALLY pick it up. I expect to see Jones back at MLB, still need to figure out who and how we replace Kramdi as his injury creates ratio issues.

Taylor will and should see the field a bit to help his development.  I don't agree with any of your comments on him.  Writing him off way to early.

Yes not ready but needs time and a little game action.

Yes the D needs work big time, figuring out how to deal with Kramdi's absense is a big deal.

MOS might adapt, who knows. 

[Pete]

|Agree with those who have pointed out Nichols and Bryant as significantly underperforming from last year.
Another issue are our defensive linemen who rotate in. Schmeckle and Kornelson were both victimized on running plays down the center. Kornelson in particular was easily manhandled by bc's oline.  Gatkouth also misplayed Horvaths first td run. We need to utilize at least one DI in that position and if it means Ayers sits we are better off.  Currently we may be the only team in the league that tries to go with all nonimports as dline backups. The other factor is the lack of options on the pr, Jenkins is the only defensive lineman available and hes not great.

[Blue In BC]

|Agree with those who have pointed out Nichols and Bryant as significantly underperforming from last year.
Another issue are our defensive linemen who rotate in. Schmeckle and Kornelson were both victimized on running plays down the center. Kornelson in particular was easily manhandled by bc's oline.  Gatkouth also misplayed Horvaths first td run. We need to utilize at least one DI in that position and if it means Ayers sits we are better off.  Currently we may be the only team in the league that tries to go with all nonimports as dline backups. The other factor is the lack of options on the pr, Jenkins is the only defensive lineman available and hes not great.

That's the size of it and why I constantly suggest Ayers needs to come off the AR. Of Course we'd need an actual DL to add instead and we don't seem to have that either.

Losing Lawson hurt. Gatkouth is still a rookie learning.

Game 9 is next and that is the veteran cut down date limit. So it's now or never before the next game IIRC. Does O'Shea have the balls to pull the trigger? I'm guessing he doesn't.

[Tecno]

Do we need a FB, a TE, an extra OL and 3 Canadian receivers? It makes our offence very vanilla. We choose to not keep Augustine over MCI and Peterson and switched to an actual TE in the trade off.

Mafia is rolling with what they were given by KW.  Everyone knew the plan going in -- Daniels almost an AR lock, Ike probably in when healthy but might rotate along RR/PR too, and Eli or Vibert as 6th and backup C.

All teams roster a 6th, and many (including us at times) a 7th.  Also normal.

So then your beef is with Ike, but he's a FB who's also a RB so it's no different than the teams ARing 2 RB.  Even more so because some teams roster 1-2 RB and 1-2 FB/TE!!

The only "weird" thing we do is we're maybe 1 (or more) down on most team's AR O count.  They'd have an extra REC or RB or OL.

And again, there's really no other option for MOS/Condell!  Not like any of our NAT PR on O are any better than what we already dress!

[Tecno]

None of this is going to happen. We aren't benching anyone, not MOS style. He'll coach them up. MOS style is to not give up, rather fight until the bitter end with the guys you have.

I know, I know.  I just was illustrating a possible path I would take if I was C.Jones.

The problem a HC not accepting a "lost season", though, is that you lose all that prep you can do for next season.  Tryouts are valuable.  Live reps for the backups is valuable -- to see who can be cut in FA.

Like it or not MOS isn't like that and so every season is its own thing in isolation and you can't squeeze any more value out of a garbage one.

[Tecno]

Game 9 is next and that is the veteran cut down date limit. So it's now or never before the next game IIRC. Does O'Shea have the balls to pull the trigger? I'm guessing he doesn't.

Is vet cutdown based on game count, or date?  If former then every team has a different date?

Mafia cut A.Bowman and C.Matthews before the vet date in past seasons.  It's entirely possible he does so again.  BUT, he'll only do it for a position where he has a viable backup who has been here from camp.  He'll never airlift in someone to replace the cut vet on AR the very next week.

That means we're probably stuck with Nichols (no viable HB on PR), though Moxey could get the axe (matching the aforementioned examples of underperforming same-year FA pickups).  Stan could get it too, though he'd probably get the respect of 6GIR until after the cup.

