The big question of this upcoming game with Toronto is "Will Zach Collaros play?" The head coach's answer was "He could".
Although Collaros is listed as "questionable" it is possible or probable that he will be ready for this game and despite the positivity around Taylor Elgersma and Dru Brown, the Bombers best chance a win on Saturday is, arguably, ZC08.
The most recent injury list of the Bombers follows...
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Ed Tait's insights into this game is contained in his 48-Hour Primer...
https://www.bluebombers.com/2026/07/08/48-hour-primnaer-week-6/
Key to this game, apart from the starting QB will be a quick start from Quarter 1 and with pedal to the metal throughout the entire game. Defence needs to keep Chad Kelly off the field as much as possible.
Another big Winnipeg crowd is expected and two wins in a row sounds pretty fine to most of us, I think.
Let's Go Bombers!
Didn't see what happened to Eli. Will have to go back and check. Although we are using Daniels heavily now and he's getting better, so 6th OL may not be as important.
Ball:thigh (better than Thigh:ball?), those things can take forever. Wasn't Biggie a "thigh" that year he started the GC hurt? He was out forever before that too.
I guess because Vant straight to 6G they don't have to say anything about him? Do we have any clue what his issue is?
Uh... if Mazzcua is PR, and Vant 6G, and Eli questionable... does that mean our only possible 6th is Vibert?? Wacky times!
How confident are we on this one? TOR is an upper-middling team IMHO. Hot/cold. Could light it up, or Kelly throws 5 INTs. Kelly probably won't want to get his "good" leg hit by Ceresna... PTSD.
Normally I'd say we'll get our butts kicked. But I saw a much better overall team & individual player effort in the HAM game, and a lot less dumb/thoughtless/useless play. It's like they were better... prepared! Amazing.
The Ceresna presser on Wed had him saying they were spending a lot more time on this game, though with only 1 practice I wonder what he means exactly.
The problem is, if Zach is out then who knows how our backup (whoever he is) will do in a full game. Elgersma will still get a shortened book, and Dru might have more book but not be on the same page -- that can mean INTs in zone when RECs zig when Dru thinks they are going to zag.
Is a short-game ball-control O enough to beat TOR? Can our D show even more incremental improvement to hold Kelly & those powerhouse RECs? An X-factor might be TOR energized over being the de facto #2 team in the East now that HAM will be out of contention. TOR has a great shot of winning the East if they can shore up their level vis a vis MTL.
My fear is even if we play quite well, by our standards, it won't be enough. I see the pickems is going more than half betting on TOR.
Quote from: Tecno on July 09, 2026, 05:03:20 AMDidn't see what happened to Eli. Will have to go back and check. Although we are using Daniels heavily now and he's getting better, so 6th OL may not be as important.
Ball:thigh (better than Thigh:ball?), those things can take forever. Wasn't Biggie a "thigh" that year he started the GC hurt? He was out forever before that too.
I guess because Vant straight to 6G they don't have to say anything about him? Do we have any clue what his issue is?
Uh... if Mazzcua is PR, and Vant 6G, and Eli questionable... does that mean our only possible 6th is Vibert?? Wacky times!
We do have another import OL on the PR.
Quote from: Blue In BC on July 09, 2026, 01:29:52 PMWe do have another import OL on the PR.
Ya, but crazy if we start yet another rookie IMP!! This isn't the Chris Jones in-season tryouts. There has to be a
reason they started Mazzcua over Wallace...
I'd say this is a must win. We're 0-2 at home this year already. In the past it took 2 years to get 2 home losses.
D will have to step up and keep it low scoring if Zach is out. Tor seems to have the worst secondary, but a good Run D.
Lets hope Brady can still bust those important runs.
Quote from: ModAdmin on July 09, 2026, 03:52:57 AMThe big question of this upcoming game with Toronto is "Will Zach Collaros play?" The head coach's answer was "He could".
That's just MOS talk for his head is still attached to his body.
Quote from: Tecno on July 09, 2026, 01:34:16 PMYa, but crazy if we start yet another rookie IMP!! This isn't the Chris Jones in-season tryouts. There has to be a reason they started Mazzcua over Wallace...
He was here in TC the same as Mazzucca, but I thought he was more an OT type. Wallace must have been nicked last week.
Big Dru is starting.
Collaros out vs. TOR, Brown to start (https://www.cfl.ca/2026/07/08/zach-collaros-listed-as-questionable-for-game-vs-toronto/)
Quote from: Blue In BC on July 09, 2026, 03:14:18 PMHe was here in TC the same as Mazzucca, but I thought he was more an OT type. Wallace must have been nicked last week.
Wallace did miss a practice last week due to a shoulder injury.
