OK brainiacs, what did you see in the WSF and all season that can help us beat SSK in the WDF?
I noticed SSK stuck 100% to what made them successful, and I expect they continue that. They had nothing new, added no new wrinkles, and didn't play outside their capabilities.
It's dink & dunk & run all the way. So let's roster and position our fastest guys to cut short routes.
DL guys need to get in lanes and hands up. No sense trying to get to the QB, as he'll just get rid of the ball too fast, and we suck at sacks anyhow.
LBers need to get in lanes and cut off hot routes. Blitzing won't be helpful. Also need to keep contain at the 2nd level for when the RBs bust through gaping holes, which they will. Hole stuffing won't help here.
DBs need to play tight zone or man. Soft zone is what allows Trevor to get his only "deep" 15-20Y passes. Soft zone plus our zero-pressure will not win us anything.
DBs need to cheat up to cut off the shorter routes. Trevor will rarely go deep and most go routes will just be decoys. I can't recall the last time I saw SSK/Trevor chuck a 50Yer (excluding YAC of course).
As for our O, which will need to put up points (probably 2 TD), it would be nice if we can get Brady going, but I won't be money on it. Our wildly mixed game should work just like it did before vs SSK. I'm not scared of any player, not even Milligan. Our nice usual mix of short/mid/deep + Brady should win it as long as Zach is smart with the reads.
SSK D is not a smoke & mirrors D like MTL. They are very plain and straightforward. They just execute well and can get pressure. That should help Zach, as it's D's like MTL that give him problems.
Our OL needs to have their best game yet and prove they aren't the weak link.
Post your best thoughts on SSK weaknesses and good ideas!
Just win the game. I'll leave the scheming and strategy to the coaches.
Quote from: bomb squad on November 03, 2024, 01:07:17 AMJust win the game. I'll leave the scheming and strategy to the coaches.
That's no fun! We have a whole week to wait here! Throw something out there... anything...
The WDF should be a very quick, very low scoring game as it'll be a weird situation where both teams are major clock-killing game-grinders.
I don't think so, Winnipeg is going to destroy the riders. It'll be a blow out. They took a pile of injuries tonight.
The key to beating riders is do not turn the ball over. Make them go the entire length of field and get them to make a mistake.
If we can limit them to field goals and Zac plays like he has against the riders I like our chances.
Mind you its frustrating as fans watching Harris move the ball against us but we need to be patient (and loud)
Quote from: Pete on November 03, 2024, 01:33:38 AMMind you its frustrating as fans watching Harris move the ball against us but we need to be patient (and loud)
And then we get a post route to Demski for a 2-play TD series and completely demoralize the greenies! For some reason Demski is always their nemesis.
Patience is key. Harris will get some yards and first downs but our secondary is very good. Hold them to FG's. I worry about our run defence against ouellette. On O Zach needs to have a great game, like he did in the first half of the LDC. Their pass defence is suspect. Sergio can't miss makeable field goals.
We have to be better against the run and we need to get more pressure on Harris. If not they will control TOP whether they score or not.
Outlette was getting stuffed in the 2nd half. Either he re-aggartvated his hip injury and was less effective, he did seem to be limping again, or BC started plugging up the line. Correct me if I'm wrong but I didn't see armstead getting much time in the 2nd half, injured again?
Quote from: Mick on November 03, 2024, 01:19:33 PMOutlette was getting stuffed in the 2nd half. Either he re-aggartvated his hip injury and was less effective, he did seem to be limping again, or BC started plugging up the line. Correct me if I'm wrong but I didn't see armstead getting much time in the 2nd half, injured again?
Riders took some shots in the health department. There Center, Schafer-Baker, Ouelette nicked again as mentioned, among others.
Bombers have all the advantages they should take hold of them.
Quote from: GOLDMEMBER on November 03, 2024, 02:41:04 PMRiders took some shots in the health department. There Center, Schafer-Baker, Ouelette nicked again as mentioned, among others.
Bombers have all the advantages they should take hold of them.
Outlette definitely came out strong, but by the 2nd half he was clearly not 100% even after a full week off. This game has nothing to do with SSK being good, they put up garbage numbers, BC was just that bad!, to the point that it made SSK look better than they really are.
Quote from: Mick on November 03, 2024, 03:06:56 PMOutlette definitely came out strong, but by the 2nd half he was clearly not 100% even after a full week off. This game has nothing to do with SSK being good, they put up garbage numbers, BC was just that bad!, to the point that it made SSK look better than they really are.
I agree.
Our D appears to be vulnerable to the short quick dump, dink, screen type offences that are Jason Maas staples and are run by Sask and Montreal. I hope JY and Richie have a good scheme drawn up for the WDF. Against Montreal last week, even though we consistently dropped 9, Mtl QBs were efficient, completed passes at a high rate, moved the ball, and scored in the red zone. Granted we didn't tackle well, and didn't have a great day on D until we forced two and outs in the dying minutes of the 4th... we have to be better with our fundamentals and scheme IMHO...a run blitz or any kind of blitz would be nice to see...I think we blitzed once against Mtl and it almost resulted in Ty Ford getting a pick 6...having said all that...I trust JY and Richie. I'm sure if they feel we need to be more aggressive and blitz in different situations...we'll be doing it...
Quote from: Slingin Sammy on November 03, 2024, 03:13:46 PMOur D appears to be vulnerable to the short quick dump, dink, screen type offences that are Jason Maas staples and are run by Sask and Montreal. I hope JY and Richie have a good scheme drawn up for the WDF. Against Montreal last week, even though we consistently dropped 9, Mtl QBs were efficient, completed passes at a high rate, moved the ball, and scored in the red zone. Granted we didn't tackle well, and didn't have a great day on D until we forced two and outs in the dying minutes of the 4th... we have to be better with our fundamentals and scheme IMHO...a run blitz or any kind of blitz would be nice to see...I think we blitzed once against Mtl and it almost resulted in Ty Ford getting a pick 6...having said all that...I trust JY and Richie. I'm sure if they feel we need to be more aggressive and blitz in different situations...we'll be doing it...
In past years it was noticeable that Richie went from a bend but don't break D to a more creative pressure scheme in waves in the playoffs. One can only hope for more of the same this year.
Quote from: TecnoGenius on November 03, 2024, 12:56:33 AMOK brainiacs, what did you see in the WSF and all season that can help us beat SSK in the WDF?
I noticed SSK stuck 100% to what made them successful, and I expect they continue that. They had nothing new, added no new wrinkles, and didn't play outside their capabilities.
It's dink & dunk & run all the way. So let's roster and position our fastest guys to cut short routes.
DL guys need to get in lanes and hands up. No sense trying to get to the QB, as he'll just get rid of the ball too fast, and we suck at sacks anyhow.
LBers need to get in lanes and cut off hot routes. Blitzing won't be helpful. Also need to keep contain at the 2nd level for when the RBs bust through gaping holes, which they will. Hole stuffing won't help here.
