Blue Bombers Forum

Here we go with another season of Blue Bomber football!  And this is the first GDT of the season.  Go Bombers!

No need to say it, but, this will be an important game for the newcomers to show what they bring to the team as well as for the coaches as they are faced with fielding the team for the 2026 season.

There will be plenty of battles, none more important than the #2 quarterback.  The offensive and defensive lines will also be an interesting watch along with the defensive backs.

Here is Ed Tait's 48 Hour Primer for this game.  Click here! (https://www.bluebombers.com/2026/05/21/48-hour-primer-preseason-1/)

Enjoy the game on CFL+ and discuss it here.

Love that it is GDT time!

Biggest game of the year so far!  ;D

Is Bryce Perkins the only Bomber player that has a Super Bowl ring? Not this team, but any team?

Quote from: markf on May 22, 2026, 02:50:35 PMIs Bryce Perkins the only Bomber player that has a Super Bowl ring? Not this team, but any team?

AI says:

"The Winnipeg Blue Bombers are a Canadian Football League (CFL) franchise that competes for the Grey Cup, not the NFL's Super Bowl. However, several notable players and coaches have made their mark in both leagues, including quarterback Bryce Perkins (Super Bowl LVI in 1999 with the Rams while on their PR), receiver Terry Greer (Super Bowls XXIII and XXIV with the 49ers, played 6 seasons in Toronto from 1980 - 1985), and former Bombers WR Chris Matthews (Super Bowl XLIX with the Seahawks, Bombers in 2012, 2013, and 2019)."

Also, Bobby Singh: The only player in football history to win an XFL Championship, a Super Bowl (XXXIV with the Rams), and a Grey Cup (with the BC Lions, though he later had a stint with the Winnipeg Blue Bombers in 2009 with other stops in Calgary and BC).

Quote from: VictorRomano on May 22, 2026, 03:00:02 PMAI says:

"The Winnipeg Blue Bombers are a Canadian Football League (CFL) franchise that competes for the Grey Cup, not the NFL's Super Bowl. However, several notable players and coaches have made their mark in both leagues, including quarterback Bryce Perkins (Super Bowl LVI in 1999 with the Rams while on their PR), receiver Terry Greer (Super Bowls XXIII and XXIV with the 49ers, played 6 seasons in Toronto from 1980 - 1985), and former Bombers WR Chris Matthews (Super Bowl XLIX with the Seahawks, Bombers in 2012, 2013, and 2019)."

Also, Bobby Singh: The only player in football history to win an XFL Championship, a Super Bowl (XXXIV with the Rams), and a Grey Cup (with the BC Lions, though he later had a stint with the Winnipeg Blue Bombers in 2009 with other stops in Calgary and BC).

Yeah that AI is wrong on multiple levels. Perkins certainly did not win a Super Bowl in 1999, Matthews didn't win a Super Bowl.

For former Bombers, Bruce Johnson is someone who certainly won one with the NYG before coming here.

Quote from: kkc60 on May 22, 2026, 03:30:54 PMYeah that AI is wrong on multiple levels. Perkins certainly did not win a Super Bowl in 1999, Matthews didn't win a Super Bowl.

For former Bombers, Bruce Johnson is someone who certainly won one with the NYG before coming here.

Thanks!

I have no memory of bruce Johnson. Sadly.

What the heck happened to Matthews..." and caught four passes for 109 yards and a touchdown in Super Bowl XLIX."

Let's goooooo!!!
Lots of positions up for grabs, so this should be a fun one!

Starting WR/SB will be fun to see. For sure Demski, Tim White and Pokey have a spot. At least one of Nield/Clercius should have another. That leaves one open spot or a national or import to take a spot. I really like what we've heard about Singer (#17). He seems like he would fit in well with what we have.

OL has a couple positions that feel open as well.
Broxton, Neufeld, Bryant are locks. It feels like Eli and Wallace are the front runners for the other spots, but the idea of starting an import at C or LG is one that I'm a big fan of! I'd personally rather start Wallace over Paddy but I'm not winning that argument with MOS lol
Looking out for Randolph, Vanterpoole or Bucky to take one of those spots. I really think this is the last season for Paddy and/or Bryant, so building long-term depth is super important.

DL will be the only thing I'm watching on defense. It's looking like Ceresna, Willy and Lawson are set to start. It would make sense to have Bailey and Gatkuoth backing up. Really we are just looking for one big boy in the middle and one starting DE across from Willy. I think all our eyes will be on Dixon, but he has some great competition this year!
Jenkins might be big enough to play inside if needed, but we don't have much talent to replace those big boys we lost in the offseason. Lot's of pass rush talent, and it seems like that's where they were focused this offseason.

That's my 2 cents, can't wait to watch the game!

Quote from: markf on May 22, 2026, 02:50:35 PMIs Bryce Perkins the only Bomber player that has a Super Bowl ring? Not this team, but any team?

Tim Jessie won a Super Bowl with Washington for the 1987 season then won Grey Cups with the Bombers in 1988 and 1990.

Weird seeing TE instead of FB on the roster! Chris-Ike moved over to RB. I'm wondering now how he and Peterson will fit in.

The depth chart is up on the site. We know it isn't something written in stone but it does have some odd alignments, or some suggesting what to expect in some battles.

Jones is listed at WIL and Wilson is listed at MLB. Ayers is shown at DE.

The starting OL is the same as last year except Broxton at RT. 3 Canadian OL.  Collaros is starting QB.

4 rookie's competing at CB.

Unless some players that aren't on the depth chart have injuries, I think they are locks to make the AR.

None of the import OL besides Bryant and Broxton shown as starters. I find that surprising but how long does Collaros play and how fast does that change?

Quote from: Blue In BC on May 22, 2026, 04:48:41 PMThe depth chart is up on the site. We know it isn't something written in stone but it does have some odd alignments, or some suggesting what to expect in some battles.

Jones is listed at WIL and Wilson is listed at MLB. Ayers is shown at DE.

The starting OL is the same as last year except Broxton at RT. 3 Canadian OL.  Collaros is starting QB.

4 rookie's competing at CB.

Unless some players that aren't on the depth chart have injuries, I think they are locks to make the AR.

OL - Eli in for Kman as well...

Quote from: Blue In BC on May 22, 2026, 04:48:41 PMThe depth chart is up on the site. We know it isn't something written in stone but it does have some odd alignments, or some suggesting what to expect in some battles.

Jones is listed at WIL and Wilson is listed at MLB. Ayers is shown at DE.

The starting OL is the same as last year except Broxton at RT. 3 Canadian OL.  Collaros is starting QB.

4 rookie's competing at CB.

Unless some players that aren't on the depth chart have injuries, I think they are locks to make the AR.

Ayers at DE is so silly. Truly do not understand why they were doing that last year except because they had 0 other DE's on the gameday roster.

Quote from: Blue In BC on May 22, 2026, 04:48:41 PMThe depth chart is up on the site. We know it isn't something written in stone but it does have some odd alignments, or some suggesting what to expect in some battles.

Jones is listed at WIL and Wilson is listed at MLB. Ayers is shown at DE.

The starting OL is the same as last year except Broxton at RT. 3 Canadian OL.  Collaros is starting QB.

4 rookie's competing at CB.

Unless some players that aren't on the depth chart have injuries, I think they are locks to make the AR.

Wow, so many names I know nothing about, going to need a program to follow the show!

Quote from: theaardvark on May 22, 2026, 04:53:12 PMOL - Eli in for Kman as well...

Kman has gone to Hamilton.

Ed Tait   @EdTaitWFC
The @Wpg_BlueBombers depth chart for tomorrow in Saskatoon. Veteran-laden lineup. No Demski, Pokey Wilson, Ceresna, Moxey, Lawson, Castillo, Sheahan, Vaval

(https://pbs.twimg.com/media/HI73fEHXIAAz9o7?format=jpg&name=4096x4096)

(https://pbs.twimg.com/media/HI7wPenbsAA0PZA?format=jpg&name=4096x4096)

I'm going to go out on a small limb predicting players going to the PR, just based on the depth chart. In itself that predicts who I think makes the AR. Two of these might end up on the reserve instead of the PR.

Humour me. lol

1. Lamont
2. Williams.
3. Texada
4. Stuart
5. Dixon
6. Pace
7. Allen
8. Mazzocua
9. Elsbury
10. Reese
11. Andrews
12. Lidster
13. Randolph
14. Perkins

A rhetorical opinion. Worth about $0.04

LET THE GAMES BEGIN, YEEEEEHAAAAAAAAAA!

Quote from: Blue In BC on May 22, 2026, 05:04:42 PMI'm going to go out on a small limb predicting players going to the PR, just based on the depth chart. In itself that predicts who I think makes the AR. Two of these might end up on the reserve instead of the PR.

Humour me. lol

1. Lamont
2. Williams.
3. Texada
4. Stuart
5. Dixon
6. Pace
7. Allen
8. Mazzocua
9. Elsbury
10. Reese
11. Andrews
12. Lidster
13. Randolph
14. Perkins

A rhetorical opinion. Worth about $0.04

I think Stuart ends up replacing Kelly.  He can play safety, defensive halfback, SAM, WILL.

so exciting and thanks for the heads up about the depth chart so many LBs LOL love it

Will be interesting to see. We're going to get a healthy dose of the Riders starters this week and I can't imagine we'll want to play the top of our chart for as long as them given that they're on pre season game two already, and at home.

Quote from: markf on May 22, 2026, 02:50:35 PMIs Bryce Perkins the only Bomber player that has a Super Bowl ring? Not this team, but any team?

Tyrone Williams, from Halifax, won two Super Bowls with the Dallas Cowboys in 1992 and 1993. Luke Wilson from LaSalle, Ontario, and Jon Ryan from Regina, both won one Super Bowl with the Seattle Seahawks in 2014.

Quote from: gobombersgo on May 22, 2026, 04:30:00 PMTim Jessie won a Super Bowl with Washington for the 1987 season then won Grey Cups with the Bombers in 1988 and 1990.

Thanks.

Agree - Stuart is a wildcard - stood out at camp, a national with a very high ceiling and a ton of defensive versatility plus ST value. Surprised if he doesn't land a spot on the AR. Tmo should offer some clues.

Quote from: BlueComber on May 22, 2026, 08:16:36 PMAgree - Stuart is a wildcard - stood out at camp, a national with a very high ceiling and a ton of defensive versatility plus ST value. Surprised if he doesn't land a spot on the AR. Tmo should offer some clues.

I think for that to happen an existing Natl. ST player would have to be cut. Take your pick.  Being a lower round draft pick pretty sure he would happily accept a PR spot and wait his turn for an injury call up.

Quote from: Blue In BC on May 22, 2026, 05:04:42 PMI'm going to go out on a small limb predicting players going to the PR, just based on the depth chart. In itself that predicts who I think makes the AR. Two of these might end up on the reserve instead of the PR.

