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B.C. Lions to start four American offensive linemen for season opener
By 3Down Staff -June 6, 2025
The B.C. Lions are doing the previously unthinkable to start the 2025 season, announcing four American players as starters along the offensive line.
Centre Michael Couture will be the only Canadian tasked with protecting his fellow countryman Nathan Rourke after a slew of preseason injuries. Veteran free-agent addition David Foucault has been placed on the six-game injured list with a broken leg, while Anu Una (ankle) and Tyler Packer (shoulder) will both begin the season on the one-game injured list.
Incumbents Jarrell Broxton and Kory Woodruff will continue to start at left tackle and left guard respectively, while highly touted offseason trade acquisition Dejon Allen makes his debut at right tackle. Chris Schleuger will be the extra American on hand, temporarily stepping in at right guard. The return of running back James Butler is the only other major change on offence.
Defensively, the Lions will start a trio of offseason free-agent additions in defensive tackle DeWayne Hendrix, middle linebacker Micah Awe, and nickel Deontai Williams. Former NFL second-round pick Kemoko Turay will also make his first CFL appearance at defensive end, starting in place of the suspended Sione Teuhema.
Robert Carter Jr. is the lone rookie to earn a starting job, taking over at boundary cornerback. Preseason standout Jermaine Jackson will also take on a significant role as the team's return specialist, while South African rugby convert Carl Meyer takes over as the punter.
In addition to the injuries along the offensive line, American linebacker Josh Woods (knee), Canadian linebacker Adam Auclair (shoulder), Global linebacker Maxime Rouyer (hip), and American defensive linemen Tre' Crawford (leg) and Marcus Moore (head) have all been placed on the one-game injured list. American defensive back Tyler Coyle, American defensive end Tomasi Laulile, and American offensive lineman Ilm Manning are listed as healthy scratches.
The Lions will open their season on Saturday, June 7 against the Edmonton Elks. Kickoff is scheduled for 10:00 p.m. EDT at BC Place, with rap icon Snoop Dogg set to perform for a projected sellout crowd before the game.
https://3downnation.com/2025/06/06/b-c-lions-to-start-four-american-offensive-linemen-for-season-opener/
New-look Edmonton Elks to field 11 Canadian starters in opener against B.C. Lions
By 3Down Staff -June 6, 2025
In an era when buying Canadian has never been more important, the Edmonton Elks are leading by example. They will field a whopping 11 Canadian starters for Saturday's season opener — four more than the mandatory quota of seven.
Quarterback Tre Ford leads the heavy home-grown contingent, which is highly concentrated on the offensive side of the ball. The Elks will start three Canadian receivers in Kurleigh Gittens Jr., Kaion Julien-Grant, and Zach Mathis, as well as four along the offensive line. Mark Korte, David Beard and Gregor MacKellar are set in stone along the interior, while right tackle Brett Boyko is listed as a game-time decision after being limited in practice with a hamstring injury.
Despite already exceeding their ratio requirements on offence, Edmonton will also field three Canadians on defence — all of whom are new to the team. Tyrell Ford will get the start at field cornerback after coming over from the Winnipeg Blue Bombers, while safety Royce Metchie and defensive end Robbie Smith make their debuts after being signed from Toronto.
In addition to the Canadian newcomers, the rest of the team's impressive 2025 free-agent class will debut. The list of newcomers includes halfbacks Emmanuel Rugamba and Kobe Williams, defensive tackles Jake Ceresna and Jared Brinkman, defensive end Brandon Barlow, receiver Steven Dunbar Jr., and punter Cody Grace.
Edmonton will begin the season relatively healthy, with just three Canadians on the six-game injured list: defensive lineman Noah Curtis (knee), tight end Skyler Griffith (knee), and linebacker Oliver Muembi (Achilles).
The Elks will open their season on Saturday, June 7 against the B.C. Lions. Kickoff is scheduled for 10:00 p.m. EDT at BC Place.
https://3downnation.com/2025/06/06/new-look-edmonton-elks-to-field-11-canadian-starters-in-opener-against-b-c-lions/
This is the game of the week for me. Both teams with ex-bombers and giant question marks. Can't wait to see what happens.
Quote from: Waffler on June 07, 2025, 02:30:29 PMThis is the game of the week for me. Both teams with ex-bombers and giant question marks. Can't wait to see what happens.
Absolutely, the biggest questions of the CFL season are how Rourke and Ford look as starting QBs.
Paul La Police on his YouTube channel mentioned Elks building their roster following the
Bombers system re Canadian starters, which he says gives increased flexibility.
Let's hope Mark Killam gives Ford a full chance at qb.
"Anu Una"
Palindrome name.
One has 4 Int Oline, the other has 11 Nat starters... what a difference
TSN showing Snoop Dog.... wonder if Martha Stewart jumps up on stage with him.... come on let's play football
i hope rourke sucks
tired of this guy already to be honest.
Here we go!
Quote from: The Zipp on June 08, 2025, 02:21:49 AMi hope rourke sucks
tired of this guy already to be honest.
Nah, I hope both QBs light it up. We need more QB talent in this league.
Quote from: Jesse on June 08, 2025, 02:22:29 AMHere we go!
Nah, I hope both QBs light it up. We need more QB talent in this league.
I agree, I just don't care if they are Canadian or American.
Just get the best QBs on the field.
Quote from: gobombersgo on June 08, 2025, 02:28:33 AMI agree, I just don't care if they are Canadian or American.
Just get the best QBs on the field.
Well, fast start for Rourke. He looks like the 2022 version of himself so prepare to hear that's he's Canadian a time or two.
I didn't think that was a TD
is this wakefield ref new?
Quote from: barbk on June 08, 2025, 02:34:49 AMI didn't think that was a TD
Glad the command centre got that call correct
Nice to see the Command Centre overturns a call on field.
Maybe this year they will actually do their job and make the tough decisions.
