Zach is back and on the attack, let there be no sacks! Montreal will not be a pushover and the Blue Bombers will be looking for solid performances from all three phases.
Cody Fajardo to start for the Als. Good, bad or indifferent? Austin Mack and Tyler Snead are emerging as bonafide CFL receivers
In for the Bombers: #44 Gauthier
Out for the Bombers: #32 Burtenshaw
Bomber Depth Chart... https://twitter.com/EdTaitWFC/status/1694353470042653030/photo/1
Ed Tait's 48-Hour Primer https://www.bluebombers.com/2023/08/22/48-hour-primer-mtl-vs-wpg-5/ with a feature on Damian Jackson.
Game Preview https://www.bluebombers.com/2023/08/23/game-preview-mtl-vs-wpg-6/
Big home crowd expected and an opportunity to solidify first place in the west. Let's Go Bombers!!
Get to the game early for $5 beers, $3.50 hot dogs and $3.50 fountain drinks at the tailgate event prior to kickoff. In addition, drop by the Princess Auto Tailgate booth as they will be giving away 7,000 Blue Bomber blankets.
The Basics
Kickoff: Thursday, 7:30 p.m. CDT; IG Field, Winnipeg
TV: TSN; RDS; CBS Sports Network
U.S. and international live streaming: https://www.cfl.ca/plus
Radio: 680 CJOB
Last meeting: Winnipeg 17 Montreal 3; July 1, 2023, at Montreal. The Blue Bombers have split their season series with the Alouettes in each of the last three seasons. A win Thursday would give them their first two-game sweep of Montreal since 2018.
PlayNow odds: The Blue Bombers are favoured by 8.5 points. For more betting options on this game, click here. (https://www.playnow.com/sports/sports/event/11089626/football/canada/cfl/montreal-alouettes-at-winnipeg-blue-bombers)
Take note: Thursday's game is the club's Canadian Armed Forces Appreciation Night. As part of the ceremony, three members from 17 Wing will be bringing in the ceremonial flag and the RCAF rock band will be playing in the tailgate area and at halftime. As well, 24 members from 17 Wing will be asked to hold the large Canadian flag while four members of the Search and Rescue team will rappel from the West roof of IG Field in the pre-game.
Nice always love military appreciation night! Fly over?
May Zach stay off his back and give Montreal a hardy ***** slap!
Crowd noise should be a factor tomorrow. Fajardo is plenty familiar with it. ;D
I expect another big performance by the defense. Hopefully, the offense can follow suit.
Quote from: ModAdmin on August 23, 2023, 01:14:31 AM
Zach is back and on the attack, let there be no sacks! Montreal will not be a pushover and the Blue Bombers will be looking for solid performances from all three phases.
Cody Fajardo to start for the Als. Good, bad or indifferent? Austin Mack and Tyler Snead are emerging as bonafide CFL receivers
In for the Bombers: #44 Gauthier
Out for the Bombers: #32 Burtenshaw
Ed Tait's 48-Hour Primer https://www.bluebombers.com/2023/08/22/48-hour-primer-mtl-vs-wpg-5/ with a feature on Damian Jackson.
Game Preview https://www.bluebombers.com/2023/08/23/game-preview-mtl-vs-wpg-6/
Big home crowd expected and an opportunity to solidify first place in the west. Let's Go Bombers!!
Get to the game early for $5 beers, $3.50 hot dogs and $3.50 fountain drinks at the tailgate event prior to kickoff. In addition, drop by the Princess Auto Tailgate booth as they will be giving away 7,000 Blue Bomber blankets.
Both Mack and Snead really impressed me last week. Mack expecially. I think the Bombers need to get pressure on Fajardo continually. This will be a close game and all 3 groups (Defense Offense and Special Teams) need to be on their A Game.
Looks like Fletcher and Stanback are both in the lineup for the Als this week. I assume that they'll be trying to pound the ball on the ground.
Stop the run
Protect Zach
Establish Brady early
Game over
Quote from: pdirks67 on August 23, 2023, 05:19:48 PM
Looks like Fletcher and Stanback are both in the lineup for the Als this week. I assume that they'll be trying to pound the ball on the ground.
If both that might signal a run focus. It gives them both speed and power options. interesting that Stanback is the DNA... that's the first time they've done that! Could have 2 back sets!!
Forecast shows low 20's and 40% chance of rain the entire game time. Risk of t-shower so hopefully that doesn't materialize. It should be a hot and muggy one for fans and players. At least I don't think we need to worry about sweaters.
Any short drizzles that crop up could favor the running game. Maybe that's what MTL is thinking...
Quote from: BBRT on August 23, 2023, 04:53:27 PM
Both Mack and Snead really impressed me last week. Mack expecially. I think the Bombers need to get pressure on Fajardo continually. This will be a close game and all 3 groups (Defense Offense and Special Teams) need to be on their A Game.
But we Need A Pass Rush(TM) to do that! :P ;D ;D :o
Mack looks legit. Snead looks like he'll morph into an average IMP that has enough to stick around. Both are good finds for their scouts.
Quote from: ModAdmin on August 23, 2023, 01:14:31 AM
Get to the game early for $5 beers, $3.50 hot dogs and $3.50 fountain drinks at the tailgate event prior to kickoff. In addition, drop by the Princess Auto Tailgate booth as they will be giving away 7,000 Blue Bomber blankets.
Ooooh, free stuff!! Count me in!