[Blue In BC]

Mafia is rolling with what they were given by KW.  Everyone knew the plan going in -- Daniels almost an AR lock, Ike probably in when healthy but might rotate along RR/PR too, and Eli or Vibert as 6th and backup C.

All teams roster a 6th, and many (including us at times) a 7th.  Also normal.

So then your beef is with Ike, but he's a FB who's also a RB so it's no different than the teams ARing 2 RB.  Even more so because some teams roster 1-2 RB and 1-2 FB/TE!!

The only "weird" thing we do is we're maybe 1 (or more) down on most team's AR O count.  They'd have an extra REC or RB or OL.

And again, there's really no other option for MOS/Condell!  Not like any of our NAT PR on O are any better than what we already dress!

No, my beef is with the decision to go with a 3 import OL before TC and not find an OL in free agency to upgrade.  My beef is roster decisions across the roster which is something we've discussed in most of 2025 as well. Perhaps even going back to when we rostered an import FB in 2024.

Having 9 LB's on the roster and no DI on offence. I hope we don't see an injury to O. Wilson or White but I'm not optimistic about seeing some version of 4 Canadian receivers for an in game injury situation.  Or an injury to Oliveria and our run game goes to squat.

I'll compare our roster to game 1 in 2025. We had a 3 Canadian OL, 3 import receivers. Oliveria goes down on play 3 but Peterson is on the roster and runs for over 100 yards.

The list goes on.

[Tecno]

Don't fixate on the OL ratio. I really like what IMP C buys us. See the ko-man thread for more.

The tradeoff is one for one with the REC spot. Or if we get more creative on the D side, potentially with Smith or Shay.

How about we solve the problem of crap NAT RECS? The huge problem is I think we thought we were getting KSB-lite when in fact we bought a tall ternowski. If we got a real upper-middle nat like Gittens or Brissett or Mital then we'd probably already have more wins.

The OL has problems, but it's not Els.

[Tecno]

Oh ya, clearly we've failed at converting to the max dink and dunk O, a la ssk. So the idea of being able to field crap recs and get production is toast.

Busby just got a ton of looks and yards and conversions this weekend and he's complete garbage. Why? Because that's what that o is built for. If we aren't going to revamp to be that O then we need receivers better than busby. Much better.

That leaves out cobb, Nield, and probably Corcoran. Though as the new kid, I'd give him another season to improve. Therefore we need far better Recievers. That will cost us, but all we really need is Woli level. Need to snatch one or two of the 3 names I endlessly repeat. Somehow.

[Blue In BC]

Don't fixate on the OL ratio. I really like what IMP C buys us. See the ko-man thread for more.

The tradeoff is one for one with the REC spot. Or if we get more creative on the D side, potentially with Smith or Shay.

How about we solve the problem of crap NAT RECS? The huge problem is I think we thought we were getting KSB-lite when in fact we bought a tall ternowski. If we got a real upper-middle nat like Gittens or Brissett or Mital then we'd probably already have more wins.

The OL has problems, but it's not Els.

As O'Shea says there is more than one problem. Obviously if our Canadian receivers were better it's a win win. I didn't say Elsbury was a problem but I did ask is he significantly better than our Canadian choices including let Kolo go in free agency.

[theaardvark]

I think the concern is having a 6th OL, a FB AND a TE.  Yes, you could delete either of the last two, but it does then limit you.

I like the TE use, 6th man or even 7th man in jumbo, but still catches balls.

I like Ike as a backup / change of pace, and he can play teams well, including returns.

And no way you do not dress a 6th OL.

I think this deployment of resources is far from a concern.

[Blue In BC]

I think the concern is having a 6th OL, a FB AND a TE.  Yes, you could delete either of the last two, but it does then limit you.

I like the TE use, 6th man or even 7th man in jumbo, but still catches balls.

I like Ike as a backup / change of pace, and he can play teams well, including returns.

And no way you do not dress a 6th OL.