Quote from: The Zipp on June 08, 2025, 02:36:39 AMis this wakefield ref new?
In 2024 he was a downfield judge... he maybe in training for head ref this year
Nice goal line stand
ford still looks like a better RB than QB
Looks like Tre Ford spent the off season working on nothing.
Quote from: The Zipp on June 08, 2025, 02:21:49 AMi hope rourke sucks
tired of this guy already to be honest.
Wow seen some weird takes from at times that I haven't agreed with from you but this is over the top imo.
There is no reason to want someone to suck, especially as they build there career as a franchise player in this great league. Not to mention a special Canadian talent. Success at QB is critical this league especially our young guns. He has done much to sell this great league and game. Yes a lot of hype but that's how it goes when you are good.
Sounds like a heavy personal bias here.
Quote from: The Zipp on June 08, 2025, 02:41:41 AMford still looks like a better RB than QB
Quote from: Sir Blue and Gold on June 08, 2025, 02:41:54 AMLooks like Tre Ford spent the off season working on nothing.
Too early to say that but yes has work to do, not an easy position to master quickly. Has the tools, we will see how his passing game progresses. I think he will improve this year to be decent like 200 to 250 yards at imes.
Bryce a rough start. Edm D hungry.
Quote from: barbk on June 08, 2025, 02:39:17 AMIn 2024 he was a downfield judge... he maybe in training for head ref this year
looks like he is getting a shot at head ref and primetime
Elks might try running the ball a bit before putting it all on the unproven qb.
I think maksymich was o coordinator at lions last season. The Lions O wasn't very good.
Quote from: barbk on June 08, 2025, 02:34:49 AMI didn't think that was a TD
I think it broke the plane, his knee was wrapped up by #91 who was trying to bring him down, so it never touched the field.
Quote from: Blueforlife on June 08, 2025, 02:42:14 AMWow seen some weird takes from you but this is over the top.
There is no reason to want someone to suck, especially as they build there career as a franchise player in this great league.
Sounds like a heavy personal bias here.
Hope he is the suckiest QB who ever sucked.
bad call by buck. leave rourke out there if you want to gamble.
this guy isn't Strev
zero for two on 3rd down gamble... Welcome to being the head coach Buck Pierce, maybe don't make your decision from the QB Rourke
Quote from: Blueforlife on June 08, 2025, 02:42:14 AMWow seen some weird takes from at times that I haven't agreed with from you but this is over the top imo.
There is no reason to want someone to suck, especially as they build there career as a franchise player in this great league. Not to mention a special Canadian talent. Success at QB is critical this league especially our young guns. He has done much to sell this great league and game. Yes a lot of hype but that's how it goes when you are good.
Sounds like a heavy personal bias here.
Too early to say that but yes has work to do, not an easy position to master quickly. Has the tools, we will see how his passing game progresses.
Bryce a rough start
bc is likely the bombers biggest challenge this season - of course i want them to suck and rourke to stink. i might never get a shot to see my favorite team in a home grey cup game.
Quote from: barbk on June 08, 2025, 02:47:01 AMzero for two on 3rd down gamble... Welcome to being the head coach Buck Pierce, maybe don't make your decision from the QB Rourke
Buck Pierce finding out what a lot of teams are going to, third and one against Edmonton's defensive line is not going to be fun.
Edmonton's offence looks like they have no idea what they're doing so far.
Suitor "Micah awe is spying ford" shows clip of Micah awe running away from ford covering a receiver.
Quote from: Jesse on June 08, 2025, 02:51:28 AMEdmonton's offence looks like they have no idea what they're doing so far.
Because it's run by a guy who has no idea what he's doing. From the pocket Streveler sees the field better than Ford.
Quote from: markf on June 08, 2025, 02:51:49 AMSuitor "Micah awe is spying ford" shows clip of Micah awe running away from ford covering a receiver.
Quote from: The Zipp on June 08, 2025, 02:46:18 AMbad call by buck. leave rourke out there if you want to gamble.
this guy isn't Strev
You don't sneak your franchise QB
Good way to get hurt and ruin your season
Disagree
But yes Bryce currently not the answer
Quote from: The Zipp on June 08, 2025, 02:48:39 AMbc is likely the bombers biggest challenge this season - of course i want them to suck and rourke to stink. i might never get a shot to see my favorite team in a home grey cup game.
Sask > BC imo but yes good competition
I want all teams to be competitive
League needs success, games are more fun when all teams are strong, close games are my favorite
I want all our young talent in the league to succeed
CFL means more to me than just being a homer fan and hatting the rest. Two teams on field and there is great valuing in enjoy the talent and success of both sides.
Quote from: Sir Blue and Gold on June 08, 2025, 02:43:50 AMHope he is the suckiest QB who ever sucked.
A classless post and cheap shot. Wow.
The much celebrated Canadian QB extravaganza concludes the first quarter 1-0.
Quote from: Sir Blue and Gold on June 08, 2025, 02:58:48 AMThe much celebrated Canadian QB extravaganza concludes the first quarter 1-0.
Rourke and the BC offence look really good.
Quote from: Sir Blue and Gold on June 08, 2025, 02:58:48 AMThe much celebrated Canadian QB extravaganza concludes the first quarter 1-0.
Overstated on negative
BC looks good can't sneak
Lots of game left, should be a good one imo
Amazing having two Cdn QBs at this level imo
Quote from: Blueforlife on June 08, 2025, 02:58:42 AMYou don't sneak your franchise QB
Good way to get hurt and ruin your season
Disagree
But yes Bryce currently not the answer Sask > BC imo but yes good competition
I want all teams to be competitive
League needs success, games are more fun when all teams are strong, close games are my favorite A classless post and cheap shot. Wow.
3rd and 2 - rourke could throw it
i want the bombers to win every game 60-0. i don't care about close games.
Nick Anderson seems to be Suitors new crush.
