Would like to see us improve our return game. Also, need to find more pressure from our DL. We are giving QBs far to long to throw. Really like what coach Miller has done with our coverage team. He's putting together a pretty good unit. ZC8 looked much better, but he needs to stop throwing picks every game.
ZC*'s TD/INT ratio improved infinitely last game...
We should beat the riders with Patterson running their offense. Another big game for us with a western division rival. A win here puts us in the thick of things with lots of games to come and with Lawler hopefully coming back soon, we ll hit our stride and make a push for the playoffs
Huge game again. If the usual split happens Labor Day/Banjo Bowl this would end up being the deciding game.
We should beat the riders with Patterson running their offense. Another big game for us with a western division rival. A win here puts us in the thick of things with lots of games to come and with Lawler hopefully coming back soon, we ll hit our stride and make a push for the playoffs
Riders are very beat up on their DL. Will be interesting to see how they manage against the Lions. It's not clear which if any of those DL will be available when they play us.
Two of the 4 went to 6 game IR and 2 went to 1 game IR.
Quote from: dd on July 13, 2024, 05:44:59 PMWe should beat the riders with Patterson running their offense. Another big game for us with a western division rival. A win here puts us in the thick of things with lots of games to come and with Lawler hopefully coming back soon, we ll hit our stride and make a push for the playoffs
Yep, important to put the Riders back in their place before Harris comes back, will accept a split of the LDC and BB, 2 out of 3 is acceptable.
Can Wilson put together back to back games?
Will Lucky or Kody Case, replace Smith at KR?
Is Garbutt ready to return? We need the push on the DL.
Quote from: Pigskin on July 13, 2024, 09:03:50 PMCan Wilson put together back to back games?
Will Lucky or Kody Case, replace Smith at KR?
Is Garbutt ready to return? We need the push on the DL.
We don't need to necessarily have Whitehead or Case replace Smith in any aspect in the return game. OTOH, we can remove Mitchell from the AR with one of them as a back up receiver. Whether they use one in the return game is a different issue than getting one on the AR.
Quote from: Pigskin on July 13, 2024, 09:03:50 PMCan Wilson put together back to back games?
Will Lucky or Kody Case, replace Smith at KR?
Is Garbutt ready to return? We need the push on the DL.
Curious why you'd want to take Smith off? He's been a solid returner.
If the Bombers can't best a team with their back up QB, then we're not going to be in good shape going forward.
Aside from their QB, they are now facing issues on their DL.
Oliveria should have a good game. When he does, the team does well.
Quote from: RebusRankin on July 13, 2024, 09:36:50 PMCurious why you'd want to take Smith off? He's been a solid returner.
He's been decent but he hasn't broken any. Lucky can break one at any time so I d at the very least give him a shot To return and see if can break one. My money says he can.
Quote from: dd on July 13, 2024, 09:52:07 PMHe's been decent but he hasn't broken any. Lucky can break one at any time so I d at the very least give him a shot To return and see if can break one. My money says he can.
I'd take Mitchell off before Smith. Agree on Smith not breaking any. Whitehead also hasn't returned kicks since 2019 (ok in 2021)
Quote from: RebusRankin on July 13, 2024, 09:36:50 PMCurious why you'd want to take Smith off? He's been a solid returner.
He hasn't dropped the ball like some of other replacements; he hasn't done anything super positive yet either.
Quote from: RebusRankin on July 13, 2024, 10:14:44 PMI'd take Mitchell off before Smith. Agree on Smith not breaking any. Whitehead also hasn't returned kicks since 2019 (ok in 2021)
Yes, that's why I would see if he still can return kicks, since he was out of a job a week ago, I think he d be very motivated to show us what he's got and my money says he ll break one proving himself
Riders defence is very good. Hard to say how they are against the run.
Quote from: The Zipp on July 14, 2024, 01:25:16 AMRiders defence is very good. Hard to say how they are against the run.
Good statistically. Did a good job against Carey and Toronto. Their pass rush concerns me.
Quote from: dd on July 13, 2024, 05:44:59 PMWe should beat the riders with Patterson running their offense. Another big game for us with a western division rival.
Quote from: Blue In BC on July 13, 2024, 09:45:48 PMIf the Bombers can't best a team with their back up QB, then we're not going to be in good shape going forward.
Uh, pretty sure we lost the LDC in 2023 to a Rider backup QB (Dolegala or Patterson?? don't remember).
We can totally lose to SSK in SSK to a backup... and since we made it to the GC, clearly such a loss doesn't mean much of anything.
That said, it is embarrassing and I really hope we don't let that happen this year!!
Is anyone going? My son went behind my back and asked my wife for Wife Approval, and strangely enough she said "ok". But we might have to do an all-in-a-single-day thing: start driving at noon and get home at 6am. So I'm not sold on it yet.
This game may be a better "show" for us WPG fans since we have a way better chance of winning with no Trevor, and without the big crowd and bells & whistles of the LDC.
Will be an interesting game. If the Riders were a stock, they'd be a strong sell. They had no business being 4-0. On the other hand, they are certainly capable of beating this year's Bombers team, especially at home.
Sask - even with Patterson will be a tougher match than Calgary.
They play physical and oulette can cause issues if he gets rolling.
Quote from: The Zipp on July 14, 2024, 01:34:01 PMSask - even with Patterson will be a tougher match than Calgary.
They play physical and oulette can cause issues if he gets rolling.
I wasn't too impressed with the Lions secondary that gave up big chunks. We're prone to that as well but not to the level the Lions seem to be.
Riders won't have Hardrick this week. Oullette didn't come out out the game unscathed. He'll play but might be limited.
Even without Hardrick can we sustain more pressure on Patterson?
278 yards passing but 171 was YAC. Longest 2 receptions were 51 and 49 yards. Sloppy tackling and leaving those 2 receivers open all night. Same as the Riders secondary that left McInnis open for 250 YARDS on 14 catches. Wow.
If Zach and the Bombers play well like they did against Cgy. I think they can beat both the Lions and the Riders, it's up to them to limit errors and do so though, which isn't a given. Patterson is woefully limited in his abilities and if the Bombers can avoid giving up YAC explosion plays to their top receivers which put them in scoring territory, they should be easily contained and disposed of.
Quote from: Blue In BC on July 14, 2024, 02:22:56 PMI wasn't too impressed with the Lions secondary that gave up big chunks. We're prone to that as well but not to the level the Lions seem to be.
Riders won't have Hardrick this week. Oullette didn't come out out the game unscathed. He'll play but might be limited.
Even without Hardrick can we sustain more pressure on Patterson?
278 yards passing but 171 was YAC. Longest 2 receptions were 51 and 49 yards. Sloppy tackling and leaving those 2 receivers open all night. Same as the Riders secondary that left McInnis open for 250 YARDS on 14 catches. Wow.
I wonder how burnt the Riders feel watching McInnis light it up week after week!!
Quote from: dd on July 14, 2024, 02:59:55 PMI wonder how burnt the Riders feel watching McInnis light it up week after week!!
It's scary how easy he runs his routes and catches the ball, I'm not sure how he can defended against effectively when Adams is slinging the ball so well.
Quote from: Throw Long Bannatyne on July 14, 2024, 03:49:19 PMIt's scary how easy he runs his routes and catches the ball, I'm not sure how he can defended against effectively when Adams is slinging the ball so well.