Humour me. lol

1. Lamont
2. Williams.
3. Texada
4. Stuart
5. Dixon
6. Pace
7. Allen
8. Mazzocua
9. Elsbury
10. Reese
11. Andrews
12. Lidster
13. Randolph
14. Perkins

A rhetorical opinion. Worth about $0.04

Looks like Perkins made the AR...

I think Texada might be the earlier favorite at CB.  He's been touted a couple of times and I think this is his 2nd or 3rd camp for us?  MOS likes persistence and tenacity.

Strange, but the name seems familiar from another team a few years back... but I'm assuming that's a different Texada?

Quote from: markf on May 22, 2026, 04:05:45 PMWhat the heck happened to Matthews..." and caught four passes for 109 yards and a touchdown in Super Bowl XLIX."

He was the star of that SB.  They should have just chucked every ball to him.  That was that SB where Seahawks lost near the end trying a pass (for the INT) instead of the guaranteed Lynch running TD from like the 2.  I think that's known as one of the stupidest SB calls ever?

Matthews returned here a few years later and had the 1000-yard stare of complete disinterest so common to ex-NFLers who already struck it rich.  I think we cut him and he did some PR for another team before retiring?  Sad story.  Such wasted talent.  He should have stayed in the CFL the whole time and become the next Milt Stegall.

So, no, Matthews didn't have a SB ring.

Quote from: Tecno on May 23, 2026, 06:39:36 AMI think Texada might be the earlier favorite at CB.  He's been touted a couple of times and I think this is his 2nd or 3rd camp for us?  MOS likes persistence and tenacity.

Strange, but the name seems familiar from another team a few years back... but I'm assuming that's a different Texada?

Yeah, I had the same deja vu, but new Texada is only 24 so it's definitely not the guy we're thinking of from whenever.

Hard to get a read on what they're doing at CB since they cut McGhee. Burrell has been the guy taking the other side form Moxey and is listed as the started for the game tonight. We'll see how they do.

Quote from: Tecno on May 23, 2026, 06:39:36 AMI think Texada might be the earlier favorite at CB.  He's been touted a couple of times and I think this is his 2nd or 3rd camp for us?  MOS likes persistence and tenacity.

Strange, but the name seems familiar from another team a few years back... but I'm assuming that's a different Texada?

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ranthony_Texada
This guy,  I think he's Ridge's older brother.

They are brothers - Ranthony, Raleigh and Ridge

Quote from: M.O.A.B. on May 23, 2026, 03:18:39 PMThey are brothers - Ranthony, Raleigh and Ridge

omg, we've signed all three of them?!?

Why hasn't Ed done one of his training camp articles on this family?

Quote from: Jesse on May 23, 2026, 04:10:14 PMomg, we've signed all three of them?!?

Why hasn't Ed done one of his training camp articles on this family?

None of them stuck, not sure any even played a game for the Bombers, maybe 3rd time is the charm for the Texada family. His size is a disadvantage compared to Burrell and a few of the competitors, it looks like Younger is gradually building up the height of his secondary with most rookie DB's touching 6'-0" and weighing close to 200 lbs.

Quote from: Throw Long Bannatyne on May 23, 2026, 04:37:42 PMNone of them stuck, not sure any even played a game for the Bombers, maybe 3rd time is the charm for the Texada family. His size is a disadvantage compared to Burrell and a few of the competitors, it looks like Younger is gradually building up the height of his secondary with most rookie DB's touching 6'-0" and weighing close to 200 lbs.

I was pegging him as a candidate for the PR and needing to beat out Javier who might also be headed to the PR.

Based on TC comments it would suggest Burrell is the leading player to win the starting role.

Moxey hasn't been practising so I'm not sure whether that is maintenance or whether he's ready for game 1. That could shift the decisions to begin the season.

what's with all our QBs flying the coop?   Wilson was a surprise!   Is the writing on the wall for #2 and #3 QBs?

Quote from: M.O.A.B. on May 23, 2026, 03:18:39 PMThey are brothers - Ranthony, Raleigh and Ridge

Quote from: Jesse on May 23, 2026, 04:10:14 PMomg, we've signed all three of them?!?

Why hasn't Ed done one of his training camp articles on this family?

I mentioned it when Ridge was signed in September.

https://forums.bluebombers.com/index.php?topic=56733.0

I was out for breakfast with my Rider friend this morning in Winnipeg and two people in full on Rider gear walked in.  I said your people are here..Happy Game day!  He didn't even know!!  :o

It'll be interesting to see how the Oline holds up.  I am hoping for big improvements this year.  Go Blue!

I suppose watching how Elgersma does might be the most important issue today. Obviously there are several positions up for grabs but a team needs 2 QB's during the season due to inevitable injuries.

I'll try to watch 8 other players across the spectrum if I can keep up with the substitutions but that's not easy.  Not many rookies actually shown as starters so when they get in and how much they play will be hard to make an impression. We are playing against the Rider starters early on.

Got CJOB on, and CFL+ video....Lets Go Bombers!

It's the Tim White drive!

not a fan of ZC scrambling in preseason

TD's are ALWAYS good - even in preseason

Secondary not looking great there

Quote from: BomberFan73 on May 23, 2026, 11:22:00 PMSecondary not looking great there

Defence did not look good. No where near receivers.

good throw - gotta catch that

Quote from: The Zipp on May 23, 2026, 11:26:31 PMgood throw - gotta catch that

Fredericksen also looked lost out there in the corner of the endzone when Zach threw it in his direction.

Nice block by bombers 6 on the pick

Got in the way of 45

Pressure!

pick 6 is always good

Texada made the hit causing the deflection and pic 6. That will show up in the film.

I hope the new kickers do well. IMO we may keep both on the PR as development for 2027. Canadian and a global is beneficial.

How are we feeling about Elgersma so far?

Quote from: tlf on May 23, 2026, 11:50:37 PMHow are we feeling about Elgersma so far?

Slightly nervous feet but it's his 1st CFL game. Not doing badly though.

Not seeing many newbies really stand out. OTOH not many mistakes or looking bad I suppose.

I think the depth chart might be more accurate than we imagine. As the game progressed we're seeing # 2 or # 3 against the equivalent Rider depth chart.

We started to see massive changes on the OL as the 2nd Q progressed and the offence went out the window. Not much effort or success running so it's all on the QB and back up receivers.

Ayers is still getting reps at DE. Not exactly having success. lol

3rd Q is where all bottom of the depth chart will show up. Start taking names of those and except many to not even make the PR. Harsh but reality of football..

I haven't seen Addison, Hooper, Mackie-McLeod, Clinton,  Clark, Reese, Harris, Jack, Hurford, Marks or Rocker in the game. If so I missed them.

I preferred the old days when next cuts came after the 1st pre-season game. Barring injuries in the 2nd game, there is little point in retaining the bottom of the depth chart in the final stages of prepping to start the season.

Lousy start to 3rd Q!!!!  I think that was a blown coverage and it might have been Burrell's man.

Texada made another alert play on the int.

Stuart is getting beat on every pass.

Singer is having more impact than any other rookie import receiver and the Canadians as the # 5 receiver.

Went to walk the dog and Ssk took the lead...won't be doing that again.  Sorry pup LOL

Where is everyone?  On MBB instead?  it's almost crickets here.

Pic 6.

Pick a dozen? I like it.

Okay!  Someone else is here.

That convert was pretty strange - worm-burner

Quote from: Big Daddy on May 24, 2026, 01:31:14 AMOkay!  Someone else is here.

That convert was pretty strange - worm-burner

Here..just hard to watch on another page and have this open at the same time is all.

Quote from: tlf on May 24, 2026, 01:32:43 AMHere..just hard to watch on another page and have this open at the same time is all.

Yeah it isn't easy for sure.  I've got my phone streaming to my apple TV and then listening to CJOB on my laptop while on the forum.

So far, Elgersma is not really any better than Wilson.. but I'll give him time since he's the annointed next one.

Perkins though...whoa. that throw! Im also liking the scrambling ability.

Also, I'm loving this defence.  A lot!

Elgersma didn't get the benefit of White, to be fair, and one or two others. 

But neither has Perkins, and Perkins has looked real good tonight.

It's early, but so far so good for our stable.

Bombers defence doing everything necessary to blow the victory.

Quote from: Blue In BC on May 24, 2026, 01:45:57 AMBombers defence doing everything necessary to blow the victory.

Trying to remind myself preseason doesn't count..but it's the Riders..so it does.

Just got the stream going.  Wow, pretty high scoring for a PS game!  I guess ties are acceptable in PS.  Can the D hold them to 3?

Gave  up a a 84 yard drive in the last 2 minutes. That's about the most annoying thing that can ever happen.

Quote from: Tecno on May 24, 2026, 01:58:53 AMJust got the stream going.  Wow, pretty high scoring for a PS game!  I guess ties are acceptable in PS.  Can the D hold them to 3?

Nope

Just have to remember this is riders second PS game, our first, and away.  We aren't playing all our starters on D. 

But still - never like losing to them

Riders always try to win their home PS.  WFC, not so much.  They're more interested in getting the fan base hyped than proper evaluation.  Been this way for years.  I don't know if you can gamble on PS games, but I would have put big money on SSK winning.

Vanterpol doing Vanterpol things

Same Oline effort, different day  Run for your life men!

I thought Perkins played fairly well considering he was doing it was 2nd or 3rd string players.

IMO Singer has a good chance to make the AR. I didn't see anything to convince me that we're going 3 import OL.

I look forward to the rewatch when it spools off live mode.  I'll read the thread as I go.  I'm excited to see how a lot of the new guys did.

Quote from: Blue In BC on May 24, 2026, 02:08:33 AMIMO Singer has a good chance to make the AR. I didn't see anything to convince me that we're going 3 import OL.

Because the IMPs did badly or because the NATs did so well?  Remember, the question isn't can the IMPs play OT, the question is can one play OG.  In other words, Vant sucking at LT has nothing at all to do with whether we start Vant at LG.

That said, all of MOS's TC comments hint that it's locked at Stan Wallace Eli Neuf Broxton.  Wallace & Eli talked up every chance they get with nary a quibble.

Impressed with perkins and singer Thought oline pass protected decently but run blocking definitely needs work
Im not sure I saw much different oline play than ly though.
Dline ends were good esp Dixon, but we will need to find another interior lineman to back up Ceresna And somehow we need to give Smith more playing time, the guys a baller

Quote from: Tecno on May 24, 2026, 02:10:53 AMBecause the IMPs did badly or because the NATs did so well?  Remember, the question isn't can the IMPs play OT, the question is can one play OG.  In other words, Vant sucking at LT has nothing at all to do with whether we start Vant at LG.

That said, all of MOS's TC comments hint that it's locked at Stan Wallace Eli Neuf Broxton.  Wallace & Eli talked up every chance they get with nary a quibble.

There's been zero indication that we want to put in Vant at LG. Or anyone other than Wallace.