Only 1200 tickets left
Quote from: pdirks67 on August 23, 2023, 05:19:48 PM
Looks like Fletcher and Stanback are both in the lineup for the Als this week. I assume that they'll be trying to pound the ball on the ground.
To me, stanback has never been the same since his injury. Fletcher is the better back
Computer chip footballs for Thursday nights game. Apparently the players will be fined $500 for throwing one into the stands.
Quote from: pjrocksmb on August 24, 2023, 02:52:26 AM
Only 1200 tickets left
I really hope the rain stays away, then! And no lightning delay.
Quote from: dd on August 24, 2023, 03:00:45 AM
To me, stanback has never been the same since his injury. Fletcher is the better back
Agreed on Stanback. Fletcher is better, but not too great himself. Not great up the gut unless he gets a big hole. Just watch the edges and C-gap.
Quote from: Pigskin on August 24, 2023, 04:13:39 AM
Computer chip footballs for Thursday nights game. Apparently the players will be fined $500 for throwing one into the stands.
What does that buy them in terms of features? Eliminating stand-throwing? That's kind of lame. Maybe when they get a TD the ball boy can give them a non-chip ball and they can chuck that.
Uh, and won't this also eliminate the players keeping balls on big/historic plays? Are they going to bill each player $500/ball?
This better buy us a ton of features in exchange for the above lameness.
Exume listed as backup SLB behind Kramdi and Darby, his ascension has begun!
Tomorrow's Alumni Alley Line Up... Gavin Walls, Mike Hameluck, Willard Reaves, Bob Toogood & Miles Gorrell! Come by section 118 (near Gate 2) an hr prior to kick off and say Hi! #OnceABomberAlwaysABomber
Quote from: GOLDMEMBER on August 23, 2023, 03:27:32 PM
Nice always love military appreciation night! Fly over?
May Zach stay off his back and give Montreal a hardy ***** slap!
Yes, there will be a flyover prior to kick off.
Quote from: ModAdmin on August 24, 2023, 06:03:42 AM
Tomorrow's Alumni Alley Line Up... Gavin Walls, Mike Hameluck, Willard Reaves, Bob Toogood & Miles Gorrell! Come by section 118 (near Gate 2) an hr prior to kick off and say Hi! #OnceABomberAlwaysABomber
So when are the Bombers going to recognize Matt Nichols contribution with a night in his honour? He might have to wait until he's old and grey.
Quote from: ModAdmin on August 24, 2023, 03:13:07 PM
Yes, there will be a flyover prior to kick off.
Nice these are always neat to watch IMO.
Alexander was listed as "doubtful" on Tuesday, but he's listed on the game day roster
Anyone know if he's for sure playing? Big loss if he isn't, especially with Montreal's WR's.
Quote from: ModAdmin on August 24, 2023, 06:03:42 AM
Tomorrow's Alumni Alley Line Up... Gavin Walls, Mike Hameluck, Willard Reaves, Bob Toogood & Miles Gorrell! Come by section 118 (near Gate 2) an hr prior to kick off and say Hi! #OnceABomberAlwaysABomber
Can anyone fill me in on Bob Toogood? I remember the name but not much else.
Quote from: BBRT on August 24, 2023, 04:01:47 PM
Can anyone fill me in on Bob Toogood? I remember the name but not much else.
Played 7 years 1974-1980 as a Canadian LB. Only missed 3 games in all so he was fairly solid.
Quote from: Blue In BC on August 24, 2023, 04:29:45 PM
Played 7 years 1974-1980 as a Canadian LB. Only missed 3 games in all so he was fairly solid.
Thanks - Boss Lady and I were married in 1971 - moved back to my home city of Dallas (needed to finish grad school) and then back to Winnipeg in 1981. So just missed him!
Unfortunately blue_or_die is too sick to attend tonight. Gave my tickets away.
Cheer loud in my place, boys and girls.
Quote from: blue_or_die on August 24, 2023, 08:28:54 PM
Unfortunately blue_or_die is too sick to attend tonight. Gave my tickets away.
Cheer loud in my place, boys and girls.
Get well. Good game tonight at least.
Quote from: blue_or_die on August 24, 2023, 08:28:54 PM
Unfortunately blue_or_die is too sick to attend tonight. Gave my tickets away.
Cheer loud in my place, boys and girls.
That sucks! Get better for the next one! We'll be extra loud in my looking-to-be-full section and miff countless casual fans around us.
I expect Banjo Bowl level volume out there people!
Quote from: BBRT on August 24, 2023, 04:01:47 PM
Can anyone fill me in on Bob Toogood? I remember the name but not much else.
[/quotE One thing I remember about Bob Toogood was the tragic death of his father at a Bomber game. His father was carried out of the stands on a stretcher after suffering a massive heart attack. The Bombers won the game but I remember that the dressing room was almost silent afterwards.So sad!
Quote from: TecnoGenius on August 24, 2023, 05:11:40 AM
What does that buy them in terms of features? Eliminating stand-throwing? That's kind of lame. Maybe when they get a TD the ball boy can give them a non-chip ball and they can chuck that.
Uh, and won't this also eliminate the players keeping balls on big/historic plays? Are they going to bill each player $500/ball?
This better buy us a ton of features in exchange for the above lameness.