It's a lethal combination. Opponents can't give Adams that much time to throw. Wind and rain will impede this somewhat as the season progresses. At the moment, this is high speed perfection.
Quote from: Blue In BC on July 14, 2024, 04:29:16 PMIt's a lethal combination. Opponents can't give Adams that much time to throw. Wind and rain will impede this somewhat as the season progresses. At the moment, this is high speed perfection.
Scary part is if the lions lock up first place they won't have to face wind, rain or cold. They can be beat - VA will make mistakes and there will be injuries, they are well coached though and right now look to be #1 in the west.
Quote from: The Zipp on July 14, 2024, 06:12:29 PMScary part is if the lions lock up first place they won't have to face wind, rain or cold. They can be beat - VA will make mistakes and there will be injuries, they are well coached though and right now look to be #1 in the west.
The Grey Cup is also in Vancouver this year in an enclosed stadium, so they may not even experience a chill on their way to the GC.
Quote from: The Zipp on July 14, 2024, 06:12:29 PMScary part is if the lions lock up first place they won't have to face wind, rain or cold. They can be beat - VA will make mistakes and there will be injuries, they are well coached though and right now look to be #1 in the west.
We lost to them by what, two points? Our D can be formidable and I like the job Jordan Younger has done since taking over from Richie. It looks a lot like a Richie defense built on the bend-but-dont-break principle. What I did notice that was different was our contain of a QB when he decides to take off with it. We used to get burned by QBs doing that (Crum, 2023) but don't seem as susceptible to it now (Crum, 2024). So there are differences. I believe that as this defense matures we'll see it smooth over some of the rough spots and do a better job limiting the explosion plays and pressuring the QB. Time will tell but I like the positive trends.
Riders are favoured by .5-1.5 points according to Vegas.
We have injuries but so do they. I'm thinking we don't have any excuses losing this game. Stills lots of tickets available.
Looking at the last 10 years, the best team in the regular season won the Grey Cup 4/10 times. There were some unexpected winners, including Montreal last year, Toronto the year before (4th best team), Winnipeg in 2019, Ottawa etc
Riders always play us tough at home, and Patterson didn't look that bad last game. I see the riders winning this one
Quote from: Blue In BC on July 14, 2024, 02:22:56 PMRiders won't have Hardrick this week. Oullette didn't come out out the game unscathed. He'll play but might be limited.
Oullette is always like that. He gets dinged badly so often, and, like Schoen, often comes up looking like he's dying. But he just keeps on going.
I think he learned from AH33 that you need to be "available" (IR-free) to make it early in your CFL career. I also think AJ has a bit of the cray-cray. Pretty sure that dude will play through basically anything. He's like Strev: but short, and with more muscles.
But SSK is missing a lot of players, DL, Yoshi, Trevor. I think WPG is still more wounded right now, but SSK is rapidly catching up.
Quote from: Throw Long Bannatyne on July 14, 2024, 03:49:19 PMIt's scary how easy he runs his routes and catches the ball, I'm not sure how he can defended against effectively when Adams is slinging the ball so well.
McInnis totally reminds me of CGY's Rogers 8 years ago. Same huge body, just block out DBs behind you, and also get those deliberately-high balls because you're 8" taller than everyone.
Roger's achilles heel was that those huge-yet-not-beefy guys get very injury-prone and tend to have short(ish) careers.
The takeaways from the SSK@BC game:
1) SSK DBs will undercut routes and ballhawk ya, but at the expense of consistency, giving up big explosions.
2) SSK DBs were garbage in zone, we need our smartest Rs to find the holes and soft spots and take advantage, especially mid/deep. This will work well early in drives.
3) SSK very good against the run, especially when it's expected, we might have to focus on the mid pass game and go easy on the run, or run on 2nd & long when unexpected.
4) Emilus seems to be their only hot hand right now, cover him and we're good.
5) Shut down the mullet man. Focus on taking away the run. Limit them to 0 or 1 run explosions, tops.
6) Send lots of pressure on Patterson, combo run blitz and pass blitz. Patterson is green and clearly is not mobile, has few good targets, and will get flustered.
7) Avoid the short-gain wide outs, that's where the hawks dwell.
Very winnable game, even with that rabid crowd (who will be much diminished due to losing ~20% of their STH). We have our own problems, but if we limit turnovers we should have it.
I think we escaped the game against the Stamps with no injuries? That doesn't mean we don't change the AR this week.
Garbutt and Hallett are the only players on the 6 game IR eligible to come off now. Both have been practising recently.
Will Garbutt be activated this week? I don't know what his injury was or whether he may still need more time even though he has been practising.
I'm not sure about Hallett. Who would he replace at the moment if he's ready to dress for the game? He'd only be used on ST's at best, so that's not an immediate need.
This is a game I think we can and will win. Aside from having a little momentum, it's another situation of needing to gain an edge in season series.
Practice reports will be interesting to see what might be going on.
We seem to be hitting our straight offensively just in time to face quality Roughriders defence.
I can also see us getting good pressure on depleted Roughriders OL.
I know a few fans making the trip,
I'm jealous
Quote from: Blue In BC on July 15, 2024, 04:39:23 PMI think we escaped the game against the Stamps with no injuries? That doesn't mean we don't change the AR this week.
Garbutt and Hallett are the only players on the 6 game IR eligible to come off now. Both have been practising recently.
Will Garbutt be activated this week? I don't know what his injury was or whether he may still need more time even though he has been practising.
I'm not sure about Hallett. Who would he replace at the moment if he's ready to dress for the game? He'd only be used on ST's at best, so that's not an immediate need.
This is a game I think we can and will win. Aside from having a little momentum, it's another situation of needing to gain an edge in season series.
Practice reports will be interesting to see what might be going on.
If Garbutt comes off, Lucky O probably goes back to PR.
If Hallet comes off, not surprised to see him got to PR just in case.
Going to SSK with the same roster as last game will be great. Can Lucky crack the AR for Johnson or Mitchell?
I think it's a pretty safe bet that Garbutt comes on.
I would like to see Whitehead added to the roster in place of Mitchell, but not super confident in that.
Brian Cole apparently only saw 2 defensive snaps last game and is missing from practice today. Something to watch.
Quote from: Jesse on July 15, 2024, 06:19:07 PMI think it's a pretty safe bet that Garbutt comes on.
I would like to see Whitehead added to the roster in place of Mitchell, but not super confident in that.
Brian Cole apparently only saw 2 defensive snaps last game and is missing from practice today. Something to watch.
Maybe being surpassed by others, sliding down the path of Lawrence and Darby towards the PR then on out the door.
Edit: Got ahead of myself, on the Practice Report it lists Cole as out with illness, maybe an infection of the thorax?.
Quote from: Jesse on July 15, 2024, 06:19:07 PMI think it's a pretty safe bet that Garbutt comes on.
I would like to see Whitehead added to the roster in place of Mitchell, but not super confident in that.
Brian Cole apparently only saw 2 defensive snaps last game and is missing from practice today. Something to watch.
That's what most of think probably. Cole is fighting some sort of illness so he could get bumped this week depending on how he's feeling.
Lucky O didn't practice today so all f this could result in Jones coming in at LB this week.