DBs need to play tight zone or man. Soft zone is what allows Trevor to get his only "deep" 15-20Y passes. Soft zone plus our zero-pressure will not win us anything.
DBs need to cheat up to cut off the shorter routes. Trevor will rarely go deep and most go routes will just be decoys. I can't recall the last time I saw SSK/Trevor chuck a 50Yer (excluding YAC of course).
As for our O, which will need to put up points (probably 2 TD), it would be nice if we can get Brady going, but I won't be money on it. Our wildly mixed game should work just like it did before vs SSK. I'm not scared of any player, not even Milligan. Our nice usual mix of short/mid/deep + Brady should win it as long as Zach is smart with the reads.
SSK D is not a smoke & mirrors D like MTL. They are very plain and straightforward. They just execute well and can get pressure. That should help Zach, as it's D's like MTL that give him problems.
Our OL needs to have their best game yet and prove they aren't the weak link.
Post your best thoughts on SSK weaknesses and good ideas!
I distill this down to a very few key points:
Point 1 - Zach has to play error free and not give up any dumb plays etc. Needs to have a game that matches Harris who is playing lights out. Zach needs to play his best game of the year
Point 2 - We need our DL and LB to have a great game and shut down both the run and the short passing game.
Point 3 - No missed FG's
Point 4 - DB's need to play tight. No easy completions
Point 5 - And lastly we just need to focus on what we do best and run the ball to establish TOP.
Riders are a good team. Our DL does not get the pressure we need to disrupt the sask dink and dunk possession O. We ll come out smashing it with Brady. The team that doesn't turn the ball over wins. It's going to be a wickedly close game down to the wire. We have the better kicker and I think it comes down to that, Castillo outkicks lauther
Sask is very good vs the run. Will we be often 2nd & long, and can we convert? That will be key.
Quote from: dd on November 03, 2024, 04:02:56 PMRiders are a good team. Our DL does not get the pressure we need to disrupt the sask dink and dunk possession O. We ll come out smashing it with Brady. The team that doesn't turn the ball over wins. It's going to be a wickedly close game down to the wire. We have the better kicker and I think it comes down to that, Castillo outkicks lauther
Unfortunately the Bomber pass rush has been dismantled, they are last in the league in sacks at 26 and are unable to ramp pressure up even when it's needed. Maybe Younger will surprise everyone by going heavy LB blitz, but I doubt it. This gives teams scheming against them a serious advantage, as long as they throw away from Willy they know they'll have plenty of time to go through their reads and find the open receiver. BC was second best in sacks with 39 this season and they managed to sack Harris only once yesterday. There's little chance the Bombers will be able to rattle his cage, so they're going to have to play very good pass defence to limit the damage.
Quote from: Throw Long Bannatyne on November 03, 2024, 04:38:17 PMUnfortunately the Bomber pass rush has been dismantled, they are last in the league in sacks at 26 and are unable to ramp pressure up even when it's needed. Maybe Younger will surprise everyone by going heavy LB blitz, but I doubt it. This gives teams scheming against them a serious advantage, as long as they throw away from Willy they know they'll have plenty of time to go through their reads and find the open receiver. BC was second best in sacks with 39 this season and they managed to sack Harris only once yesterday. There's little chance the Bombers will be able to rattle his cage, so they're going to have to play very good pass defence to limit the damage.
Agree totally. Our backend is going to have to outplay their receivers and that's a tough ask, especially with Kelly at safety. We ll have a pa kid house which is probably the most effective thing in disrupting their offense. If the riders get up esrly and take the crowd out of it, it's over. Fans have got to stay strong as they're going to need fan support in this game
Roster choices might be important if we have choices we could make. There was some comment that K. Wilson or Alexander might be available. While I'm not suggesting either should necessarily start, at worst that would improve depth.
I'm waiting to see if Woli practices this week. Beyond that is will we lose anyone to injury from the last game? I didn't see anything definitive but Woods was nicked for example.
Quote from: Blue In BC on November 03, 2024, 04:53:43 PMRoster choices might be important if we have choices we could make. There was some comment that K. Wilson or Alexander might be available. While I'm not suggesting either should necessarily start, at worst that would improve depth.
I'm waiting to see if Woli practices this week. Beyond that is will we lose anyone to injury from the last game? I didn't see anything definitive but Woods was nicked for example.
Yes, I hope Woli and BA are ready to come back for the WF, not that concerned with Wilson as Ayers has done a good job in his place. I don't know about Cole, first game back he looked great, second game he was inconsistent and got burned numerous times. Still think he's good to have on the roster for odd jobs in odd situations.
With the way Harris gets rid of the ball not sure any dline will be successful.
Big emphasis on stopping run on first down and the playing tight on short passes. The more we can do disrupt his line of sight the better. Offensively give zac time
Quote from: Pete on November 03, 2024, 05:18:21 PMWith the way Harris gets rid of the ball not sure any dline will be successful.
Big emphasis on stopping run on first down and the playing tight on short passes. The more we can do disrupt his line of sight the better. Offensively give zac time
Yes, LB's are going to have to wrap up Oullette and Armstead and not bounce off. Plug them gaps!
Jump on the Cryders early and get a 2 td lead. The longer the Bombers keep that lead, the more the stubble jumpers will be forced to exit the dink and dunk game...then we have them in our rifle scope where we want them! Try a few blitzes UP THE MIDDLE on D when they are in second and long just to rattle Harris's cage. Is that not his Achille's heel? Get pressure on him and he has caved for many years already. MANY players have made this comment over the years about him. He can't run so he either tosses it away or tries a risky longer pass which out ball hawks can either knock down or pick.
Bombers shut them down all regular season, so don't need to change much yet need a few wrinkles as Sask O will certainly come up with a few wrinkles themselves. Their bowling pin RB scares me a bit, but if knicked that makes him less a thread. I HAVE SAID all year the Blue needed a BIG BULL DL to plug the hole Stove once covered.
Lucky almost broke a return to the house last game vs Montreal....I think he is ready to bust ALL THE WAY for the WF or GC....just at the perfect time!
As colour man Jack Gotta said after the 1984 Western Final in BC....IT WAS A HAMMER JOB BY THE BOMBERS!!! Lay the lumber down lads....no holding back now! ;)
Quote from: dd on November 03, 2024, 04:49:14 PMWe ll have a packed house which is probably the most effective thing in disrupting their offense.
I don't recall Trevor having much success in IGF/PAS. He wasn't great in the BB this year. Last year I think he was injured when we played them. How about when he was with other teams? What's his record @ IGF/PAS?
I'm not sure he can manage the noise.
We all have to be loud all the time. No breaks. Get loud right when the 20s clock is blown in -- or before! Get louder on 2nd down!
We haven't racked up any PAS IP/TC penalties in the last few games... let's change that next week!