Instant data and stats. In the NFL it tells them how fast a player is moving, speed of spiral, how far pass/punts go, if ball crosses the goal line. It is not used to spot the football because it gets complicated to know when a knee is down but could prove interesting when officials and tv lose sight of the ball in a pile. We will have to see how it works out tonight but they have to move to new tech or look bush league down the road.
Looks like the weather is cooperating and we'll get kick off at normal time.
Bombers offense gets to start the game. Establish the run, get the ball spread around and score a TD. All EZ.
That is absolutely not the way to start the game. Oh my.
Wow. Seen that a few times this year
Let's look at the positive here.. The Bombers get the ball back right away.
Zach's last two throws.
Pick 6's
Deja vu! Oops
Roughing? Would like a replay and slo mo
Just as the camera panned away I thought he got touched. Good stuff. Ball back in our hands.
Alright, hopefully Collaros is calmed down now and ready to ball out.
Quote from: DCM on August 25, 2023, 01:00:52 AM
Alright, hopefully Collaros is calmed down now and ready to ball out.
Looks a lil rusty and off.
See if we can get Oliveira incorporated more to take some pressure off Zach. If they can keep this to 10 and under going into the second quarter, should get something cooking then.
Short field but good mix and drive to get the boys back in it, touchdown to Schoen to cap it off.
Hopefully that settles Zach down
Our pass defence isn?t very good so far.
Useless refs just refused to make the call on the "catch"...clueless
Demskimagic sparks again?
WIDE OPEN.
The Schoen Show in full force tonight.
The boys are awake. Yup.
Zach forcing another throw he shouldn't make.....well at least we pin them deep
Hmmmmm......
Forcing it to kenny
OK Zach....thats 3 picks....***? That's 5 pic sixes this season! Trying to force it to Lawler......again! Starting to resemble Kevin Glenn with the pick sixes!
Was the snap and hold a bit off on the convert?
Another big return given up
BRADY!!
Sergio and Zach not having great games....so far! Yet we're STILL up by 3 late in the second?!
Z8 better pull his head out of his $$$ and start playing like a veteran QB. 3 picks in the 1st half 2 for TD's.
That was quite a wild opening 30 minutes and yet, the Blue are up 3 into the half. Clean it up in the second half and things should be fine.
Quote from: DCM on August 25, 2023, 02:07:05 AM
That was quite a wild opening 30 minutes and yet, the Blue are up 3 into the half. Clean it up in the second half and things should be fine.
Just let Brady run the ball....as Brady says..."let's play Bully Ball"!!
Take those picks off the board and we're up 28-3....or at least 20-3 at the very least!!
Yup. Feed the bull. He'll get it done.
Quote from: Lincoln Locomotive on August 25, 2023, 02:11:10 AM
Just let Brady run the ball....as Brady says..."let's play Bully Ball"!!
Yup with johnnny, McRae, demski and Bailey in the mix
I am unable to watch the game tonight. Question; were the interceptions each to the wide side of the field. Or more so downfield.
Quote from: Horseman on August 25, 2023, 02:06:54 AM
Z8 better pull his head out of his $$$ and start playing like a veteran QB. 3 picks in the 1st half 2 for TD's.
He's definitely not playing MOP football.....3 pick sixes in two games? ***.?
Quote from: Lincoln Locomotive on August 25, 2023, 02:16:11 AM
Take those picks off the board and we're up 28-3....or at least 20-3 at the very least!!
Where is the erase button?
Quote from: 55StickCar on August 25, 2023, 02:17:21 AM
I am unable to watch the game tonight. Question; were the interceptions each to the wide side of the field. Or more so downfield.
All pretty much downfield.
Hopefully ZC will have half time adjustments on his reads.
Fool me once, shame on you. Fool me twice? Nuh uh. PICK!
Quote from: Lincoln Locomotive on August 25, 2023, 02:16:11 AM
Take those picks off the board and we're up 28-3....or at least 20-3 at the very least!!
Unfortunately it doesn't work that way. These turnovers/mistakes are going to take their toll. Isn't that the 4th pick 6 that Winnipeg given up this season?
Kickoff / they start at mid feild
Quote from: Lincoln Locomotive on August 25, 2023, 02:17:48 AM
He's definitely not playing MOP football.....3 pick sixes in two games? ***.?
Agree. Wonder what?s throwing him off on these?? He?s usually very careful with the ball. 21 gift points in 2 games....barf!!
Oh my. What a snap, haha.
Er D doing ?okay? again
Quite the hustle play by Jeffcoat to get that ball.
Collaros overthrow?. Again
Boy is he off
There's Lawler. Haha. Touchdown!
Quote from: DCM on August 25, 2023, 02:59:42 AM
There's Lawler. Haha. Touchdown!
Yup nice to see.
3 quarters - defence gave up 3 points
Even Winnipeg is beating Montreal just off points from turnovers, lol.
Bomber D has been spectacular....our O....well let me find an adjective....uhm...generously spectacular!
Great return to set up some good field position by McCrae.
No way that was pass interference on Lawler, the ball was thrown out of bounds for Pete?s sake!!! Worst call of the year and shocked Montreal didn?t challenge that crappy call
We got away with one there, I think that was a chincy PI call against montreal on Lawler.
The refs were doing well this game until that call
Yeah, I don't like that call. Wouldn't have caught in bounds regardless. Oh well. Oliveira comes up AGAIN. TD good guys.