I think this deployment of resources is far from a concern.

It is when our offence is not being particularly productive. Blame is spread around to QB, receivers and OL. Defences can stack the box against our offence.

[kkc60]

The past three games have been awful, and yet the roster stays mostly the same. Offense has no identity, still dressing Cobb as a starter, OL can't run block. Defense has flashes but can't create a turnover if their life depended on it. If the team keeps dragging out the same lineup, every member of this staff deserves to have their seat turned up

[Tecno]

As O'Shea says there is more than one problem. Obviously if our Canadian receivers were better it's a win win. I didn't say Elsbury was a problem but I did ask is he significantly better than our Canadian choices including let Kolo go in free agency.

Think back to the games before Zach was hurt.  Pass pro was exceptional, especially in the interior.  Really it's only been Stan getting burnt.

It wasn't until injuries on the OL and changing QB that pass pro started going down.

So ya, I'd consider Els "significantly better" than Ko-man, who made the same mistakes season after season.  And Els has upside and is half the Ko-man price.  Els also was starting to make inroads on run block too, and he was already at Ko-man levels.

[Tecno]

It is when our offence is not being particularly productive. Blame is spread around to QB, receivers and OL. Defences can stack the box against our offence.

Every single person on O is underperforming.  And if everyone is doing that, even just a bit, then that tips the balance into making the whole O look bad.  This includes the OC and MOS, and all the sub-unit coaches.

Ya, it's easy to point at Stan, or Cobb, or the QB-du-jour, or even Nield.  But while some are more to blame than others, the truth is if 1-2 guys were bad, the others being exceptional would cover for it and we'd still win.

Football is very much a snowball effect thing.  If you start rolling down the crap side of the hill you're pretty much doomed to crap.  Or if you're SSK and you're already rolling down the good side, you look like world beaters even though you're not that great.  You can see it in player morale -- it's a real effect.  And it's exceptionally hard to pull yourself up and onto the good side.

When you think you're going to win and deserve to win, you usually win.

[Blue72]

Who is our replacement for Griffen if his injury keeps him out for another couple weeks, Wilson is our weak link right now. So do we move Jones to MLB and start Woodbey?

[Blueforlife]

Who is our replacement for Griffen if his injury keeps him out for another couple weeks, Wilson is our weak link right now. So do we move Jones to MLB and start Woodbey?

Woodbey needs a couple more games to get up to speed imo

[Blueforlife]

Dd has quoted some good changes.

I love the. But they are done. There are so many needs it's a very poor team. We will be lucky tomfinjsn 8. But we gave that to Ottawa didn't we.?  Doesn't.matter. They need imports.mthose who say they can't bring guys in during the bye, are nuts. The next guy tells him what play to run. 

We are feeble in a number of positions. Defensively  younger is stupid. Whoever put that. D line together should gomandget a job. They are *****. Nichols is a scared old man. Please resign and go away.. bring back Leggett. There will be tons of guys who can play., it's America. There are hundreds of guys  for one position.

Hard to make out much of this.

Younger is not stupid, shows no respect.

Nichols isn't scared he is at the tail end of a good career.  Who do you suggest replaces him?  You don't get better by deletion unless the replacement is better and our cupboard is bare.

Leggett hasn't played since 2019 and is 39.

Now I have heard it all.

[Blue In BC]

Hard to make out much of this.

Younger is not stupid, shows no respect.

Nichols isn't scared he is at the tail end of a good career.  Who do you suggest replaces him?  You don't get better by deletion unless the replacement is better and our cupboard is bare.

Leggett hasn't played since 2019 and is 39.

Now I have heard it all.

In fairness we don't know what we've got on the PR until they play a full role. Not many excel immediately but M. Williams has shown well in his rookie season. It's not entirely impossible that Jackson or Texada might be good players.

If they are not, then the question is why aren't we adding newbies to the PR. Should be lots of UFL players and early NFL cuts available.

[Blueforlife]

In fairness we don't know what we've got on the PR until they play a full role. Not many excel immediately but M. Williams has shown well in his rookie season. It's not entirely impossible that Jackson or Texada might be good players.