Quote from: Jesse on June 08, 2025, 02:59:44 AMRourke and the BC offence look really good.
They do! And the Edmonton defense is going to be pretty good if the offense can give them some help.
Quote from: Jesse on June 08, 2025, 03:02:28 AMNick Anderson seems to be Suitors new crush.
Nobody will replace Schaffer-baker in suitor's heart.
Quote from: The Zipp on June 08, 2025, 03:02:12 AM3rd and 2 - rourke could throw it
i want the bombers to win every game 60-0. i don't care about close games.
Yes quick pass might have been a good option
Don't care about the rest of the league or entertainment value sounds like.
Best part of sports are close battles, I am a huge Oilers fan but lost how good Florida is and how close the final is. It's way better that way. You favorite team winning is key but blowouts are less entertaining.
Nice play Edm O. Game on.
And that's what Tre can do, a bunch of negative plays saved by one ridiculous play.
Quote from: Jesse on June 08, 2025, 03:07:00 AMAnd that's what Tre can do, a bunch of negative plays saved by one ridiculous play.
For sure. It's just a question of how many times he'll be able to play sandlot football in one game and if that's enough to win regularly.
Quote from: Sir Blue and Gold on June 08, 2025, 03:11:57 AMFor sure. It's just a question of how many times he'll be able to play sandlot football in one game and if that's enough to win regularly.
It's at least more entertaining to watch than what Edmonton was before he came in last year.
Quote from: Sir Blue and Gold on June 08, 2025, 03:11:57 AMFor sure. It's just a question of how many times he'll be able to play sandlot football in one game and if that's enough to win regularly.
Still lots of time to develop, gain experience and adapt imo.
Bring back Dean Faithful.
Quote from: Jesse on June 08, 2025, 03:12:22 AMCofaj as a short yardage QB. All is right in the world.
I believe using proper names for players is important.
Quote from: Blueforlife on June 08, 2025, 03:13:50 AMStill lots of time to develop, gain experience and adapt imo.
If he ever figures out how to play quarterback the league is in big trouble, but it's a bit if.
A generous comparison is Lamar "no Lombardi" Jackson and a more reasonable one is something more like Robert Griffin III.
He's also a pretty slim guy and hasn't been able to stay healthy. We'll see.
If defenses just have to keep him in the pocket to win they'll figure that out on most nights and let him have two highlight of the nights and a L.
Big licks on Rourke there
Quote from: Sir Blue and Gold on June 08, 2025, 03:19:06 AMIf he ever figures out how to play quarterback the league is in big trouble, but it's a bit if.
A generous comparison is Lamar "no Lombardi" Jackson and a more reasonable one is something more like Robert Griffin III.
He's also a pretty slim guy and hasn't been able to stay healthy. We'll see.
If defenses just have to keep him in the pocket to win they'll figure that out on most nights and let him have two highlight of the nights and a L.
I've heard Jeff Hamilton say a few times that Ford doesn't know how to lead a huddle, he just says the play and lines up. He needs to be coached and I don't know if he's ever had the right people around him to do that.
Snoop can throw a tight spiral!!!!
Quote from: Jesse on June 08, 2025, 03:26:29 AMI've heard Jeff Hamilton say a few times that Ford doesn't know how to lead a huddle, he just says the play and lines up. He needs to be coached and I don't know if he's ever had the right people around him to do that.
Presence in the huddle and leadership is important
Could still learn that
Tough one to get right
Usually got it or not
blanchard - tough day so far
And the first week one Canadian QB punch up since 1963 concludes the first half in barn burning fashion.
It's 7-3.
Quote from: Sir Blue and Gold on June 08, 2025, 03:36:38 AMAnd the first week one Canadian QB punch up since 1963 concludes the first half in a barn burner!
It's 7-3.
It's week one. Give them a chance before you pile on.
2nd half should be better.
Such a big accomplishment to have these two great Cdn athletes battle it out
It's one of the reasons I wanted to watch the game, wasn't in the mood for the 2nd game but the CDN Qbs match up pulled me in!
Quote from: Blueforlife on June 08, 2025, 03:38:39 AMIt's week one. Give them a chance before you pile on.
2nd half should be better.
Such a big accomplishment to have these two great Cdn athletes battle it out
It's one of the reasons I wanted to watch the game, wasn't in the mood for the 2nd game but the CDN Qbs match up pulled me in!
I'm sure we'll get more points in the second half. Rourke for sure deserved more in the first.
Quote from: Sir Blue and Gold on June 08, 2025, 03:45:40 AMI'm sure we'll get more points in the second half. Rourke for sure deserved more if the first.
Hopefully
I used to say Bombers should charge for seats based the score
$1 per point lol
Quote from: Blueforlife on June 08, 2025, 03:47:46 AMHopefully
I used to say Bombers should change for seated based the score
$1 per point lol
I think Tre Ford is actually an example of the bad side of the ratio. Fajardo is on the bench and he's actually a real quarterback who can read defenses and play football. No American QB would have made it out of training camp year one with the skill set Tre's has but he's in year four and is now the starter mostly because he's Canadian and the rules give him an advantage.
I don't think that's marketable or good for the league in any real way.
But hey! It's an all Canadian QB matchup!
Quote from: Sir Blue and Gold on June 08, 2025, 03:51:49 AMI think Tre Ford is actually an example of the bad side of the ratio. Fajardo is on the bench and he's actually a real quarterback who can read defenses and play football. No American QB would have made it out of training camp year one with the skill set Tre's has but he's in year four and is now the starter mostly because he's Canadian and the rules give him an advantage.
I don't think that's marketable or good for the league in any real way.
Disagree with most, your anti ratio / Canadian players bias is well known. Ford is currently their best option at QB imo to win and for marketing.
Cdn talent and our ratio is what makes the league great and marketable imo. Canadian talent is only increasing with time.
