Derek Taylor🏈
@DTonOBBombers first practice on this bye week:
RB Brady Oliveira and OL Eric Lofton remain out. DB Ethan Ball (now wearing #29) still sporting a cast on that hand.
Looks like LBs Shayne Gauthier and Connor Shay have the day off as well.
Derek Taylor🏈
@DTonOBStanley Bryant sitting out practice as well.
Bombers open the season a week from tomorrow so there's plenty of time to rest up.
Derek Taylor🏈
@DTonOBLB Fabian Weitz sitting out drills today. Took a wicked hit in the 2nd preseason game.
#Bombers
Derek Taylor🏈
@DTonOBGabe Wallace at left guard with the starting unit.
Wheatfall, Schoen, Demski, Sterns and Clercius as the top receivers.
#Bombers
Derek Taylor🏈
@DTonOBStarting D looks just like it did in camp. Jamal
Parker at safety, Marquise Bridges on the corner.
Cam Lawson at DT with Thomas & Schmekel sitting out.
Lawson will be good by mid season as he finds his legs, will be interesting to see how he does this week
I hope there isn't something wrong with Oliveria injury wise. He's not practising again. I expect Lofton to be on IR for week one so that's less of a concern. The question might be how long he'll be out though.
Bryant getting a vet day off is ok.
It's a bye week so no real issues until the weekend or early next week perhaps.
Quote from: Blue In BC on June 04, 2025, 08:43:16 PMI hope there isn't something wrong with Oliveria injury wise. He's not practising again. I expect Lofton to be on IR for week one so that's less of a concern. The question might be how long he'll be out though.
Bryant getting a vet day off is ok.
It's a bye week so no real issues until the weekend or early next week perhaps.
Brady is absolutely injured. He's missed 4 consecutive practices now.
Hopefully it's something minor that doesn't affect the start of the season though.
Quote from: Jesse on June 04, 2025, 08:45:45 PMBrady is absolutely injured. He's missed 4 consecutive practices now.
Hopefully it's something minor that doesn't affect the start of the season though.
He could be. On one of his running plays against the Riders he kind of got twisted up and went down awkwardly. Had a couple of plays after that, and was done.
But, if he is injured we have the shuttle bus. That's maybe why Eli is in at left guard instead of one of the American's.
Quote from: Pigskin on June 04, 2025, 08:55:01 PMHe could be. On one of his running plays against the Riders he kind of got twisted up and went down awkwardly. Had a couple of plays after that, and was done.
But, if he is injured we have the shuttle bus. That's maybe why Eli is in at left guard instead of one of the American's.
That could be the trade off. Eliminate going to a 3 import OL in order to have an import RB. That would have ripple impacts with Vanderpool moving to PR and Vibert added to AR. That's assuming Vanderppol accepts PR. Obviously they could 1 game IR him but I've mentioned that's a horrible way to manage the ratio and SMS.
Another alternative might be to also use Cooley in the passing game taking out Sterns. Not my 1st choice but an option. Cobb would have to be added as receiver depth.
All I can say is hmmmm and hope that Oliveria can play and / or doesn't miss more than 1 game.
Quote from: Jesse on June 04, 2025, 08:45:45 PMBrady is absolutely injured. He's missed 4 consecutive practices now.
Hopefully it's something minor that doesn't affect the start of the season though.
agreed. What is with Brady? What does he do in the off season? Trying to set power lifting records or what!
He is not young anymore, maybe adjust your off season routine. He always gets hurt early in camp/preseason or comes in hurt to camp. This is just weird.
I'm sure Brady will be fine (dirty SSK players trying to injure again!).
Lawson back: yaaaaaaay!!
Isn't the bye-week a no-practice week? As in, mandated by rule? If it was mid-season everyone would go home for a week and thus no practice. Or is this a team-choice thing? I assume they'll still be practicing next week too!
So really 2 whole weeks of practice to come out of the gates with guns blazing? Love it.
Quote from: Blue In BC on June 04, 2025, 10:12:36 PMThat could be the trade off. Eliminate going to a 3 import OL in order to have an import RB. That would have ripple impacts with Vanderpool moving to PR and Vibert added to AR. That's assuming Vanderppol accepts PR. Obviously they could 1 game IR him but I've mentioned that's a horrible way to manage the ratio and SMS.
Another alternative might be to also use Cooley in the passing game taking out Sterns. Not my 1st choice but an option. Cobb would have to be added as receiver depth.
All I can say is hmmmm and hope that Oliveria can play and / or doesn't miss more than 1 game.
Depending on the practice schedule for the rest of this week, Brady could be up north on a dog rescue mission. The Bombers could be taking the weekend off and back at it on Monday. As long as BO20 is back on the field on Monday we are good.
Quote from: TecnoGenius on June 04, 2025, 10:26:14 PMI'm sure Brady will be fine (dirty SSK players trying to injure again!).
Lawson back: yaaaaaaay!!
Isn't the bye-week a no-practice week? As in, mandated by rule? If it was mid-season everyone would go home for a week and thus no practice. Or is this a team-choice thing? I assume they'll still be practicing next week too!
So really 2 whole weeks of practice to come out of the gates with guns blazing? Love it.
They have to have a certain amount of consecutive days off (4?), that's why today was the first day of practice.
Quote from: GOLDMEMBER on June 04, 2025, 10:24:38 PMagreed. What is with Brady? What does he do in the off season? Trying to set power lifting records or what!
He is not young anymore, maybe adjust your off season routine. He always gets hurt early in camp/preseason or comes in hurt to camp. This is just weird.
I read an article where he did stop powerlifting for that reason and did all this water based training to keep his body healthier. Oh well, hope it's minor. But this is exactly what happened last year and they of course let him play anyways and he ended up getting injured all over again.
Brady did some incredible work under water this offseason, I read about it but can't remember where, he will be fine.
Quote from: Pigskin on June 04, 2025, 10:27:45 PMDepending on the practice schedule for the rest of this week, Brady could be up north on a dog rescue mission. The Bombers could be taking the weekend off and back at it on Monday. As long as BO20 is back on the field on Monday we are good.
Sure but as usual we don't know the complete story. Until I hear he can't play, then I'll believe he'll be fine. Not practising is not a particular concern.
Currently having some issues is not necessarily an injury that prevents a player from playing. It's a matter of degree and whether playing can worsen any situation.
One one hand if Cooley plays I think he'll do fine. It's just the ratio adjustment if that happens.
Quote from: TecnoGenius on June 04, 2025, 10:26:14 PMI'm sure Brady will be fine (dirty SSK players trying to injure again!).
Lawson back: yaaaaaaay!!
Isn't the bye-week a no-practice week? As in, mandated by rule? If it was mid-season everyone would go home for a week and thus no practice. Or is this a team-choice thing? I assume they'll still be practicing next week too!
So really 2 whole weeks of practice to come out of the gates with guns blazing? Love it.
They practiced today, O'Shea talked about the awkward bye week on the Coach's Show, they're splitting it in 2, players already had 4 days off and will get another 3 days this weekend. Course very unlikely any of them will leave Wpg. in that time, so they'll be plenty of bonding, getting settled and casual working out together in the gym. Zach mentioned using the time to set up in a condo today.
Quote from: TecnoGenius on June 04, 2025, 10:26:14 PMI'm sure Brady will be fine (dirty SSK players trying to injure again!).
Lawson back: yaaaaaaay!!
Isn't the bye-week a no-practice week? As in, mandated by rule? If it was mid-season everyone would go home for a week and thus no practice. Or is this a team-choice thing? I assume they'll still be practicing next week too!
So really 2 whole weeks of practice to come out of the gates with guns blazing? Love it.