Quote from: blue_gold_84 on July 09, 2026, 03:19:59 PMCollaros out vs. TOR, Brown to start (https://www.cfl.ca/2026/07/08/zach-collaros-listed-as-questionable-for-game-vs-toronto/)
Weirdly Brown might give them a better chance of winning than Zach would, Plan B often works better for the Bombers than Plan A.
Quote from: Throw Long Bannatyne on July 09, 2026, 04:08:04 PMWeirdly Brown might give them a better chance of winning than Zach would, Plan B often works better for the Bombers than Plan A.
I agree, I think Brown is the way to go, we'll see....if he lights it up, then what do the BB do, put Collaros back in to start us off with a pick six again??
I think the Bombers are doing the right thing by resting ZC8. This will give him a couple of weeks to get healthy.
Quote from: dd on July 09, 2026, 04:11:37 PMI agree, I think Brown is the way to go, we'll see....if he lights it up, then what do the BB do, put Collaros back in to start us off with a pick six again??
It wasn't a pick 6 but it was a bad outcome to start the game. I have already suggested he should have been put on the 6 game IR. If he can return to practice next week, then there is no change to SMS cost. If OTOH he doesn't return to practice and / or is moved back to AR then the 6 game IR is the way to go.
Quote from: Throw Long Bannatyne on July 09, 2026, 04:04:27 PMWallace did miss a practice last week due to a shoulder injury.
Yes but it was discussed whether this was also a performance issue. That may not have been the case but it was suggested by some as a temp demotion.
Quote from: Throw Long Bannatyne on July 09, 2026, 04:08:04 PMWeirdly Brown might give them a better chance of winning than Zach would...
Well, yeah. Brown's healthy right now. The O-line has to do its job and keep him clean and upright, though.
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Quote from: blue_gold_84 on July 09, 2026, 04:29:09 PMWell, yeah. Brown's healthy right now. The O-line has to do its job and keep him clean and upright, though.
cause he is kinda injury prone...
Winnipeg Blue Bombers list Dru Brown as starter against Argonauts
by 3Down Staff July 9, 2026
The Winnipeg Blue Bombers have listed Dru Brown as their starting quarterback against the Toronto Argonauts on Friday night. The team released its official depth chart on Thursday morning.
The 29-year-old was acquired in a trade from the Ottawa Redblacks two week ago. He went 12-13-1 as a starter over two seasons in the nation's capital, completing 68.8 percent of his passes for 6,348 yards, 32 touchdowns, and 20 interceptions.
Brown spent the first three seasons of his CFL career in Winnipeg. He threw for 1,484 yards, 14 touchdowns, and two interceptions in a depth role with the team, and rushed 37 times for 113 yards with five scores.
Zach Collaros, who did not practice on Wednesday due to a neck injury, has been moved to the one-game injured list. On Wednesday's injury report, the Blue Bombers listed him as questionable.
The 37-year-old left Sunday's win over the Hamilton Tiger-Cats after he was sacked on the first play of the second quarter. He has thrown for 985 yards, five touchdowns, and three interceptions through four regular-season games.
Taylor Elgersma replaced Collaros under centre in Hamilton and completed 11-of-15 pass attempts for 86 yards and one touchdown. Brown did not dress for the game. Elgersma will be the backup behind Brown against Toronto this week, with Bryce Perkins as the third-string quarterback.
Winnipeg has made two other roster changes for Friday's game. Gabe Wallace has returned to the starting lineup at left guard, while Dylan Hazen will make his CFL debut in a depth role at linebacker.
Hazen spent his entire collegiate career at Wake Forest University, where he was a three-year starter. The six-foot, 224-pound defender made 284 total tackles, 27.5 tackles for loss, 2.5 sacks, five pass knockdowns, three fumble recoveries, three forced fumbles, and two interceptions over 54 games, earning an All-ACC honourable mention in 2025.
Micah Mazzccua, who started in place of Wallace last week, has been moved back to the practice roster. Charles-Elliot Bouliane, who was selected in the third round of the 2026 CFL Draft, has also been placed on the practice roster. He has made one special teams tackle over three regular-season games.
The Winnipeg Blue Bombers (2-2) will host the Toronto Argonauts (2-2) at Princess Auto Stadium on Friday, July 10 with kickoff scheduled for 8:30 p.m. EDT. The Argonauts are coming off a 58-36 loss to the Calgary Stampeders, while the Blue Bombers overcame an injury to Zach Collaros to narrowly beat the Hamilton Tiger-Cats.