Yes lots of American talent out there but it's not his our league is structured. We give our countries athletes a leg up and that's good for the game, league and next gen of Canadians imo.
Just because you don't value the CDN talent doesn't mean other don't.
Nice throw on a dime by Rourke.
Quote from: Sir Blue and Gold on June 08, 2025, 03:51:49 AMI think Tre Ford is actually an example of the bad side of the ratio. Fajardo is on the bench and he's actually a real quarterback who can read defenses and play football. No American QB would have made it out of training camp year one with the skill set Tre's has but he's in year four and is now the starter mostly because he's Canadian and the rules give him an advantage.
I don't think that's marketable or good for the league in any real way.
But hey! It's an all Canadian QB matchup!
Fajardo played the exact same way starting out. But he had years of development time behind vet QBs before he got a starting gig.
Rourke is so good at running that fake. I have no idea who has the ball most of the time.
Quote from: Jesse on June 08, 2025, 03:57:29 AMRourke is so good at running that fake. I have no idea who has the ball most of the time.
A key part of a great QB
Quote from: Jesse on June 08, 2025, 03:55:44 AMFajardo played the exact same way starting out. But he had years of development time behind vet QBs before he got a starting gig.
Fajardo threw for 4300 yards in his third full season in the league. Tre Ford looks like he needs another two seasons in his forth.
Nice return bad structure on coverage (gaps)
O no EDM kicker having issues
Quote from: Blueforlife on June 08, 2025, 03:53:12 AMDisagree with most, your anti ratio / Canadian players bias is well known. Ford is currently their best option at QB imo to win and for marketing.
Cdn talent and our ratio is what makes the league great and marketable imo. Canadian talent is only increasing with time.
Yes lots of American talent out there but it's not his our league is structured. We give our countries athletes a leg up and that's good for the game, league and next gen of Canadians imo.
Just because you don't value the CDN talent doesn't mean other don't.
Nice throw on a dime by Rourke.
Rourke belongs. He's a pretty good quarterback, unfortunately for the Bombers. Additionally he didn't need 400 seasons to be good.
Quote from: The Zipp on June 08, 2025, 04:03:53 AMit continues...
Who they calling to replace him?
Nice escape from pressure for Rourke
It's Strange that Butler hasn't stuck anywhere.
Bc O line has some behemoths
No other player gives you that, lol.
Quote from: Jesse on June 08, 2025, 04:20:24 AMNo other player gives you that, lol.
Haha that's true. That's highlight of the night number two.
he is just faster than any defensive player. leaves them in the dust
Quote from: The Zipp on June 08, 2025, 04:21:41 AMhe is just faster than any defensive player. leaves them in the dust
It's impressive how great of an athlete he is.
Rourke just slicing and dicing now.
Quote from: Sir Blue and Gold on June 08, 2025, 04:22:38 AMIt's impressive how great of an athlete he is.
oh boy. not sure what he saw
Haha Tre should have ran 40 yards backwards first.
And Ford throwing directly at BC.
lol. Suitor trying to make it seem like the LB made this ridiculous disguise play when Ford just completely botched the throw.
Quote from: Jesse on June 08, 2025, 04:39:42 AMAnd Ford throwing directly at BC.
How do you even call plays for him? He literally made two to three good passing plays from the pocket tonight. That's not really exaggeration. He's got 138 yards passing and about 75 yards of that are two big scrambles where it just breaks down because no defense can cover for 18 seconds.
Quote from: Sir Blue and Gold on June 08, 2025, 04:41:52 AMHow do you even call plays for him? He literally made two to three good passing plays from the pocket tonight. That's not really exaggeration. He's got 138 yards passing and about 75 yards of that are two big scrambles where it just breaks down.
86 yards from those two plays.
And yeah, I have no answers. Love watching the highlights but as a coach, how do you trust your team (and your job) on this style of play for too long?
Quote from: Jesse on June 08, 2025, 04:45:19 AM86 yards from those two plays.
And yeah, I have no answers. Love watching the highlights but as a coach, how do you trust your team (and your job) on this style of play for too long?
So 52 yards passing from the pocket with 6:42 to go. Yikes.
Quote from: barbk on June 08, 2025, 02:21:48 AMTSN showing Snoop Dog.... wonder if Martha Stewart jumps up on stage with him.... come on let's play football
Haven't been able to start today's games yet, but I did have guests over and with the wife & kids we all tuned into the start of the BC game to get a couple of Snoop songs.
Ya, so everyone was massively disappointed. 1 min of 1 song? And a song no one cares about? Is that really all they showed? We couldn't waste any more time on it and turned it off. What a huge letdown. The last 2 seasons they had like 3 songs and very long clips of LL Cool J and One Dimension.
They tease Snoop for 4 weeks on TV and this is all they give on TV? Major fail. You really
pissed off the wives, and that's never a good thing.
Please tell me they showed more Snoop clips in the halftime show? Who scheduled the BC game as the 4th game overlapping another prior game? Just dumb. Make the BC games the season/league openers! You know Doman will go splash.
And I was reading on the net the Snoop show was 2 hours (5pm) before KO (7pm)? Uh... if you do that no one will hang around a nothing-happening stadium for 1.5 hrs for the game! That would defeat the entire purpose.
I 100% never expected to the see Snoop at all.
The concert was before the game Techno. I suppose the multi millionaire business mogel who booked the act and paid for it disagreed with you that it "defeats the entire purpose."
Betts is going to be an issue on Thursday.
Hahahha Omg Tre is going to get his receivers killed. Mannnnnnn that's hilarious.
Lions getting a bit banged up here too.
Dirty, dirty head shot, that's the kind of hit that has to be eliminated from the game, no excuse. Fine the Lion DB $10k, double it if he does it again this season.
Quote from: TecnoGenius on June 08, 2025, 04:49:07 AMYa, so everyone was massively disappointed. 1 min of 1 song?
They tease Snoop for 4 weeks on TV and this is all they give on TV?