Quote from: Jesse on May 24, 2026, 03:26:55 AMThere's been zero indication that we want to put in Vant at LG. Or anyone other than Wallace.

Truth.  The "indication" was fan hopes & dreams (me included).  And the fact we toyed with it last season.  And the fact we probably have the ratio room.

I really hope Wallace gets the Ko-man treatment if he doesn't have the best season of his life in '26.  I put it at 50/50.

Quote from: Pete on May 24, 2026, 02:53:55 AMImpressed with perkins and singer Thought oline pass protected decently but run blocking definitely needs work

My word, our run block was horrifically awful and horrible and total butt.  Did anyone get any good run?  Brady was fully neutered.  Peterson was worse, if that's possible.

Didn't our main starters start the first series?  Even they couldn't do squat.  Just like 2025.  What on earth is up with that?

Then look at SSK.  Didn't matter what set was in they made holes and stuck with the run.  They were getting probably 4X the average Y per run compared to us.  And I'm not even exaggerating.  Mediocre Oullette made to look like a world-beater again.  And they kept it up even when the #3's came in.

Sad.  Very sad.  This better not carry through to week 1.  What's the point of paying your RB double what the next best guy is getting if he can't get you anything on 1st?  What's the point of Condell's new scheme if every good team is just going to shut down our run again?

They better figure out how to get Yoshi run block out of Broxton real fast or that will be a massive waste of money at RT (until Stan retires).

Quote from: Big Daddy on May 24, 2026, 01:26:34 AMWhere is everyone?  On MBB instead?  it's almost crickets here.

I think the fact 95% of the PS isn't televised anymore hurts the viewership, interest, and forum attendance.  There's still a lot of people who can't/won't stream.

Quote from: Blue In BC on May 23, 2026, 11:32:46 PMI hope the new kickers do well. IMO we may keep both on the PR as development for 2027. Canadian and a global is beneficial.

That Lidster looked pretty good to me.  His 50 yarder could have been 65 easily, and right down the middle.  He barely missed a shorter one later, but overall I was very impressed.

And a NAT?  Keep this kid on the PR!  In 2 years when he's our star PK and wins a game for us, we can say he put a Lid on it.

Weibe kid looked really good for SSK.  He's a 2nd year kid?  8th round?  That was a good pickup for them.  He's exactly what they need for their system.

Their 3rd QB looked pretty good too.  Very impressive final drive, keeping his cool and understanding they needed to move the ball vs nickel & dime (cough cough).

Quote from: Tecno on May 24, 2026, 07:34:06 AMI think the fact 95% of the PS isn't televised anymore hurts the viewership, interest, and forum attendance.  There's still a lot of people who can't/won't stream.

I'm not most tech savvy person out there but I still managed to cast the stream from my phone to my TV. I also muted the broadcast and synced up CJOB.

Quote from: Tecno on May 24, 2026, 07:36:10 AMThat Lidster looked pretty good to me.  His 50 yarder could have been 65 easily, and right down the middle.  He barely missed a shorter one later, but overall I was very impressed.

And a NAT?  Keep this kid on the PR!  In 2 years when he's our star PK and wins a game for us, we can say he put a Lid on it.

The Bombers sure have a good eye for finding kicking talent.

Four of the top 5 highest paid kickers were first signed by the Bombers.

Loved that 1st drive and the Zach to White combo moving the ball quickly & efficiently.
I thought Clercius did well, up to when he got his knees taken out by Sales.  Hope he is OK and still able to prove it's his spot.  Although were they lining him up inside?  I also liked the little I saw from MCI.
Only other WR to stand out was Singer.
Loved the DLine pressure most of the game, but hated the secondary breakdowns. Kelly, Stuart, Burnell, Javier all seemed to be too far off the Rider WR and just let him catch the ball. Also hated the B2B RTP by Reese. Just killer penalties.
Only LBer to stand out was Woodbey, but was he in SAM?
That playclock sure felt different in the last 2 minutes there, much more urgency between plays.

Ohwell, always seems we're playing our 1st PS game vs a team on their 2nd - that has to be a disadvantage.

Isn't it unlikely that the O line would be functioning smoothly right off the hop with a new centre, a new right tackle?

My understanding is that a lot of coordination and familiarity with each other is needed..

Which takes a bit of time. More than what they've had.

I noticed that T.E. At first was throwing to people that were smothered by defenders... but I think that got better quickly.

It looked like He  does have an NFL level arm.

Quote from: Tecno on May 24, 2026, 02:10:53 AMBecause the IMPs did badly or because the NATs did so well?  Remember, the question isn't can the IMPs play OT, the question is can one play OG.  In other words, Vant sucking at LT has nothing at all to do with whether we start Vant at LG.

That said, all of MOS's TC comments hint that it's locked at Stan Wallace Eli Neuf Broxton.  Wallace & Eli talked up every chance they get with nary a quibble.

A combination of that and every thing in between. However, the 3 Canadian OL lined up in the 1st series and Q to protect Collaros and to give Elgersma better protection for awhile.

The imports were used in a musical chair rotation. None seemed to be given any chance with a stable group. That tells me it's been decided one way or the other already.

I suppose a given player might get a more severe test under those situations. IMO if you're expecting some one to start that isn't the best way.

We'll see what combinations play in game 2 and for how long.

Quote from: Jesse on May 24, 2026, 03:26:55 AMThere's been zero indication that we want to put in Vant at LG. Or anyone other than Wallace.

Based on the very early pre-season read we better be considering playing Americans at guard if we intend to run the ball this season.

Hopefully the interior run game looks better next week or there's zero hope Collaros makes it through the year. We need to be able to run the ball. And Brady is really only be an interior running back so if we can't execute that the offense will absolutely bog down like last year.

Singer was the most targeted receiver and he did fairly well. It did appear he made a mistake not going to the back of the end zone that Perkins anticipated. It could be he's not used to the deeper Canadian end zone and stopped short resulting in a KD.

In any case, he made a statement to be the 3rd import receiver if that's the direction we choose. As I've suggested I didn't see anything to convince me we're headed to a 3 import OL. Now I haven't been to practice to see what happens there, so I certainly could be in error.

Both rookie QB's had some ups and downs. Overall not horrible for 1st CFL experience and massive player rotation every play.

Qb: Perkins should probably be #2 right now and I don't think its particularly close. Elgersma had a couple good reads and throws but it needs to slow down for him still, clipboard for awhile will help.

Oline: some nice pass pro here and there, but run block and overall looked eerily similar to last year and that's scary.

Rb: Chris Ike ran hard? Everyone was running into walls the second they got the ball

Rec: White looks as advertised, thats good. Singer needs to be starting IMO, looks like Pokey 2.0. Had some nice returns too. Fredericksen had a tough drop and also didn't spot the ball in time on that end zone shot - thought he could have had a td there. Corcoran has nice hands even if he's a little clunky.

Dline: Honestly impressed, lots of guys got after it. They wanted to be faster and meaner - they were. Dixon and Jenkins were solid. Reese with two brutal penalties that may send him packing, but I thought he actually looked pretty disruptive otherwise.

Lb: Woodbey is probably going to have a nice year, versatile and around the ball. Thought Jalen Smith may have been the most impressive though, great athleticism.

Db: none of the new guys really stood out to me. Burrell had some nice coverage and tackles, but also got lost a bunch. Texada had some moments too. Stuart and Kelly were out of their depth a bit IMO especially Stuart, that was a tough one.

Kickers did their jobs, both have big legs. Incumbents are safe either way.

Quote from: Sir Blue and Gold on May 24, 2026, 01:33:48 PMBased on the very early pre-season ready we better be considering playing Americans at gaurd now if we intend to run the ball this season.

Hopefully then interior run game looks better next week or there's zero hope Collaros makes it through the year. We need to be able to run the ball.

Oliveria only touched the ball 3 times. Every time it was very predictable which didn't help. It is a fair statement that Collaros needs to be protected and the run game needs to be successful otherwise we're in trouble.

It's partially a chicken and egg question. O. Wilson didn't play, and White only played briefly. So with not being to pass as well hurt our run game and vice versa. Rotating in at least 7 new OL wasn't going to make the offence look great.

New OC and 2 new QB's most asked to pass for evaluation.

It was a pre season game on the road against the Riders playing their 2nd game. 

BTW: Two pic 6's by the same team was nice to see.

More than anything I'm just wondering about any health issues with some starters that didn't play. We haven't heard anything to suggest anything serious so we'll see if they play on Friday.


It's a short week before the next game.

Quote from: Sir Blue and Gold on May 24, 2026, 01:33:48 PMBased on the very early pre-season ready we better be considering playing Americans at gaurd now if we intend to run the ball this season.

Hopefully then interior run game looks better next week or there's zero hope Collaros makes it through the year. We need to be able to run the ball.

I feel like this is a uninformed take of the situation. Pass protection was superb throughout the game and the run game was never able to get going - Americans at guard or not.

If we have a couple of drives with Zach throwing darts to White up and down the field, the run game opens up and they're plowing through like we've come to expect. But in the preseason, we took Zach out early and TE obviously struggled with making the passing game a threat so it was fairly easy for them to shut down any running lanes the odd time we made a simple rush up the middle.

IMO, the best take away we have was that our OL did really well.

Quote from: Tecno on May 24, 2026, 07:27:00 AMThe "indication" was fan hopes & dreams (me included).

I put it at 50/50.

lmao. Your dreams make it 50/50?

I think it's more 95/5. (the 5% being injury).

Other thoughts:

Like Elgersma. Get that results were pretty mixed but I watched him in the NFL and he pretty much was a check down Charlie down south.

He took his chances and he cut it loose and he made some mistakes. That's the only way to play and the only way to develop.

Considering he hasn't played much in a couple years and the CFL is a wildly different beast than USports he looked pretty good. The key will be continuing to develop from here because I'm pretty convinced we're going to need him at some point this season.

Collaros looked good. White looked good obviously. We got a bit of pressure. Secondary had a bunch of pre-season problems right from the starters.

Realistically, in my mind, next week will be a better read of things.

Quote from: Jesse on May 24, 2026, 02:48:27 PMI feel like this is a uninformed take of the situation. Pass protection was superb throughout the game and the run game was never able to get going - Americans at guard or not.

If we have a couple of drives with Zach throwing darts to White up and down the field, the run game opens up and they're plowing through like we've come to expect. But in the preseason, we took Zach out early and TE obviously struggled with making the passing game a threat so it was fairly easy for them to shut down any running lanes the odd time we made a simple rush up the middle.

IMO, the best take away we have was that our OL did really well.

lmao. Your dreams make it 50/50?

I think it's more 95/5. (the 5% being injury).

Maybe. But the run game struggled last season and we were a pretty mid ranked offensive line when it came to run execution last year. I was hoping to see a glimmer of something better but best on best what we saw was exactly the same as last year. I wouldn't say it's an uniformed take. If anything it's an impatient take which is taking too much of last year's results into this one.