Quote from: dd on August 25, 2023, 03:11:10 AM
No way that was pass interference on Lawler, the ball was thrown out of bounds for Pete?s sake!!! Worst call of the year and shocked Montreal didn?t challenge that crappy call
Zach did overthrow out of bounds??. But it is Jason Maas?.. I don?t feel bad at all :)
Just announced sell out.
As much as I have criticized Zach for all his picks and pick sixes.,,,he is one of the few QBs that can shake all that off and continue to throw completions and TDs. 4 TD passes and 3 picks....not many QBs like him ever! As Doug Brown commented Zach is "unflappable"....somewhat reminiscent of another unflappable QB....Ricky Ray
Zach's night looks to be over. Crazy stat line but came through in the end.
Quote from: dd on August 25, 2023, 03:11:10 AM
No way that was pass interference on Lawler, the ball was thrown out of bounds for Pete?s sake!!! Worst call of the year and shocked Montreal didn?t challenge that crappy call
None left
Quote from: Lincoln Locomotive on August 25, 2023, 03:20:12 AM
As much as I have criticized Zach for all his picks and pick sixes.,,,he is one of the few QBs that can shake all that off and continue to throw completions and TDs. 4 TD passes and 3 picks....not many QBs like him ever! As Doug Brown commented Zach is "unflappable"....
6 TDs if you count the 2 to Montreal!
Who would have predicted the outcome of this game? Never saw this coming....
Yikes. Tough 1st half.
Defence: Near perfect game. Only allowed 3 points scored against them. Only allowed 1 1st down in the entire 2nd half and that was at 29:30 more or less.
Kramdi: Must be doing something very right. Not getting beaten or targeted at all.
Jackson: His 1st reception. Only a couple of yards but plants the seed in future. Also was at DE a couple of times and FB a couple of times.
Augustine: Still think he could be an asset. Looked good late in game but Als defence was exhausted.
McCrae added some nice plays on offence. He had one very big return and didn't turnover the ball.
Cole / Darby / Exume / Gauthier and a few others saw some reps late in the game.
Sorry to see Richards for the Als tear up his knee in the 2nd half. Looked serious. He's a rising star.
I think we escaped any serious injuries.
Walker, Lawson, Thomas, 5 DTs, 2 Sacks. JJ94, 5 DTs, 1 FR. Wilson with 4 DTs. AB4 only 1 DTs. Willy held off the board.
...if only we would have dressed more defensive lineman. ;D
Rose with his best game since coming back. Looks like he's finally healthy.
Quote from: Sir Blue and Gold on August 25, 2023, 04:38:05 AM
...if only we would have dressed more defensive lineman. ;D
So if Jefferson or Jeffcoat got nicked in the 1st Q and couldn't continue, who would have replaced them at DE? Just because the back ups got a few reps when the game was well out of hand for the Als, doesn't mean there is no need
Quote from: Sir Blue and Gold on August 25, 2023, 04:38:05 AM
...if only we would have dressed more defensive lineman. ;D
Anybody have a snap count for the DL? Everything is perfect when you win big. Would we want Cole, Bennett or Jackson taking 2/3 rds of the snaps if Jeffcoat or Jefferson got nicked early?
Quote from: Blue In BC on August 25, 2023, 02:01:29 PM
So if Jefferson or Jeffcoat got nicked in the 1st Q and couldn't continue, who would have replaced them at DE? Just because the back ups got a few reps when the game was well out of hand for the Als, doesn't mean there is no need
Anybody have a snap count for the DL? Everything is perfect when you win big. Would we want Cole, Bennett or Jackson taking 2/3 rds of the snaps if Jeffcoat or Jefferson got nicked early?
I'm just going to point out that maybe the Bombers know how to deploy their roster better than you do. People being aghast that we have 10 linebackers on the roster or only 6 defensive lineman and then the D holds them to 3 points. People claiming that Jackson isn't worth a roster spot and then he plays all three phases. Lolx100
What people don't consider enough is that on second and long we often revert to 3 down lineman and fill in with quicker linebackers employed in various schemes on defensive line.,I t isn't just 6 lineman rotating
Quote from: Pete on August 25, 2023, 02:09:19 PM
What people don't consider enough is that on second and long we often revert to 3 down lineman and fill in with quicker linebackers employed in various schemes on defensive line.,I t isn't just 6 lineman rotating
Yep! And add in Jackson rotating all second half but listed as a fullback. If they just had him on the chart as a defensive end everyone would have been thrilled. It's like people forget 24-5 in our last two regular seasons. It's pretty hilarious.
Quote from: Sir Blue and Gold on August 25, 2023, 02:04:36 PM
I'm just going to point out that maybe the Bombers know how to deploy their roster better than you do. People being aghast that we have 10 linebackers on the roster or only 6 defensive lineman and then the D holds them to 3 points. People claiming that Jackson isn't worth a roster spot and then he plays all three phases. Lolx100
There are many posters that see a flaw in the roster deployment. Sure the coaches know more than us. It doesn't address the potential concerns many see. I have no specific issue with 10 lb's since titles are fluid and not always meaningful.
Winning makes everything look perfect.
I haven't seen the TOP but the Bombers held the Als to 1 short 1st down in the 2nd half. That's not something you'll see often.
What happens when we have a significant injury early in the game and are losing TOP against a team like the Lions or Argos?
I don't think many will think Jackson is showing a real worth yet just because he happened to play all 3 phases. You're making a BS argument about his contribution. I didn't see him on defence until we were up by 30 points. Let me know when he's on the field in meaningful game play and actually making good plays.