Last season, Mike O'Shea mentioned that the bye week rules for the for the first 2 weeks and last 2 weeks of the regular season are different than the remainder of the season. Practices and meetings are permitted during the bye weeks although I'm not sure of the specifics. As other posters have mentioned, there may be a requirement to have X consecutive days off at some point.
Quote from: TecnoGenius on June 04, 2025, 10:26:14 PMI'm sure Brady will be fine (dirty SSK players trying to injure again!).
Lawson back: yaaaaaaay!!
Isn't the bye-week a no-practice week? As in, mandated by rule? If it was mid-season everyone would go home for a week and thus no practice. Or is this a team-choice thing? I assume they'll still be practicing next week too!
So really 2 whole weeks of practice to come out of the gates with guns blazing? Love it.
We won't have Collaros under centre, so there will be no guns a blazing on offense, i m thinking we'll be run heavy with Streveller or whomever is under centre as our passing game with #2 or #3 Qb will be lacking for sure
Ed Tait's article for first day of practice:
FYI: Limited or not practising on Wednesday were: OL Stanley Bryant and Eric Lofton, RB Brady Oliveira, QB Chris Streveler, DBs Josh Hagerty, Ethan Ball and Jake Kelly, LB Shayne Gauthier and RB/KR Peyton Logan.
THE SHUTTLE BUS: O'Shea on RB Quinton Cooley — the rookie American running back who shone in the preseason and was added to the practice roster — and why he was kept around knowing that Oliveira, a Canadian, would be the team's feature back:
"Did you see him play? You've just got to keep a guy like that. He's as physical as they come. He went out and did everything we wanted him to do and more. What h put on tape and standing there on the sidelines and (seeing) the excitement he generated in the limited action he got was terrific. So, you've got to find a way to keep a guy like that and see where you can slot him in."
https://www.bluebombers.com/2025/06/04/need-to-know-bye-week-1/
Lots of players not practising but that's not unusual. It's probable that a few will be moved to IR before the 1st game. Looking at the daily injury reports for teams playing this week, there are a lot of players listed as " out ". That's 26 players at the moment for those teams. It's not yet clear whether that is 1 game or 6 game IR. Some may be healthy scratches.
In any case, we appear to have lees problems in that regard than many teams. Both the Riders and Redblacks already have 11 players on their IR lists. Yikes.
Bombers have 4 at the moment but that may go up 2 or 3 by game day?
Quote from: Jesse on June 05, 2025, 10:44:33 AMEd Tait's article for first day of practice:
FYI: Limited or not practising on Wednesday were: OL Stanley Bryant and Eric Lofton, RB Brady Oliveira, QB Chris Streveler, DBs Josh Hagerty, Ethan Ball and Jake Kelly, LB Shayne Gauthier and RB/KR Peyton Logan.
THE SHUTTLE BUS: O'Shea on RB Quinton Cooley — the rookie American running back who shone in the preseason and was added to the practice roster — and why he was kept around knowing that Oliveira, a Canadian, would be the team's feature back:
"Did you see him play? You've just got to keep a guy like that. He's as physical as they come. He went out and did everything we wanted him to do and more. What h put on tape and standing there on the sidelines and (seeing) the excitement he generated in the limited action he got was terrific. So, you've got to find a way to keep a guy like that and see where you can slot him in."
https://www.bluebombers.com/2025/06/04/need-to-know-bye-week-1/
Don't like seeing Streveler miss practice with limited time to get it together before he starts, has to be more than just sore after 5 days off. Maybe he's not quite ready and they're rushing him?
Quote from: Throw Long Bannatyne on June 05, 2025, 04:03:25 PMDon't like seeing Streveler miss practice with limited time to get it together before he starts, has to be more than just sore after 5 days off. Maybe he's not quite ready and they're rushing him?
Is it a Streveler issue, or are we in the middle of trying to make the Wilson vs. Chase decision? I can see letting Streveler rest while they give more reps to our potential #3's...
Quote from: Pigskin on June 04, 2025, 10:27:45 PMDepending on the practice schedule for the rest of this week, Brady could be up north on a dog rescue mission. The Bombers could be taking the weekend off and back at it on Monday. As long as BO20 is back on the field on Monday we are good.
Brady practiced today. Stanley did as well.
Quote from: theaardvark on June 05, 2025, 05:30:57 PMIs it a Streveler issue, or are we in the middle of trying to make the Wilson vs. Chase decision? I can see letting Streveler rest while they give more reps to our potential #3's...
Don't think so, expect them to keep both, no question Arto goes to the PR to start the season.
"Did you see him play? You've just got to keep a guy like that."
Contrary to the idea that rookies can't get on the roster.
Quote from: gobombersgo on June 05, 2025, 06:01:01 PMBrady practiced today. Stanley did as well.
Thank jeebus.
I wasn't sure the Bombers would practice outdoors today as the air quality is really bad today. The Provincial Track and Field Championships were postponed today because of poor air quality. This is going to be a problem this season in the prairie provinces. The CFL has said that air quality with a reading of 8 or higher will allow teams to postpone start times of games.When you combine the usual lightning delays with poor air quality and we will see many games delayed this year.
Jerreth Stern today.
O'Shea also talked about how they're trying to bring Dillon Mitchell along, trying to bring him back to what they've seen him do on film. Apparently he didn't come to camp in the best shape or with the right mindset, could be it was not emphasised on Chris Jones team, which to be fair is all he's known.
Quote from: dd on June 05, 2025, 01:00:26 AMWe won't have Collaros under centre, so there will be no guns a blazing on offense, i m thinking we'll be run heavy with Streveller or whomever is under centre as our passing game with #2 or #3 Qb will be lacking for sure
Yep. And if there's a game to roster Cooley early it's probably this week especially if Brady is having miles limited. Lots of run game to go around in a Streveler led offense and the "style" is predominantly running though guys who know you're running.
Just for the heck of it, these are the roster moves I expect before game 1. Barring unknown injuries of course.
1. Collaros to 1 game suspension as announced.
2. Lofton to IR. The real question is whether it's short or long term.
3. Munier-Bailey to AR replacing Weitz. Weitz may be headed for IR but that's a TBD
4. Vanterpool to PR. Vibert added to AR as OL depth.
5. Cobb added to AR as receiver depth and return capabilities.
6. Ayers to PR. IMO we'll have ratio room for Jones, Jones, Wilson and Griffin if we move to 8 starting Canadians.
7. Woods to PR.
8. Novak to PR.
0. Kornelson to PR.
If my math is right regarding the ratio, we'll have room to add 1 more import. Some will argue keeping Ayers on the AR. IMO we might see Person added to give us more rotation possibilities at DE. In theory we'd have Griffin backing up at SAM. 1 of the Jones would be a DI. That allows us to have 3-4 fronts at times and / or just the ability to rotate.
These changes might still leave us " over " the number of Canadians on the AR.
Anyway. Just a guess at this moment in time.
It is hard to predict -- what is the PR max now? It's a bit hard to tell. Might have to one game IR a couple? Can you still PR an additional global player?
Quote from: Blue In BC on June 06, 2025, 04:02:41 PMJust for the heck of it, these are the roster moves I expect before game 1. Barring unknown injuries of course.
1. Collaros to 1 game suspension as announced.
2. Lofton to IR. The real question is whether it's short or long term.
3. Munier-Bailey to AR replacing Weitz. Weitz may be headed for IR but that's a TBD
4. Vanterpool to PR. Vibert added to AR as OL depth.
5. Cobb added to AR as receiver depth and return capabilities.
6. Ayers to PR. IMO we'll have ratio room for Jones, Jones, Wilson and Griffin if we move to 8 starting Canadians.
7. Woods to PR.
8. Novak to PR.
0. Kornelson to PR.
If my math is right regarding the ratio, we'll have room to add 1 more import. Some will argue keeping Ayers on the AR. IMO we might see Person added to give us more rotation possibilities at DE. In theory we'd have Griffin backing up at SAM. 1 of the Jones would be a DI. That allows us to have 3-4 fronts at times and / or just the ability to rotate.