What is absolute true is if we can't run effectively through the A and B gaps it's going to be hard to pass protect and it's going to be next to impossible to be a top 3 offence the way we're set up. It's as early as it gets but it's still a warning light that's flashing on the dashboard.

Quote from: Sir Blue and Gold on May 24, 2026, 02:58:01 PMMaybe. But the run game struggled last season and we were a pretty mid ranked offensive line when it came to run execution last year. I was hoping to see a glimmer of something better but best on best what we saw was exactly the same as last year. I wouldn't say it's an uniformed take. If anything it's an impatient take which is taking too much of last year's results into this one.

What is absolute true is if we can't run effectively through the A and B gaps it's going to be hard to pass protect and it's going to be next to impossible to be a top 3 offence the way we're set up. It's as early as it gets but it's still a warning light that's flashing on the dashboard.

Impatient is the better word.

But Winnipeg and Calgary were the best running teams in the league last year. Our offense was stifled by turn overs but it  doesn't change the effectiveness of our rushing attack when we were able to employ it.

Great takes everyone, had the game on but at a bon fire on a lappy without sound so didn't get a good feel for the game

Offensive thoughts:

- Amazing that we got to see the Zach - White connection. I'm excited to see the offence with Demski, Pokey, and White playing together

- Pass protection great all game long. All the QBs had lots of time.

- I think the back-up situation worked out as expected. Perkins looks like he can fill the Streveler role and run the offense if needed for a bit.

- It would obviously be amazing if Elgersma looked like a Hall of Famer off the bat, but that's not how it works. The important thing I saw is we are giving him the snaps and are actively developing him. MOS said after the game he was going for the big play rather than talking what's in front of him - perhaps a needed humbling/lesson.

- Brady and the rushing game didn't get many opportunities and experienced less success. I believe it would open up in the regular season with a consistent passing attack.

- Chris-Ike looks better than Peterson?? I know we've played him as a FB, but MOS has made comments that we've played him out of position and he looks better in his natural role. With Daniels in the mix, could Peterson be odd man out?

- Speaking of Daniels, I didn't really notice him. It was hard to follow with the crappy stadium feed. Anyone have any thoughts? DT or Ed had said he looked good in pass pro but not in the run game - which sounds like the whole team.

- It think Frederickson might have got himself cut while Singer was able to make some plays.

- Corcoran probably made the best catch of the night 15-20 yards down the field so I'll eat some crow on that one to steal a phrase.

Defensive thoughts:

- We had 13 guys listed at DL. So the first thing I noticed was that we ran a 4 man front all game long.

- Even with that being the case, we still started every play with a 2 man safety look. One would come down, one would stay back. It was not a consistent person staying back as the "safety", imo.

- Jaylen Smith looks like the real deal. Noticed him a ton. Drafted as a LB but practicing with the DBs - he might be the Canadian version of Griffin/Woodbey (same body type too).

- #22 - Burrell and #7 - Stuart seemed to be in chase mode on several occasions. Didn't notice them in a positive way

- Texada though had the cool interception and was he the one who broke up the pass that led to Holm's INT?

Special Teams:

- We had a 50 FG and a couple of booming punts

- Much like an American RB though, doesn't seem like this team has room for K/P - even though I would personally love a guy who can punt the ball 70 yards with hang time. Seems like a good thing.

I think it will be easier to sort out which players to keep on offence. Whether they are starters or back ups ( Canadians ) is moot in the early going.

We don't use a DI on offence so the only import to stick on the AR is probably Singer. That's if and only if we don't go to that 3 import OL. If we do. I have no idea which import that will be. Singer would then go to either the reserve or PR.

Fredericksen to the PR. Didn't see anybody else that did anything but we probably have 2 on the PR.

Just a guess but Elsbury, Mazzocua and Randolph to the PR.

Quote from: Blue In BC on May 24, 2026, 01:39:33 PMSinger was the most targeted receiver and he did fairly well. It did appear he made a mistake not going to the back of the end zone that Perkins anticipated. It could be he's not used to the deeper Canadian end zone and stopped short resulting in a KD.

In any case, he made a statement to be the 3rd import receiver if that's the direction we choose. As I've suggested I didn't see anything to convince me we're headed to a 3 import OL. Now I haven't been to practice to see what happens there, so I certainly could be in error.

Both rookie QB's had some ups and downs. Overall not horrible for 1st CFL experience and massive player rotation every play.

Perkins kind of reminded me of a young Kevin Glenn, seems to be versatile and elusive but not much of an arm.  Looks like a good candidate for a dink and dunk offence.

Neither rookie QB looked like they were capable of reading the defence, they either threw to a spot or threw at what they perceived to be an open target almost blindly. Reading the defence is a skill not acquired quickly without playing time, I fear if Zach goes down this season they will be hard pressed to win any games with the current backups. 

Terry Wilson may not have been the answer but he was at least familiar with the problem and had studied it for a few years, hard to say how he would have faired because he never got a full game to show if he could eventually comprehend and adapt or not. 

Gambling on Zach's health is a risky proposition as it often takes only one heavy hit to remove him from the game as happened repeatedly last season.  The West race is going to be ulta-tight this year, I think they have to seriously consider bringing in a QB with some level of CFL experience just to get by, even if they are not in their long-term plans.  A few QB's are still available, none of them very attractive but beggars can't always be choosers.

Quote from: Throw Long Bannatyne on May 24, 2026, 04:14:35 PMPerkins kind of reminded me of a young Kevin Glenn, seems to be versatile and elusive but not much of an arm.  Looks like a good candidate for a dink and dunk offence.

Neither rookie QB looked like they were capable of reading the defence, they either threw to a spot or threw at what they perceived to be an open target almost blindly. Reading the defence is a skill not acquired quickly without playing time, I fear if Zach goes down this season they will be hard pressed to win any games with the current backups. 

Terry Wilson may not have been the answer but he was at least familiar with the problem and had studied it for a few years, hard to say how he would have faired because he never got a full game to show if he could eventually comprehend and adapt or not. 

Gambling on Zach's health is a risky proposition as it often takes only one heavy hit to remove him from the game as happened repeatedly last season.  The West race is going to be ulta-tight this year, I think they have to seriously consider bringing in a QB with some level of CFL experience just to get by, even if they are not in their long-term plans.  A few QB's are still available, none of them very attractive but beggars can't always be choosers.

I disagree with the notion that we have to sign a retread who has already proven they are not worth a contract.

Zach is our starter and hopefully the only time he comes off the field is to let Perkins run the SY or have Elgersma play clean up for the reps.

If he leaves a game early or misses a start here or there, Perkins and the run game can do the best they can the same way we saw Streveler do it. And if there is a major injury, signing someone off the street isn't saving the season anyway.

On defence is where the real questions exist.

Burrell, Texada and Williams were the best of the bunch at CB. One will start and 2 will end up on PR. I think Lamont sticks on PR as depth for DHB. This could be curtains for Allen.

12 LB's: Clinton and Cretsinger to the PR. 3 others probably cut out right.

13 DL: We only get to keep 1 import to start besides Ceresna: Jenkins. Dixon to PR. After that IDK but a few will be down the road. Interesting that we didn't show many imports at DT although some could potentially do that.

Not much of my guesses in my mind were changed by the game.

Veterans on the bubble due to ratio and depth: Allen and Ayers. Both have some talent but how do we get them on the roster and at what cost.

New starters: Singer, Jenkins and Burrell

Quote from: Jesse on May 24, 2026, 04:19:29 PMI disagree with the notion that we have to sign a retread who has already proven they are not worth a contract.

Zach is our starter and hopefully the only time he comes off the field is to let Perkins run the SY or have Elgersma play clean up for the reps.

If he leaves a game early or misses a start here or there, Perkins and the run game can do the best they can the same way we saw Streveler do it. And if there is a major injury, signing someone off the street isn't saving the season anyway.

Zach missed 5 games last season, so it is a real issue, no matter how improved the protection he's still going to get hit every game.  I think the Bombers showed with Streveler, they can still win games if the backup QB can run the basic offence with the help of a good running game.  Not sure these 2 can get to that point till later in the season, and that's only if they receive playing time. 

MBT and Shea Patterson are probably the best candidates available right now that could provide a chance of winning 50% of their games and putting up a good fight.  Can't be left in a situation were they might have to throw Elgersma to the wolves repeatedly in front of a hostile Wpg. crowd accustomed to winning, couple of bad losses and they'll turn on anyone.

Quote from: Blue In BC on May 24, 2026, 04:20:34 PMOn defence is where the real questions exist.

Burrell, Texada and Williams were the best of the bunch at CB. One will start and 2 will end up on PR. I think Lamont sticks on PR as depth for DHB. This could be curtains for Allen.

12 LB's: Clinton and Cretsinger to the PR. 3 others probably cut out right.

13 DL: We only get to keep 1 import to start besides Ceresna: Jenkins. Dixon to PR. After that IDK but a few will be down the road. Interesting that we didn't show many imports at DT although some could potentially do that.

Not much of my guesses in my mind were changed by the game.

Veterans on the bubble due to ratio and depth: Allen and Ayers. Both have some talent but how do we get them on the roster and at what cost.

New starters: Singer, Jenkins and Burrell

They have to find a way to keep Jenkins and Dixon on the AR, the two of them along with Willie, Ceresna and Lawson are the basis for a great D-line.  Kornelson held his own and was involved often, he'll do ok until Schmeck gets back. 

I don't think Ayers or Allen are in any danger of being released, they're valuable assets with versatility and growing experience that have potential to be great players once they've found their place in the lineup.  Ayers is so combustible they'll put him anywhere they think he can make the greatest impact.

Quote from: Blueforlife on May 24, 2026, 03:35:06 PMGreat takes everyone, had the game on but at a bon fire on a lappy without sound so didn't get a good feel for the game

The game is re-playable on CFL+, at least for awhile.

Quote from: Throw Long Bannatyne on May 24, 2026, 05:29:12 PMThey have to find a way to keep Jenkins and Dixon on the AR, the two of them along with Willie, Ceresna and Lawson are the basis for a great D-line.  Kornelson held his own and was involved often, he'll do ok until Schmeck gets back. 

I don't think Ayers or Allen are in any danger of being released, they're valuable assets with versatility and growing experience that have potential to be great players once they've found their place in the lineup.  Ayers is so combustible they'll put him anywhere they think he can make the greatest impact.

I keep saying it. It's ratio math and roster size. We can't get everyone on the AR. We didn't have an extra import DL. I'm all for keeping Dixon and Jenkins on the roster. Someone would have to be deleted, moved to reserve or PR. Both are good players and could have a role. Every role is a trade off on a player in a different role.

We certainly won't have a DI as a safety only player. Taking either Allen or Ayers off gets Dixon on potentially.

It's not likely we have a DB as a DI. Vaval will be an in game injury replacement.

I'd like another import DT on the roster if we have one that wins a spot on the AR. I didn't see one take that spot and even so, do we have a DI spot to do that?