Quote from: GOLDMEMBER on November 03, 2024, 03:23:42 PMIn past years it was noticeable that Richie went from a bend but don't break D to a more creative pressure scheme in waves in the playoffs. One can only hope for more of the same this year.
SSK is the exact same McAdoo O they've run since 2019. Stopping it is precisely the same. They've usually had a decent run game. Literally nothing is new. Beat them the way we always beat them.
Quote from: Slingin Sammy on November 03, 2024, 03:13:46 PMa run blitz or any kind of blitz would be nice to see...I think we blitzed once against Mtl and it almost resulted in Ty Ford getting a pick 6...having said all that...I trust JY and Richie. I'm sure if they feel we need to be more aggressive and blitz in different situations...we'll be doing it...
We don't do much run blitz, and that's probably a good thing because we need to keep a second level in the flat to stop their RBs from busting big TDs like they did against BC. We've gotten bitten by runs like that in the GCs we lost.
As for pass blitz, there are (only) around 5-7 plays a game Trevor will take longer than 2.7s looking for a mid/deeper shot. If we guess those ones right we may be able to get to him on a pass blitz. Maybe.
It should help that their LT is likely done for the year, and I think they will have to put a natural guard there(?) meaning they will be weakened. Put Willie on that side pushing wide. Maybe get the double-team on him and get a delayed blitzer MBL/WILL in through the resulting hole.
But I wouldn't expect nor fret about our blitz too much. It hasn't been a staple of ours, and we don't need it to win. We get the added advantage this game of not having to have a dedicated QB spy waiting in the flat. Trevor won't run, and if he does, he's slow as molasses and any hit will likely ruin his day.
I'm really extremely confident we can handle their O. It's just a matter of our O putting up some decent points and hopefully Brady having a 100Yer.
Quote from: Mick on November 03, 2024, 01:19:33 PMOutlette was getting stuffed in the 2nd half. Either he re-aggartvated his hip injury and was less effective, he did seem to be limping again, or BC started plugging up the line. Correct me if I'm wrong but I didn't see armstead getting much time in the 2nd half, injured again?
I don't recall seeing Armstead even once in the 2nd H. Lots of Oullette.
Oullette is always getting hurt. He's kind of like Schoen: gets up limping and wincing every single hit. But Schoen just shakes it off and it's a nothingburger. I think Oullette actually gets injured all the time.
I expect Oullette will be only 75% for this game. He won't leave the game.
It's totally clear the SSK plan is:
- tough gut-runs: Oullette
- edge/speed runs: Armstead
You can bank on this 90% of the time. So adjust the D based on who they slot in.
Quote from: TecnoGenius on November 03, 2024, 11:49:26 PMI don't recall seeing Armstead even once in the 2nd H. Lots of Oullette.
Oullette is always getting hurt. He's kind of like Schoen: gets up limping and wincing every single hit. But Schoen just shakes it off and it's a nothingburger. I think Oullette actually gets injured all the time.
I expect Oullette will be only 75% for this game. He won't leave the game.
It's totally clear the SSK plan is:
- tough gut-runs: Oullette
- edge/speed runs: Armstead
You can bank on this 90% of the time. So adjust the D based on who they slot in.
Quote from: TecnoGenius on November 03, 2024, 11:49:26 PMI don't recall seeing Armstead even once in the 2nd H. Lots of Oullette.
Oullette is always getting hurt. He's kind of like Schoen: gets up limping and wincing every single hit. But Schoen just shakes it off and it's a nothingburger. I think Oullette actually gets injured all the time.
I expect Oullette will be only 75% for this game. He won't leave the game.
It's totally clear the SSK plan is:
- tough gut-runs: Oullette
- edge/speed runs: Armstead
You can bank on this 90% of the time. So adjust the D based on who they slot in.
I agree. This game will be won on the ground, and we, without question have the best RB in the league. I'll be watching the injury reports, that will tell us everything we need to know. Highly likely they lost a couple players.
If our OL has their best game of the year, we'll win this one easily. If our OL looks like the last 2 games, we're in for a tough slog.
Quote from: TecnoGenius on November 04, 2024, 01:32:46 AMIf our OL has their best game of the year, we'll win this one easily. If our OL looks like the last 2 games, we're in for a tough slog.
The betting sites making us -6.5 point favorites tells us something we dont know already. I imagine they have some inside information to some injuries.
Quote from: Mick on November 04, 2024, 01:53:04 AMThe betting sites making us -6.5 point favorites tells us something we dont know already. I imagine they have some inside information to some injuries.
Also, they look at whether the HCs know how to win big games with a proven track record. WPG usually finds a way. Mace is a big unknown. Tough for a 1st-year 1st-time HC to win a division.
My breakdown of things regarding strength is:
QB - WPG much better
OL - wash
RB - WPG marginally better (assuming dual-back for SSK)
WR - WPG much better
DL - SSK much better
LB - wash
DB - wash
P - wash
K - WPG better
RET - wash
STC - wash
Add it all up and we're a close match, but WPG is better to much better in 4 units, SSK only 1. You can argue a couple of these, sure, but overall WPG has the edge.
I think our DCs are probably a wash, OCs Buck has the edge, HC no contest MOS kicks butt.
Agreed with all your takes on the game Tech
The one factor that may decide the game is the fan noise.
I am thinking its a 7 pt factor in our favor.
Apparently after OL LT Reid got injured SSK changed to:
TATE(from RT)
FRY
GODBER(listed as backup LG)
BRAMMER
FERLAND(from C)
Word on the Rider forum is Zerr will dress but maybe no start. It might be what you see above. If so, that's 2 or 3 OL who are not playing at their usual/natural positions. That will vastly weaken their OL: more than a single injury would suggest.
I think we mostly stick with what's worked since LDC, which is not worry too much about pass-rush, bring 3, ignore sacks, etc.
However, there is an opening here for us to probe the out-of-place guys, perhaps early, to see if there are any glaring weaknesses. If we find one, then we can dial up more blitzes to exploit. However, none of that will help if Trevor keeps the pass delay to around 2s... SSK has masterfully built an O that can function with a real junk pass-pro OL!
If we're up 2 TD in the 4th the above may come in more handy... then Trevor will be forced to hold onto the ball a little longer for mid/deep shots. Cheetah can then feast on the lack of positional experience.
Interesting transactions, I thought they released Nick Taylor. But he's back on the PR.
2024-10-31 WPG TAYLOR, Nicholas DB A Florida International ADD Practice Roster
2024-10-30 WPG Bright, Cam LB A Washington DEL Free Agent
I don't think the Riders offensive line injury is going to make any difference. I still like our chances though. Trevor Harris is still going to throw it faster than we can get there. We're still going to run three man pressure 95% of the time anyway and AJ Ouelette is going to run over people and not be so concerned about where the holes are. If they didn't have Harris is would be a big deal but with that offense and the way he plays I think it's going to be irrelevant. Only way it matters is if we start winning with three defensive lineman but we haven't been able to do that all year. Unfortunately, a non factor this year.