These changes might still leave us " over " the number of Canadians on the AR.
Anyway. Just a guess at this moment in time.
A lot of possibilities, the trick is figuring out who will accept PR roles. I think they must have worked this out with the existing players on cut down day, it wouldn't be fair to spring it on them a week later. Can't see Ayers or Vanterpool going to the PR, but you never know, there is room on the 1 game to play with..
Quote from: Sir Blue and Gold on June 06, 2025, 04:16:59 PMIt is hard to predict -- what is the PR max now? It's a bit hard to tell. Might have to one game IR a couple? Can you still PR an additional global player?
The PR can be 13 allowing for 2 global players. Currently we have 11 on the PR but only 1 global player. Yes we might have to 1 game IR a couple of players but I really hate having to dick around hiding players and using SMS money as a result.
Noting that an ELC player on the 1 game IR is about a $4k game check compared to $1K on the PR. So it adds up
Quote from: Throw Long Bannatyne on June 06, 2025, 04:19:29 PMA lot of possibilities, the trick is figuring out who will accept PR roles. I think they must have worked this out with the existing players on cut down day, it wouldn't be fair to spring it on them a week later. Can't see Ayers or Vanterpool going to the PR, but you never know, there is room on the 1 game to play with..
Yes and no. As I mentioned I'm not a fan of using the 1 game IR to hide players. It just seems unethical from my point of view. I know teams do that. Riders already have 8 players on their 1 game IR. Whether any or all are actually injured I don't know but it's at least partially suspicious.
OTOH there isn't room on the PR to add 3 or 4 more players and by my count our AR is 5 or 6 over the limit so a lot will have to change.
So these are all just possibilities except Collaros to 1 game suspension as a certainty.
Interesting comment about Ayers and Vanterpool moving to the PR. On one had I agree with your thoughts but on the other hand, why are teams allowed to have more than 45 players on the AR after the official cut down and time?
Quote from: Blue In BC on June 06, 2025, 04:43:39 PMYes and no. As I mentioned I'm not a fan of using the 1 game IR to hide players. It just seems unethical from my point of view. I know teams do that. Riders already have 8 players on their 1 game IR. Whether any or all are actually injured I don't know but it's at least partially suspicious.
OTOH there isn't room on the PR to add 3 or 4 more players and by my count our AR is 5 or 6 over the limit so a lot will have to change.
So these are all just possibilities except Collaros to 1 game suspension as a certainty.
Interesting comment about Ayers and Vanterpool moving to the PR. On one had I agree with your thoughts but on the other hand, why are teams allowed to have more than 45 players on the AR after the official cut down and time?
I wonder if it's just a loophole for the team on bye that we haven't had to submit a roster and depth chart yet.
Or these moves have been made, we've just not been informed of them.
Quote from: Jesse on June 06, 2025, 05:01:39 PMI wonder if it's just a loophole for the team on bye that we haven't had to submit a roster and depth chart yet.
Or these moves have been made, we've just not been informed of them.
Teams playing this week had a bunch of players moved to IR or added from PR etc. Whether that was actually done yesterday or just announced yesterday is a valid question.
Some players were added to both 1 game and 6 game IR prior to cut down day. Logan for example. Other players were moved to suspended list but that hasn't happened formally for Collaros. I take that was to allow him to practice this week even though he can't play. That seems like another loophole even though that's in our favour.
So either there is a lack of transparency or there are loopholes.
Quote from: Blue In BC on June 06, 2025, 04:39:42 PMThe PR can be 13 allowing for 2 global players. Currently we have 11 on the PR but only 1 global player. Yes we might have to 1 game IR a couple of players but I really hate having to dick around hiding players and using SMS money as a result.
Noting that an ELC player on the 1 game IR is about a $4k game check compared to $1K on the PR. So it adds up
There is noting to indicate that PR players only ever receive the minimum, and those funds are $SMS allocated. Moving someone to the PR exposes them to scooping, and does send a message, especially if they are not first year rookies.
Vanterpool to the PR would not be at min wage. Ayers either. So whether they get moved to IR or PR, I don't think the $SMS is going to change much for those players, so getting them to take an IR stint protects them and their egos.
A few $K is not going to be an issue for our $SMS, especially if the players are good enough to get scooped. Ayers and Vanterpool would be, IMHO.
Quote from: Blue In BC on June 06, 2025, 04:43:39 PMYes and no. As I mentioned I'm not a fan of using the 1 game IR to hide players. It just seems unethical from my point of view. I know teams do that. Riders already have 8 players on their 1 game IR. Whether any or all are actually injured I don't know but it's at least partially suspicious.
OTOH there isn't room on the PR to add 3 or 4 more players and by my count our AR is 5 or 6 over the limit so a lot will have to change.
So these are all just possibilities except Collaros to 1 game suspension as a certainty.
Interesting comment about Ayers and Vanterpool moving to the PR. On one had I agree with your thoughts but on the other hand, why are teams allowed to have more than 45 players on the AR after the official cut down and time?
Quote from: Jesse on June 06, 2025, 05:01:39 PMI wonder if it's just a loophole for the team on bye that we haven't had to submit a roster and depth chart yet.
Or these moves have been made, we've just not been informed of them.
I think this is the case, today's player transaction list is dominated by the Argos and Als juggling their lineups in preparation for their game tonight. Plenty of teams stashing good players on the one game, Bombers can't afford to be the "ethical" exception.
In many cases the roster rules don't fit the game, early season injuries are a huge concern and load management is a thing in a 20 game season, players like Stanley should not be expected to play all 20 games. Expand the roster and allow teams a reasonable amount of flexibility to manage their personnel properly without resorting to cheating.
Quote from: Blue In BC on June 06, 2025, 05:08:24 PMTeams playing this week had a bunch of players moved to IR or added from PR etc. Whether that was actually done yesterday or just announced yesterday is a valid question.
Some players were added to both 1 game and 6 game IR prior to cut down day. Logan for example. Other players were moved to suspended list but that hasn't happened formally for Collaros. I take that was to allow him to practice this week even though he can't play. That seems like another loophole even though that's in our favour.
So either there is a lack of transparency or there are loopholes.
Lack of transparency or loophole is a weekly game we could play in the CFL.
That said, Zach is suspended for one week, which will occur in week 2 because of our bye, so he was always allowed to practice this week. He truly isn't suspended yet.
Quote from: theaardvark on June 06, 2025, 05:15:02 PMThere is noting to indicate that PR players only ever receive the minimum, and those funds are $SMS allocated. Moving someone to the PR exposes them to scooping, and does send a message, especially if they are not first year rookies.
Vanterpool to the PR would not be at min wage. Ayers either. So whether they get moved to IR or PR, I don't think the $SMS is going to change much for those players, so getting them to take an IR stint protects them and their egos.
A few $K is not going to be an issue for our $SMS, especially if the players are good enough to get scooped. Ayers and Vanterpool would be, IMHO.
Those 2 players are still on ELC deals. So there is nothing indicating they would get more than the minimum PR salary.
Yes, the PR doesn't have to be at the min, but there is equally nothing to suggest a CFL rookie or even 2nd year guy gets more. There might be an argument on a player like White of Cobb that were signed as free agent after their original ELC. Vanterpool only played 2 games in 2024.
Players almost never get " scooped " from PR's. To suggest there might be very little difference in any of these players getting nearly a normal pay check while on PR is foolish IMO.
Even though I don't like the idea of hiding players on the 1 game IR, it would make more sense to do that in order to " have / save " PR roster spots which are limited.