Completely a nothing game to make any team judgements on, totally focused on individual efforts, and must take into account the team-mates they were working with and the opponents they were working against.

There is no "Film" study before a PS game, everyone is working off their own individual assignments.  Some looked good, some looked great, and some were heading for the cut down list.

I think the fact Elgersma got the 2nd drive and into the 3rd quarter meant they wanted to get a look at what he could do against SSK's better defenders.  I think he was against better D, but had better Rec's.  On the whole, not disappointed at all, some moments of flash.

Perkins had a worse Rec corps/Oline, but was against a worse D.  It felt like he did marginally better that Elgersma, and I still think we come out of camp with him at QB2, and Elgersma competing with him to take the spot.

I hope Condell can convince MOS that during the season, in any mop up time, Zach can rest.  Even through the game, they should have series set for both Perkins and Elgersma, to rotate in when there is a long drive, and then we get a turnover quickly on the next.  Load management for Zach is needed this year, and both Zach and MOS need to understand that, we need him fresh for the postseason.  I know, this year 3 teams still miss the playoffs, but getting there with a spent Collaros is a waste.

Next weeks game will give us a lot more to discuss, especially in the trenches.  We will see the projected starters for more than a series, and the potential backups / cuts will be in tough to show their wares.

Calling for Wallace to be replaced by an Imp after this game is probably the one comment I take most umbrage with.  The calls for a 3 Imp Oline still befuddle me when we have good Nats.

Quote from: Throw Long Bannatyne on May 24, 2026, 05:33:13 PMThe game is re-playable on CFL+, at least for awhile.

That site sucks, trying the rewatch the game nd it keeps buffering. The league is so bush sometimes.

Quote from: Jesse on May 24, 2026, 03:53:41 PMOffensive thoughts:

- Amazing that we got to see the Zach - White connection. I'm excited to see the offence with Demski, Pokey, and White playing together

- Pass protection great all game long. All the QBs had lots of time.

- I think the back-up situation worked out as expected. Perkins looks like he can fill the Streveler role and run the offense if needed for a bit.

- It would obviously be amazing if Elgersma looked like a Hall of Famer off the bat, but that's not how it works. The important thing I saw is we are giving him the snaps and are actively developing him. MOS said after the game he was going for the big play rather than talking what's in front of him - perhaps a needed humbling/lesson.

- Brady and the rushing game didn't get many opportunities and experienced less success. I believe it would open up in the regular season with a consistent passing attack.

- Chris-Ike looks better than Peterson?? I know we've played him as a FB, but MOS has made comments that we've played him out of position and he looks better in his natural role. With Daniels in the mix, could Peterson be odd man out?

- Speaking of Daniels, I didn't really notice him. It was hard to follow with the crappy stadium feed. Anyone have any thoughts? DT or Ed had said he looked good in pass pro but not in the run game - which sounds like the whole team.

- It think Frederickson might have got himself cut while Singer was able to make some plays.

- Corcoran probably made the best catch of the night 15-20 yards down the field so I'll eat some crow on that one to steal a phrase.

Defensive thoughts:

- We had 13 guys listed at DL. So the first thing I noticed was that we ran a 4 man front all game long.

- Even with that being the case, we still started every play with a 2 man safety look. One would come down, one would stay back. It was not a consistent person staying back as the "safety", imo.

- Jaylen Smith looks like the real deal. Noticed him a ton. Drafted as a LB but practicing with the DBs - he might be the Canadian version of Griffin/Woodbey (same body type too).

- #22 - Burrell and #7 - Stuart seemed to be in chase mode on several occasions. Didn't notice them in a positive way

- Texada though had the cool interception and was he the one who broke up the pass that led to Holm's INT?

Special Teams:

- We had a 50 FG and a couple of booming punts

- Much like an American RB though, doesn't seem like this team has room for K/P - even though I would personally love a guy who can punt the ball 70 yards with hang time. Seems like a good thing.

That was a nice grab (good hands as advertised by Tecno).  A positive development if can continue and perhaps more bird will be required, time will tell.  You have provided a nice summary here, well presented, balanced take, thanks.

We're allowed 20 imports that aren't QB's. Bombers will only have 2 import QB's so our total should be 22 import on the game day roster, excluding whatever they do with the reserve.

1. Bryant
2. Broxton
3. O. Wilson
4. White
5. Jones
6. K. Wilson
7. Griffin
8. Woodbey
9.  Holm
10. Nichols
11. Moxey
12. Burrell
13. Ceresna
14. Jefferson
15. Jenkins
16. Vaval
17. Castillo
18. Collaros
19. Perkins

So in theory we have 3 more spots of which 1 is a  DI's ( potentially ) and 1 is just a non starter due to starting 8 Canadians. Yesterday we started 9 Canadians so that's a limbo question where we add an import starter.

Choices: Singer or Fredericksen, Allen, Ayers, 1 additional import OL( starting ), Dixon

In this scenario Castillo, Vaval and Woodbey would be 3 of the DI's.

IMO Singer makes the roster over another import OL. I'd pick Dixon over Ayers as a DI but O'Shea probably picks Ayers but that might still leave room for Dixon.

If they choose to retain Allen then Dixon is probably not on the AR.

Quote from: Blue In BC on May 24, 2026, 06:57:14 PMWe're allowed 20 imports that aren't QB's. Bombers will only have 2 import QB's so our total should be 22 import on the game day roster, excluding whatever they do with the reserve.

1. Bryant
2. Broxton
3. O. Wilson
4. White
5. Jones
6. K. Wilson
7. Griffin
8. Woodbey
9.  Holm
10. Nichols
11. Moxey
12. Burrell
13. Ceresna
14. Jefferson
15. Jenkins
16. Vaval
17. Castillo
18. Collaros
19. Perkins

So in theory we have 3 more spots of which 1 is a  DI's ( potentially ) and 1 is just a non starter due to starting 8 Canadians. Yesterday we started 9 Canadians so that's a limbo question where we add an import starter.

Choices: Singer or Fredericksen, Allen, Ayers, 1 additional import OL( starting ), Dixon

In this scenario Castillo, Vaval and Woodbey would be 3 of the DI's.

IMO Singer makes the roster over another import OL. I'd pick Dixon over Ayers as a DI but O'Shea probably picks Ayers but that might still leave room for Dixon.

If they choose to retain Allen then Dixon is probably not on the AR.

Can argue with any of that.  Going to be some tough choices, hopefully the talent we want to retain will wait their turn on a the PR.  Will likely loose a few decent players / prospects that will decline.  IR will be used to hide a few gems with turf toe.

Quote from: GOLDMEMBER on May 24, 2026, 06:22:02 PMThat site sucks, trying the rewatch the game nd it keeps buffering. The league is so bush sometimes.

Buffering is a local issue, not a website issue. Game replayed fine from start to finish this morning.

Quote from: Blueforlife on May 24, 2026, 07:08:59 PMCan argue with any of that.  Going to be some tough choices, hopefully the talent we want to retain will wait their turn on a the PR.  Will likely loose a few decent players / prospects that will decline.  IR will be used to hide a few gems with turf toe.

The 2 man reserve will allow us to park some talent and yes we might see 2 or 3 players on the 1 game IR. I don't expect us to do that unless necessary now that we have that 2 man reserve. The PR adds 2 players.

I'm not sure about the health of some of the starters that didn't travel with the team. There might be one or 2 that legitimately miss the 1st game? But if everyone is healthy, I don't see other teams picking up anyone we release. Each team has the same issuees.

One last thought that Lamont might be a better early choice over Allen if we choose to have an extra DB on the AR. Overall I lean towards an extra Dl than an extra DB.

Quote from: DCM on May 24, 2026, 07:21:40 PMBuffering is a local issue, not a website issue. Game replayed fine from start to finish this morning.

Yep, I stream through copper wire and didn't experience any hiccups with the broadcast.

Quote from: Blueforlife on May 24, 2026, 06:46:30 PMThat was a nice grab (good hands as advertised by Tecno).  A positive development if can continue and perhaps more bird will be required, time will tell.  You have provided a nice summary here, well presented, balanced take, thanks.

My take wasn't balanced at all, lol. It was almost purely positive things that I noticed. Wasn't looking for failure.

Quote from: Jesse on May 24, 2026, 07:50:47 PMMy take wasn't balanced at all, lol. It was almost purely positive things that I noticed. Wasn't looking for failure.

Fair enough, perhaps balanced should be replaced with calling it the ways you seen it, this time of year that's what we want and yes everyone looking for positives as we evaluate what will work! Keep it up, much appreciated.  The detail of your post helps.

Where was Tommy Nield for yesterday's pre-season game vs Sask? He appears ahead of Clercius and Davis on the depth chart but it doesn't look like he recorded any catches. Maybe just a decoy for Tim White in that first series?

Quote from: Doublezero on May 24, 2026, 09:39:39 PMWhere was Tommy Nield for yesterday's pre-season game vs Sask? He appears ahead of Clercius and Davis on the depth chart but it doesn't look like he recorded any catches. Maybe just a decoy for Tim White in that first series?

Starting offence didn't stay on for long and White took all the receptions.

Quote from: Doublezero on May 24, 2026, 09:39:39 PMWhere was Tommy Nield for yesterday's pre-season game vs Sask? He appears ahead of Clercius and Davis on the depth chart but it doesn't look like he recorded any catches. Maybe just a decoy for Tim White in that first series?

I'm not really sure what to expect from Nield but whatever your expectations, I would lower them. He's without question the 4th best receiver on this team and could be more like 5-6 depending on how everyone grades out this year.

Blue in BC had an excellent post about the Americans on the roster and potentially how that looks. Look forward to his take on our Canadians.

Quote from: Blue In BC on May 24, 2026, 06:57:14 PMWe're allowed 20 imports that aren't QB's. Bombers will only have 2 import QB's so our total should be 22 import on the game day roster, excluding whatever they do with the reserve.

1. Bryant
2. Broxton
3. O. Wilson
4. White
5. Jones
6. K. Wilson
7. Griffin
8. Woodbey
9.  Holm
10. Nichols
11. Moxey
12. Burrell
13. Ceresna
14. Jefferson
15. Jenkins
16. Vaval
17. Castillo
18. Collaros
19. Perkins

So in theory we have 3 more spots of which 1 is a  DI's ( potentially ) and 1 is just a non starter due to starting 8 Canadians. Yesterday we started 9 Canadians so that's a limbo question where we add an import starter.

Choices: Singer or Fredericksen, Allen, Ayers, 1 additional import OL( starting ), Dixon

In this scenario Castillo, Vaval and Woodbey would be 3 of the DI's.

IMO Singer makes the roster over another import OL. I'd pick Dixon over Ayers as a DI but O'Shea probably picks Ayers but that might still leave room for Dixon.

If they choose to retain Allen then Dixon is probably not on the AR.

Possible option to create room for an extra import on the D-line is to give Kyrie the special Natl. designation he deserves and backstop him with Smith, who seems to have lept over Shay in terms of impressive play. Unfortunately this could sidetrack Woodbey, who is also making tremendous progress.