While I said we didn't appear to add any new injuries, the daily report shows a bunch of starters as DNP. Bryant, Demski and Oliveria but I think this is maintenance. This has been a carry over for a couple of weeks.
Slowing starting to get healthy and roster decisions will become harder as we go forward.
Hope Cole is ok. I see no reason to rush Lucky.
Keen to see what Garbutt can do, hopefully he is 100%. He will need a couple games to season.
Anyone know where Lucky Whitehead slotted in practice today?
A few roster moves made today. Tony Jones and Kody Case added. Chris Smith and M. Mitchell moved to PR.
I expected we might see Jones due to Cole's illness. I didn't expect Smith to be bumped. That said, Case fills two roles including a back up receiver I suppose.
It's a short week, so this might just be rotating in some fresh legs. I do think Jones could be a good player on ST's and this may be a replacement for Cole if he's not 100%. He might be headed to 1 game IR?
If Garbutt and Whitehead are going to play we won't hear about that until the depth chart if out.
Quote from: Blue In BC on July 15, 2024, 10:15:06 PMA few roster moves made today. Tony Jones and Kody Case added. Chris Smith and M. Mitchell moved to PR.
I expected we might see Jones due to Cole's illness. I didn't expect Smith to be bumped. That said, Case fills two roles including a back up receiver I suppose.
It's a short week, so this might just be rotating in some fresh legs. I do think Jones could be a good player on ST's and this may be a replacement for Cole if he's not 100%. He might be headed to 1 game IR?
If Garbutt and Whitehead are going to play we won't hear about that until the depth chart if out.
Roster moves pretty much guarantee it.
Quote from: Throw Long Bannatyne on July 15, 2024, 08:51:57 PMAnyone know where Lucky Whitehead slotted in practice today?
Whitehead had second team reps on offense and was shagging kicks with Smith and Case. Case took Demski's spot with the 1s in Demski's absence..he appears to have climbed the depth chart above Mitchell who was with the 2s and moved back to practice roster with Smith.
If practise week ends how it started, looks like Case is our back up WR and returner; also looks like Garbutt slots in...he was getting reps with 1s.
On the injury front Fox and Lawler working with trainer including sprints in end zone. Haba still nowhere near ready. Didn't see Lawson.
There was already a Bombers @ Riders thread started by Pigskin! Oh well...
Riders have a good D. There OL is little beat up. I think the key is going to be getting pressure on the QB and not turning the ball over.
Quote from: Pigskin on July 16, 2024, 03:24:47 AMRiders have a good D. There are little beat up. I think the key is going to be getting pressure on the QB and not turning the ball over.
Riders D is good, and good vs the run, which spells trouble for our O
This is going to be a good game and riders always play us tough at home
Quote from: dd on July 16, 2024, 03:32:26 AMRiders D is good, and good vs the run, which spells trouble for our O
This is going to be a good game and riders always play us tough at home
Scoring early is important.
Quote from: GOLDMEMBER on July 15, 2024, 04:55:26 PMI know a few fans making the trip,
I'm jealous
This may be the game to trek to, not LDC. If any game in Mosaic is a "should win", this is it. Always fun to go there, but waaaay more fun when we whoop those greenies! ;D
Quote from: Throw Long Bannatyne on July 15, 2024, 06:56:34 PMEdit: Got ahead of myself, on the Practice Report it lists Cole as out with illness, maybe an infection of the thorax?.
Well played 8)
Quote from: Blue In BC on July 15, 2024, 08:28:40 PMWhile I said we didn't appear to add any new injuries, the daily report shows a bunch of starters as DNP. Bryant, Demski and Oliveria but I think this is maintenance. This has been a carry over for a couple of weeks.
Question: do other teams give so many players so many "vet days" of no practice? Anyone follow the practice reports of other teams? After our bad/slow 2024 start, and after 2 years of GC disappointment, should we eye a shift away these "vet days"?
Anyone ever notice that warm-ups @PAS for many other teams on gameday are highly regimented while ours appear to be lackadaisical? I sometimes wonder if clamping down a little tighter might improve things at the margin...
Is this weekend the first doubleheader of the regular season? Strange it took this long. TSN working the schedule a little wiser this year.
Thanks to barbk in the pickems thread pointing out the times and that there will be 30mins (plust?) overlap between games, so adjust PVRs appropriately.
Case and Jones added to AR today. Thing could change before the weekend, but really like these guy.
Jones 6'2" 235 LB excellent size and very good closing speed.
Case 5'10 182 WR/KR with excellent speed, and very good hands.
Two identically the same subject topics have been merged.
Quote from: TecnoGenius on July 16, 2024, 03:49:37 AMThis may be the game to trek to, not LDC. If any game in Mosaic is a "should win", this is it. Always fun to go there, but waaaay more fun when we whoop those greenies! ;D
incorrect LDC is always the game to go to. You don't know what your missing.
Quote from: TecnoGenius on July 16, 2024, 03:54:10 AMQuestion: do other teams give so many players so many "vet days" of no practice? Anyone follow the practice reports of other teams? After our bad/slow 2024 start, and after 2 years of GC disappointment, should we eye a shift away these "vet days"?
Anyone ever notice that warm-ups @PAS for many other teams on gameday are highly regimented while ours appear to be lackadaisical? I sometimes wonder if clamping down a little tighter might improve things at the margin...
We know that Bryant was nicked a couple of weeks ago. Oliveria has had issues since TC. So it's no surprise they are not being pushed in practice and being given time to " heal " as the week progresses. Demski plays a very physical game but I didn't notice any specific issue from the game.
At times some of the not practising limitations are just maintenance issues on older players.
It's hard to tell if the Bombers do it more than other teams, but it's an interesting question.
Quote from: Pigskin on July 16, 2024, 04:47:34 AMCase and Jones added to AR . Thing could change before the weekend, but really like these guy.
Jones 6'2" 235 LB excellent size and very good closing speed.
Case 5'10 182 WR/KR with excellent speed, and very good hands.
Smith and mitchell have been moved to practice roster.any word on Lucky W? OShea seems to always make the new guys wait, even when its obvious us they can help us.That it took this long to get Jones in is a case in point
Quote from: Pete on July 16, 2024, 02:12:11 PMSmith and mitchell have been moved to practice roster.any word on Lucky W? OShea seems to always make the new guys wait, even when its obvious us they can help us.That it took this long to get Jones in is a case in point
At Monday's practise, Whitehead had second team reps on offense and was shagging kicks with Smith and Case. Case took Demski's spot with the 1s in Demski's absence..he appears to have climbed the depth chart above Mitchell who was with the 2s and moved back to practice roster with Smith.
If practise week ends how it started, looks like Case is our back up WR and returner; also looks like Garbutt slots in...he was getting reps with 1s.
Excited to see how Case does in place of Smith.
I wasn't super happy with Smith's return game, although he was pretty consistent and held onto the ball. Mitchell was tough to watch but he was never our first pick for returning kicks, but forced into it after Case and Smith went down in PS.
Nice that Case can fill both of their roles with one player so we can roster another player that can provide some value.