And I was reading on the net the Snoop show was 2 hours (5pm) before KO (7pm)? Uh... if you do that no one will hang around a nothing-happening stadium for 1.5 hrs for the game! That would defeat the entire purpose.
To be honest, it wasn't a PG show. Chances are TSN would have censored 80%+ of the content if they showed more.
The Lions learned from last year where long lines prevented many people from seeing the start of the concert. This year they announced that the concert would start at 5:45 to get people moving from the street party to their seats. Warmups ended at 6:20 with the concert commencing shortly there after. The concert itself lasted about 45 minutes followed by a 25 minute pre-game (intros, anthem, coin toss etc.)
I didn't watch the entire game and early season games are usually chaotic. Lack of discipline taking penalties and missed opportunities on most teams this week.
Too early to make any long term judgments but the Lions have better talent overall. Rourke is further ahead in his development than Ford.
Elks do have to right the ship early this season because losing is contagious if you know what I mean. It starts in the locker room with their leadership.
Edmonton is in trouble if they think they can win consistently playing playground football. They signed Ford for 3 years, this isn't going to end well
I like techno wanted to see Snoop! Your comment about the wives was funny and bang on.
I don't see how either QB from last night survives the season running around like that. Its just a matter of time before Ford or Rourke gets injured when they taking so many hits in game one.
Quote from: bwiser on June 08, 2025, 02:16:01 PMI don't see how either QB from last night survives the season running around like that. Its just a matter of time before Ford or Rourke gets injured when they taking so many hits in game one.
Yeah I seen Rourke get hit big but not Ford as much but likely missed that as I didn't watch the entire game. Got tired. Agree!
Rourke was the real deal last night. Ford had two amazing plays.
Buck hasn't learned when to go for it on 3rd down. Hint: 2 yards after you didn't get 1 yard earlier isn't it.
BC DB destroys EDM receiver in a completely legal manner and still gets a penalty. ***?
Quote from: TBURGESS on June 08, 2025, 02:53:36 PMRourke was the real deal last night. Ford had two amazing plays.
Buck hasn't learned when to go for it on 3rd down. Hint: 2 yards after you didn't get 1 yard earlier isn't it.
BC DB destroys EDM receiver in a completely legal manner and still gets a penalty. ***?
I see it as a learning experience. The line got almost no push. Now that is proven he can play the close ones with that in mind and know they have to improve there. Overall they outplayed Edm by a fair margin and the win never really seemed in doubt. Ford is never going to be a starter. That's my #1 take away.
My #2 takeaway: Not impressed with Kilam on the sidelines. Seemed a lot more hand slapping and cheering than it did looking at the chart and talking to the booth. It's like he is still a coordinator. I suspect he is a "fake it until you make it" guy. Buck looked pretty competent for his first game.
Quote from: bwiser on June 08, 2025, 02:16:01 PMI don't see how either QB from last night survives the season running around like that. Its just a matter of time before Ford or Rourke gets injured when they taking so many hits in game one.
Very true, especially with Rourke, Buck can't allow his #1 QB to run up the middle in desperation without planning to slide, he's going to get clobbered. Rourke might win a few games with the "do everything" strategy, but sooner or later he'll be knocked out for a critical stretch of the season, then they'll lose. Zach used to play that way too, but it only took 3-4 seasons for him to realise it's not sustainable.
As for Ford, looks like the same situation as last year with MBT, eventually Fajardo will be called in, he'll win a few games, they'll bounce between the two the entire season and at year's end Cody will leave in a huff!
"Thesis: There is no evidence that mobile quarterbacks are injured more frequently or more severely than quarterbacks who rush less often."
https://www.fantasypoints.com/nfl/articles/season/2021/mobile-quarterbacks-and-injury-rates#/
" The most dangerous play category Verros discovered is the knockdown; the quarterback who is taken to the ground while unleashing a pass, as when the Jaguars' Nick Foles suffered a broken clavicle after being struck while releasing a pass against the Chiefs. That player is hurt once every 67.3 plays."
https://www.sportingnews.com/us/nfl/news/injury-proneness-running-qbs-russell-wilson-lamar-jackson/opdkjdfw91001uuwfzt4rm82s
There are a lot of opinions and stats. Certainly many NFL teams do not discourage their quarterbacks from running with the ball. And their qbs are very expensive.
But I think (just a low fact opinion) the idea that the quarterback running with the ball will inevitably lead to injury has been proven incorrect.
Some of the most violent hits on quarterbacks that I recall are of the "taking a hit standing in the pocket to make a pass" types.
Michael Reilly.
Damon Allen, prototypical running qb played for 23 years. Holy yikes. 85 to 2007.
Quote from: Throw Long Bannatyne on June 08, 2025, 05:28:33 PMVery true, especially with Rourke, Buck can't allow his #1 QB to run up the middle in desperation without planning to slide, he's going to get clobbered. Rourke might win a few games with the "do everything" strategy, but sooner or later he'll be knocked out for a critical stretch of the season, then they'll lose. Zach used to play that way too, but it only took 3-4 seasons for him to realise it's not sustainable.
As for Ford, looks like the same situation as last year with MBT, eventually Fajardo will be called in, he'll win a few games, they'll bounce between the two the entire season and at year's end Cody will leave in a huff!
Agree on the Edmonton Qb situation. I wonder what Fajardo actually thinks when he's watching Ford play?? Rather than go through Qb reads and then check it down, Ford just takes his first read and if its covered, scramble and run. Killam is in a bad spot as a rookie HC. He's got a franchise committed to a Qb for 3 years, when they shouldn't have, and now he's got to make the call to yank him after so many losses and then becomes the 'bad guy'. What a mess.