Quote from: Blue In BC on August 25, 2023, 02:18:08 PM
There are many posters that see a flaw in the roster deployment. Sure the coaches know more than us. It doesn't address the potential concerns many see. I have no specific issue with 10 lb's since titles are fluid and not always meaningful.
Winning makes everything look perfect.
I haven't seen the TOP but the Bombers held the Als to 1 short 1st down in the 2nd half. That's not something you'll see often.
What happens when we have a significant injury early in the game and are losing TOP against a team like the Lions or Argos?
I don't think many will think Jackson is showing a real worth yet just because he happened to play all 3 phases. You're making a BS argument about his contribution. I didn't see him on defence until we were up by 30 points. Let me know when he's on the field in meaningful game play and actually making good plays.
And they were all wrong yesterday. The "roster deployment" the Bombers selected on defense gave up three points. THREE.
Quote from: Sir Blue and Gold on August 25, 2023, 02:19:55 PM
And they were all wrong yesterday. The "roster deployment" the Bombers selected on defense gave up three points. THREE.
It's an easy argument to make when you win big against a QB that has a record of losing to the Bombers. I guess we'll see how this works out for the rest of the season and when Haba is healthy.
Talk to me when we play the Argos and the Lions again.
Quote from: Blue In BC on August 25, 2023, 02:33:45 PM
It's an easy argument to make when you win big against a QB that has a record of losing to the Bombers. I guess we'll see how this works out for the rest of the season and when Haba is healthy.
Talk to me when we play the Argos and the Lions again.
We probably will lose some more football games before the season is up. It won't be because the Bombers didn't dress Blue in BCs preferred roster. ::)
Quote from: Sir Blue and Gold on August 25, 2023, 02:19:55 PM
And they were all wrong yesterday. The "roster deployment" the Bombers selected on defense gave up three points. THREE.
also Haba when he returns from injury looked great in rotation.....so yeah our D scheming is working well lately. The big test will come on September 29 and one more crack at BC in their barn with VAJ under centre. TBH the last two QBs the Bombers faced were not exactly MOP material. Kelly is and perhaps VAJ isn't as much however the Bomber D will need to play their very best with help from the offence and STs.
The return of Kyrie Wilson has also had a huge impact on our D. The question remains around whether or not Jamal Parker will replace Houston when he comes back. Austin Mack was having a good game against Houston who was giving him a 5 yard cushion on most plays. When he was hurt the Als offence suddenly dried up completely.
My biggest concern isn't our D and its personnel however our special teams coverage on KOs is atrocious. Praying for Miller's return to help them turn this around.....he's one of the very best if not the best special teamers ever
Quote from: dd on August 25, 2023, 03:11:10 AM
No way that was pass interference on Lawler, the ball was thrown out of bounds for Pete?s sake!!! Worst call of the year and shocked Montreal didn?t challenge that crappy call
Maas had lost his challenge at that point in the game.
We have always had two American DT in our rotation. Richardson backed up Nevis, Sayles backed up Richardson, Walker backed up Sayles. Walker is having a pretty good year and is becoming a very good run stopping DT. However we have no American DT backing him up. Walker is an FA at the end of the season. My worry is he walks away for better money then the Bombers are offering him, like everyone before him, and we have no American DT with any experience. Now we have be very lucky/or good at finding the next American DT so are we going to roll the dice, and hope Fox is the next one. Or are the Bomber going to go with 3 Canadian rotation at DT. Thomas (FA). Lawson (FA). Schmekel (PR). Kornelson (U).
Quote from: Sir Blue and Gold on August 25, 2023, 02:40:07 PM
We probably will lose some more football games before the season is up. It won't be because the Bombers didn't dress Blue in BCs preferred roster. ::)
If roster decisions and make up were the only reason a team wins or loses, then life would be easy.
If we lose with O'Shea's preferred roster ( or yours ) that won't automatically make it a wrong decision.
The question is and was, is the choice the best option available for a given selection.
The argument is only about Jackson as the best alternative to another DL. Winning does not make that a fact. It makes it a discussion which you simply refuse to discuss. This is a discussion forum.
Hard to tell when any 6 game IR players can actually return or what the domino impact will be. Ratio comes into play.
Grant is eligible to return this week. IDK if he's healthy but if he does, who comes off the roster? Choices would be Jackson, Darby or McCrae in that order IMO.
Haba is eligible after the next game.
Hansen is eligible after the next game. Choice would probably be Maruo although technically he could replace an import IIRC. That puts us back to the 3 mentioned earlier.
Miller is in the same boat when he can return. However he's a Canadian so that's a different picture.
Since we don't really get any useful injury updates we don't know if or when any of these players will return.
Throw in the questions about Fox and Garbutt and their development. If Haba is close to returning I doubt we see them soon unless there are additional injuries.
Tyrell Ford could be available ( return from NFL ) next week but I don't think he'd be immediately added to the AR.
Overall I think we'll see a few potential changes in the next couple of weeks if some bodies return to health. The domino impact as always is fluid and may be the result of a new injury in the next game.
Just as a side note, I'd hate to see McCrae taken off the roster. He adds a different look on offence for a few plays. I did find it a bit interesting to see McCrae listed as a DI instead of Darby. That would allow him to replace Oliveria if there is an in game injury more directly without taking an import receiver out.