Quote from: BomberFan73 on May 24, 2026, 11:22:00 AMThat playclock sure felt different in the last 2 minutes there, much more urgency between plays.

They go back to the stop-then-20s clock for the final 3 mins.  So it should be no different from last year.

I think what you saw there was SSK really not wanting to lose.  They take winning their PS seriously.

Too bad we couldn't return the favor when we had our chance.  But Mafia has never given a rat's butt about winning a PS.

Quote from: Throw Long Bannatyne on May 25, 2026, 02:52:40 AMPossible option to create room for an extra import on the D-line is to give Kyrie the special Natl. designation he deserves

Like half the team's IMPs could be that 8th "NAT" NA FAKENAT.  I wouldn't get too excited about what that buys us.  It's a mostly useless no-op designation.  (In contrast to the more impactful DNA, but we don't use that.)

Quote from: Sir Blue and Gold on May 24, 2026, 10:55:08 PMI'm not really sure what to expect from Nield but whatever your expectations, I would lower them.

At his price Nield should be miles above every other NAT not named Demski.  He's getting paid Gittens-level money and should be expected to produce more than even Woli did.  If he is just another extra NAT like our other guys then I think we'll be disappointed.

If we can get McInnis-level I think we'd all be overjoyed.

Quote from: GOLDMEMBER on May 24, 2026, 06:22:02 PMThat site sucks, trying the rewatch the game nd it keeps buffering

Often this is the game auth-cookie expiring.  Just hit reload button on your browser to refresh and allow watching.  It seems to time out after 8-12 hours?  It's taking me days to watch all of these games and I have to refresh every time I step away for a long while.  Make sure you note your position before reloading, as it will reset to the start of the game.

Quote from: theaardvark on May 24, 2026, 06:14:09 PMCalling for Wallace to be replaced by an Imp after this game is probably the one comment I take most umbrage with.  The calls for a 3 Imp Oline still befuddle me when we have good Nats.

Wallace should be a human road grader.  He should be literally clearing vast swathes of flesh to making gaping holes for Brady.  Like hosing 3 guys and getting downfield to hose another LB or DB.

But he doesn't.  I don't think I ever saw that even once in '25!!  And his pass pro wasn't the best in '25 either.  So what is he doing there?  That's why many are antsy about the idea of a 3 IMP OL.

MOS is still tooting his horn though, so we should all hope & pray for improvement/growth from '25.  It would appear his pass pro is up to snuff, but still no sign of life in the road grading department.

Maybe he'd be best used as a sealer (surely he can seal off 2-3 guys) with Broxton swinging around (a la Yoshi) and doing the grading.  That's what I'd do.  Didn't see it on Saturday though!  What I did see was SSK's run game pwning us.  Ouch.

On the bright side, Eli seemed more than capable at C!  Well, I'm assuming he was at C to start the game.  Superb pass-pro for that drive, and most of the game.  (Then again, SSK was clearly focusing on stopping the run, especially on 1st down -- maybe they weren't trying to get to the QB much?)

Quote from: Sir Blue and Gold on May 24, 2026, 01:33:48 PMHopefully the interior run game looks better next week or there's zero hope Collaros makes it through the year. We need to be able to run the ball. And Brady is really only be an interior running back so if we can't execute that the offense will absolutely bog down like last year.

Wow, we spot & agree on the same thing!

However, we don't need to run the ball.  I mean, we will, and we want to, but there's no need.  We could be more like BC or HAM the last couple of seasons where it's basically all pass all the time.  If you build the league-best OL you can do that.  5 REC out every play.  Layered routes.

Of course, then there is zero point in tying up your wad in Brady $$$, and thus we won't do that.

But you sure are right that they better solve this run conundrum darn fast or we're in for a ton of -1Y Brady 1st down runs on fully loaded boxes.  Just like '25.  I really don't understand how SSK can get this right with their middling RB and we can't.  Unless Yoshi really is the only RT that can properly road grade!  Ironic, as pretty sure Yoshi is a heck of a lot cheaper than Broxton right now!

Our OL couldn't maintain control of DL last season if our life depended on it.  Every DL could shed us with ease.  It's like we weren't even there.  Sad.

Good thing we hired an OC who is known league-wide for being a run game whiz.  Oh, wait...

We also see what SSK's (and thus everyone else who is smart) game plan against us will be.  Exact same as '25.  Stuff the box on 1st down to take Brady out of the game, and make Zach beat you with his arm.

If the pass pro is much improved, and the REC corps is much improved, maybe we can talk them out of that after a game or 2.  If not... long season...

Kinda weird how Brady rushed for a 5.8 yard average with all those rushes for -1 yards...

Led the league in rushing average actually.

Quote from: Throw Long Bannatyne on May 25, 2026, 02:52:40 AMPossible option to create room for an extra import on the D-line is to give Kyrie the special Natl. designation he deserves and backstop him with Smith, who seems to have lept over Shay in terms of impressive play. Unfortunately this could sidetrack Woodbey, who is also making tremendous progress.

I'm still not sure about how this works. I've been under the impression it's more about the ability to replace a Canadian for a number of snaps. It's not about being able to add another import to the set limit.

If that was the case, Jefferson, Holm, Nichols, Bryant among others would qualify.

Quote from: RebusRankin on May 25, 2026, 01:29:43 AMBlue in BC had an excellent post about the Americans on the roster and potentially how that looks. Look forward to his take on our Canadians.

Ok. I'll give it a shot. Some basic assumptions 1st based on having 22 officially counted:

A. Munier-Bailey takes the place of a Canadian as the 2nd global on the roster. Therefore -1. Down to 21 counted now?
B. Elgersma is on the AR which adds to those on the list but does not add to the official count.

1. Neufeld
2. Eli
3. Wallace
4. Vibert
5. Oliveria
6. Daniels:  2 FB's is unusual and it comes at the cost of either a receiver or DB most probably IMO.
7. Chris-Ike
8. Nield
9. Corcoran
10. Clercius
11. Lawson
12. Kornelson
13. Elgersma
14. Kramdi
15. Ball
16. Hallett
17. Gatkouth: Because he has upside, was a high draft choice and we need DL depth after losing Schmekel to injury.
18. Cobb: Versatility earns him a spot.
19. Smith
20. Shay
21. Cadwallader
22. Peterson
23. Leroux

All of this is with the expectation of not having 3 import OL. If so that would bump Vibert off the game day roster. That would free up a spot for another Canadian.

My list has 4 Canadian receivers which is not our norm. However I think Cobb makes the roster due to versatility on ST's. So this is applicable regardless of whether we start 2 or 3 Canadian receivers.

I think Kelly is released or pushed to PR if he accepts. In theory Cobb & Ball replaces him in that ST role.

Stuart has upside but IMO he might be headed to the reserve for awhile. He gets paid and is protected. Too green to push Hallett at the moment.

I didn't see Daniels get any looks as a receiver. For that matter I'm not sure how often he was at FB or how he did. He might be a wild card that could influence 4 Canadian receivers or Chris-Ike .

Anyway, there are a few more moving parts / issues than I thought originally. It's always complicated decided on how many new draft choices to start on the AR and if so, who do they bump in a limited roster size.

There isn't anybody I want to see not make the roster, but math dictates. My list has 1 too many Canadians if I'm right.

Where that leaves us I don't want to draw that line but it could be a choice between Clercius and Corcoran.

Kramdi starting at safety changes the depth at safety potentially bumping Kelly as I suggested.

New injuries in game 2 or practice, real or fake choices to 1 game IR. Maybe 1 or 2 fake ones?

Whew. The coaches have their work cut out for them.

Quote from: Tecno on May 25, 2026, 10:08:41 AMWallace should be a human road grader.  He should be literally clearing vast swathes of flesh to making gaping holes for Brady.  Like hosing 3 guys and getting downfield to hose another LB or DB.

But he doesn't.  I don't think I ever saw that even once in '25!!  And his pass pro wasn't the best in '25 either.  So what is he doing there?  That's why many are antsy about the idea of a 3 IMP OL.

MOS is still tooting his horn though, so we should all hope & pray for improvement/growth from '25.  It would appear his pass pro is up to snuff, but still no sign of life in the road grading department.

Maybe he'd be best used as a sealer (surely he can seal off 2-3 guys) with Broxton swinging around (a la Yoshi) and doing the grading.  That's what I'd do.  Didn't see it on Saturday though!  What I did see was SSK's run game pwning us.  Ouch.

Yeah, that's been the frustrating thing with Wallace. So big yet plays so small. Unfortunately I think the idea that there is "competition" at the LG spot is similar to the "competition" at safety last year. The decision has been made, now it's a matter of whether it works out or another mid-season switch will occur.

The breakdown of rosters is 45 total
So 19 imports plus qbs so 21. One global, which leaves 23 cdns.
If Munier Bailey is in, that leaves 22.
  That likely moves Cobb to pr. I do think Kelly is on roster in place of Peterson or Hallet. Injuries will play s big part

Quote from: Pete on May 25, 2026, 03:13:45 PMThe breakdown of rosters is 45 total
So 19 imports plus qbs so 21. One global, which leaves 23 cdns.
If Munier Bailey is in, that leaves 22.
  That likely moves Cobb to pr. I do think Kelly is on roster in place of Peterson or Hallet. Injuries will play s big part

Too many designations and rules behind each. I'm less clear every year and now we have an added reserve list.

Normally 16 imports start and teams have 3 at QB. Add in 4 DI's = 23 imports which leaves Canadians at 22 not 23. Since the addition of a minimum global, that drops to 21 Canadians. Having a Canadian QB doesn't impact the counts since QB's are a separate category.

CFL rosters require a minimum of 21 National (Canadian) players on each 45-man active roster. Teams carry a maximum of 45 players, which can be broken down into up to 21 National players (including one nationalized American), up to 19 Americans, and up to two Global players.

If we add a 2nd global that's at the cost of another Canadian dropping down to 20 IIRC.

Kelly over Cobb is a choice but Kelly has become mostly an ST player. Cobb is more versatile but O'Shea likes his veterans so you may be right. Hard to say whether Chris-Ike is the better choice over Peterson as an in game injury replacement.

Quote from: Blue In BC on May 25, 2026, 01:25:10 PMI'm still not sure about how this works. I've been under the impression it's more about the ability to replace a Canadian for a number of snaps. It's not about being able to add another import to the set limit.

If that was the case, Jefferson, Holm, Nichols, Bryant among others would qualify.

The difference is they have a Natl. capable enough to backup Kyrie in Smith when he reaches his snap count, which is not the case for any of those players you've listed.  Switch the ratio at WIL along with Kramdi and Lawson gives them more flexibility along the D-line.

Don't know exactly how that roster rule works though, I think Kyrie would still count as an Import on the roster but on the field he could count as a Natl.