If they are not, then the question is why aren't we adding newbies to the PR. Should be lots of UFL players and early NFL cuts available.

Texada might be ok but is < Nichols right now imo

Jackson I know nothing about

Yeah we gotta go hunting but those faces likely for next year unless find a diamond in the rough

[Throw Long Bannatyne]

In fairness we don't know what we've got on the PR until they play a full role. Not many excel immediately but M. Williams has shown well in his rookie season. It's not entirely impossible that Jackson or Texada might be good players.

If they are not, then the question is why aren't we adding newbies to the PR. Should be lots of UFL players and early NFL cuts available.

Maybe they need to change their approach but it hasn't been their policy to bring in a stream of new players to challenge for positions during the current season. They do bring in a few later in the fall but it's always aimed at the next season.

Williams leaping from rookie to starter is the exception, even Ty Ford had to wait a year.

[Blueforlife]

Maybe they need to change their approach but it hasn't been their policy to bring in a stream of new players to challenge for positions during the current season. They do bring in a few later in the season but it's always aimed at the next season.

Williams leaping from rookie to starter is the exception, even Ty Ford had to wait a year.

Good way to rush players that are not ready / give them a fair shake, the slow roast works but has now failed due to less quality in the pipe / aging team / injuries.

If they ballers yes, but often ballers need seasoning.  Ford is a great example of someone who benefited from the slow roast imo.  Just got too $.  Roast em slow, sign em low (early) lol.

Oilers a prime example of frying good young talent.  Also let a few studs go after letting them cook too long in the A lol.  Fine line.

[CrazyCanuck89]

Who is our replacement for Griffen if his injury keeps him out for another couple weeks, Wilson is our weak link right now. So do we move Jones to MLB and start Woodbey?

Smith would start at SLB for Griffen.

[Blue In BC]

I think there needs to be an adjustment to our defensive strategy. What that change would be could be many things but we haven't seen any fundamental change since the beginning of the season IMO. Injury dictates some possible changes but aside from that I think we see more of the same.

[LXTSN]

If we're talking in dream scenarios...
1. Sign Diego Pavia (probably have to make a very difficult cut with another QB). Can't see him taking the paycut, but this would be the best competition that he could face while he's keeping an eye out for an NFL job.
2. Griffin to safety and Smith at LB (or maybe Ball steps up into the safety spot). I'd also be happy with Smith replacing Wilson, and then getting Cam Allen back out at safety if he's healthy.
3. Start one more import WR in Dorian Singer. Probably means we need to start one additional Canadian OL or DL. I think DL would be my preference.
4. Somehow get MOS to loosen up a little and implement some risk-taking!

[Tecno]

Let's slow down the promotion of Smith. In my rewatch he was getting mentally fooled all the time. He'd bite inside on nearly every outside run. He was a major part of second level contain, and his stupidity is a huge part of why we lost.

I'm not too upset though, because he's fairly new. But I would be scaling back his duties, not increasing them.

[Blue In BC]

Let's slow down the promotion of Smith. In my rewatch he was getting mentally fooled all the time. He'd bite inside on nearly every outside run. He was a major part of second level contain, and his stupidity is a huge part of why we lost.

I'm not too upset though, because he's fairly new. But I would be scaling back his duties, not increasing them.

Yeah, that's what I thought and I noticed it on at least a couple of plays. I'm not sure we can scale back his duties while it appears we may have lost Griffin this game.

[Jesse]

It's not even really about promoting Smith though. It's - is the trade off on D (which hasn't been good) - going to be worse than the benefits of bringing on an extra American on O (which needs help).

[Blue In BC]

It's not even really about promoting Smith though. It's - is the trade off on D (which hasn't been good) - going to be worse than the benefits of bringing on an extra American on O (which needs help).

A better offence keeps the opponent off the field more often. So that's a bit hard to calculate the trade off for another import on offence that hasn't played in a game yet.  Same issue with a defensive player being added from the PR. Not much if any experience for those choices.