WINNIPEG BLUE BOMBERS PRACTICE DAY
Player Name Position Injury MON TUE WED Game Status
Noah Hallett DB Hip Full
TyJuan Garbutt DL Ankle Full
Lucky Ogbevoen DL Knee DNP
Kyle Samson DL Healthy Scratch Full
Brian Cole LB Illness DNP
Stanley Bryant OL Hip DNP
Brady Oliveira RB Shoulder DNP
Michael Chris-Ike RB Knee DNP
Nic Demski WR Knee DNP
https://www.cfl.ca/2024/07/16/riders-sign-american-ol-nick-jones/
Hardrick requires surgery to his quad and is out long term, possibly season ending. May return late in the year but that's not certain.
That's a tough break for one of our favourite past players.
Gotta feel for Yoshi. That's some tough news.
Quote from: Blue In BC on July 16, 2024, 07:54:03 PMHardrick requires surgery to his quad and is out long term, possibly season ending. May return late in the year but that's not certain.
That's a tough break for one of our favourite past players.
If he's done for the year, he may be done for his career, not sure how enthusiastic he would be about rehabbing for a comeback at his age.
As expected the daily IR report is more encouraging. All the starters are back to " full " participation as well as Cole. Only Lucky O. and Chris-Ike listed as DNP.
I think we all thought that our 2nd global player would get bumped from the AR. Chris-Ike wasn't one the changes I might have expected to get bumped. Not sure if they go to IR or PR and don't really know to what extent the injuries might be.
After Jones was added, we still might see Cole bumped for this week. He might still not be 100%. A chance he goes to 1 game IR this week.
Also wondering whether Samson or Noah Hallett become choices on the AR as a result. If so Hallett might be the more useful choice for ST work. That's just a guess but he'd be a depth player at best as he works into game speed and conditioning.
Quote from: Throw Long Bannatyne on July 16, 2024, 09:13:22 PMIf he's done for the year, he may be done for his career, not sure how enthusiastic he would be about rehabbing for a comeback at his age.
He has $230,500 reasons to rehab and play next season.
the desire is there but rehab for his age and weight is gonna be a b***h
"The best thing I can do is just stay ready and just play hard and be somebody's energy."
..."Strong. Eager — he's been waiting for his opportunity," said Blue Bombers defensive coordinator Jordan Younger of (Tyjaun) Garbutt. "He's been patient, he's done everything we asked him to do. He was in the running to be a starter before he got injured in the preseason. We're excited to see him out there and get his chance to run around.
"He's pretty versatile. He can beat you with power, he can beat you with speed, he can beat you with hands. He's talented that way. He's still young, still a rookie and he's going to have his ups and downs and his learning moments but at the end of the day we believe he's a talented football player."
FYI: Some updates from practice on Tuesday — DB Jake Kelly was back practising, as were LT Stanley Bryant, RB Brady Oliveira, LB Brian Cole and SB Nic Demski....
https://www.bluebombers.com/2024/07/16/the-best-thing-i-can-do-is-just-stay-ready-and-just-play-hard-and-be-somebodys-energy/?utm_source=dlvr.it&utm_medium=twitter
https://3downnation.com/2024/07/16/saskatchewan-roughriders-ol-jermarcus-hardrick-suffers-quad-injury-surgery-ikely/
Quote from: GOLDMEMBER on July 16, 2024, 12:37:36 PMincorrect LDC is always the game to go to. You don't know what your missing.
I've been there for the last 2! I meant in terms of winning... if you like seeing a win in Mosaic, and watching the greenie tears, the game in 3 days might be the best game. (I'll probably be going to both, in any event.)
If T.Harris is back by LDC, that game will be muuuuch harder to win (though still winnable if we have Lawler back).
Quote from: Blue In BC on July 16, 2024, 07:54:03 PMHardrick requires surgery to his quad and is out long term, possibly season ending. May return late in the year but that's not certain.
Ouch, that doesn't look like a fun one. Not a super common injury in the CFL. Interwebs recovery estimates sound like Yoshi will be out all season and post-season, but could be good to go for next season.
Does anyone know if it's full or partial? Does the partial also require surgery?
Quote from: Pigskin on July 16, 2024, 09:43:01 PMHe has $230,500 reasons to rehab and play next season.
Bingo. Unless they say it's hopeless and recommend against it, Yoshi will rehab and play. He's that type of guy, and he will do the best he can for his family.
Does anyone remember if he signed a 2-year or just a 1-year with SSK?
Poor Yosh. We're pulling for ya Yoshi!!!
Quote from: TecnoGenius on July 17, 2024, 03:07:33 AMOuch, that doesn't look like a fun one. Not a super common injury in the CFL. Interwebs recovery estimates sound like Yoshi will be out all season and post-season, but could be good to go for next season.
Does anyone know if it's full or partial? Does the partial also require surgery?
Bingo. Unless they say it's hopeless and recommend against it, Yoshi will rehab and play. He's that type of guy, and he will do the best he can for his family.
Does anyone remember if he signed a 2-year or just a 1-year with SSK?
Poor Yosh. We're pulling for ya Yoshi!!!
2 years.
Quote from: TecnoGenius on July 17, 2024, 03:02:30 AMI've been there for the last 2! I meant in terms of winning... if you like seeing a win in Mosaic, and watching the greenie tears, the game in 3 days might be the best game. (I'll probably be going to both, in any event.)
If T.Harris is back by LDC, that game will be muuuuch harder to win (though still winnable if we have Lawler back).
Maybe the Riders could be more beat up by LDC.
Quote from: ModAdmin on July 16, 2024, 11:33:30 PM"The best thing I can do is just stay ready and just play hard and be somebody's energy."
..."Strong. Eager — he's been waiting for his opportunity," said Blue Bombers defensive coordinator Jordan Younger of (Tyjaun) Garbutt. "He's been patient, he's done everything we asked him to do. He was in the running to be a starter before he got injured in the preseason. We're excited to see him out there and get his chance to run around.
"He's pretty versatile. He can beat you with power, he can beat you with speed, he can beat you with hands. He's talented that way. He's still young, still a rookie and he's going to have his ups and downs and his learning moments but at the end of the day we believe he's a talented football player."
FYI: Some updates from practice on Tuesday — DB Jake Kelly was back practising, as were LT Stanley Bryant, RB Brady Oliveira, LB Brian Cole and SB Nic Demski....
https://www.bluebombers.com/2024/07/16/the-best-thing-i-can-do-is-just-stay-ready-and-just-play-hard-and-be-somebodys-energy/?utm_source=dlvr.it&utm_medium=twitter
Garbutt definitely sounds like a MOS guy, eh?
Excited to see him get his shot. He's the guy we've been missing so far. Is a bigger body at DE, was here last year on the PR so should be comfortable and ready to take a step. It would be huge if he came on strong in the second half of the year.
would Brian Cole be able to replace Alexander on some plays?
I'd be happy if Hallet got in more.
On another note maybe free agents in season are reluctant to sign here because they aren't guaranteed to be on the regular roster, O'Shea seems to like them to hang out on the pr for weeks before getting a chance (ie Jones)
Personally I think Holm might be a better option at safety than BA.
Quote from: markf on July 17, 2024, 01:59:30 PMwould Brian Cole be able to replace Alexander on some plays?
So far he hasn't even established himself as a LB or a DB, no evidence Cole knows the playbook well enough to tell other players what to look for or where to go.