Quote from: Throw Long Bannatyne on June 06, 2025, 05:15:38 PMI think this is the case, today's player transaction list is dominated by the Argos and Als juggling their lineups in preparation for their game tonight. Plenty of teams stashing good players on the one game, Bombers can't afford to be the "ethical" exception.
In many cases the roster rules don't fit the game, early season injuries are a huge concern and load management is a thing in a 20 game season, players like Stanley should not be expected to play all 20 games. Expand the roster and allow teams a reasonable amount of flexibility to manage their personnel properly without resorting to cheating.
Expanding the roster means either reducing the minimum wage, or increasing the cap. Whether they can add in players and leave the cap/payscale the same is not something that can be done midseason, and would be counterproductive to the concept of wanting players to sign multi-year deals.
I'd love to see a 50 man AR. Would improve the league talent level and help teams sustain through injury, and avoid injury by allowing more flexibility to adjust work load.
Maybe even make it a new section of the AR, basically a "Dressed PR" idea. Cap the salaries for those players so designated (like Globals), and use it for first or second year players that you'd like to be able to give game time to. They could be DI's or Nats, and would be subject to all the same substitution restrictions.
I'd much rather pay Ayers and Vanterpool a game cheque and have them available on the sidelines in pads than in sweats.
If they added $320k to the cap, that would be easy to do.
Quote from: Jesse on June 06, 2025, 05:23:25 PMLack of transparency or loophole is a weekly game we could play in the CFL.
That said, Zach is suspended for one week, which will occur in week 2 because of our bye, so he was always allowed to practice this week. He truly isn't suspended yet.
Suspensions during the season if not disputed are immediate. This is a bit of an unusual situation that I don't remember happening before. Although Lawler was suspended for 6 games before 2023 and he was unable to participate in TC or pre-season IIRC.
It's all very odd including the reason for Collaros suspension.
Quote from: theaardvark on June 06, 2025, 05:27:18 PMExpanding the roster means either reducing the minimum wage, or increasing the cap. Whether they can add in players and leave the cap/payscale the same is not something that can be done midseason, and would be counterproductive to the concept of wanting players to sign multi-year deals.
I'd love to see a 50 man AR. Would improve the league talent level and help teams sustain through injury, and avoid injury by allowing more flexibility to adjust work load.
Maybe even make it a new section of the AR, basically a "Dressed PR" idea. Cap the salaries for those players so designated (like Globals), and use it for first or second year players that you'd like to be able to give game time to. They could be DI's or Nats, and would be subject to all the same substitution restrictions.
I'd much rather pay Ayers and Vanterpool a game cheque and have them available on the sidelines in pads than in sweats.
If they added $320k to the cap, that would be easy to do.
If teams aren't being ethical then we see the Lions go over the SMS by $300K. It's allowed with a fine and loss of draft choices. Where do we draw the line whwn some teams have deeper pockets than others. That why we have an SMS.
I'd like an expanded roster as well. Not every team is profitable so it's not just a matter of increasing the SMS.
The idea of a " dressed PR player " player has some merit but then again it's both an SMS issue and ratio issue. The rule for an import would have to be different than for a Canadian.
In theory that player could play if another player is permanently removed from that game.
Good luck getting current players to vote to split the pie more ways. You'd have to increase the cap to match but the union would want to up it in a manner that exceeds the current ratio to consider it -- which is a hard spot. The Canadians would never allow the ratio percentage to shrink so you'd mostly be adding Canadians, which, given the relative scarcity would not really improve play that much. Could be done but it would be expensive due to the dominos that would fall to allow a couple more Americans, which I agree, would help.
Quote from: Blue In BC on June 06, 2025, 05:36:15 PMIf teams aren't being ethical then we see the Lions go over the SMS by $300K. It's allowed with a fine and loss of draft choices. Where do we draw the line whwn some teams have deeper pockets than others. That why we have an SMS.
I'd like an expanded roster as well. Not every team is profitable so it's not just a matter of increasing the SMS.
The idea of a " dressed PR player " player has some merit but then again it's both an SMS issue and ratio issue. The rule for an import would have to be different than for a Canadian.
In theory that player could play if another player is permanently removed from that game.
I honestly don't know what to believe anymore, league revenue goes up without any explanation when most of the stadiums remain half empty for most games. Based on revenue generated SMS is increased $412,365 for 2025, but most teams are reluctant to spend it because the CFLPA can't make up their minds how it should be divied up. Lot's of work for the commissioner to resolve.
Quote from: Sir Blue and Gold on June 06, 2025, 05:41:12 PMGood luck getting current players to vote to split the pie more ways. You'd have to increase the cap to match but the union would want to up it in a manner that exceeds the current ratio to consider it -- which is a hard spot. The Canadians would never allow the ratio percentage to shrink so you'd mostly be adding Canadians, which, given the relative scarcity would not really improve play that much. Could be done but it would be expensive due to the dominos that would fall to allow a couple more Americans, which I agree, would help.
Yes lots of issues but the roster size has increased significantly over the decades.
I've previously suggested adding 2 more imports ( as DI's ) and 2 more Canadians to the roster. Restricting the play of the extra DI's would be counter productive. If they dress they should be able to rotate in under the current rules.
Yes, the SMS would have to go up. I suppose the size of the PR could be reduced y 4 players at the same time. Assuming each earns $1K on the PR, the next increase is about $55K per player added to the AR.
As you mentioned, the supply of 2 extra Canadians is limited and the benefit of adding 2 more is debatable.
I also mentioned I would eliminate the global designation and convert those 2 roster spots to normal DI's. That allows globals to make the AR but makes them compete with imports to win those spots.In that sense it's not a significant change to the ratio. I just see global players as non Canadians. No need to draw a line or force the issue between an Australian and an American.
In that sense we'd have Canadians and non Canadians ( imports and globals ) in the same category.
Speaking of splitting the pie, what the heck is going on with the increased SMS for 2025?
Quote from: Throw Long Bannatyne on June 06, 2025, 05:55:20 PMI honestly don't know what to believe anymore, league revenue goes up without any explanation when most of the stadiums remain half empty for most games. Based on revenue generated SMS is increased $412,365 for 2025, but most teams are reluctant to spend it because the CFLPA can't make up their minds how it should be divied up. Lot's of work for the commissioner to resolve.
It is a contradiction. Watching the rider game last night and there were many empty seats. I don't understand how teams negotiated revenue sharing but have no idea how to implement the extra revenue.
Also someone suggested one idea was to increase salaries for PR players? That seems like the worst idea. Pay the players that are on the AR not those that may never see the field. Maybe a slight increase but paying PR players more doesn't add benefit IMO.
Quote from: Blue In BC on June 06, 2025, 06:01:37 PMIt is a contradiction. Watching the rider game last night and there were many empty seats. I don't understand how teams negotiated revenue sharing but have no idea how to implement the extra revenue.
Also someone suggested one idea was to increase salaries for PR players? That seems like the worst idea. Pay the players that are on the AR not those that may never see the field. Maybe a slight increase but paying PR players more doesn't add benefit IMO.
Don't have any idea how this would work, but with special players on the bubble like Ayers and Vanterpool that might spend half the season on the PR but also could dress for games, agree to pay them around $80k in total, no matter their status. Rewards the player for putting in time waiting for their opportunity and allows the Bombers to retain them until they're needed, which they both will be eventually.
Quote from: Blue In BC on June 06, 2025, 05:36:15 PMIf teams aren't being ethical then we see the Lions go over the SMS by $300K. It's allowed with a fine and loss of draft choices. Where do we draw the line whwn some teams have deeper pockets than others. That why we have an SMS.
I'd like an expanded roster as well. Not every team is profitable so it's not just a matter of increasing the SMS.
The idea of a " dressed PR player " player has some merit but then again it's both an SMS issue and ratio issue. The rule for an import would have to be different than for a Canadian.