Teams with the best QB usually find a way to win. That's the Bombers and if Collaros has an even slightly above average game, we win.
I don't think Rider RB or DB's are a wash. We're clearly better if our OL plays well.
I predict a Bomber win by 17 points.
Has Collaros really been the best QB this year?
GP Y Y/G EFF TD INT COMP%
Harris 12 3264 272 108.4 20 9 72.4
Collaros 18 4336 240 96.3 17 15 70.1
Stats from CFL.CA
Quote from: TecnoGenius on November 04, 2024, 02:14:32 AMAlso, they look at whether the HCs know how to win big games with a proven track record. WPG usually finds a way. Mace is a big unknown. Tough for a 1st-year 1st-time HC to win a division.
My breakdown of things regarding strength is:
QB - WPG much better
OL - wash
RB - WPG marginally better (assuming dual-back for SSK)
WR - WPG much better
DL - SSK much better
LB - wash
DB - wash
P - wash
K - WPG better
RET - wash
STC - wash
Add it all up and we're a close match, but WPG is better to much better in 4 units, SSK only 1. You can argue a couple of these, sure, but overall QB- WPG has the edge.
I think our DCs are probably a wash, OCs Buck has the edge, HC no contest MOS kicks butt.
This one I have to disagree with you on
QB- WPG much better - Harris is very bit as good as Zach.I think Zach is past his best before days.
I saw VAJ running a lot on Saturday, I do not see Zach being able to sustain to much running with the pressure the Riders can get on a QB.
Quote from: jayrock on November 04, 2024, 04:57:56 PMI saw VAJ running a lot on Saturday, I do not see Zach being able to sustain to much running with the pressure the Riders can get on a QB.
While this is true that he cannot sustain that level of running, but as of late he has proven he can run when he needs to. SSK will need be getting to him to force mistakes, but I just don't see that happening in this game. SSK is going to have to focus a lot on stopping the run, and doing that is going to open up things down the field.
Quote from: jayrock on November 04, 2024, 04:57:56 PMI saw VAJ running a lot on Saturday, I do not see Zach being able to sustain to much running with the pressure the Riders can get on a QB.
Zach is smarter than VAJ and can read defenses better...and rely on the run game way more. Different teams, different O-lines...home field too - VAJ had the crowd to deal with (tiny but loud).
Quote from: TBURGESS on November 04, 2024, 02:39:04 PMHas Collaros really been the best QB this year?
GP Y Y/G EFF TD INT COMP%
Harris 12 3264 272 108.4 20 9 72.4
Collaros 18 4336 240 96.3 17 15 70.1
Stats from CFL.CA
Yes he has. It's more than just stats over a season. He has a higher football IQ and greater talent.
You want stats? He beat the Riders this season and last season.
The big difference in Collaros and Harris is Collaros throws more picks, he cannot do this in this game. Turnovers will kill us and determine the outcome of the game. Sask has won the turnover battle in 17 or their 19 games this year. That's an impressive stat and we have to change that in this game if we are going to win it.
https://www.cfl.ca/2024/11/04/head-to-head-who-has-the-edge-in-the-western-final-4/
CFL writers opinion. Regardless, going to be a dog fight.
Quote from: jayrock on November 04, 2024, 07:58:45 PMhttps://www.cfl.ca/2024/11/04/head-to-head-who-has-the-edge-in-the-western-final-4/
CFL writers opinion. Regardless, going to be a dog fight.
Interesting quote by Zach.
"The Bombers passing attack has been battered and bruised all season long with major injuries and Collaros told me a few weeks ago that Winnipeg really had to find new solutions to up their passing game effectiveness, not rely on bringing old answers back to life with a fresh cast of characters asked to play heightened roles."
Quote from: jayrock on November 04, 2024, 07:58:45 PMhttps://www.cfl.ca/2024/11/04/head-to-head-who-has-the-edge-in-the-western-final-4/
CFL writers opinion. Regardless, going to be a dog fight.
The simulation says otherwise.
https://www.cfl.ca/2024/11/04/cfl-simulation-bombers-rise-above-parity-as-favourites/ (https://www.cfl.ca/2024/11/04/cfl-simulation-bombers-rise-above-parity-as-favourites/)
Quote from: Blue In BC on November 04, 2024, 06:49:47 PMYes he has. It's more than just stats over a season. He has a higher football IQ and greater talent.
You want stats? He beat the Riders this season and last season.
Beating the Riders is a team stat, not a QB stat.
Alexander is back at practice.
Sask will try to play bully ball with bruiser Oulette, and use the dink and dunk to compliment that. I hope we don't suffer the same fate as the Bisons did last Saturday against the Regina Rams, who won on a last minute TD.
I would definitely try to get the run game going earlier, but if they're able to stop that right away with their excellent run D, I'd like to see Olive Oil used creatively - as a receiver (proven and underrated in this role), whether it's a planned play or more likely, set up as an outlet if Zach can't find anyone open after a couple reads and they're aggressive at the line. Aside from that, if our pass protect plays well on the OL and/or they back off the LoS more or less, Zach needs to be accurate and make smart decisions, and our receivers need to do their part and catch balls when space might not be so available. We are paying Lawler to do that kind of thing regularly.
On D, I expect us to continue the 3 man rush and focus on limiting the dink-and-dunk that they will try. Outlette and Armstead are pretty good but they will ultimately need to be able to pass as well so as long at the secondary and LBs are dialed in we should be able to do our bend-don't-break D and limit them to 3s or ideally stop them before. No explosion plays pls. Let's make them boring and predicatable.
Harris v Ford, and Zach v. Milligan.
maybe willie, or Jones, or Evan Holm could make a big play.
Ouelette.... has he really done much, with Argos and Riders?
almost seems like he he appears to be doing more than he actually does.
Zach quoted "Winnipeg really had to find new solutions to up their passing game effectiveness, not rely on bringing old answers back to life with a fresh cast of characters asked to play heightened roles."
better late than never....
half the touchdown passes compared to last two seasons.
Let me say this...I can not see us losing but we will win by only 7 points or less.
SSK OL has had injuries all season and the backups have played well. This game will be no different.
Lanier did not play against BC. He was probably their best pass rusher this season. Injured? If he plays against us he is one tough guy to stop.
There receivers are some of the best in the league and most are Canadian.
The Riders led the league in take a ways by a large margine. They did the same against BC in the Semi. Also a good coaching staff.
Having said all that we have a better team with much more playoff experience.
This (Rider) is not a team to take lightly.
The game will be won and lost on the line. Our O line has got to stop the riders pass rush or we re dead. Riders have #1 D against the run, so they will be scheming to stop Brady ball and make us pass the ball. Wasn't Collaros sacked 7 times a couple of games ago?? That can't happen this game, it simple can't or we know the outcome of that
Just finished re watching the WSF, and Adams was running for his life the entire game and that's without Lanier!!