Quote from: GOLDMEMBER on July 16, 2024, 12:37:36 PMincorrect LDC is always the game to go to. You don't know what your missing.
Can't wait to catch up and have a few brews!!
Noah Hallett, Jake Kelly and T. Garbutt are all available to come off 6 game IR. K. Samson is also able to come off 1 game IR. All practised at Full this week.
We're hoping to see Garbutt moved to the AR this week. However, I don't think we'll see the others activated. I'm not sure if they the extended where they are or get moved to 1 game IR or even PR.
Then there is the question about Whitehead being activated.
Looking forward to an energized team as they've begun to hit their stride. Some bodies getting healthy is good whether they play this week or not.
https://3downnation.com/2024/07/17/riders-qb-trevor-harris-progressing-extremely-well-rehabbing-from-left-knee-mcl-sprain/
WINNIPEG BLUE BOMBERS PRACTICE DAY
Player Name Position Injury MON TUE WED Game Status
Noah Hallett DB Hip Full Full Full Questionable
TyJuan Garbutt DL Ankle Full Full Full Questionable
Lucky Ogbevoen DL Knee DNP DNP DNP Questionable
Kyle Samson DL Healthy Scratch Full Full Full Available
Brian Cole LB Illness DNP Full Full Available
Stanley Bryant OL Hip DNP Full Full Questionable
Brady Oliveira RB Shoulder DNP Full Full Questionable
Michael Chris-Ike RB Knee DNP DNP DNP Questionable
Nic Demski WR Knee DNP Full Full Available
Quote from: Ridermania on July 17, 2024, 09:03:40 PMCan't wait to catch up and have a few brews!!
Looking forward to it!
Quote from: The Zipp on July 17, 2024, 08:07:54 PMPersonally I think Holm might be a better option at safety than BA.
Agree on this. Hands down the fastest guy we have on D. BA has lost a step, put him inside and shut down some recievers
I'm excited, I'm going to the game this Friday
Quote from: The Zipp on July 17, 2024, 08:07:54 PMPersonally I think Holm might be a better option at safety than BA.
Interesting thought. He is more Dequoy-like, but we'd have to put him on roving-coverage duty instead of the run-stop-heavy scheme BA37 does. Holm shouldn't be coming upfield laying wood, he'll get destroyed.
That said, can our run D give up even more explosions?! Maybe we still need our FS to be a Loffler-style big run stopper.
When Parker returns we will have some interesting questions and DB movement. Might have a lot of options.
Quote from: The Zipp on July 17, 2024, 08:07:54 PMPersonally I think Holm might be a better option at safety than BA.
Disagree Holm is needed where he is.
I think Lucky O. and Chris-Ike will be coming off the AR tomorrow. Injury issues and no practice. That will result in a shuffle of players but there are a few choices and I'd only be making more guesses.
Quote from: TecnoGenius on July 18, 2024, 12:16:59 AMInteresting thought. He is more Dequoy-like, but we'd have to put him on roving-coverage duty instead of the run-stop-heavy scheme BA37 does. Holm shouldn't be coming upfield laying wood, he'll get destroyed.
That said, can our run D give up even more explosions?! Maybe we still need our FS to be a Loffler-style big run stopper.
When Parker returns we will have some interesting questions and DB movement. Might have a lot of options.
Maybe we need the guy in the middle of the DL to be more of a run-stopper.
Quote from: Blue In BC on July 18, 2024, 01:16:15 AMI think Lucky O. and Chris-Ike will be coming off the AR tomorrow. Injury issues and no practice. That will result in a shuffle of players but there are a few choices and I'd only be making more guesses.
Sounds like Garbutt and Case are coming on at least.
Bonfire sports posted this, with an interview of garbutt. youtube.
"TyJuan Garbutt has been with Winnipeg for well over a year, and while he's already suited up in a couple non-consequential games for the Blue Bombers, the athletic and powerful rush end is set to re-debut on the starting defensive line in Week 7 against the Saskatchewan Roughriders."
Quote from: Jesse on July 18, 2024, 01:20:38 AMMaybe we need the guy in the middle of the DL to be more of a run-stopper.
Ouch. Maybe. But note how Biggie is usually being tasked... I wouldn't blame him for everything. He does have to follow orders.
Unlike Sankey and other MLBs, we have Biggie run up to stuff a hole. Now that I think about it, it's become very Hurl-like. Not that Biggie is or ever could be Hurl-level, but in how they are using him.
Some games I focus on Biggie (usually after he gets bashed) and he's not sitting back there whiffing on runs: he's stuffing holes and getting tied up by OL. Our DC and MOS know he'll get tied up by the OL (he's never been a good block-shedder). But that's what we have him do. I think the thinking is Biggie will take away the obvious open hole the RB prefers, forcing him out on the edge to either Kramdi or Wilson (both faster than Biggie).
Ya, sure, the last game had that really bad open-field whiff on a big run; and we usually see one of those a game. Those are the ones he's supposed to catch. But my point is, he's not in that position very often. So if he whiffs on 1 of 1, is it really that bad? Is it all his fault? Even the best get decleated on jukes by good runners, and we've seen some pretty good runners emerge in the CFL (Fletcher, Armstead, Mills, etc).
If you want Biggie to be more of a second-level run-stopper, stop tasking him with the holes. Either that, or get a beefier/nastier MLB that can shed blocks.
Quote from: TecnoGenius on July 18, 2024, 03:54:22 AMOuch. Maybe. But note how Biggie is usually being tasked... I wouldn't blame him for everything. He does have to follow orders.
Unlike Sankey and other MLBs, we have Biggie run up to stuff a hole. Now that I think about it, it's become very Hurl-like. Not that Biggie is or ever could be Hurl-level, but in how they are using him.
Some games I focus on Biggie (usually after he gets bashed) and he's not sitting back there whiffing on runs: he's stuffing holes and getting tied up by OL. Our DC and MOS know he'll get tied up by the OL (he's never been a good block-shedder). But that's what we have him do. I think the thinking is Biggie will take away the obvious open hole the RB prefers, forcing him out on the edge to either Kramdi or Wilson (both faster than Biggie).
Ya, sure, the last game had that really bad open-field whiff on a big run; and we usually see one of those a game. Those are the ones he's supposed to catch. But my point is, he's not in that position very often. So if he whiffs on 1 of 1, is it really that bad? Is it all his fault? Even the best get decleated on jukes by good runners, and we've seen some pretty good runners emerge in the CFL (Fletcher, Armstead, Mills, etc).
If you want Biggie to be more of a second-level run-stopper, stop tasking him with the holes. Either that, or get a beefier/nastier MLB that can shed blocks.
Yeah, the only time I notice Biggie these days is when he's whiffing in the open field. Generally, if a MLB is being used as a run stopper, and not wracking up tackles, he's not being very effective.
In: DE Garbutt, LB Jones, WR/KR Case, DB Hallett
Out: LB/DE Ogbevoen, WR Mitchell, RB/KR Smith, RB/FB Chris-Ike
I like DE Garbutt and LB Jones move. Hoping Jones rotates on the MLB and not for ST only.
I like trying Case on the KR as I feel Smith is underwhelming. Although it's a bit scary having a new guy there. Hope he catch everything and not wait for it to bounce first.
I don't get taking out Chris-Ike.