In theory that player could play if another player is permanently removed from that game.
Canadian ratio, both starters and dressed would remain the same. Your option for "dressed PR" would be at your discretion. Dress Imps or Nats, they can still only substitute as the regulations allow, Imps for Imps, Nats for Nats, or Nats in for Imps. Can give you extra DI's, or extra backup Nats, depending on what players you have that you need to dress.
Min 21 Nats on the AR, start min 7 Nats. 1 or 2 Globals. Max 23 Ints.
As to affordability, "Dressed PR" would have a capped salary at min, max 2nd season in CFL, and for the non-profitable teams, transfer payments should cover that easily. You would, of course, reduce the non-dressed PR by 4...
Marginal increase in cost, decided increase in available talent on game day and replacements as necessary.
Win/Win/Win, really. CFL, CFLPA and fans all benefit.
Quote from: Blue In BC on June 06, 2025, 04:39:42 PMThe PR can be 13 allowing for 2 global players. Currently we have 11 on the PR but only 1 global player. Yes we might have to 1 game IR a couple of players but I really hate having to dick around hiding players and using SMS money as a result.
Noting that an ELC player on the 1 game IR is about a $4k game check compared to $1K on the PR. So it adds up
Nice do you have a source on that? You're probably right I just can't find it. CFL DB still says:
Teams have the option to increase the practice roster to 12 (min. 2 Canadians) with the addition of up to 2 Global players.
Quote from: Sir Blue and Gold on June 06, 2025, 07:23:41 PMNice do you have a source on that? You're probably right I just can't find it. CFL DB still says:
Teams have the option to increase the practice roster to 12 (min. 2 Canadians) with the addition of up to 2 Global players.
IDK. I've read that a couple of times on both forum sites. It seemed to have changed last year from 12 to 13.
ELC is $74K more or less. Just a guess that most PR players add $1K while on PR. That's $18K per season versus the $74K on the AR.
Quote from: theaardvark on June 06, 2025, 07:06:25 PMCanadian ratio, both starters and dressed would remain the same. Your option for "dressed PR" would be at your discretion. Dress Imps or Nats, they can still only substitute as the regulations allow, Imps for Imps, Nats for Nats, or Nats in for Imps. Can give you extra DI's, or extra backup Nats, depending on what players you have that you need to dress.
Min 21 Nats on the AR, start min 7 Nats. 1 or 2 Globals. Max 23 Ints.
As to affordability, "Dressed PR" would have a capped salary at min, max 2nd season in CFL, and for the non-profitable teams, transfer payments should cover that easily. You would, of course, reduce the non-dressed PR by 4...
Marginal increase in cost, decided increase in available talent on game day and replacements as necessary.
Win/Win/Win, really. CFL, CFLPA and fans all benefit.
That's more than a marginal increase. If a PR player earns $18K per season while an AR player earns $74K, that's 4 X $55K = $220K. Now if you also reduce the PR by 4 than that reduces the net difference by 4 X $18K = $72K.
Between those 2 changes a net difference down to about $150K. The league has never been clear on transfer payments to equalize disparities. Beyond that some teams are privately owned while others are community owned. Didn't Montreal report a $6M loss before the new owners took over. I never understood how any team could lose that much but that's another story.
I don't know if the Lions made a profit last year but they also went over the SMS by $300K and subsequent fines. Do they deserve a transfer payment because they " lost " money while circumventing the SMS?
Besides profitability extends before the previous season in some cases. We don't know or see all that information.
I agree more players on the AR is a type of win win for fans. I could argue reducing the back up Canadian players by 2 - 4 and adding 2 more imports would also improve the quality of play. Having 14 back up Canadians for 7 starters doesn't really make sense. Conversely only 4 DI's for 16 non QB's?
Retaining 7 Canadian starters is ok and one thing. Adding in Nationalized americans, global and all those other designations is just a disguise to add more non Canadians.
Anyway, back to the proposed roster changes for game 1. Anyone want to take a shot at what they think happens? I have mixed feeling suggesting Ayers and Vanterpool might get bumped. OTOH, that's the business aspect of the league. Part of that is the argument about ratio.
After the last pre season game I think most posters would pick Cooley to be on the AR instead of Peterson. It's a forced decision based on ratio and roster size. Nothing new really, happens every season on every team.
Quote from: Blue In BC on June 06, 2025, 07:57:15 PMThat's more than a marginal increase. If a PR player earns $18K per season while an AR player earns $74K, that's 4 X $55K = $220K. Now if you also reduce the PR by 4 than that reduces the net difference by 4 X $18K = $72K.
Between those 2 changes a net difference down to about $150K. The league has never been clear on transfer payments to equalize disparities. Beyond that some teams are privately owned while others are community owned. Didn't Montreal report a $6M loss before the new owners took over. I never understood how any team could lose that much but that's another story.
I don't know if the Lions made a profit last year but they also went over the SMS by $300K and subsequent fines. Do they deserve a transfer payment because they " lost " money while circumventing the SMS?
Besides profitability extends before the previous season in some cases. We don't know or see all that information.
I agree more players on the AR is a type of win win for fans. I could argue reducing the back up Canadian players by 2 - 4 and adding 2 more imports would also improve the quality of play. Having 14 back up Canadians for 7 starters doesn't really make sense. Conversely only 4 DI's for 16 non QB's?
Retaining 7 Canadian starters is ok and one thing. Adding in Nationalized americans, global and all those other designations is just a disguise to add more non Canadians.
Anyway, back to the proposed roster changes for game 1. Anyone want to take a shot at what they think happens? I have mixed feeling suggesting Ayers and Vanterpool might get bumped. OTOH, that's the business aspect of the league. Part of that is the argument about ratio.
After the last pre season game I think most posters would pick Cooley to be on the AR instead of Peterson. It's a forced decision based on ratio and roster size. Nothing new really, happens every season on every team.
So, the cost is $150k for adding 4 players to the sidelines in pads. Raise the $SMS 150k.
Some teams lost money, but some teams also overspent the cap.
So, limit the $150k "Dressed PR" transfer to teams that both lost money and stayed under the cap. And take it out of revenue gained from penalties for roster violations, plus some from the "haves".
As to the current 4 DI's to back up 16 Ints, vs. 14 Nats to back up 7 Nat starters, that's not the way it works. The 14 non starting Nats back up all 21 players, Nat and Int.
Adding in 4 "Dressed PR" players (DPD's) regardless of nationality, are all backups/ST. And can add depth like an 8th Oline, of 9th Dline, or 3rd RB. You could dress Kornelson, Ayers, Vanterpool and Cooley. Get them reps on teams, or in game due to injury. And protect them from being on the PR (of course, dressed PR players are not subject to scooping).
Is our team a lot better with 4 DPR's? I think so. And those players benefit from live fire game action, even if it is limited to teams and a few plays.
Quote from: theaardvark on June 06, 2025, 08:36:34 PMSo, the cost is $150k for adding 4 players to the sidelines in pads. Raise the $SMS 150k.
Some teams lost money, but some teams also overspent the cap.
So, limit the $150k "Dressed PR" transfer to teams that both lost money and stayed under the cap. And take it out of revenue gained from penalties for roster violations, plus some from the "haves".
As to the current 4 DI's to back up 16 Ints, vs. 14 Nats to back up 7 Nat starters, that's not the way it works. The 14 non starting Nats back up all 21 players, Nat and Int.
Adding in 4 "Dressed PR" players (DPD's) regardless of nationality, are all backups/ST. And can add depth like an 8th Oline, of 9th Dline, or 3rd RB. You could dress Kornelson, Ayers, Vanterpool and Cooley. Get them reps on teams, or in game due to injury. And protect them from being on the PR (of course, dressed PR players are not subject to scooping).
Is our team a lot better with 4 DPR's? I think so. And those players benefit from live fire game action, even if it is limited to teams and a few plays.