This is going to be the best game of the year, crowd noise will be in our favour, but the team that doesn't turn the ball over wins and the crowd can play a roll in that
Quote from: dd on November 04, 2024, 09:59:49 PMThe game will be won and lost on the line. Our O line has got to stop the riders pass rush or we re dead. Riders have #1 D against the run, so they will be scheming to stop Brady ball and make us pass the ball. Wasn't Collaros sacked 7 times a couple of games ago?? That can't happen this game, it simple can't or we know the outcome of that
We'll be fine, the O line adjusted nicely vs MTL.
Quote from: TBURGESS on November 04, 2024, 08:22:16 PMBeating the Riders is a team stat, not a QB stat.
So are passing stats. Someone has to be catch those passes. As I said, Collaros has a higher football IQ.
Quote from: Blue In BC on November 04, 2024, 10:28:05 PMSo are passing stats. Someone has to be catch those passes. As I said, Collaros has a higher football IQ.
Yet he's thrown way more interceptions???
The key to this game will be who turns the ball over, I am hoping we/ZC doesn't turn the ball over and we'll win, turn it over, and....
Quote from: bluebeard on November 04, 2024, 09:37:17 PMLanier did not play against BC. He was probably their best pass rusher this season. Injured? If he plays against us he is one tough guy to stop.
Lanier was a healthy scratch. Riderfans were perplexed but they said since his injury and ineffectiveness this year he's lost the confidence of the coaches, and the other guys have been playing better. If Cox is out they'll dress Lanier this time, otherwise just ignore him.
Quote from: bluebeard on November 04, 2024, 09:37:17 PMThere receivers are some of the best in the league and most are Canadian.
They are hot crap. Do any make over $200k? I bet their REC corps is paid half of what ours is.
It's really easy to look like a good REC with lots of completions when every pass is 5 to 13 yards!! Woowee. Good for fantasy points, but not much else.
Johnson: invisible last game, and last few games too. A noob who is rarely targeted because that would require Trevor to throw deep/long, which of course SSK doesn't do.
KSB: has been MIA all season; last 2 years he was an outstanding fantasy pick, this season he's been useless.
Sterns: only there because of injury and other lack of depth; many Riderfans wanted him benched after many games.
Duncan-Busby: rookie NAT, good at 6Y catches. Just ignore him. Emperor is better.
Emilus: their only real REC, the only one earning any money, and he's not even that good. Ya, he's their best chance when they need a circus grab or a 50/50 Hail Mary (see the Banjo Bowl), but that's not saying much. I liken it to this: remember the Dressler/Smith combo in SSK then WPG? Emilus is the Smith. We have the Dressler.
End result: double cover Emilus if he goes deep and voila we're back to All They Have Is The Dink & Dunk. Stop the run, block the dunk lanes, and SSK is screwed.
If SSK decides to try to surprise everyone with an unexpected deep air attack in the first Q, they are taking a huge gamble and I think our DBs feast if we are set to expect trickery. If I was them I'd gamble big or go home, but I bet they stick to the 6Y pass all night.
Quote from: dd on November 04, 2024, 06:59:25 PMThe big difference in Collaros and Harris is Collaros throws more picks, he cannot do this in this game.
Hard to throw picks when every pass is a quick slant/curl, wide out, draw screen, dump pass or hitch screen. If he was a normal QB/OC who varied his target depth, he'd have as many picks as Zach.
Quote from: jayrock on November 04, 2024, 04:57:56 PMI saw VAJ running a lot on Saturday, I do not see Zach being able to sustain to much running with the pressure the Riders can get on a QB.
Because he was hanging onto the ball for 4+ seconds all the time. He was gun shy and timid and didn't trust his eyes. That's why he lost. He should have thrown caution to the wind and just been VAJ -- it couldn't have turned out any worse.
Zach won't have that problem, and Zach will throw it away or eat it if he has to.
Buck will have to find ways to get guys open. Luckily one of the opponents he is best at that is the Riders!!
Quote from: BBRT on November 04, 2024, 04:31:18 PMThis one I have to disagree with you on QB- WPG much better - Harris is very bit as good as Zach.I think Zach is past his best before days.
Trevor is now a strictly one-dimensional QB. How often does he target > 25Y downfield? 3%? I'd love to see one of those fancy target-area heat maps for Trevor this year. It would be laughable.
I'm not really sure why Trevor is this way. Maybe it's him. Maybe he lost his arm. Maybe it's all the OC/HC. Maybe it's their not-great OL. Maybe it's their low-budget RECs. Maybe it's all of those things.
Zach will throw anywhere and everywhere with about a 55Y in-the-air range. He can feather them in Ricky Ray style or zip 'em in through the tight window. His heat map is pretty evenly spread out -- probably one of the best.
Durability: Yes, Zach is one head knock from leaving the game, but Trevor is one anything knock from leaving. Dude is glass on his entire body.
"Bad Trevor". Ya, there's Bad Zach, but he often shrugs it off/corrects later in the game (like that WDF where we turned the ball over 4 times in one half?). We've all seen Bad Trevor show up before and he never does recover.
Granted, both are very good QBs. But Zach is great. How many rings does Trevor have as starting QB?? Ya... as many as SSK has cups in the last decade. And he's been on like 3-4 teams to try!
Quote from: Blue In BC on November 04, 2024, 02:19:13 PMI don't think Rider RB or DB's are a wash. We're clearly better if our OL plays well.
Ouellette
plus Armstead may be as good as Brady. I'm pretty sure they'll combine for more yards on Saturday. Neither is as good as Brady individually. And no one is as tough & durable as Brady.
I gave the DBs a lot of thought. We have the much better average DB talent. SSK has much-vaunted Milligan. We have the more cohesive unit. We have better communications. Their Sayles is also good (as we well know from 2019.)
Milligan will showboat and cheat up to try to get the INT and we can exploit that. (Contrast with Ford who is Team First but still gets the stats.)
We have one weak link: Bonds. SSK has 3: Henderson (most games every fan wants him fired), Fields (who?), and Lokombo (also often cut by halftime).
My point with calling it a "wash" is we'll get more stops, shut down more drives, and give us a shot at an INT maybe; SSK will let more passes through but will put a big effort into the game-changing INTs. It kind of balances out: however, our DB corps will be solid like they've been all year, SSK is relying on luck and mistakes to force a turnover.
They are basically the
2014 Bombers! As we found out then, if you have to rely on TOs to win, you ain't gonna win when the opponent doesn't give them to you.
GR55 on Riderfans kindly provided us with some cools stats:
"
We haven't won in Winnipeg since the 2018 Banjo Bowl.
Winnipeg is 7-1 in west division playoff games dating back to 2018.