Quote from: Pigskin on August 25, 2023, 03:03:37 PM
We have always had two American DT in our rotation. Richardson backed up Nevis, Sayles backed up Richardson, Walker backed up Sayles. Walker is having a pretty good year and is becoming a very good run stopping DT. However we have no American DT backing him up. Walker is an FA at the end of the season. My worry is he walks away for better money then the Bombers are offering him, like everyone before him, and we have no American DT with any experience. Now we have be very lucky/or good at finding the next American DT so are we going to roll the dice, and hope Fox is the next one. Or are the Bomber going to go with 3 Canadian rotation at DT. Thomas (FA). Lawson (FA). Schmekel (PR). Kornelson (U).
For the past several seasons we have had at least one additional DL as a DI. At times we've had 2. One DE and 1 DT. In addition we had Hansen.
This season we lost some options having an import kicker in Castillo and a Global punter in Sheehan. Can't disagree that Castillo has provided us a better kicking game. For Sheehan it's not quite as clear but it is what it is. Regardless it took away 2 roster spots that would have been almost certainly dedicated to defence. Injuries and free agency changed that.
Bombers are 9 - 2 and realistically should have won against the Redblacks. Definitely a top 3 team. The difference between the top group ranking may fall onto injuries going forward. The last weeks we have escaped games without serious injury and may be close to seeing some vets returning. Fingers are crossed we stay healthy.
Quote from: Blue In BC on August 25, 2023, 03:46:36 PM
For the past several seasons we have had at least one additional DL as a DI. At times we've had 2. One DE and 1 DT. In addition we had Hansen.
This season we lost some options having an import kicker in Castillo and a Global punter in Sheehan. Can't disagree that Castillo has provided us a better kicking game. For Sheehan it's not quite as clear but it is what it is. Regardless it took away 2 roster spots that would have been almost certainly dedicated to defence. Injuries and free agency changed that.
Bombers are 9 - 2 and realistically should have won against the Redblacks. Definitely a top 3 team. The difference between the top group ranking may fall onto injuries going forward. The last weeks we have escaped games without serious injury and may be close to seeing some vets returning. Fingers are crossed we stay healthy.
It will get interesting if and when, Hansen, Miller, and Haba come back.
Quote from: dd on August 25, 2023, 03:11:10 AM
No way that was pass interference on Lawler, the ball was thrown out of bounds for Pete?s sake!!! Worst call of the year and shocked Montreal didn?t challenge that crappy call
If you watch the play, Lawler is coming back for the ball and is interfered with. We all know Lawlerand his propensity for keeping a toemail in bounds while catching a ball clearly out of bounds, and he could have done that here were it not for the, how should we call it, interference?
Quote from: Pigskin on August 25, 2023, 03:03:37 PM
We have always had two American DT in our rotation. Richardson backed up Nevis, Sayles backed up Richardson, Walker backed up Sayles. Walker is having a pretty good year and is becoming a very good run stopping DT. However we have no American DT backing him up. Walker is an FA at the end of the season. My worry is he walks away for better money then the Bombers are offering him, like everyone before him, and we have no American DT with any experience. Now we have be very lucky/or good at finding the next American DT so are we going to roll the dice, and hope Fox is the next one. Or are the Bomber going to go with 3 Canadian rotation at DT. Thomas (FA). Lawson (FA). Schmekel (PR). Kornelson (U).
And we always find the next man up. IF we don't, the FA market is full of DT's, and maybe this time we spend on one, even keeping Walker. Or find someone that WANTS to win a GC and is sick of 1-9 records, empty stadiums adn the coaches/GMs that go along with that, and will sign for less....
Quote from: theaardvark on August 25, 2023, 04:28:04 PM
And we always find the next man up. IF we don't, the FA market is full of DT's, and maybe this time we spend on one, even keeping Walker. Or find someone that WANTS to win a GC and is sick of 1-9 records, empty stadiums adn the coaches/GMs that go along with that, and will sign for less....
Next year is next year. Can never tell what happens in free agency losses or gains. 1 year contracts make free agency interesting. We're bound to lose some good players. Schoen comes to mind as being able to move on for a big contract. We might get a discount to stay but he'll fall off his ELC in 2024.
I don't think the Unofficial roster has been updated and isn't accurate. Just the general sense is that we'll have a large list of potential free agents. While we've been good at getting most back every year, we might be closer to a more difficult off season. Retirement, decisions about moving on from some older vets and SMS are something we'll all be watching.
Will also be watching whether or if either the XFL / USFL return and whether players are moving to those leagues or away from those leagues.
Quote from: Blue In BC on August 25, 2023, 05:35:20 PM
Next year is next year. Can never tell what happens in free agency losses or gains. 1 year contracts make free agency interesting. We're bound to lose some good players. Schoen comes to mind as being able to move on for a big contract. We might get a discount to stay but he'll fall off his ELC in 2024.
As long as we don't have anyone named Sayles to re-sign, we should do OK...
There are not a lot of $SMS teams will have to spare to "steal" players away, and it looks like many have learned the lesson that its not worth it to overspend. Sure, Hamilton loaded up in a GC hosting year, how'd that work out?
Best chance anyone has at the $34k GC win bonus is... here. Its common knowledge. SO that goes a long way in negotiations.No one is signing with the Elks last minute for $5k more anymore...
Quote from: ModAdmin on August 24, 2023, 03:13:07 PM
Yes, there will be a flyover prior to kick off.
Anybody heard an official, accurate report on why it was called off? Not sure about the lightning as they were just seconds away from the stadium when they veered off. We thought it was a timing issue and they were just doing a go round. But of course they didn't come back.