The weather forecast in Winnipeg calls for a high of 29 degrees and sun. The game will be broadcast on TSN and RDS in Canada and CFL+ internationally. Radio listeners can tune in on TSN 1050 in Toronto and 680 CJOB in Winnipeg.
https://3downnation.com/2026/07/09/winnipeg-blue-bombers-list-dru-brown-as-starter-against-argonauts/
Toronto Argonauts rule out Cameron Judge against Winnipeg
by 3Down Staff July 9, 2026
The Toronto Argonauts will be without Canadian linebacker Cameron Judge when they visit the Winnipeg Blue Bombers on Friday.
The 31-year-old has been placed on the one-game injured list with a head injury, though it remains unclear what the timeline for his recovery will be.
"I don't really like to talk about injuries too much," said head coach Mike Miller on Wednesday. "I only go week-to-week."
The Montreal native has made 11 defensive tackles and four special teams tackles through four starts this season. The nine-year veteran has made 446 defensive tackles, 30 special teams tackles, 18 sacks, nine forced fumbles, seven interceptions, and two defensive touchdowns over 122 career regular-season games.
According to the official depth chart the Argonauts released on Thursday morning, Judge will be replaced at weak-side linebacker by Owen Goss. The six-foot, 202-pound defender has made two defensive tackles, one special teams tackle, and one forced fumble over four regular-season games in a depth role this year.
Dakoda Shepley has returned to the starting lineup at right guard after missing last week's loss to the Calgary Stampeders. He did not practice on Monday or Tuesday due to a back injury, and was a limited participant on Wednesday.
Canadian offensive lineman Keegan O'Neil, Canadian linebacker Jalen Rayam, and American defensive back Bubba Bolden have each been added to the active roster in depth roles. Bolden has been listed as the backup to Ethan John, who will make his first career start at safety.
Anthony Wilson, who started the team's last two games at safety, has been moved to the practice roster.
The Toronto Argonauts (2-2) will visit the Winnipeg Blue Bombers (2-2) at Princess Auto Stadium on Friday, July 10 with kickoff scheduled for 8:30 p.m. EDT. The Argonauts are coming off a 58-36 loss to the Calgary Stampeders, while the Blue Bombers overcame an injury to Zach Collaros to narrowly beat the Hamilton Tiger-Cats.
The weather forecast in Winnipeg calls for a high of 29 degrees and sun. The game will be broadcast on TSN and RDS in Canada and CFL+ internationally. Radio listeners can tune in on TSN 1050 in Toronto and 680 CJOB in Winnipeg.
https://3downnation.com/2026/07/09/toronto-argonauts-rule-out-cameron-judge-against-winnipeg/
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Quote from: blue_gold_84 on July 09, 2026, 04:29:09 PMWell, yeah. Brown's healthy right now. The O-line has to do its job and keep him clean and upright, though.
Even with a healthy Zach I wouldn't be keen to put money on the Bombers, unless they can find a way to slow down Chad Kelly the Bomber offence won't be able to keep up the pace.
Rostering 5 American linebackers, 2 of whom will barely see the field on defence, starting a fifth mediocre Canadian receiver when we have ratio room for an import, failing to use the designated American label on anyone, it's like we start every game with one hand tied behind our back.
Looks like Hazen is replacing Boulaine on ST's, they must really like what they've seen from him in practice to bring him along so fast. Could be another import LB eventually competing for hotly contested linebacker jobs, Ayers, Woodbey, Smith and Shay already vying for those 2 positions.
Quote from: Throw Long Bannatyne on July 09, 2026, 05:26:18 PMLooks like Hazen is replacing Boulaine on ST's, they must really like what they've seen from him in practice to bring him along so fast. Could be another import LB eventually competing for hotly contested linebacker jobs, Ayers, Woodbey, Smith and Shay already vying for those 2 positions.
I feel like I'd much rather have an extra american receiver than another LB.
Quote from: bunker on July 09, 2026, 05:25:24 PMRostering 5 American linebackers, 2 of whom will barely see the field on defence, starting a fifth mediocre Canadian receiver when we have ratio room for an import, failing to use the designated American label on anyone, it's like we start every game with one hand tied behind our back.
we did it last year so we shouldn't be surprised when we see it now. boggles my mind. get Singer on the field somehow - it's possible but we insist on a bloated and mediocre LB crew
Quote from: Throw Long Bannatyne on July 09, 2026, 05:14:59 PMEven with a healthy Zach I wouldn't be keen to put money on the Bombers, unless they can find a way to slow down Chad Kelly the Bomber offence won't be able to keep up the pace.
Agree, we won't be able to keep up to the pace that Kelly will be putting points on the board against our defense. We gotta pray for turnovers/mistakes, and if Kelly doesn't make any, its gonna be a white wash, that's the Younger way
Quote from: Jesse on July 09, 2026, 05:29:32 PMI feel like I'd much rather have an extra american receiver than another LB.