"
My keys to the game:
1. Establish the run early and use it heavy late
2. Rattle Harris with confusing looks and pressure him / knock downs
3. Limit their run game (big plays)
4. Play clean ball
5. Protect Zach
Riders have a good team, well coached and have good receivers, RBs and a steady QB. That said we can attack them on the ground and with the deep ball. Bombs and Brady is my recipe.
Quote from: blue_or_die on November 04, 2024, 09:09:41 PMI would definitely try to get the run game going earlier, but if they're able to stop that right away with their excellent run D, I'd like to see Olive Oil used creatively - as a receiver (proven and underrated in this role), whether it's a planned play or more likely, set up as an outlet if Zach can't find anyone open after a couple reads and they're aggressive at the line. Aside from that, if our pass protect plays well on the OL and/or they back off the LoS more or less, Zach needs to be accurate and make smart decisions, and our receivers need to do their part and catch balls when space might not be so available. We are paying Lawler to do that kind of thing regularly.
On D, I expect us to continue the 3 man rush and focus on limiting the dink-and-dunk that they will try. Outlette and Armstead are pretty good but they will ultimately need to be able to pass as well so as long at the secondary and LBs are dialed in we should be able to do our bend-don't-break D and limit them to 3s or ideally stop them before. No explosion plays pls. Let's make them boring and predicatable.
This is big, I think.
Brady hasn't had much success on the ground in any of our games against the Rider, but he has big receiving numbers. So have him as that hot route for Zach; make it easy to keep the chains moving.
But the pressure is on Zach. Gotta play up to the moment and avoid the mistakes of early in the season.
One thing I'm afraid of is BA and Kyrie suddenly practicing. I can't handle a repeat of Grey Cup where we're rostering injured players because "they earned it".
Quote from: TecnoGenius on November 05, 2024, 01:49:38 AMGR55 on Riderfans kindly provided us with some cools stats:
"
We haven't won in Winnipeg since the 2018 Banjo Bowl.
Winnipeg is 7-1 in west division playoff games dating back to 2018.
"
I will add the rest of it where he goes on to say that the riders will win. As well he gives credit to a good bomber team.
"Winnipeg no doubt is a beast, especially at home. It'll be hostile territory... but I have full faith in this team to get it done. Harris is always cool as a cucumber, Thurman & Micah will keep the D in check.
I thought the entire secondary overall played a good game, albeit a couple big plays. Lokombo's confidence should be way up that he can make a play now.
We have a far better DL than they do, they generate very little pressure on opposing QBs. The DL needs to get their hands on Oliveira early & often, make Collaros beat us on Saturday. Perhaps Lanier should draw back in?
AJO will undoubtedly be huge as Winnipeg likes to send their linebackers on blitzes.
Winnipeg's secondary is extremely good. As much as humanly possible, I'm getting Emilus onto Evan Holm, and KeeSean Johnson onto Terrell Bonds. Deatrick Nichols & Tyrell Ford make opposing teams pay too often.
This isn't years passed where Winnipeg was clearly better, I would argue we could've easily went 3-0 vs them this year."
Quote from: jayrock on November 05, 2024, 01:23:56 PMI will add the rest of it where he goes on to say that the riders will win. As well he gives credit to a good bomber team.
"Winnipeg no doubt is a beast, especially at home. It'll be hostile territory... but I have full faith in this team to get it done. Harris is always cool as a cucumber, Thurman & Micah will keep the D in check.
I thought the entire secondary overall played a good game, albeit a couple big plays. Lokombo's confidence should be way up that he can make a play now.
We have a far better DL than they do, they generate very little pressure on opposing QBs. The DL needs to get their hands on Oliveira early & often, make Collaros beat us on Saturday. Perhaps Lanier should draw back in?
AJO will undoubtedly be huge as Winnipeg likes to send their linebackers on blitzes.
Winnipeg's secondary is extremely good. As much as humanly possible, I'm getting Emilus onto Evan Holm, and KeeSean Johnson onto Terrell Bonds. Deatrick Nichols & Tyrell Ford make opposing teams pay too often.
This isn't years passed where Winnipeg was clearly better, I would argue we could've easily went 3-0 vs them this year."
Interested to see that injury report out of SSK today. The organization requesting fans not to post pictures on social media is interesting, are they trying some new wrinkles? are they not wanting anyone to see who is taking 1st team reps?
Injury report will be key. Not the nail in the coffin, but will be interesting. OL will be fine, they have all season.
Quote from: jayrock on November 05, 2024, 01:56:11 PMInjury report will be key. Not the nail in the coffin, but will be interesting. OL will be fine, they have all season.
You don't need an OL when your QB just throws 5-10 yard passes all game, if SSK plans to beat the bombers Harris is going to have to put some balls up, but he hasn't done this all year.
Quote from: jayrock on November 05, 2024, 01:23:56 PMI will add the rest of it where he goes on to say that the riders will win. As well he gives credit to a good bomber team.
"Winnipeg no doubt is a beast, especially at home. It'll be hostile territory... but I have full faith in this team to get it done. Harris is always cool as a cucumber, Thurman & Micah will keep the D in check.
I thought the entire secondary overall played a good game, albeit a couple big plays. Lokombo's confidence should be way up that he can make a play now.
We have a far better DL than they do, they generate very little pressure on opposing QBs. The DL needs to get their hands on Oliveira early & often, make Collaros beat us on Saturday. Perhaps Lanier should draw back in?
AJO will undoubtedly be huge as Winnipeg likes to send their linebackers on blitzes.
Winnipeg's secondary is extremely good. As much as humanly possible, I'm getting Emilus onto Evan Holm, and KeeSean Johnson onto Terrell Bonds. Deatrick Nichols & Tyrell Ford make opposing teams pay too often.
This isn't years passed where Winnipeg was clearly better, I would argue we could've easily went 3-0 vs them this year."
Why post this ill-informed drivel here? The Bombers are playing 3-man fronts most of the time, obviously they're not focusing on the pass rush and they have not been blitzing LB's much at all this season. This person's analysis is based on Richie Hall's configurations, but can't expect Rider fans to watch Bomber games when most have excuses not to attend their own games.
My favourite part: "We could've easily went 3-0 vs them"
(https://y.yarn.co/b4000a81-2913-4484-b87f-92575ef612a6_text.gif)
Last I checked 11-7 is better than 9-8-1, and 2-1 is better than 1-2.
Me trying to not make a Rider Math joke:
(https://media.tenor.com/FFGQy42E5rkAAAAM/fart.gif)
Quote from: jayrock on November 05, 2024, 01:23:56 PMI will add the rest of it where he goes on to say that the riders will win. As well he gives credit to a good bomber team.
"Winnipeg no doubt is a beast, especially at home. It'll be hostile territory... but I have full faith in this team to get it done. Harris is always cool as a cucumber, Thurman & Micah will keep the D in check.
I thought the entire secondary overall played a good game, albeit a couple big plays. Lokombo's confidence should be way up that he can make a play now.