Quote from: theaardvark on August 25, 2023, 06:38:16 PM
As long as we don't have anyone named Sayles to re-sign, we should do OK...
There are not a lot of $SMS teams will have to spare to "steal" players away, and it looks like many have learned the lesson that its not worth it to overspend. Sure, Hamilton loaded up in a GC hosting year, how'd that work out?
Best chance anyone has at the $34k GC win bonus is... here. Its common knowledge. SO that goes a long way in negotiations.No one is signing with the Elks last minute for $5k more anymore...
Bombers will attract players to re-signing here. Like I said, I'm not entirely certain who all the potential free agents might be. However most of our OL, D. Brown and Schoen are on the list.
To those that were critical of Rose last year please watch his play since his return. Wee bit quiet on the criticism of his play now. Great game. Wilson also very good again.
Quote from: pjrocksmb on August 25, 2023, 09:53:37 PM
To those that were critical of Rose last year please watch his play since his return. Wee bit quiet on the criticism of his play now. Great game. Wilson also very good again.
You know sometimes players play well and sometimes they play poorly. It does not invalidate the criticism if the player starts to play better. Usually the reason posters are critical of a player is because they want the team to perform well, and find it frustrating when a player does not measure up. It does not make them any less a fan.
By way of example, McRae has been pretty bad on returns. He got criticized for that, justifiably. He makes good plays on offence. He had a nice return last night. Doesn't change the fact that he's been bad at returning for a number of games. Just because he had a nice return yesterday, it doesn't mean all the posters are suddenly wrong about him. IMO same applies to Rose. I'm sure the people critical of him last year are very happy his performance is better. Doesn't mean they were wrong to criticize him last year.
You tend to be a glass half full kind of guy which is great. But not all of us are like that, and sometimes it's better to live and let live.
Quote from: bunker on August 25, 2023, 11:26:13 PM
You know sometimes players play well and sometimes they play poorly. It does not invalidate the criticism if the player starts to play better. Usually the reason posters are critical of a player is because they want the team to perform well, and find it frustrating when a player does not measure up. It does not make them any less a fan.
By way of example, McRae has been pretty bad on returns. He got criticized for that, justifiably. He makes good plays on offence. He had a nice return last night. Doesn't change the fact that he's been bad at returning for a number of games. Just because he had a nice return yesterday, it doesn't mean all the posters are suddenly wrong about him. IMO same applies to Rose. I'm sure the people critical of him last year are very happy his performance is better. Doesn't mean they were wrong to criticize him last year.
You tend to be a glass half full kind of guy which is great. But not all of us are like that, and sometimes it's better to live and let live.
Some good thoughts. Thanks for the post. I like the long patient game and love me a good vet. I also like giving a good prospect a long rope. Agree on McRae about his struggles on returns.
I think folks were too harsh on Rose but he did set the bar high.
I'm like an old school boat cabin, I go down with the ship. The good ship Bombers has a couple more years of dominance imo.
I find some folks like to kick players when down. I trust the good ones will get back up quickly.
Rose confirmed he played through an ankle injury lastyear, which would explain any dropoff in play.
Quote from: NewBlue on August 26, 2023, 12:12:04 AM
Rose confirmed he played through an ankle injury lastyear, which would explain any dropoff in play.
Yeah was nicked all year which impacted his speed and agility.
Quote from: bomb squad on August 25, 2023, 06:49:30 PM
Anybody heard an official, accurate report on why it was called off? Not sure about the lightning as they were just seconds away from the stadium when they veered off. We thought it was a timing issue and they were just doing a go round. But of course they didn't come back.
Glen Suitor said during the telecast that the fly over was called off because of the unsettled weather early on and possibility of lightning.
Quote from: Sir Blue and Gold on August 25, 2023, 02:04:36 PM
People claiming that Jackson isn't worth a roster spot and then he plays all three phases. Lolx100
Well, they finally deployed the Jackson FB sneak-out pass I said I suspected they've been setting up for weeks. Unfortunately, the MTL guy followed him across the line and sniffed out the play. Hmph. Really sad about that one. But he did prove he could catch and secure the rock!!
And Jackson getting some snaps at D to go with his copious O snaps.
But what I really want to say about Jackson is TSN showed a shot near the end of the game where Jackson is chumming it up with MOS on the sidelines... check it out, it's like they are age old buddies, yukking it up. MOS actually laughing! While the game is still on! Virtually unheard of. I think the bromance thing some have said may be real, because clearly they seem to be on the same wavelength.
Hey, this isn't a bad thing. He's playing his role, taking lots of snaps on all 3 phases, and can fill in on injury for how many positions? 4? More? That can be valuable and part of the reason why the team isn't freaking out about not rostering more DL depth?
As long as MOS is rostering him for sound reasons and not due to emotion, I'll side with MOS.
Quote from: Sir Blue and Gold on August 25, 2023, 02:13:32 PM
Yep! And add in Jackson rotating all second half but listed as a fullback. If they just had him on the chart as a defensive end everyone would have been thrilled.
Hahah! That's a good one. So true! Just chart him at DE and all is well in Bomberland! :D :D :D
Quote from: Lincoln Locomotive on August 25, 2023, 02:43:56 PM
TBH the last two QBs the Bombers faced were not exactly MOP material. Kelly is and perhaps VAJ isn't as much however the Bomber D will need to play their very best with help from the offence and STs.