Looks like O'Shea added another one of his boys in younger Hallett. How long this guy will last?
+1 on Case in for Smith. Smith has not impressed, IMO.
I dont get having 5 import LBs, and 3 nat for a total of 8.
Was hoping to see Lucky W in,but maybe he not in game shape or hasnt impressed.
Adding Hallett. indicates a lack of nat options At the beginning of season if you told me Hallet,Smeckle and Feltmate would be on starting roster Id think our draft was a disaster.Our roster mgmt is questionable.
This is now the 4th DE over 7 games that we've started in Jeffcoat's spot?
Quote from: peg_city on July 18, 2024, 02:52:32 PMThis is now the 4th DE over 7 games that we've started in Jeffcoat's spot?
Probably a different story if Haba didn't get injured. He seemed like the heir apparent to Jeffcoat, whose presence is really being missed right now on the D-line.
Quote from: M.O.A.B. on July 18, 2024, 02:32:23 PMIn: DE Garbutt, LB Jones, WR/KR Case, DB Hallett
Out: LB/DE Ogbevoen, WR Mitchell, RB/KR Smith, RB/FB Chris-Ike
I like DE Garbutt and LB Jones move. Hoping Jones rotates on the MLB and not for ST only.
I like trying Case on the KR as I feel Smith is underwhelming. Although it's a bit scary having a new guy there. Hope he catch everything and not wait for it to bounce first.
I don't get taking out Chris-Ike.
Looks like O'Shea added another one of his boys in younger Hallett. How long this guy will last?
Chris-Ike didn't practice this week due to an injury
EDIT: Moved to 6 game IR.
Quote from: Pete on July 18, 2024, 02:41:34 PMI dont get having 5 import LBs, and 3 nat for a total of 8.
Was hoping to see Lucky W in,but maybe he not in game shape or hasnt impressed.
Adding Hallett. indicates a lack of nat options At the beginning of season if you told me Hallet,Smeckle and Feltmate would be on starting roster Id think our draft was a disaster.Our roster mgmt is questionable.
Yeah, that's a bit odd but as we saw last week, we used a global LB as the rotation player on the edge. If we had another import DE like Haba healthy that would change.
Jones was quite good on ST's in the past and has started at MLB for a few games with the Elks. Hard to say what his immediate role will be this game.
Since Lucky O was more of an emergency back up last week, Jones might take on part of that role. Garbutt will still need someone to rotate at DE to keep him fresh. Hubert will see some reps as well.
Hallett being added is not exactly a surprise. The team has kept him around during his multiple injury history. He might see immediate duty on ST's. Chris-Ike being nicked just made adding him easier this week.
Kelly was eligible to come off 6 game IR as well. Not important that he does soon, but I wonder if one of our Canadian DB's becomes trade bait. Waiting to see the roster updates on where those coming off went. 1 game IR, or PR? Because we had 2 come off of 6 game IR, it would suggest 2 need to move to IR just from a math point of view.
What happens more long term, is less obvious.
EDIT: Ok, some answers. Chris-Ike and Lucky O. moved to 6 game IR. Kelly moved from 6 game IR to 1 game IR.
Quote from: Blue In BC on July 18, 2024, 03:17:00 PMWhat happens more long term, is less obvious.
"Obvious" 😀
Much/most of The roster stuff is beyond me.
Quote from: markf on July 18, 2024, 04:14:53 PM"Obvious" 😀
Much/most of The roster stuff is beyond me.
I'm just saying we're starting to get healthier ( fingers crossed ). In theory players on the 1 game IR, could be ready to return to the AR. Leaving them on the 1 game IR has a marginal SMS cost. Whether they are actually completely healthy or being left there is just a strategic roster decision is just a guesstimate.
Not that I think Samson or Kelly should replace someone on the AR at the moment, but the PR is at the current limit.
Lawler might also be returning after this week and that creates another roster shuffle.
I've been suggesting we should be / might be looking at a small airlift of new faces to the PR. In particular DL since we don't have any additional ones healthy at the moment. Best we've heard is that none of Haba, Fox are near healthy soon.
The catch is roster space barring injury is a balancing act. Essentially at the moment, it's one in and one out.
That's why it's good to see Jones in there this week, hopefully he gets reps. We need to see what we have on the pr so as to make better decisions going forward. As mentioned, we need to bring in DEs, and by now we know that this is Biggy's last year. I just wish we'd start looking at safety as well to start giving someone else reps.
There are 4 main areas we need to plan to improve
Thomas. Alexander, Bighill and possibly dt for next year. We've seen how difficult it is to evaluate in training camp with just 2 preseason games. (Kramdl is on the borderline list)
Getting Case and Hallett on the roster before Lucky is meh for me.
Quote from: Jesse on July 18, 2024, 06:33:38 PMGetting Case and Hallett on the roster before Lucky is meh for me.
Obviously, the team knows more than we do. Case was the choice for returner before injury. Lucky was available then. We chose Case.
Hallett on for ST's, taking over for Chris-Ike
Quote from: theaardvark on July 18, 2024, 06:39:08 PMObviously, the team knows more than we do. Case was the choice for returner before injury. Lucky was available then. We chose Case.
Hallett on for ST's, taking over for Chris-Ike
I disagree that they are infallible and always make the correct choice.
Riders QB and receivers doesn't scare me. We have a good passing defence.
Ouellette scares me though as we have a struggling run defense.
Unless Biggie return to form this game or Jones turn out to be the MACK that we are looking for.
Quote from: M.O.A.B. on July 18, 2024, 06:57:04 PMRiders QB and receivers doesn't scare me. We have a good passing defence.
Ouellette scares me though as we have a struggling run defense.
Unless Biggie return to form this game or Jones turn out to be the MACK that we are looking for.
Ouellettie hasn't been that successful this season, his running ability depends heavily on great blocking which the Sask. O-line has been unable to provide. More worried about broken plays were Emilus or Schaffer-Bakerman catch a short pass and ramble for 40 odd yards.
Quote from: M.O.A.B. on July 18, 2024, 02:32:23 PMI like trying Case on the KR as I feel Smith is underwhelming. Although it's a bit scary having a new guy there. Hope he catch everything and not wait for it to bounce first.
I don't get taking out Chris-Ike.
Smith didn't drop a single one. Mitchell did in his first game and opened the scoring for MTL and may have set the momentum in a direction we couldn't recover from against that team.
So I'm fine with Smith vs a new guy who may "Mitchell" the ball in an important divisional game. I don't care what Case does, as long as he secures the darn ball.
Quote from: theaardvark on July 18, 2024, 06:39:08 PMObviously, the team knows more than we do. Case was the choice for returner before injury. Lucky was available then. We chose Case.
Hallett on for ST's, taking over for Chris-Ike
Clearly Lucky is either out of shape or needs more time to learn the book. Plus, this is a game we should have the advantage in, as SSK has "no QB" and is missing their best OL (put Willie on that side all night!). As such, let's see what the Case kid can do in live action!
Last game we dressed 2 FBs. When has that ever happened? That's crazy talk. I'm fine with Chris-Ike coming out. I'm sure we'll see Ike back in sometime in the future.
Quote from: Throw Long Bannatyne on July 18, 2024, 07:29:31 PMOuellettie hasn't been that successful this season, his running ability depends heavily on great blocking which the Sask. O-line has been unable to provide.