Quote from: dd on June 08, 2025, 06:43:56 PMAgree on the Edmonton Qb situation. I wonder what Fajardo actually thinks when he's watching Ford play?? Rather than go through Qb reads and then check it down, Ford just takes his first read and if its covered, scramble and run. Killam is in a bad spot as a rookie HC. He's got a franchise committed to a Qb for 3 years, when they shouldn't have, and now he's got to make the call to yank him after so many losses and then becomes the 'bad guy'. What a mess.
I'm still hoping for the Elks to get it on track this season, the CFL really needs that franchise to turn it around and get fans flocking back to Commonwealth again.
Fords going to be fine. He's the reason they even put up 14 points. Rankin and Fajardo get the the rushing TDs.
The Elks win more under Ford than they lose.
Quote from: CrazyCanuck89 on June 08, 2025, 10:15:46 PMFords going to be fine. He's the reason they even put up 14 points. Rankin and Fajardo get the the rushing TDs.
The Elks win more under Ford than they lose.
You think so??
I think the elks finish last in the west and out of the playoffs and that will put further pressure on their dwindling fan base
Quote from: CrazyCanuck89 on June 08, 2025, 10:15:46 PMFords going to be fine. He's the reason they even put up 14 points. Rankin and Fajardo get the the rushing TDs.
The Elks win more under Ford than they lose.
He's the reason they only put up 14 points. He's either got to play a lot better from an every down perspective or they need to have Fajardo play most snaps and put him in when they need some sort of miracle play. It's not even just the decision making. He was wildly inaccurate on relatively routine throws which caused almost every reception to recquire jumping athletic grabs. Receivers took a ton of hits they didn't need to because of it.
Quote from: barbk on June 08, 2025, 02:47:01 AMzero for two on 3rd down gamble... Welcome to being the head coach Buck Pierce, maybe don't make your decision from the QB Rourke
BC OL getting no push. No gel. Missing Chungh?
Quote from: Sir Blue and Gold on June 08, 2025, 02:58:48 AMThe much celebrated Canadian QB extravaganza concludes the first quarter 1-0.
Ya, not a good way to woo all the new people in the stands. Doman should have told them to air the heck out it to put on a spectacle. Even incomplete bombs look more impressive than long dink & dunk drives to the layman.
After halftime the stands went from full to half empty (or worse). A 7-3 game and everyone yawns and leaves. Hockey produces higher scores.
Quote from: TecnoGenius on June 09, 2025, 01:06:25 AMYa, not a good way to woo all the new people in the stands. Doman should have told them to air the heck out it to put on a spectacle. Even incomplete bombs look more impressive than long dink & dunk drives to the layman.
After halftime the stands went from full to half empty (or worse). A 7-3 game and everyone yawns and leaves. Hockey produces higher scores.
they were there for Snoop - left the stadium and went for food/drinks at halftime - they saw what they wanted to and bolted.
Quote from: Sir Blue and Gold on June 08, 2025, 03:51:49 AMI think Tre Ford is actually an example of the bad side of the ratio. Fajardo is on the bench and he's actually a real quarterback who can read defenses and play football. No American QB would have made it out of training camp year one with the skill set Tre's has but he's in year four and is now the starter mostly because he's Canadian and the rules give him an advantage.
I think the opposite. If you can "hide your extra NAT" at FS (Hecht) or MLB (Hurl), then why not QB? It's the GM/HC's choice how to spread the ratio. If they make dumb decisions, they'll win dumb prizes.
Plus, I think it's a good thing the NAT QBs can get "extra looks" that an IMP of the same caliber would not. After all, that's the only reason Demski got so good -- he had time to develop. And I'm OK with NATs having that unfair advantage. "C"Fl.
Ya, I agree Ford is going nowhere fast, but there's a tiny slim chance he'll figure it out, and we can all agree that would be a good thing for the CFL.
Quote from: Jesse on June 08, 2025, 03:57:29 AMRourke is so good at running that fake. I have no idea who has the ball most of the time.
Oh ya, I bite hard on those fakes every other time. I'm actually left stunned the RB doesn't have the ball. Hella good. Zach is no slouch at this either, unless the rushers guess correctly due to Buck tendencies.
Quote from: The Zipp on June 08, 2025, 04:21:41 AMhe is just faster than any defensive player. leaves them in the dust
No, just faster than the DL/LB behemoths. Get him matched against the fastest DBs on blitz. Then we'll see! Try Dequoy!
But faster than the DL/LB is usually all you have to be. See: Mahomes, or Flutie.
Quote from: TecnoGenius on June 09, 2025, 02:39:57 AMNo, just faster than the DL/LB behemoths. Get him matched against the fastest DBs on blitz. Then we'll see! Try Dequoy!
But faster than the DL/LB is usually all you have to be. See: Mahomes, or Flutie.
We saw him out run the DB more than once.
Quote from: Sir Blue and Gold on June 08, 2025, 04:57:22 AMThe concert was before the game Techno. I suppose the multi millionaire business mogel who booked the act and paid for it disagreed with you that it "defeats the entire purpose."
They setup an expectation with the 2 previous seasons where they showed ~5 mins of the concerts (sometimes with a commercial break).
Remember the hype and show when LL Cool J was there last year? Milt hyping that thing up all pre-game show...
It's fair for fans to expect Doman/CFL would arrange the same setup they did the last 2 seasons. Snoop is arguably the biggest score of an act yet.
If they have him there already (at no cost to the CFL), and they have the rights to show it, then why on earth do you not air more clips of a NFL-level event? This is a great chance to hook more non-fans into watching a CFL game.
And I'm not even a Snoop fan!
Quote from: Sir Blue and Gold on June 08, 2025, 04:57:22 AMThe concert was before the game Techno. I suppose the multi millionaire business mogel who booked the act and paid for it disagreed with you that it "defeats the entire purpose."
If shafting the TV audience (many who live in BC!) didn't defeat the entire purpose, then having a 7-3 score at the half certainly did! Many bored casuals walking out the door, never to return.