The return of Kyrie Wilson has also had a huge impact on our D. The question remains around whether or not Jamal Parker will replace Houston when he comes back.
Funny re: QBs after Maier just was the best QB of the week tonight :D But ya, Maier won't be MOP; but good thing he didn't light us up like that!
Wilson back is so key for our run D. Just look at the run D stats since his return. Night and day. Clements was an ok placeholder but Kyrie is just an animal when he's in. He just gets through the lines and disrupts everything. I don't know how a guy that fast can also have enough power to effectively stop even large backs. Gets me thinking... was Wilson out for our GC loss? Could explain why our run D lost the game on the Oullette and Kelly runs with massive wide-open spaces. Kyrie could be key to winning our next GC as it'll once again come down to stopping Kelly & the egg dish.
Re: Parker/Houston: you must mean Holm? No way Houston is ever benched. Holm? That's the big question.
Quote from: Pigskin on August 25, 2023, 03:03:37 PM
We have always had two American DT in our rotation. Richardson backed up Nevis, Sayles backed up Richardson, Walker backed up Sayles. Walker is having a pretty good year and is becoming a very good run stopping DT. However we have no American DT backing him up. Walker is an FA at the end of the season. My worry is he walks away for better money then the Bombers are offering him, like everyone before him, and we have no American DT with any experience. Now we have be very lucky/or good at finding the next American DT so are we going to roll the dice, and hope Fox is the next one. Or are the Bomber going to go with 3 Canadian rotation at DT. Thomas (FA). Lawson (FA). Schmekel (PR). Kornelson (U).
That's a very good point I hadn't noticed. So the plan must be we make sure we retain Walker even if it costs us, or we do go 2 starting NAT at DT, maybe with some new ELC IMP as depth.
Lawson is improving quite well. But we have to take into account Fatboi retiring eventually, and that could be soon. Could Fatboi be looking at a coaching job here? He certainly knows the system, and that could help ease any new guys into the system.
We never spend big at DT, like ever. Wasn't Nevis a throwaway from TOR or something originally? Only if we shed a lot of oldster vets at other positions could we afford to change the way we allocate DT$$. 2024
might be a "big change" FA year, that's for sure... unless we can squeak out
one more year out of them. (Rinse and repeat for 2025? :D)
Quote from: theaardvark on August 25, 2023, 06:38:16 PM
As long as we don't have anyone named Sayles to re-sign, we should do OK...
Haha, good one! Those Sayles people have talent, but no loyalty! ;) ;) ;) ;)
Quote from: DCM on August 26, 2023, 04:11:16 AM
Glen Suitor said during the telecast that the fly over was called off because of the unsettled weather early on and possibility of lightning.
They were circling the race track I hear.
Quote from: Sir Blue and Gold on August 25, 2023, 02:04:36 PM
I'm just going to point out that maybe the Bombers know how to deploy their roster better than you do. People being aghast that we have 10 linebackers on the roster or only 6 defensive lineman and then the D holds them to 3 points. People claiming that Jackson isn't worth a roster spot and then he plays all three phases. Lolx100
Trust the system. We smoked em. Love this comment. Yup Jackson did it all.
Quote from: TecnoGenius on August 26, 2023, 08:50:17 AM
Funny re: QBs after Maier just was the best QB of the week tonight :D But ya, Maier won't be MOP; but good thing he didn't light us up like that!
Wilson back is so key for our run D. Just look at the run D stats since his return. Night and day. Clements was an ok placeholder but Kyrie is just an animal when he's in. He just gets through the lines and disrupts everything. I don't know how a guy that fast can also have enough power to effectively stop even large backs. Gets me thinking... was Wilson out for our GC loss? Could explain why our run D lost the game on the Oullette and Kelly runs with massive wide-open spaces. Kyrie could be key to winning our next GC as it'll once again come down to stopping Kelly & the egg dish.
Re: Parker/Houston: you must mean Holm? No way Houston is ever benched. Holm? That's the big question.
Pretty certain Kyrie did NOT play in the grey cup last year. His injury rehab carried over from last season.
Quote from: ichabod_crane on August 27, 2023, 02:17:45 AM
Pretty certain Kyrie did NOT play in the grey cup last year. His injury rehab carried over from last season.
Yer correct, Clements started in his place.
Quote from: Throw Long Bannatyne on August 27, 2023, 04:17:27 AM
Yer correct, Clements started in his place.
That explains everything in the GC then. Clements is developing but Kyrie is 5X more effective. So if Kyrie had been healthy we likely stop those 2-3 backbreaking runs and win handily. When Clements is playing we always seem to have these busts where the weak side flat is defender-free for miles. Funny that fate hinges on 1/24th or 1/45th of something...
Kyrie + Biggie might be as good as BC-era team-100. And I don't say that lightly. Just look at our run D since Kyrie rejoined Biggie. Solly maybe had a bit more football IQ, but Kyrie has more speed and disruption behind the LoS. One thing is for sure, the new "team 23" is hard to beat.
The two guys you mentioned are deadly. If they are clean, they make the play. and I think Kramdi, has snuck up and surprised everyone. He?s earned a position, by being relentless, tenacious, runs to the hall, and has improved defeating blockers and closing down running lanes.
So as an offensive coordinator, who do you attack? With that pass rush, and knowing the trends for a run in first down, the defense is really flowing to the ball. Pretty good!