Back in 2019 they were running an 8 man rotation on the D-line with Kongbo, Hansen, and Jake, everyone else on the D was an import.  In recent years they've switched to a 6 man rotation with poor results since Jeffcoat was dumped.

Quote from: Throw Long Bannatyne on May 25, 2026, 04:32:48 PMThe difference is they have a Natl. capable enough to backup Kyrie in Smith when he reaches his snap count, which is not the case for any of those players you've listed.  Switch the ratio at WIL along with Kramdi and Lawson gives them more flexibility along the D-line.

Don't know exactly how that roster rule works though, I think Kyrie would still count as an Import on the roster but on the field he could count as a Natl.

Back in 2019 they were running an 8 man rotation on the D-line with Kongbo, Hansen, and Jake, everyone else on the D was an import.  In recent years they've switched to a 6 man rotation with poor results since Jeffcoat was dumped.

That's the point. It doesn't add to the number of imports on the roster, I'd think Woodbey would be next man up at WIL in rotation. Smith might start to see more reps but I'm not sure he's next man up.

K. Wilson would still be starting and any possible benefit might exist if he was replacing Smith who was taking most reps starting. In either case, that isn't happening.

So no benefit IMO unless they decide Smith will start. Remember virtually no time on defence last year ( 3 DT's ) to starting this year? Possible but I don't see that to start the season.

Given the depth at WIL, I'd rather delete K. Wilson and add another import DL. I wonder if they are considering Woodbey starting at WIL. That would solve that problem.

Quote from: Tecno on May 25, 2026, 10:17:58 AMWow, we spot & agree on the same thing!

However, we don't need to run the ball.  I mean, we will, and we want to, but there's no need.  We could be more like BC or HAM the last couple of seasons where it's basically all pass all the time.  If you build the league-best OL you can do that.  5 REC out every play.  Layered routes.

Of course, then there is zero point in tying up your wad in Brady $$$, and thus we won't do that.

But you sure are right that they better solve this run conundrum darn fast or we're in for a ton of -1Y Brady 1st down runs on fully loaded boxes.  Just like '25.  I really don't understand how SSK can get this right with their middling RB and we can't.  Unless Yoshi really is the only RT that can properly road grade!  Ironic, as pretty sure Yoshi is a heck of a lot cheaper than Broxton right now!

Our OL couldn't maintain control of DL last season if our life depended on it.  Every DL could shed us with ease.  It's like we weren't even there.  Sad.

Good thing we hired an OC who is known league-wide for being a run game whiz.  Oh, wait...

Egad, you're describing the Hamilton approach, without much of a running game they haven't been back to the cup since 2021 and have been fluttering up and down like a butterfly.  Most successful teams are following the Bombers footprint with a strong bashing running game, the essential compliment when it's difficult to move the ball downfield through the air.

Quote from: Throw Long Bannatyne on May 25, 2026, 04:43:29 PMEgad, you're describing the Hamilton approach, without much of a running game they haven't been back to the cup since 2021 and have been fluttering up and down like a butterfly.  Most successful teams are following the Bombers footprint with a strong bashing running game, the essential compliment when it's difficult to move the ball downfield through the air.

You have to be able to run in the fall in bad weather. We have the highest paid RB in the CFL. We don't have a young athletic runner at QB.  So yes, we're going to run. ALOT.

Quote from: Tecno on May 25, 2026, 10:08:41 AMWallace should be a human road grader.  He should be literally clearing vast swathes of flesh to making gaping holes for Brady.  Like hosing 3 guys and getting downfield to hose another LB or DB.

But he doesn't.  I don't think I ever saw that even once in '25!!  And his pass pro wasn't the best in '25 either.  So what is he doing there?  That's why many are antsy about the idea of a 3 IMP OL.

MOS is still tooting his horn though, so we should all hope & pray for improvement/growth from '25.  It would appear his pass pro is up to snuff, but still no sign of life in the road grading department.

Maybe he'd be best used as a sealer (surely he can seal off 2-3 guys) with Broxton swinging around (a la Yoshi) and doing the grading.  That's what I'd do.  Didn't see it on Saturday though!  What I did see was SSK's run game pwning us.  Ouch.

Going to disagree with you on Wallace, still see him as the foundation to build the O-line around for the next decade if they treat him right.  None of the others are likely to be around 5 years from now.  Nobody stronger, he can road grade, he can defend well, being so huge he just isn't all that fast.

Quote from: Blue In BC on May 25, 2026, 04:40:31 PMThat's the point. It doesn't add to the number of imports on the roster, I'd think Woodbey would be next man up at WIL in rotation. Smith might start to see more reps but I'm not sure he's next man up.

K. Wilson would still be starting and any possible benefit might exist if he was replacing Smith who was taking most reps starting. In either case, that isn't happening.

So no benefit IMO unless they decide Smith will start. Remember virtually no time on defence last year ( 3 DT's ) to starting this year? Possible but I don't see that to start the season.

Given the depth at WIL, I'd rather delete K. Wilson and add another import DL. I wonder if they are considering Woodbey starting at WIL. That would solve that problem.

Sure, by next season I would like to see Woodbey, Smith and Shay as starters or heavily involved with Griffin at SAM. That would provide them with a lot more ratio flexibility on defence, which would also help out the offence.

Quote from: Throw Long Bannatyne on May 25, 2026, 05:10:27 PMSure, by next season I would like to see Woodbey, Smith and Shay as starters or heavily involved with Griffin at SAM. That would provide them with a lot more ratio flexibility on defence, which would also help out the offence.

It's never easy to move away from a long time player and starter. There are ratio and SMS issues beyond ability. Woodbey is potentially a free agent next off season. He'll still have a significant role in 2026 but starting at WIL, NOW is not the worst idea.

I have read elsewhere that some are suggesting Smith start NOW instead of K. Wilson.

In both cases there are pros and cons. Most of us don't get to practice to see how well all of the choices perform. K. Wilson is not a bad player but has he been passed by one or both?

We could potentially move K. Wilson onto the reserve to extend his career by a year while he's earning a full pay check.

Quote from: Blue In BC on May 25, 2026, 05:25:28 PMIt's never easy to move away from a long time player and starter. There are ratio and SMS issues beyond ability. Woodbey is potentially a free agent next off season. He'll still have a significant role in 2026 but starting at WIL, NOW is not the worst idea.

I have read elsewhere that some are suggesting Smith start NOW instead of K. Wilson.

In both cases there are pros and cons. Most of us don't get to practice to see how well all of the choices perform. K. Wilson is not a bad player but has he been passed by one or both?

As a GM it should be easy to move on from an older player when there's a conveyor belt of talented younger players coming down the line that need to be accommodated.  The long-term benefit of flagging the higher age as an outlier is an easy business decision, emotional response should be nixed.  There was no great reason to re-sign Kyrie after he hit FA, unless they did it as one last favour to compete for his spot, bringing back JSK made even less sense, have to wonder if O-Shea jhas nightmares of Sam Hurl and is afraid to trust these younger LB's. or if it's Jordan Younger blocking their path.

Along with Woodbey, Shay and Smith will also be FA's next season, time to use them or lose them, at least give them an honest whirl and see if they have the potential to become capable starters or not.  I don't think any of the 3 will command big money, but they may see better opportunity elsewhere if not given a real chance in Wpg.  Losing both Smith and Shay would be a mortal blow to ratio plans for years, it's still early but they have no other Natl. players who look like they could morph into starters on defence like Ford did.

I don't think Shay and Smith will be FAs next season. The Bombers have the option to hold on to them here for there 3rd. season.

Quote from: Pigskin on May 25, 2026, 06:08:56 PMI don't think Shay and Smith will be FAs next season. The Bombers have the option to hold on to them here for there 3rd. season.

You're right, I thought they were going into their 3rd season.  I think that 3rd year on the ESL is cruel and unusual punishment considering how short careers are, can the player refuse it?

Quote from: Throw Long Bannatyne on May 25, 2026, 06:42:36 PMYou're right, I thought they were going into their 3rd season.  I think that 3rd year on the ESL is cruel and unusual punishment considering how short careers are, can the player refuse it?

I don't think it's long enough. Most of these players don't figure it out until the 3rd, 4th, or 5th year. Should be 2 years at ESL. Then years 3,4, your an RFA. Year 5 your a UFA. Something like the NHL.   

Quote from: Pigskin on May 25, 2026, 07:09:27 PMI don't think it's long enough. Most of these players don't figure it out until the 3rd, 4th, or 5th year. Should be 2 years at ESL. Then years 3,4, your an RFA. Year 5 your a UFA. Something like the NHL.   

The average length of a Canadian Football League (CFL) career is approximately 3.2 to 3.3 years.

AI is never wrong!

Edited replay courtesy of Waders27.

Quote from: Throw Long Bannatyne on May 25, 2026, 05:59:41 PMAs a GM it should be easy to move on from an older player when there's a conveyor belt of talented younger players coming down the line that need to be accommodated.  The long-term benefit of flagging the higher age as an outlier is an easy business decision, emotional response should be nixed.  There was no great reason to re-sign Kyrie after he hit FA, unless they did it as one last favour to compete for his spot, bringing back JSK made even less sense, have to wonder if O-Shea jhas nightmares of Sam Hurl and is afraid to trust these younger LB's. or if it's Jordan Younger blocking their path.

Along with Woodbey, Shay and Smith will also be FA's next season, time to use them or lose them, at least give them an honest whirl and see if they have the potential to become capable starters or not.  I don't think any of the 3 will command big money, but they may see better opportunity elsewhere if not given a real chance in Wpg.  Losing both Smith and Shay would be a mortal blow to ratio plans for years, it's still early but they have no other Natl. players who look like they could morph into starters on defence like Ford did.

I agree it should be an easy decision but it's been an issue for O'Shea. Keeping J. Thomas long past his prime was an example. The ratio should have been flipped elsewhere to at least not used Thomas as a primary starter.

K. Wilson is a bit different. He can still play at a decent level. I doubt his SMS is that high and Smith may not be much of a savings.

I'd be less concerned if had more reps last year so starting him this year seems a bit of a leap forward. OTOH I don't see him in practice every day and he wouldn't be the 1st player to start early in his career.

As I mentioned, keeping K. Wilson on the reserve depends on what they think of Smith, Woodbey and any rookie LB kept on the PR. There may be other players that are perceived to be of higher value to put on the reserve.

IMO I'd be ok with just moving on but that should have happened during the off season to allow him other opportunities. He isn't going to be a trade asset unless another team has injuries to start the season.

We're at the disadvantage as to what discussions were had with K. Wilson when he was re-signed.

Quote from: Throw Long Bannatyne on May 25, 2026, 05:59:41 PMhave to wonder if O-Shea jhas nightmares of Sam Hurl and is afraid to trust these younger LB's. or if it's Jordan Younger blocking their path.

Pretty sure MOS still thinks Hurl was the best thing ever.  He loved that guy.  I bet KW/WM had to pry Hurl out of MOS's cold dead fingers to get him out of the WFC!