Teams figured out Oullette: go real low and knock out the shins. That's why he countered in the last game by doing a hurdle. Still, he falls after the hurdle, so it's still worth going for the low tackle.
Never try to tackle Oullette's arms/torso, it just doesn't work. That said, small DBs can get pretty beat up bracing to take out his knees... he's a big dude with lots of momentum. Hopefully our LBers and FS can handle most of the tough hits.
Quote from: Throw Long Bannatyne on July 18, 2024, 07:29:31 PMOuellettie hasn't been that successful this season, his running ability depends heavily on great blocking which the Sask. O-line has been unable to provide. More worried about broken plays were Emilus or Schaffer-Bakerman catch a short pass and ramble for 40 odd yards.
Oullette is nothing more than an average RB. He doesn't worry me at all.
Quote from: TecnoGenius on July 19, 2024, 12:40:41 AMClearly Lucky is either out of shape or needs more time to learn the book. Plus, this is a game we should have the advantage in, as SSK has "no QB" and is missing their best OL (put Willie on that side all night!). As such, let's see what the Case kid can do in live action!
MOS isn't going to insert a drop in FA over one of the guys who have been here since training camp. He has to earn the spot first somehow.
Hence why so few inseason free agents sign with us. Can't convince me that Titus Wall or Oakman wouldn't have helped us.
For any Bomber fans going to the game tonight:
Party in the Park kicks off at 4:30 pm with $5 beers available until 30 minutes before kickoff!
Gates Open - 6:00 PM | Kickoff - 7:30 PM
Quote from: Pete on July 19, 2024, 02:19:37 PMHence why so few inseason free agents sign with us. Can't convince me that Titus Wall or Oakman wouldn't have helped us.
You make it sound as if FA don't want to sign with us; but it's really that we have no interest in signing them.
Quote from: Pete on July 18, 2024, 02:41:34 PMI dont get having 5 import LBs, and 3 nat for a total of 8.
Was hoping to see Lucky W in,but maybe he not in game shape or hasnt impressed.
Adding Hallett. indicates a lack of nat options At the beginning of season if you told me Hallet,Smeckle and Feltmate would be on starting roster Id think our draft was a disaster.Our roster mgmt is questionable.
Disagree roster management has been fine considering injuries
Quote from: Jesse on July 18, 2024, 06:42:13 PMI disagree that they are infallible and always make the correct choice.
The pros know more than the joes
Quote from: Pete on July 19, 2024, 02:19:37 PMHence why so few inseason free agents sign with us. Can't convince me that Titus Wall or Oakman wouldn't have helped us.
Pretty sure any FA player that wants to come to the CFL would rate Winnipeg as one of their top choices, as long as the $SMS is equitable and their position is open.
But like Jesse says, in most cases, either we have the position covered, or we don't have $SMS available. Like Sankey, if we had $200k in cap left and Bighill was injured/retired, pretty sure Sankey would be a Bomber. But we had neither $SMS or a spot for him. C'est la vie.
Quote from: theaardvark on July 19, 2024, 06:00:26 PMPretty sure any FA player that wants to come to the CFL would rate Winnipeg as one of their top choices, as long as the $SMS is equitable and their position is open.
But like Jesse says, in most cases, either we have the position covered, or we don't have $SMS available. Like Sankey, if we had $200k in cap left and Bighill was injured/retired, pretty sure Sankey would be a Bomber. But we had neither $SMS or a spot for him. C'est la vie.
know that's the view from the outside, but how many free agents have we pursued in season? How many posters have been asking for this? Yet in the past two years is there anyone on our roster that has played a game for us that we've signed as a vet cfl player in season? If were a destination it sure hasn't shown up. Its not always about the sms and the high profile player. Not sure what Wall signed for or if Chandler Worthy isn't good enough (seeing as were last in the league in return yardage)
A vet with any resume may be hesitant to come to a team where they have to prove themselves from scratch.
Its likely a combination of factors, but i don't think we are looked upon as a favorite destination.
Quote from: Pete on July 19, 2024, 06:11:15 PMknow that's the view from the outside, but how many free agents have we pursued in season? How many posters have been asking for this? Yet in the past two years is there anyone on our roster that has played a game for us that we've signed as a vet cfl player in season? If were a destination it sure hasn't shown up. Its not always about the sms and the high profile player. Not sure what Wall signed for or if Chandler Worthy isn't good enough (seeing as were last in the league in return yardage)
A vet with any resume may be hesitant to come to a team where they have to prove themselves from scratch.
Its likely a combination of factors, but i don't think we are looked upon as a favorite destination.
It all goes back to being a top team in the league with their main focus being retaining their own players, because they are usually the top rated at their position. The Bombers have not pursued the FA strategy vigorously since their GC win in 2019, mainly because every penny goes towards retaining their own.
Quote from: Throw Long Bannatyne on July 19, 2024, 06:19:21 PMIt all goes back to being a top team in the league with their main focus being retaining their own players, because they are usually the top rated at their position. The Bombers have not pursued the FA strategy vigorously since their GC win in 2019, mainly because every penny goes towards retaining their own.
Agreed. Considering the Bombers have been the most consistently successful franchise over the last few years*, their MO has ostensibly been about trying to keep the band together and retaining in-house talent/depth as much as possible without getting into bidding wars over highly priced FAs come early February. I also think this team hasn't had the financial capacity to do that when you look at the roster and some of the respective contracts of its top talent (Collaros, Demski, Bryant, Jefferson - just to name a few). And I think it's worth noting that three of those players were all FA acquisitions prior to the team's sustained success from the 2019 playoffs until this season's early struggles.
I think a team being a destination has to include multiple factors such as culture, a strong rapport with coaches, players, trainers, etc., how the organization conducts its business, and more tangible things like facilities and amenities. It goes well beyond whether or not a team chooses to target touted free agents, IMO.
*
and perhaps even longer when you look at the regular season from 2016 through 2018
Quote from: Pete on July 19, 2024, 06:11:15 PMknow that's the view from the outside, but how many free agents have we pursued in season? How many posters have been asking for this? Yet in the past two years is there anyone on our roster that has played a game for us that we've signed as a vet cfl player in season? If were a destination it sure hasn't shown up. Its not always about the sms and the high profile player. Not sure what Wall signed for or if Chandler Worthy isn't good enough (seeing as were last in the league in return yardage)
A vet with any resume may be hesitant to come to a team where they have to prove themselves from scratch.
Its likely a combination of factors, but i don't think we are looked upon as a favorite destination.
Its not a factor that the player did not want to come here, rather the fact that most seasons, our $SMS is fully committed by the season opener, and if we need mid season replacements, they will be coming from our PR on ELC's.
If we had lost Bighill prior to Sankey coming available, for instance, we wold have been in the conversation for his services, because both the position would be open, and we would have Biggies $SMS to spend. But neither of those things were true, so there was no interest From Our Side in him. I don't doubt that his agent called us, though...
Mid season FA fits are tough at the best of times. They are not coming for affordable ELC's. You either have to have salary available from 6 game or be able to cut an overpaid/underperforming player to free up $SMS.