There maybe teams that lost money last year, but hard to claim any CFL team is "poor" anymore. Some are owned by conglomerates and some are owned by very wealthy owners who can easily finance any minor losses, plus flagships in Wpg. and Sask. Seems prime time to move ahead with greater plans as I don't think the CFL has experienced this level of stability before.
Quote from: theaardvark on June 06, 2025, 08:36:34 PMSo, the cost is $150k for adding 4 players to the sidelines in pads. Raise the $SMS 150k.
Some teams lost money, but some teams also overspent the cap.
So, limit the $150k "Dressed PR" transfer to teams that both lost money and stayed under the cap. And take it out of revenue gained from penalties for roster violations, plus some from the "haves".
As to the current 4 DI's to back up 16 Ints, vs. 14 Nats to back up 7 Nat starters, that's not the way it works. The 14 non starting Nats back up all 21 players, Nat and Int.
Adding in 4 "Dressed PR" players (DPD's) regardless of nationality, are all backups/ST. And can add depth like an 8th Oline, of 9th Dline, or 3rd RB. You could dress Kornelson, Ayers, Vanterpool and Cooley. Get them reps on teams, or in game due to injury. And protect them from being on the PR (of course, dressed PR players are not subject to scooping).
Is our team a lot better with 4 DPR's? I think so. And those players benefit from live fire game action, even if it is limited to teams and a few plays.
Yes that is the way it works. The odds of an import being hurt is greater because 16 are starting. It's more probable an import replaces an injured import than a Canadian via a DI. That's part of the focus in choosing DI's that make sense. So all things are not equal. Many extra Canadians will never do anything besides play ST's.
OTOH not every player can or will play ST's. That applies to both nationalities. You won't expect Vanterpool to play on ST's would you?
Again some teams are privately owned and we don't see their profit and loss statements. So it's not as easy as you suggest.
Quote from: Throw Long Bannatyne on June 06, 2025, 09:03:54 PMThere maybe teams that lost money last year, but hard to claim any CFL team is "poor" anymore. Some are owned by conglomerates and some are owned by very wealthy owners who can easily finance any minor losses, plus flagships in Wpg. and Sask. Seems prime time to move ahead with greater plans as I don't think the CFL has experienced this level of stability before.
A loss is a loss. Just because some owners can absorb a loss doesn't mean they should have to. In the end every business needs to be profitable.
The CFL does have more stability than recent years but are also experiencing lower live attendance. That's a downward spiral that needs to be figured out. League is gate driven.
The next TV deal may decide things one way or another.
Quote from: Throw Long Bannatyne on June 05, 2025, 09:41:58 PMO'Shea also talked about how they're trying to bring Dillon Mitchell along, trying to bring him back to what they've seen him do on film. Apparently he didn't come to camp in the best shape or with the right mindset, could be it was not emphasised on Chris Jones team, which to be fair is all he's known.
Yay, a "project" player. Ugh.
I was worried this was what was going on after all the TC reports (and lack thereof) on D.Mitchell. So we won't babysit Grant to get him signed, but we're coddling D.Mitchell to get him to FIFO?
He's good, but he's not Kenny. I'm actually very surprised we aren't running him out of town already. It isn't like Mafia to play patty-cake with players. I guess we'll give him till game 4-7, as we did A.Bowman.
Someone needs to tell this kid that this is his best chance to make it big in the CFL! Otherwise he'll be gonzo. (Must suck even more for M.Mitchell right now, knowing you got beat out by a goof just because he may have more inherent talent.)
Quote from: Blue In BC on June 06, 2025, 09:21:42 PMA loss is a loss. Just because some owners can absorb a loss doesn't mean they should have to. In the end every business needs to be profitable.
It doesn't if you're a very rich guy and you want the ego boost of owning your own team. Look how many billionaires buy F1 teams just to lose 100's of millions. Sometimes you do it just because you can.
I hate not playing opening weekend! >:(
If it turns out that D. Mitchel is a bust I will always think that his bonus would have kept Lawler though you never know how high Hamilton would have gone if they had to. Anyway, he's here now and he's a Bomber so I am cheering for him.
Quote from: Throw Long Bannatyne on June 06, 2025, 09:03:54 PMThere maybe teams that lost money last year, but hard to claim any CFL team is "poor" anymore. Some are owned by conglomerates and some are owned by very wealthy owners who can easily finance any minor losses, plus flagships in Wpg. and Sask. Seems prime time to move ahead with greater plans as I don't think the CFL has experienced this level of stability before.
It would be very interesting to know collectively what teams make in relation to expenses and also what the league brings in nationally (we get parts of the story from the community owned teams). Part of (maybe significantly more than part of) the reason the league didn't open their books in COVID for bailout money is because they make far more money than many people realize. "The league is poor" narrative, I think, is outdated. It's not NFL money or whatever but they've got nice coffee makers over at head office and throughout the member clubs. Maybe Edmonton is a bit of an exception at the moment. However, when collective salary caps go up without much of a mention or any negotiation it is a sure signs things are good. That just doesn't happen in the CFL historically.
Quote from: Blue In BC on June 06, 2025, 09:21:42 PMA loss is a loss. Just because some owners can absorb a loss doesn't mean they should have to. In the end every business needs to be profitable.
The CFL does have more stability than recent years but are also experiencing lower live attendance. That's a downward spiral that needs to be figured out. League is gate driven.
The next TV deal may decide things one way or another.
I don't know if you can make the case that we're experience new highs in revenue when attendance is at a historical low and still say we're gate driven.
Quote from: Waffler on June 07, 2025, 01:02:37 PMIf it turns out that D. Mitchel is a bust I will always think that his bonus would have kept Lawler though you never know how high Hamilton would have gone if they had to. Anyway, he's here now and he's a Bomber so I am cheering for him.
Lawler followed the money and we picked Schoen. Simple as that.
Quote from: Jesse on June 07, 2025, 02:26:44 PMI don't know if you can make the case that we're experience new highs in revenue when attendance is at a historical low and still say we're gate driven.
It's always been that way. Eventually if you don't get fans in the stadium then advertisers will withdraw support. The gate attendance helps pay for the renovations to aging stadiums.
Reaching highs in revenue is a bit of a skewed thought. Expenses are at an all time high as well. It's a relative position as time progresses. We haven't really been told where the increased revenue has come.
I'd say compare that to your salary. It's probable that you earn much more than 20 years ago. That's just inflation in action. Whether you are further ahead or not may vary on different things.
EDIT: Revenue is top line accounting. Have there been any comments about net income ( fixed for inflation ) being at all time highs?
Revenue is the money generated from normal business operations, calculated as the average sales price times the number of units sold. It is the top line (or gross income) figure from which costs are subtracted to determine net income. Revenue is also known as sales on the income statement.
Quote from: Blue In BC on June 07, 2025, 02:46:17 PMIt's always been that way. Eventually if you don't get fans in the stadium then advertisers will withdraw support. The gate attendance helps pay for the renovations to aging stadiums.
Reaching highs in revenue is a bit of a skewed thought. Expenses are at an all time high as well. It's a relative position as time progresses. We haven't really been told where the increased revenue has come.
I'd say compare that to your salary. It's probable that you earn much more than 20 years ago. That's just inflation in action. Whether you are further ahead or not may vary on different things.
EDIT: Revenue is top line accounting. Have there been any comments about net income ( fixed for inflation ) being at all time highs?
Revenue is the money generated from normal business operations, calculated as the average sales price times the number of units sold. It is the top line (or gross income) figure from which costs are subtracted to determine net income. Revenue is also known as sales on the income statement.
OK, but we're clearly getting
profit above expected, as shown by this lump sum of cash announced before the season. TV revenue, advertising, legalized gambling is becoming the main driver over the gate itself. Advertisers don't really care about the difference between 25k and 30k in the seats when 100s of thousands are watching on tv.