We have a far better DL than they do, they generate very little pressure on opposing QBs. The DL needs to get their hands on Oliveira early & often, make Collaros beat us on Saturday. Perhaps Lanier should draw back in?
AJO will undoubtedly be huge as Winnipeg likes to send their linebackers on blitzes.
Winnipeg's secondary is extremely good. As much as humanly possible, I'm getting Emilus onto Evan Holm, and KeeSean Johnson onto Terrell Bonds. Deatrick Nichols & Tyrell Ford make opposing teams pay too often.
This isn't years passed where Winnipeg was clearly better, I would argue we could've easily went 3-0 vs them this year."
whats interesting is that if we had posted something similar with a bomber slant to it on the rider forum we would be cursed at, told to get the **** out of here etc. and likely a referral to years gone past with DUrant, bighill and Oshea negative references thrown in for good measure. At least when we object we have some arguements to offset.
Very interesting watch how Zach dismantled their D with patience and experience.
https://youtu.be/9qOag6TGDLo (https://youtu.be/9qOag6TGDLo)
Collaros needs to step up his play off performance and not just have an average day. Bonds needs to have a better day as well. While he's not a bad DB he is the one being targeted often since our other DB's are so good.
I think part of that is the strategy of keeping receivers in front of coverage, but even so he can play tighter.
It's now or never.
Quote from: Mick on November 05, 2024, 06:29:54 PMVery interesting watch how Zach dismantled their D with patience and experience.
Check downs to Brady may not work this game if the Riders follow the Als blueprint and have a LB spy on him sneaking out of the backfield. I wish they would have worked a FB into their offensive schemes like Hamilton does for the odd occasion Brady is shut down.
Quote from: Throw Long Bannatyne on November 05, 2024, 06:47:34 PMI wish they would have worked a FB into their offensive schemes like Hamilton does for the odd occasion Brady is shut down.
Probably not necessary with the receiver talent/depth. Demski's skill set makes a FB redundant, IMO.
The BB need to put out their "A" game to beat Saskatchewan. The Riders have nothing to lose so they will go all out. If the BB think they can walk all over the Riders, they will be in for a pretty nasty surprise.
If Collaros has been anything this year, its been inconsistent. If the 25-0 over BC Zack shows up, its game over Riders. If the 7 sack, struggling O line shows up, look out, there'll be turnovers and Riders have a chance. After a weeks rest, I am hoping we could out with our A game, but there's always that rust vs rest argument
Quote from: dd on November 05, 2024, 10:49:05 PMIf Collaros has been anything this year, its been inconsistent. If the 25-0 over BC Zack shows up, its game over Riders. If the 7 sack, struggling O line shows up, look out, there'll be turnovers and Riders have a chance. After a weeks rest, I am hoping we could out with our A game, but there's always that rust vs rest argument
How goes the OL so goes the running game and our QB. If we control the LOS we win.
Quote from: dd on November 05, 2024, 10:49:05 PMIf Collaros has been anything this year, its been inconsistent. If the 25-0 over BC Zack shows up, its game over Riders. If the 7 sack, struggling O line shows up, look out, there'll be turnovers and Riders have a chance. After a weeks rest, I am hoping we could out with our A game, but there's always that rust vs rest argument
WPG is very good after a bye week.
Quote from: Blue In BC on November 05, 2024, 11:33:13 PMHow goes the OL so goes the running game and our QB. If we control the LOS we win.
For sure, and if we don't, we lose, its about as simple as that.
Quote from: Blue In BC on November 05, 2024, 11:33:13 PMHow goes the OL so goes the running game and our QB. If we control the LOS we win.
In each of the last two games they played the Riders, they allowed Dirty Miles Brown to knock a QB out of the game, but that was with Kendall Randolph playing LT in place of Stan.
Quote from: Throw Long Bannatyne on November 06, 2024, 04:31:44 AMIn each of the last two games they played the Riders, they allowed Dirty Miles Brown to knock a QB out of the game, but that was with Kendall Randolph playing LT in place of Stan.
Could be. It's usually easy to tell early if we use and succeed with the run game. We need to have a balanced offence and that starts with Brady. Otherwise the Riders pin their ears back and will pressure Collaros into mistakes and many 2 and outs.
In the last few games we seemed to go away from the running attack in the 1st half. I have no idea why we did that.
The 1st IR report for the Riders show about 6 starters not practising. We'll have to see if that continues and / or how much it limits their game performance.
Quote from: Throw Long Bannatyne on November 06, 2024, 04:31:44 AMIn each of the last two games they played the Riders, they allowed Dirty Miles Brown to knock a QB out of the game, but that was with Kendall Randolph playing LT in place of Stan.
Very true, I honestly believe we are going to see a stellar performance by our OL Saturday. Cox and Reavis would be a huge loss to the riders D.
Quote from: Blue In BC on November 06, 2024, 01:46:20 PMCould be. It's usually easy to tell early if we use and succeed with the run game. We need to have a balanced offence and that starts with Brady. Otherwise the Riders pin their ears back and will pressure Collaros into mistakes and many 2 and outs.
In the last few games we seemed to go away from the running attack in the 1st half. I have no idea why we did that.
The 1st IR report for the Riders show about 6 starters not practising. We'll have to see if that continues and / or how much it limits their game performance.
Started rewatching the LDC and the BB last night, Sask. shut Brady down in the LDC but in the BB he had much more success running and as an outlet receiver as Zach moved the ball quickly, taking what was given.
passes to Brady out of the backfield, after defenders have backed off, is basically a long hand off....seems like the remedy for the o line v their D line problem.
and if they spy him, leaves someone else open doesn't it?
I think Harris is a lot better quarterback than seems to be generally thought. accurate, ball out quickly.
thanks Mick, for the Lapo video
Quote from: markf on November 06, 2024, 02:40:51 PMpasses to Brady out of the backfield, after defenders have backed off, is basically a long hand off....seems like the remedy for the o line v their D line problem.
and if they spy him, leaves someone else open doesn't it?
I think Harris is a lot better quarterback than seems to be generally thought. accurate, ball out quickly.
thanks Mick, for the Lapo video
I imagine the bombers will be running this same scheme, and if SSK tries counter by spy, it will open someone else up down field. SSK also did not get nearly the pressure on Zach as other teams have during the year.
Quote from: Mick on November 06, 2024, 02:51:56 PMI imagine the bombers will be running this same scheme, and if SSK tries counter by spy, it will open someone else up down field. SSK also did not get nearly the pressure on Zach as other teams have during the year.
The Rider spy was Thurman their MLB, he helps out in shallow zone but isn't out there to cover receivers one on one.
are the riders dirty?
very first play in the Lapo video Brady tackled, out of bounds, play over, Brady getting up,
#6 Riders shoves him back down.... obvious dirty play, no penalty call.
Not holding out much hope, but I hope the refs do not let those things go.