MOS seems to have a blind spot for D NATs.

Quote from: Throw Long Bannatyne on May 25, 2026, 04:59:57 PMGoing to disagree with you on Wallace, still see him as the foundation to build the O-line around for the next decade if they treat him right.  None of the others are likely to be around 5 years from now.  Nobody stronger, he can road grade, he can defend well, being so huge he just isn't all that fast.

"It he's a good hitter, why doesn't he hit good?"   -- Moneyball

"Show me the [road grading]"   -- a different movie

I just want to see improvement over '25.  He didn't grade squat in the PS1 game...

Quote from: Throw Long Bannatyne on May 25, 2026, 04:43:29 PMEgad, you're describing the Hamilton approach, without much of a running game they haven't been back to the cup since 2021 and have been fluttering up and down like a butterfly.  Most successful teams are following the Bombers footprint with a strong bashing running game, the essential compliment when it's difficult to move the ball downfield through the air.

Preaching to the choir.  But it's now SSK that has stolen the mantle of bullyball.  They can run whenever and wherever they please -- with a mediocre RB to boot!  They out-Winnipegged Winnipeg.

Notice how we refuse to stuff the box like they do?  And so they get 6Y every run.  They stuff the box and stop Brady for a loss every time.

They are going to try to do this all season.  And if we want to get to the cup we're going to have to solve it.

Quote from: Throw Long Bannatyne on May 25, 2026, 04:32:48 PMThe difference is they have a Natl. capable enough to backup Kyrie in Smith when he reaches his snap count

We've never used the 23 (now 25) snap count DNA trick.  Ever.  Not once.  I would bet the farm Mafia will never use it.  Not once.  Ever.  (This is why that extra 2RDP is always ours.)

Therefore we can confidently not talk about any "snap count" thing regarding our own team.  It simply doesn't exist.

Now... if you want to talk about whether this is a good or bad thing...

Quote from: Jesse on May 25, 2026, 11:02:30 AMKinda weird how Brady rushed for a 5.8 yard average with all those rushes for -1 yards...

Led the league in rushing average actually.

a) not against SSK!
b) because MOS said in '25 they stop running when it's not working / when teams load the box, so games/teams that would lower his average simply weren't run against

Pretty sure Brady's avg in the PS1 game was about 0!  He barely got that 1ish Y TD in!

Not blaming Brady.  Imagine him with SSK's OL and run block and max-hold REC blocking help and the quick-pass game widening the D!!  He'd probably beat Cornish's records.

I finally got around to watching the game tonight - I was in Langford on Saturday.

At 1:51 of Q4 Mathew Sexton touched the punted ball, went out of bounds without contact and then returned to the field of play where he recovered the ball.

Quote from: play by play(01:51) #44 K.Andrews punt 66 yards to the SSK19 #86 M.Sexton return 5 yards to the SSK24 (#7 E.Stuart), out of bounds PENALTY SSK Illegal participation (#86 M.Sexton) 10 yards from SSK21 to SSK11.

According to the 2025 CFL Rule Book, a player who goes out of bounds without contact cannot re-enter the field of play to recover a loose ball. The penalty is loss of ball (LB) at point of foul (PF)

Quote from: 2025 CFL Rule BookIt is illegal for a player of either team to go out of bounds, without contact with an opponent, and to reach back into or re-enter the field of play to touch or recover a loose ball.
PENALTY: LB PF

Based on this information, it should have been Winnipeg football 1st and 10 at the 19 yard line.

Quote from: Stats Junkie on May 26, 2026, 07:03:17 AMAccording to the 2025 CFL Rule Book, a player who goes out of bounds without contact cannot re-enter the field of play to recover a loose ball. The penalty is loss of ball (LB) at point of foul (PF)

Wow!  Good catch.  Now that's some esoteric trivia.  I don't think I've ever seen that called in a game.

This situation was particularly dire for the returner though because he had already touched it and it would have been a turnover had he just stayed OOB.  So he was in full panic mode.  I guess that's why the rule basically makes it a turnover anyhow.  And in that case it IS better to play the ball as at least you can kill it at that yardage rather than give up a scoop&score.

Q: if he didn't touch it at first and it was just bouncing and going to die, could he have re-entered to play it and just taken a 10Y ill-part penalty?  Or stated differently, is a ball "loose" on a punt play before anyone touches it?

I bet Proulx would have called it correctly.  But more importantly, why didn't command correct the mistake?  Yikes.

Quote from: Stats Junkie on May 26, 2026, 07:03:17 AMI finally got around to watching the game tonight - I was in Langford on Saturday.

At 1:51 of Q4 Mathew Sexton touched the punted ball, went out of bounds without contact and then returned to the field of play where he recovered the ball.

According to the 2025 CFL Rule Book, a player who goes out of bounds without contact cannot re-enter the field of play to recover a loose ball. The penalty is loss of ball (LB) at point of foul (PF)

Based on this information, it should have been Winnipeg football 1st and 10 at the 19 yard line.

That's very surprising! Good to know.

Quote from: Stats Junkie on May 26, 2026, 07:03:17 AMI finally got around to watching the game tonight - I was in Langford on Saturday.

At 1:51 of Q4 Mathew Sexton touched the punted ball, went out of bounds without contact and then returned to the field of play where he recovered the ball.

According to the 2025 CFL Rule Book, a player who goes out of bounds without contact cannot re-enter the field of play to recover a loose ball. The penalty is loss of ball (LB) at point of foul (PF)

Based on this information, it should have been Winnipeg football 1st and 10 at the 19 yard line.

Nice pickup SJ. Like it.

Quote from: Tecno on May 26, 2026, 08:42:52 AMWow!  Good catch.  Now that's some esoteric trivia.  I don't think I've ever seen that called in a game.

This situation was particularly dire for the returner though because he had already touched it and it would have been a turnover had he just stayed OOB.  So he was in full panic mode.  I guess that's why the rule basically makes it a turnover anyhow.  And in that case it IS better to play the ball as at least you can kill it at that yardage rather than give up a scoop&score.

Q: if he didn't touch it at first and it was just bouncing and going to die, could he have re-entered to play it and just taken a 10Y ill-part penalty?  Or stated differently, is a ball "loose" on a punt play before anyone touches it?

I bet Proulx would have called it correctly.  But more importantly, why didn't command correct the mistake?  Yikes.

Within 10 years Proulx will be gone and we'll have "AI in the sky" monitoring the play.  This application, I could go along with.

Quote from: Tecno on May 26, 2026, 08:42:52 AMWow!  Good catch.  Now that's some esoteric trivia.  I don't think I've ever seen that called in a game.

This situation was particularly dire for the returner though because he had already touched it and it would have been a turnover had he just stayed OOB.  So he was in full panic mode.  I guess that's why the rule basically makes it a turnover anyhow.  And in that case it IS better to play the ball as at least you can kill it at that yardage rather than give up a scoop&score.

Q: if he didn't touch it at first and it was just bouncing and going to die, could he have re-entered to play it and just taken a 10Y ill-part penalty?  Or stated differently, is a ball "loose" on a punt play before anyone touches it?

I bet Proulx would have called it correctly.  But more importantly, why didn't command correct the mistake?  Yikes.

Was there even a command centre for a PS game?

Quote from: theaardvark on May 26, 2026, 08:26:07 PMWas there even a command centre for a PS game?

Seemed they did, they called the RTP penalty late when David Reese tried to rip the head off the Rider QB. Don't know how the refs. missed that one.

Quote from: Tecno on May 26, 2026, 08:42:52 AMQ: if he didn't touch it at first and it was just bouncing and going to die, could he have re-entered to play it and just taken a 10Y ill-part penalty?  Or stated differently, is a ball "loose" on a punt play before anyone touches it?

A loose ball is any ball not in possession or control of a player.

In your scenario, the returner is still ineligible to return to the field of play and participate. What's different is the lack of a touch on the football. As such, the Blue Bombers would still have to respect the 5-yard halo (i.e. 'No Yards' is still in effect).

The way it played out, the touch by Sexton is considered to be 'deemed possession'. This is where the official will drop a blue bean bag at point ball touched (PBT). No Yards if applicable is applied from the PBT as well as any 'while the ball was in flight' penalties. Having satisfied the penalty issues, the other thing that 'deemed possession' does in this case is it puts every member of the kicking team onside. It effectively becomes a fumble when the ball is touched in this manner.

BTW - I have had it confirmed from a source that my interpretation is correct.

Quote from: Throw Long Bannatyne on May 26, 2026, 06:15:27 PMWithin 10 years Proulx will be gone and we'll have "AI in the sky" monitoring the play.  This application, I could go along with.

Proulx might be gone even sooner.  He's looking very old, though still pretty spry for his age.

Wouldn't Proulx be the heir to command center chief??  I can't think of anyone with more experience or better knowledge of the book.  I think it's Bradbury there now?  He's been a huge disappointment.  Command has been going downhill for at least 3 seasons, and often flipflop on the standards they are using mid-season.

Quote from: theaardvark on May 26, 2026, 08:26:07 PMWas there even a command centre for a PS game?

No formal Replay Centre for pre-season games.

Any challenges or reviews are done in Stadium by the supervisor of officials based on what is available (limited angles). Coaches know this limitation when throwing the challenge flag.

I had a brief chat with the supervisor of officials for the Langford game on the ferry back to the mainland. He said there was only one time he was going to call down to the field. A ball spot after double penalties was off by 5 yards. A member of the crew caught the error just as he was making the call. There was another instance where a 10 yard penalty was marched off as 9 yards. He chose not to call down for that one.

Quote from: Stats Junkie on May 27, 2026, 04:56:53 PMNo formal Replay Centre for pre-season games.

Any challenges or reviews are done in Stadium by the supervisor of officials based on what is available (limited angles). Coaches know this limitation when throwing the challenge flag.

I had a brief chat with the supervisor of officials for the Langford game on the ferry back to the mainland. He said there was only one time he was going to call down to the field. A ball spot after double penalties was off by 5 yards. A member of the crew caught the error just as he was making the call. There was another instance where a 10 yard penalty was marched off as 9 yards. He chose not to call down for that one.

I don't usually complain about officiating being biased but the penalty differential in the Bomber game was ridiculous, 12 for 150 yds vs 3 for 30 yds. their O-line literally resorted to tackling Bomber pass rushers later in the 3rd Q to protect the QB.  Were those officials homegrown Sask. amateurs?

Quote from: Throw Long Bannatyne on May 27, 2026, 05:25:58 PMI don't usually complain about officiating being biased but the penalty differential in the Bomber game was ridiculous

I'd imagine many PS games are like that.  There's literally zero reason not to err on giving the home side a win.  It only helps the league to have the home team win.  Lets them build the hype going into week 1.

That's why it's so disappointing that we almost always lose our home PS game.  Oh well... we here know it doesn't matter to the team/players.  Just to the fans; and week 1 ticket sales (but ours will be a sell out regardless).