Obviously the gate is an important piece for teams and will continue to be so, but it's not what it used to be.
Quote from: Jesse on June 07, 2025, 03:28:00 PMOK, but we're clearly getting profit above expected, as shown by this lump sum of cash announced before the season. TV revenue, advertising, legalized gambling is becoming the main driver over the gate itself. Advertisers don't really care about the difference between 25k and 30k in the seats when 100s of thousands are watching on tv.
Obviously the gate is an important piece for teams and will continue to be so, but it's not what it used to be.
I think this is now the case, league seems to be moving further away from gate revenues and focusing on other areas, for every butt in the stands they could generate another 100 viewers or more on line.
Quote from: Jesse on June 07, 2025, 03:28:00 PMOK, but we're clearly getting profit above expected, as shown by this lump sum of cash announced before the season. TV revenue, advertising, legalized gambling is becoming the main driver over the gate itself. Advertisers don't really care about the difference between 25k and 30k in the seats when 100s of thousands are watching on tv.
Obviously the gate is an important piece for teams and will continue to be so, but it's not what it used to be.
That's not entirely true.
The Canadian Football League's regular season television ratings declined in 2024, falling 6.2 percent year-over-year.
The league drew an average audience of 454,000 on TSN during the regular season, not including RDS French-language broadcasts or streaming. It also remains unclear how broadcasts performed internationally on CBS Sports Network and CFL+.
CFL regular season attendance grows over 1 percent from 2023 to 2024. The CFL's regular season attendance increased modestly this year, growing by 1.8 percent from 22,393 fans per game in 2023 to 22,795 fans per game in 2024.Oct 28, 2024
Quote from: Jesse on June 07, 2025, 03:28:00 PMOK, but we're clearly getting profit above expected, as shown by this lump sum of cash announced before the season. TV revenue, advertising, legalized gambling is becoming the main driver over the gate itself. Advertisers don't really care about the difference between 25k and 30k in the seats when 100s of thousands are watching on tv.
Obviously the gate is an important piece for teams and will continue to be so, but it's not what it used to be.
True, but it's also because they're typically different sets of advertisers. The only way to buy CFL TV TSN is Canada-wide so if you're local or provincial in scope it doesn't make sense.
You can work with the teams directly though and pursue in-game sponsorships which is something the Bombers have perfected in recent years. Those sponsors are more, to an extent, gate interested.
You might associate that with the obvious and standard for sports advertising but it isn't really. Manitoban-based businesses can buy Jets TV game advertising due to how the NHL sets up their broadcasting licenses (TSN 3 Jets region is targeted regionally) and the local DEDs are at the team level for those broadcasts. Both are legitimate options.
So both matter. I would argue at a certain point the mass of Canada would outweigh the gate sponsor value but I'm also not really sure there's enough mass to in Canada to ever get to that point for the CFL and if the Bombers have proven anything, it's that you can make bank locally with the right team and approach.
Quote from: Blue In BC on June 07, 2025, 04:10:42 PMThat's not entirely true.
The Canadian Football League's regular season television ratings declined in 2024, falling 6.2 percent year-over-year.
The league drew an average audience of 454,000 on TSN during the regular season, not including RDS French-language broadcasts or streaming. It also remains unclear how broadcasts performed internationally on CBS Sports Network and CFL+.
CFL regular season attendance grows over 1 percent from 2023 to 2024. The CFL's regular season attendance increased modestly this year, growing by 1.8 percent from 22,393 fans per game in 2023 to 22,795 fans per game in 2024.Oct 28, 2024
You're talking television ratings which are still the most relevant metric but soon won't be, more and more people are switching to streaming every year. That's why it's so important the CFL develop their streaming resources wisely, maybe even split it off from the TSN broadcasts and let a global streamer manage it to increase exposure world wide.
Quote from: Throw Long Bannatyne on June 07, 2025, 06:22:48 PMYou're talking television ratings which are still the most relevant metric but soon won't be, more and more people are switching to streaming every year. That's why it's so important the CFL develop their streaming resources wisely, maybe even split it off from the TSN broadcasts and let a global streamer manage it to increase exposure world wide.
Bad idea.
A global streamer (like Amazon or DAZN) would bury CFL games among thousands of other options. The CFL is still a regional league at its core.
The league's fan base is local and loyal, but not massive. For sure, if you put CFL on DAZN less people watch compared to today. Guaranteed.
And streaming on a global platform won't magically make people in Europe or the U.S. care. There's also benefits from the storytelling, other contet and production values that TSN invests in.
Often sited as a good strategy but it's not realistic for the CFL. Medium term anyway.
Quote from: Sir Blue and Gold on June 07, 2025, 06:51:27 PMBad idea.
A global streamer (like Amazon or DAZN) would bury CFL games among thousands of other options. The CFL is still a regional league at its core.
The league's fan base is local and loyal, but not massive. For sure, if you put CFL on DAZN less people watch compared to today. Guaranteed.
And streaming on a global platform won't magically make people in Europe or the U.S. care. There's also benefits from the storytelling, other contet and production values that TSN invests in.
Often sited as a good strategy but it's not realistic for the CFL. Medium term anyway.
Adding a global streaming service could add eyeballs.
We have an amazing game. Might need a little added production value, but we're working on that.
Letting people world wide have access, we only need to light a spark to get it viral. A few of the great catches, kick returns, runs, tackles are all it takes to make things go viral.
AFL (Aussie rules) is regional, and far less popular that American football, but it gets eyeballs from around the world, because it is interesting.
There's no downside to getting eyeballs... making a content contract with someone that is backend loaded based on success is a great idea, and I hope our new commish is working on that.
Quote from: Blue In BC on June 07, 2025, 04:10:42 PMThat's not entirely true.
The Canadian Football League's regular season television ratings declined in 2024, falling 6.2 percent year-over-year.
The league drew an average audience of 454,000 on TSN during the regular season, not including RDS French-language broadcasts or streaming. It also remains unclear how broadcasts performed internationally on CBS Sports Network and CFL+.
CFL regular season attendance grows over 1 percent from 2023 to 2024. The CFL's regular season attendance increased modestly this year, growing by 1.8 percent from 22,393 fans per game in 2023 to 22,795 fans per game in 2024.Oct 28, 2024
You're quoting a source that, in the text you've quoted, admits to not having access to most of the services.
But profits have gone up substantially. There's no real arguing that.
Quote from: theaardvark on June 07, 2025, 07:18:02 PMAdding a global streaming service could add eyeballs.
We have an amazing game. Might need a little added production value, but we're working on that.
Letting people world wide have access, we only need to light a spark to get it viral. A few of the great catches, kick returns, runs, tackles are all it takes to make things go viral.
AFL (Aussie rules) is regional, and far less popular that American football, but it gets eyeballs from around the world, because it is interesting.
There's no downside to getting eyeballs... making a content contract with someone that is backend loaded based on success is a great idea, and I hope our new commish is working on that.
Obviously.
Oh the other hand, I'd like you to carry my new dog training video. Pay me up front for licensing it, put it in a visible part of your store (you'll probably have to move something that's there already, sorry), market it for me so your customers know that it's there, and then when it sells, you can take a cut. Ps -- it's mostly geared to dog owners from Panama but on the plus side it's pretty popular there (the second or third most popular training video in Panama).
Quote from: Throw Long Bannatyne on June 07, 2025, 06:22:48 PMYou're talking television ratings which are still the most relevant metric but soon won't be, more and more people are switching to streaming every year.
Many of my friends are into sports. Mostly hockey. Everyone who did or tried to go stream-only now/still has a Shaw cable subscription. The streaming just wasn't there or easy/convenient compared to cable.