Quote from: Throw Long Bannatyne on June 08, 2025, 05:43:59 AMDirty, dirty head shot, that's the kind of hit that has to be eliminated from the game, no excuse. Fine the Lion DB $10k, double it if he does it again this season.
That's 2nd degree spearing and should have been 25Y and DQ and fine. The D led with helmet, no arms anywhere, attempted to leave his feet with a jump at the REC. That's spearing. Only reason his feet didn't go more than an inch off the ground was the REC hit him right as he left the ground.
No idea how command could take so long thinking about it and only come up with 15Y.
BOTH HELMETS CAME OFF. Duh.
League will issue a 1/2 or full game fine mid-week.
Quote from: Stats Junkie on June 08, 2025, 09:12:04 AMTo be honest, it wasn't a PG show. Chances are TSN would have censored 80%+ of the content if they showed more.
Ya, I wondered about that. However, BC was pushing youth price tickets quite a bit for this game too. I guess they worry about the TV audience for expletives, but not the kids in the stands? I'm no prude, I'm just pointing out the slight hypocrisy. (At least on TV they can time delay 3s and mute the swears.)
I think the biggest fail here was scheduling the BC opener to follow another game. BC openers should always be the first or only game of the day. Doman will pay for the big name, and the CFL can reap the TV audience bonus for free.
Thanks for the report, and on the timing. Cool that Snoop played for so long! Really good value for the attendees.
Quote from: TBURGESS on June 08, 2025, 02:53:36 PMBC DB destroys EDM receiver in a completely legal manner and still gets a penalty. ***?
Hasn't been legal for a few years. In fact Loffler regularly got 15Y for similar things ages ago.
Just because the REC turned his head and took a step doesn't mean he had any way to defend against the hit. Suitor is full of crap. And nothing justifies leading with your head into a helmet anymore.
A fine by Thursday will tell us who is right.
And remember, I'm old school and love these old style hits. But I've had to learn expect they'll be penalties now. And more than anything I want consistency and enforcing the rules on the books.
Quote from: TBURGESS on June 08, 2025, 02:53:36 PMBuck hasn't learned when to go for it on 3rd down. Hint: 2 yards after you didn't get 1 yard earlier isn't it.
Or Buck thinks his team is the WFC, a team that has worked for years on mastering the 1-1.5Y sneak as an integral part of the game plan.
Buck will have to spend years getting his team to WPG level on this.
Quote from: The Zipp on June 09, 2025, 01:23:26 AMthey were there for Snoop - left the stadium and went for food/drinks at halftime - they saw what they wanted to and bolted.
Not true... the stadium was still packed late 2nd Q. I was surprised how many people stayed, but it sounds like Doman timed things perfectly to keep them there to see some game.
It was halftime that saw the exodus, unhelped by the lame score. I waited until mid-3rd to see if they were just in the concourse, but they never came back.
Too bad, as the 2nd H looked bright for BC and they put on more of a show.
Quote from: TecnoGenius on June 09, 2025, 04:01:04 AMNot true... the stadium was still packed late 2nd Q. I was surprised how many people stayed, but it sounds like Doman timed things perfectly to keep them there to see some game.
It was halftime that saw the exodus, unhelped by the lame score. I waited until mid-3rd to see if they were just in the concourse, but they never came back.
Too bad, as the 2nd H looked bright for BC and they put on more of a show.
that is exactly what i said - left the stadium at halftime..
Quote from: TecnoGenius on June 09, 2025, 03:54:07 AMHasn't been legal for a few years. In fact Loffler regularly got 15Y for similar things ages ago.
Just because the REC turned his head and took a step doesn't mean he had any way to defend against the hit. Suitor is full of crap. And nothing justifies leading with your head into a helmet anymore.
A fine by Thursday will tell us who is right.
And remember, I'm old school and love these old style hits. But I've had to learn expect they'll be penalties now. And more than anything I want consistency and enforcing the rules on the books.
Watch it again. The DB leads with his shoulder and makes first contact shoulder to chest. That's exactly what the CFL said they wanted.
Quote from: TBURGESS on June 09, 2025, 02:32:21 PMWatch it again. The DB leads with his shoulder and makes first contact shoulder to chest. That's exactly what the CFL said they wanted.
No helmet contact? Why did they both come off? The CFL needs to eliminate intentional concussion inducing collisions, full stop.
Quote from: TBURGESS on June 09, 2025, 02:32:21 PMWatch it again. The DB leads with his shoulder and makes first contact shoulder to chest. That's exactly what the CFL said they wanted.
I think it was more the "defenseless player" aspect of the rule, though I'm sure there was some helmet to helmet contact as well.
Quote from: Throw Long Bannatyne on June 09, 2025, 03:54:38 PMNo helmet contact? Why did they both come off? The CFL needs to eliminate intentional concussion inducing collisions, full stop.
There was helmet contact, but the first contact wasn't helmet to helmet. Are you suggesting that every time a helmet comes off there should be a penalty on the defence?
Quote from: TBURGESS on June 09, 2025, 04:59:55 PMThere was helmet contact, but the first contact wasn't helmet to helmet. Are you suggesting that every time a helmet comes off there should be a penalty on the defence?
No the players that loses his helmet should receive a penalty regardless, up until a few years ago, it did not happen. I think players have this strange idea that a looser fitting helmet lessens the chance of concussions.
Quote from: TBURGESS on June 09, 2025, 04:59:55 PMThere was helmet contact, but the first contact wasn't helmet to helmet. Are you suggesting that every time a helmet comes off there should be a penalty on the defence?
BOTH helmets came off. No arms involved to rip them off. The only thing that can do that is some major H2H collision.
The command delay wasn't to see if it should be 15Y or not: the delay was to decide if it was 25Y DQ or not. I think he speared (another tenth of a sec and he would have been off his feet as he was launching himself).
Week 1 is a great time to set precedent and tone for the whole season. I think we missed a good chance to make DBs rethink that hit.