Our team is designed to "next man up" from within. Our roster is deep, our PR has potential. It took having our two top WR's, with about $500k in salary (not sure how much was bonus of each) for us to bring Lucky onto out PR. And even then, it looks like our scouts have filled the pipe with replacements.
Oakman might have been a consideration, with our DLine injuries, but with some of our prospects coming off IR, he wasn't a "must have" need.
"Buying" a team, especially mid season, is not a viable plan in the cap era.
generally i agree with your assessment, but not even adding even one to the roster in two years where we are seeing a weakness and don't have someone on our pr doesn't seem like good management. I'm not talking about buying a "team" but successful teams do look at all options,
(mtrl ly won a grey cup, toronto picked up grant, and now Baron, Sask (ok maybe not successful yet) Sayles. There are opportunities if we are open to them.
Quote from: Pete on July 19, 2024, 07:51:14 PMgenerally i agree with your assessment, but not even adding even one to the roster in two years where we are seeing a weakness and don't have someone on our pr doesn't seem like good management. I'm not talking about buying a "team" but successful teams do look at all options,
(mtrl ly won a grey cup, toronto picked up grant, and now Baron, Sask (ok maybe not successful yet) Sayles. There are opportunities if we are open to them.
Lawler was a FA acquisition in 2023.
Taking into account the success this organization's had in the last five calendar years (regular and post-season), it seems fair to conclude they have looked at all the options.
Bombers success during our mini dynasty is due to our consistency in culture, players, coaches and management. Enjoy the ride. We still got tickets left and we haven't tried all the rides yet.
Quote from: Blueforlife on July 19, 2024, 08:02:22 PMBombers success during our mini dynasty is due to our consistency in culture, players, coaches and management. Enjoy the ride. We still got tickets left and we haven't tried all the rides left.
What is currently different is that injuries, the salary cap, age and some key players moving on, have made the "still got tickets left" scenario a bit more in doubt.
Quote from: Pete on July 19, 2024, 07:51:14 PMgenerally i agree with your assessment, but not even adding even one to the roster in two years where we are seeing a weakness and don't have someone on our pr doesn't seem like good management. I'm not talking about buying a "team" but successful teams do look at all options,
(mtrl ly won a grey cup, toronto picked up grant, and now Baron, Sask (ok maybe not successful yet) Sayles. There are opportunities if we are open to them.
The key is, what player was available that would have helped us? You have to have a need to pick someone up. You don't just bring in a player because he is available.
And, I'm not sure if you remember, but we did make a trade that was effectively like bringing in a FA mid season that worked out pretty darned good for us... Toronto got Theren Churchill with the draft pick we gave up for Collaros.. yeah, that's basically a FA signing.
we were talking about free agents acquired midseason, and Collaros wasn't a free agent. (he didn't voluntarily sign with us at the time) LY we could did have a need for a defensive lineman as we do this year. In both years we have a need for a kick returner. I think Worthy could help us. That were having to stretch to find a free agent example e Collaros proves my point that we haven't utilized this as an opportunity.
All I'm saying is that the culture first and having vets earn a spot like a rookie does preclude some opportunities. Unless there's a physical reason whitehead isn't in the lineup today, I would have liked to see him added
Quote from: Pete on July 19, 2024, 09:08:00 PMwe were talking about free agents acquired midseason, and Collaros wasn't a free agent. (he didn't voluntarily sign with us at the time) LY we could did have a need for a defensive lineman as we do this year. In both years we have a need for a kick returner. I think Worthy could help us. That were having to stretch to find a free agent example e Collaros proves my point that we haven't utilized this as an opportunity.
All I'm saying is that the culture first and having vets earn a spot like a rookie does preclude some opportunities. Unless there's a physical reason whitehead isn't in the lineup today, I would have liked to see him added
I guess we'll see what Garbutt and Case bring to the table tonight... they were supposed to play to start the season, but injuries... lets see if they can bring what Wilson did last week...
Quote from: ModAdmin on July 19, 2024, 08:33:05 PMWhat is currently different is that injuries, the salary cap, age and some key players moving on, have made the "still got tickets left" scenario a bit more in doubt.
I see a new crop of good athletes that will fill those doubts
Quote from: Pete on July 19, 2024, 06:11:15 PMknow that's the view from the outside, but how many free agents have we pursued in season? How many posters have been asking for this? Yet in the past two years is there anyone on our roster that has played a game for us that we've signed as a vet cfl player in season?
You're right. Not since 2019 have we been making any meaningful mid/late-season additions.
If you watch teams that have a whiff of being GC-bound, they stock up at the end of the season.
It's pretty simple: you look at your weakest link(s) and you bring in a plug&play vet for that spot, via the couch or trade. We haven't been doing that. Did it cost us the 2024 GC? Maybe!
Have we learned from our mistake? Who knows. P.S. SMS isn't really a big concern for a GC-run top-up, because there are so few weeks you employ them, and you can tap into next year's re-sign kitty and overage if you're really serious.
Quote from: Throw Long Bannatyne on July 19, 2024, 06:19:21 PMIt all goes back to being a top team in the league with their main focus being retaining their own players, because they are usually the top rated at their position. The Bombers have not pursued the FA strategy vigorously since their GC win in 2019, mainly because every penny goes towards retaining their own.
I have a theory that players try to game what team is "up & coming", not who is currently the best. Why? Because the best usually don't stay the best for very long (especially in the East).
I think GMs/players sell teams like BC to potential FAs like "come join us, we're moving up and going places".
Whereas for us, I think after the 2nd year of dominating it starts to get harder to sell ourselves. In our dynasty year 3 & 4 most people thought BC would beat us. You think players don't know that?
Don't get me wrong: we're still a big destination and teams would rather sign with us than HAM & EDM. But I think the strongest draw right now would be for BC and MTL, and maybe even SSK. Us & TOR are kind of in the same "downtrend" boat.
I think it's important we keep our team appearing "fresh" and shake the now-common perception that we're "old". Up & coming players don't want to join the geriatric team. That doesn't mean fire everyone over 32, but maybe by a few key acquisitions we can achieve the same effect.
Quote from: TecnoGenius on July 19, 2024, 11:23:49 PMI have a theory that players try to game what team is "up & coming", not who is currently the best. Why? Because the best usually don't stay the best for very long (especially in the East).
I think GMs/players sell teams like BC to potential FAs like "come join us, we're moving up and going places".
Whereas for us, I think after the 2nd year of dominating it starts to get harder to sell ourselves. In our dynasty year 3 & 4 most people thought BC would beat us. You think players don't know that?
Don't get me wrong: we're still a big destination and teams would rather sign with us than HAM & EDM. But I think the strongest draw right now would be for BC and MTL, and maybe even SSK. Us & TOR are kind of in the same "downtrend" boat.
I think it's important we keep our team appearing "fresh" and shake the now-common perception that we're "old". Up & coming players don't want to join the geriatric team. That doesn't mean fire everyone over 32, but maybe by a few key acquisitions we can achieve the same effect.
Mid season adds are not gaming anything. They are players on the couch who have been pleading for anyone to add them.
Quote from: Jesse on July 20, 2024, 12:19:45 AMMid season adds are not gaming anything. They are players on the couch who have been pleading for anyone to add them.
I meant in normal FA. The top-tier high-demand players are drawn to the "next big thing" teams. Just a theory.