The only people I know who like sports and don't have cable are super strapped for cash, as in barely holding onto their house or making rent. And most of those just pirate.
I know many people who spend more on all the streaming services each month than I do on Shaw! And I pay for zero streaming.
Quote from: Sir Blue and Gold on June 07, 2025, 09:04:40 PMObviously.
Oh the other hand, I'd like you to carry my new dog training video. Pay me up front for licensing it, put it in a visible part of your store (you'll probably have to move something that's there already, sorry), market it for me so your customers know that it's there, and then when it sells, you can take a cut. Ps -- it's mostly geared to dog owners from Panama but on the plus side it's pretty popular there (the second or third most popular training video in Panama).
Apples and orangutangs.
The new commish knows the media environment.
If he thinks granting access to our streams with the promise of future revenue makes sense, it has zero upfront cost (they don't pay a penny upfront to license it), and if they can co-promote it (using viral reels / tiktoks, etc) and build a revenue generating model, awesome. Can also be accessed by those that are in the current market that may be leaving the mainstream media for streaming media, and save money they are spending on what seems to be a struggling and inferior product in CFL+.
Streaming is the future, classic TV subs will die eventually. Not there yet, need to balance the two for now. All about generating max revenue while providing a rock solid product / service.
Quote from: theaardvark on June 08, 2025, 05:02:17 PMApples and orangutangs.
The new commish knows the media environment.
If he thinks granting access to our streams with the promise of future revenue makes sense, it has zero upfront cost (they don't pay a penny upfront to license it), and if they can co-promote it (using viral reels / tiktoks, etc) and build a revenue generating model, awesome. Can also be accessed by those that are in the current market that may be leaving the mainstream media for streaming media, and save money they are spending on what seems to be a struggling and inferior product in CFL+.
First of all, it's exactly the same thing.
Second of all, obviously all that sounds "awesome". Which major streaming service is going to do that for the CFL? Dazn? Amazon? Why on earth would they?
There's already a deal in the US so you are talking about Europe, the Middle East and Australia probably. Do you really think "viral Tik Tok reels" is going to do it for those markets? It doesn't do it in Canada. Can you possibly imagine how that has even a modicum of reasonability?
Big businesses didn't get big by being stupid.
Article in the Sun today interviewing Buck about the decision to play Zach in GC despite his hand injury. Can anyone with access post the interview here as it's hidden behind a fire-wall. Thanks.
Quote from: Throw Long Bannatyne on June 11, 2025, 06:41:55 PMArticle in the Sun today interviewing Buck about the decision to play Zach in GC despite his hand injury. Can anyone with access post the interview here as it's hidden behind a fire-wall. Thanks.
Hindsight remains 20-20: Pierce on Bombers' fatal Grey Cup call
Get the latest from Paul Friesen It was the Grey Cup decision that baffled many and contributed directly to the Blue Bombers third straight loss in the CFL's championship game.
On Tuesday, Buck Pierce finally answered to it.
Pierce was Winnipeg's offensive coordinator when quarterback Zach Collaros split open his finger late in the third quarter against Toronto. The resulting freezing and stitches left him unable to feel the ball well enough to throw it properly.
Yet he was sent back into the game in the fourth, promptly tossing two interceptions that handed the Argonauts 10 points and turned an eight-point game into a 41-24 Bombers loss.
"Zach had been our guy all year," Pierce told the Winnipeg Sun on Tuesday. "I trust when he says he can go do it that he can go do it. I didn't think twice about it, at that time. I had complete belief in what he could do."
Collaros had told his receivers in the huddle he might not be able to get the ball downfield.
Article content
Still, Pierce called for aggressive passing plays instead of leaning on the league's top ground game and running back Brady Oliveira.
After the Bombers returned to Winnipeg, Oliveira and O-lineman Stanley Bryant questioned why they weren't given the chance to carry their team to victory.
Pierce wasn't made available to the media that day, or any day since the game. He took the head-coaching job in B.C. soon after.
On Tuesday, with his Lions preparing to play in Winnipeg on Thursday, he agreed to take a call.
Revisiting the Grey Cup, and why he had an injured Collaros throw downfield, wasn't his favourite topic, though.
"Listen, I can go back and second-guess everything," Pierce said. "I don't know what you want me to say here."
If he could do it all over again?
"In hindsight, I'd do a lot of things different," he said. "Everybody would."
paul.friesen@kleinmedia.ca
Quote from: ModAdmin on June 11, 2025, 06:54:09 PM"Zach had been our guy all year," Pierce told the Winnipeg Sun on Tuesday. "I trust when he says he can go do it that he can go do it. I didn't think twice about it, at that time. I had complete belief in what he could do."
This is identical to what MOS said post-game. Both statements rub me the wrong way as it smacks of throwing Zach under the bus. Remember, who's the boss(es)?
Of course a CFL player will say they can play. Duh. They're like the Black Knight from Monty Python. It was just a flesh wound.
Quote from: TecnoGenius on June 11, 2025, 09:53:17 PMThis is identical to what MOS said post-game. Both statements rub me the wrong way as it smacks of throwing Zach under the bus. Remember, who's the boss(es)?
Of course a CFL player will say they can play. Duh. They're like the Black Knight from Monty Python. It was just a flesh wound.
It IS throwing Zach under the bus, and is total BS. Whatever the guy says, you examine what's going on--the guy just split his finger open, got stitches and has his finger frozen---do you think it's a good idea to go to an aggressive pass game plan??? Duuuuuh, no it doesn't. Do you think we should have used the leagues top running back and smashed the crap out of them???Duuuuuuh, yup, yup we should have!! It ain't rocket science guys and quit passing the buck so to speak. Coaching staff screwed up big time, own it for pete's sake!!
Quote from: TecnoGenius on June 11, 2025, 09:53:17 PMThis is identical to what MOS said post-game. Both statements rub me the wrong way as it smacks of throwing Zach under the bus. Remember, who's the boss(es)?
Of course a CFL player will say they can play. Duh. They're like the Black Knight from Monty Python. It was just a flesh wound.
The biggest flaw our coaching staff has right now, because it's putting players in vulnerable positions, is playing them when they're clearly injured. It's dumb and it's dangerous and it happens repeatedly every season.
Quote from: Jesse on June 12, 2025, 02:31:33 AMThe biggest flaw our coaching staff has right now, because it's putting players in vulnerable positions, is playing them when they're clearly injured. It's dumb and it's dangerous and it happens repeatedly every season.
To play devil's advocate: for most injuries there comes a point where you have to believe the guy when he says he's ready. The broken bones and torn ligaments only show up on the scans early in the process, not at the end.
Then there's a bloody gashed-open finger and a frozen up hand...
Quote from: TecnoGenius on June 12, 2025, 05:19:57 AMTo play devil's advocate: for most injuries there comes a point where you have to believe the guy when he says he's ready. The broken bones and torn ligaments only show up on the scans early in the process, not at the end.
Then there's a bloody gashed-open finger and a frozen up hand...
Not the situations I'm talking about though. Schoen and Bighill not being able to practice for weeks but playing half speed in the Grey Cup, Woli going into the game and immediately suffering a season ending injury, Brady missing all of last year's training camp but suiting up for week 1 only to have to sit for week 2.
Over and over again.
Quote from: Jesse on June 12, 2025, 11:04:40 AMNot the situations I'm talking about though. Schoen and Bighill not being able to practice for weeks but playing half speed in the Grey Cup, Woli going into the game and immediately suffering a season ending injury, Brady missing all of last year's training camp but suiting up for week 1 only to have to sit for week 2.
Over and over again.
is that unique to the Bombers or is that just a football or sports in general mindset?
Quote from: The Zipp on June 12, 2025, 12:13:13 PMis that unique to the Bombers or is that just a football or sports in general mindset?
It's the latter.