There was a flag on the play, the ref on the left side threw it the minute Brady was pushed down. And it was a cheap,dumb play by the Riders, but it cost them 15
Quote from: dd on November 06, 2024, 04:54:04 PMThere was a flag on the play, the ref on the left side threw it the minute Brady was pushed down. And it was a cheap,dumb play by the Riders, but it cost them 15
thanks....
Quote from: TBURGESS on November 04, 2024, 02:39:04 PMHas Collaros really been the best QB this year?
GP Y Y/G EFF TD INT COMP%
Harris 12 3264 272 108.4 20 9 72.4
Collaros 18 4336 240 96.3 17 15 70.1
Stats from CFL.CA
Take the 4 disasterous starts o start the season off that chart, and I think Collaros looks pretty good...
Quote from: theaardvark on November 06, 2024, 06:15:06 PMTake the 4 disasterous starts o start the season off that chart, and I think Collaros looks pretty good...
I hate this type of 'reasoning'. You can't simply take out the 4 worst games.
Quote from: TBURGESS on November 06, 2024, 07:25:04 PMI hate this type of 'reasoning'. You can't simply take out the 4 worst games.
You can if you're trying to determine how he's going to play Saturday which is all that really matters. I have no idea how he'd grade out but the last four games he's played are much more relevant to that discussion than the ones he played in June. Same for the whole team.
Quote from: Sir Blue and Gold on November 06, 2024, 08:12:28 PMYou can if you're trying to determine how he's going to play Saturday which is all that really matters. I have no idea how he'd grade out but the last four games he's played are much more relevant to that discussion than the ones he played in June. Same for the whole team.
The last game was a concern on defence. We escaped with the win. The defence gave up a lot of yards and points against the Als. The Als didn't use all their starters for all of the game and we were disparate to win.
I speed watched the game again but didn't come to specific conclusions about why / how we struggled on defence. In hindsight I think the drop off at safety was an issue. We seem to have a choice to make to change that this week.
It comes down to this game ,,any given sunday.
Lets hope they are ready!
Quote from: Blue In BC on November 06, 2024, 09:30:58 PMThe last game was a concern on defence. We escaped with the win. The defence gave up a lot of yards and points against the Als. The Als didn't use all their starters for all of the game and we were disparate to win.
I speed watched the game again but didn't come to specific conclusions about why / how we struggled on defence. In hindsight I think the drop off at safety was an issue. We seem to have a choice to make to change that this week.
I noticed some confusion between the secondary and the LB's in that game which led to big gains, hopefully BA is back to help steady the back end and make the DB's aware of their assignments.
Quote from: markf on November 06, 2024, 02:40:51 PMI think Harris is a lot better quarterback than seems to be generally thought. accurate, ball out quickly.
Harris may make the quickest reads in the CFL, and may be correct 90% of the time. And he makes most of his reads pre-snap, and the 0.5s after the snap. He's basically winding up the pass before any receiver is anywhere near in place. It's an interesting talent.
However, that can bite him like that final knockdown pass in the 2PAT in our other game with them this year: if we successfully fool him with a fake look or movement we can try to speed our way into place, or bring in a guy in an unorthodox way, to stop/INT the throw he is already committed to.
And none of this quick read talent helps him when his reads are covered and he has to wait a bit longer. Get him in that mode and he starts making mistakes.
Quote from: Mick on November 06, 2024, 01:59:33 PMVery true, I honestly believe we are going to see a stellar performance by our OL Saturday. Cox and Reavis would be a huge loss to the riders D.
I should hope so. I think 4 of our starting 5 are not guaranteed a starting job next year. I would not be surprised by 1 or 2 unforced replacements in FA/draft. 1 or 2 could go back to being 6th.
If they play like a GC-caliber team, then all of that could be moot. If they are capable of doing it, I think they will now.
Quote from: BLUEBOMBER on November 05, 2024, 07:05:05 PMThe BB need to put out their "A" game to beat Saskatchewan. The Riders have nothing to lose so they will go all out. If the BB think they can walk all over the Riders, they will be in for a pretty nasty surprise.
I go over the units and scenarios in my mind every night falling asleep. Every night I move more towards thinking we're going to cream them. I think we may actually destroy them.
They really shouldn't be in this position, as a playoff-missing team last year. They need to slowly move up through the ranks like most teams do. And they have a noob, weird, iffy HC. And all of their injuries. And their one-trick pony O.
Ya, I think this may turn into the 2023 Banjo Bowl. It's just my gut feeling.
Quote from: Pete on November 05, 2024, 05:39:42 PMwhats interesting is that if we had posted something similar with a bomber slant to it on the rider forum we would be cursed at, told to get the **** out of here etc. and likely a referral to years gone past with DUrant, bighill and Oshea negative references thrown in for good measure. At least when we object we have some arguements to offset.
Yes. Rider fans are treated like humans here. Bomber fans are treated worse than dirt over on Riderfans forum... and not for just rocking the boat: they are spit at merely for existing.
And man, do they hate MBB over there, and for some reason think that is the "main" WPG forum.
Quote from: TecnoGenius on November 07, 2024, 07:29:52 AMI should hope so. I think 4 of our starting 5 are not guaranteed a starting job next year. I would not be surprised by 1 or 2 unforced replacements in FA/draft. 1 or 2 could go back to being 6th.
If they play like a GC-caliber team, then all of that could be moot. If they are capable of doing it, I think they will now.
You're funny. I think 5 out 5 are guaranteed a job next year if they choose to come back.
Well "old" Willy can still get his hands up but for what he's getting paid he needs to more. A lot more. Yes I said something negative about willy. Sorry
Here's the opposite side of the ball for the Banjo bowl.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=B1EmEt9AEfA&t=59s (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=B1EmEt9AEfA&t=59s)
Quote from: Jesse on November 07, 2024, 10:45:16 AMYou're funny. I think 5 out 5 are guaranteed a job next year if they choose to come back.
I would bet money at least 1 is
demoted (i.e. back to jumbo set) or
cut. Maybe, maybe, if they let thru 0 or 1 sacks for each of the WDF and GC, and win the GC, maybe we start all 5 in week 1. But even then, I'd still bet against it.
For instance, Dobson was a league-best 6th, and could be so again. (I'm not saying it'll be him, though.) We're allowed to experiment and then admit when it didn't work out.
Zach needs better protection in our home GC year, or he'll be using a walker back there by the end of the season.
Quote from: BlueFire on November 07, 2024, 10:52:30 AMWell "old" Willy can still get his hands up but for what he's getting paid he needs to more. A lot more. Yes I said something negative about willy. Sorry
As long as Willy keeps taking pay cuts to reflect his aging/stats then I think he's still a great asset. He's actually not a massive spend anymore.
And I bet if we had a Willie-or-better DE on the other side, Willie would magically be getting tons-o-sacks/FF's again. His failure isn't his alone. We under-prioritized the DL for years now.
And his cat-like ability to never get injured is very valuable and quite astounding: especially for a DE!