Quote from: TecnoGenius on June 09, 2025, 11:02:38 PMBOTH helmets came off. No arms involved to rip them off. The only thing that can do that is some major H2H collision.
The command delay wasn't to see if it should be 15Y or not: the delay was to decide if it was 25Y DQ or not. I think he speared (another tenth of a sec and he would have been off his feet as he was launching himself).
Week 1 is a great time to set precedent and tone for the whole season. I think we missed a good chance to make DBs rethink that hit.
Harris' lid came off all the time without contact.
It was a heck of a hit, and both players decelerated/accelerated rapidly, which could easily dislodge improperly secured buckets.
I don't think it was helmet to helmet, especially no the initial hit.
Defenseless player, maybe, but then every player not looking at another player about to hit him is "defensless".
Quote from: theaardvark on June 09, 2025, 11:35:10 PMHarris' lid came off all the time without contact.
It was a heck of a hit, and both players decelerated/accelerated rapidly, which could easily dislodge improperly secured buckets.
I don't think it was helmet to helmet, especially no the initial hit.
Defenseless player, maybe, but then every player not looking at another player about to hit him is "defensless".
DB could have tackled but chose to punish late in a game that was already out of reach, I hope they fine his *** off to send a clear message.
Quote from: Throw Long Bannatyne on June 10, 2025, 12:41:52 AMDB could have tackled but chose to punish late in a game that was already out of reach, I hope they fine his *** off to send a clear message.
It was unnecessary given the context of the game but I didn't think it was that bad a hit and Tre Ford should get the assist for throwing it high and right at a spot where the only defender within 20 yards could line it up perfectly. Edmonton won't have receivers if he keeps tossing them like he was all game.
One observation (not apparent on TV)
BC used a bunch formation prior to all but one kickoff. A few times, it appeared as though Carl Meyer kicked the ball far too soon, not allowing the coverage team to get into their lanes in a timely manner. Edmonton took advantage of this with a handful of lengthy returns.
Quote from: Throw Long Bannatyne on June 10, 2025, 12:41:52 AMDB could have tackled but chose to punish late in a game that was already out of reach, I hope they fine his *** off to send a clear message.
I agree that Ford seems to throw an higher percentage of suicide balls than other QB's. I don't have stats to back that up, it just seems that way. Scramble rules means that rec's are not in their conventional routes, and DB's are ball hawking. He has a decent arm on the run, but the ball ends up in spots that just seem to be trouble for the rec's a lot of the time. Like that time.
Quote from: theaardvark on June 10, 2025, 05:04:52 PMI agree that Ford seems to throw an higher percentage of suicide balls than other QB's. I don't have stats to back that up, it just seems that way. Scramble rules means that rec's are not in their conventional routes, and DB's are ball hawking. He has a decent arm on the run, but the ball ends up in spots that just seem to be trouble for the rec's a lot of the time. Like that time.
Ford still plays too much sandlot football which means jumping off script as soon as a play breaks down and throwing to the first open guy you see, where and whenever. 3 years into his career he needs to be more disciplined and locked into his playbook. Fajardo knows what's coming.
Quote from: Throw Long Bannatyne on June 10, 2025, 05:19:41 PMFord still plays too much sandlot football which means jumping off script as soon as a play breaks down and throwing to the first open guy you see, where and whenever. 3 years into his career he needs to be more disciplined and locked into his playbook. Fajardo knows what's coming.
I think we all know what's coming, same thing happened last year, they give him the starting role only to have him prove that he shouldn't be the starter. Nothing has changed since last year, he's still the same fly by the seat of your pants type Qb, entertaining- yes, win football games consistently-no.
no designated QB coach..Ford needs a guy dedicated to his development as a QB
Ed Hervey
VP of Football Operations & General Manager
Spencer Zimmerman
Senior Assistant General Manager & Director
of Player Personnel
Spencer Boehm
Director, U.S. Scouting
Rich Massaro
Director, Canadian Scouting
Nick Pelletier
Director, Football Operations
Mark Kilam
Head Coach
Jordan Maksymic
Offensive Coordinator & Assistant Head Coach
J.C. Sherritt
Defensive Coordinator & Linebackers
Demetrious Maxie
Special Teams Coordinator & Defensive Assistant
Stephen Sorrells
Offensive Line Coach & Run Game Coordinator
Jason Tucker
Receivers Coach
Aaron Grymes
Defensive Backs Coach
Trysten Dyce
Running Backs Coach & Offensive Assistant
Des Catellier
Special Teams Assistant
Danny Nesbitt
Defensive Quality Control Coach
Shaylee Foord
Video Coordinator
Justin Carpenter
Asst. Video Coordinator
Quote from: The Zipp on June 10, 2025, 06:13:29 PMno designated QB coach..Ford needs a guy dedicated to his development as a QB
Ed Hervey
VP of Football Operations & General Manager
Spencer Zimmerman
Senior Assistant General Manager & Director
of Player Personnel
Spencer Boehm
Director, U.S. Scouting
Rich Massaro
Director, Canadian Scouting
Nick Pelletier
Director, Football Operations
Mark Kilam
Head Coach
Jordan Maksymic
Offensive Coordinator & Assistant Head Coach
J.C. Sherritt
Defensive Coordinator & Linebackers
Demetrious Maxie
Special Teams Coordinator & Defensive Assistant
Stephen Sorrells
Offensive Line Coach & Run Game Coordinator
Jason Tucker
Receivers Coach
Aaron Grymes
Defensive Backs Coach
Trysten Dyce
Running Backs Coach & Offensive Assistant
Des Catellier
Special Teams Assistant
Danny Nesbitt
Defensive Quality Control Coach
Shaylee Foord
Video Coordinator
Justin Carpenter
Asst. Video Coordinator
Kinda strange they didn't retain Jarious Jackson if he was already living in Edmonton.