Another import receiver would be a part timer and would have to share reps with Daniels and MCI who are more critical for blocking. Also lose a member of ST which I think both Cobb and Corcoran play.
Quote from: Throw Long Bannatyne on July 09, 2026, 06:13:33 PMAnother import receiver would be a part timer and would have to share reps with Daniels and MCI who are more critical for blocking. Also lose a member of ST which I think both Cobb and Corcoran play.
lol. How many reps are all these LBs getting?
Just a reminder for people attending the game about the heat. Be sure to drink plenty of beer to stay hydrated. Think of your health first, people
That is all
Quote from: Jesse on July 09, 2026, 06:38:03 PMlol. How many reps are all these LBs getting?
Who knows. Maybe JY has a very specific play for each one. I also don't really understand it.
For example, Tim White has been in the league more than 5 years so if we wanted to we could make him the designated nationalized American, Cobb/Corky as the designated national - that would allow White to sub for a Canadian for 25 plays, which would essentially allow (if we had rostered) Singer, on the field for 25 plays without any other changes. It would be nice to have the in-game depth and to run with 3 Americans at receiver for about half the game (since you get about 50-55 plays on offense usually)
The plus side is if White or Pokey go down you still have one more American receiver.
To me it makes more sense than another linebacker but whatever.
Quote from: Jesse on July 09, 2026, 06:38:03 PMlol. How many reps are all these LBs getting?
Get rotated and play teams, we need to stop em on D and hopefully this will help
Quote from: The Zipp on July 09, 2026, 05:40:00 PMwe did it last year so we shouldn't be surprised when we see it now. boggles my mind. get Singer on the field somehow - it's possible but we insist on a bloated and mediocre LB crew
Our LB crew is above average
Tough call, trust the mafia
These reps will pay dividends down the road im
Our defense has found incredible success for almost a decade by rotation and developing some of the best LB depth in the league. Easy to rag on it but if it continues to bring success I don't mind it. Tall order tomorrow. Its hot and fresh meat 🍖 might help 4th Q. LETS GO BOMBERS
time for downtown dru brown to shine
It will be understandable if DB is slow starting off as he didn't get any meaningful reps in Ottawa this season, so there will be a certain amount of rust as well, with a new offensive personnel, but he will succeed, its the defensive secondary vs Kelly passing that I fear the most, they'll put up 30 points, but can we?? And ditto on getting Singer on the field, we need more play makers on offense, and he's a playmaker
Quote from: Throw Long Bannatyne on July 09, 2026, 06:13:33 PMAnother import receiver would be a part timer and would have to share reps with Daniels and MCI who are more critical for blocking. Also lose a member of ST which I think both Cobb and Corcoran play.
If we had decent scouts they should be able to find a bigger American like Bailey who can actually block and catch.
Quote from: bunker on July 09, 2026, 08:35:24 PMIf we had decent scouts they should be able to find a bigger American like Bailey who can actually block and catch.
Daniels seems to be a decent blocker and can catch, not burner speed bot offers a checkdown option for our offense, prefer having him in the game vs a 6th O lineman who isn't a catching threat at all.
Jovon Johnson is in town. Currently DB coach with the Argos...
(https://scontent.fyvr1-1.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.30808-6/742295146_122233331960056040_574459942295510831_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_tt6&cstp=mx1342x1342&ctp=p526x296&_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=aa7b47&_nc_ohc=fOOwBKPQ2-sQ7kNvwF6ngag&_nc_oc=AdpmKQR-spd1JTGBrFnf5FZeZDpP6ahbvXgJNIix2SUYIS2LyLZuPrLQEY6wgYoGoGY&_nc_zt=23&_nc_ht=scontent.fyvr1-1.fna&_nc_gid=WIhNaJ8zNUxBoPdzlwRazQ&_nc_ss=782a8&oh=00_AQB9nws_BxkegarPJkkuKMux59VVcx8yn3Z-_n2oBbkRiw&oe=6A56006B)
Quote from: ModAdmin on July 09, 2026, 11:08:35 PMJovon Johnson is in town. Currently DB coach with the Argos...
(https://scontent.fyvr1-1.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.30808-6/742295146_122233331960056040_574459942295510831_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_tt6&cstp=mx1342x1342&ctp=p526x296&_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=aa7b47&_nc_ohc=fOOwBKPQ2-sQ7kNvwF6ngag&_nc_oc=AdpmKQR-spd1JTGBrFnf5FZeZDpP6ahbvXgJNIix2SUYIS2LyLZuPrLQEY6wgYoGoGY&_nc_zt=23&_nc_ht=scontent.fyvr1-1.fna&_nc_gid=WIhNaJ8zNUxBoPdzlwRazQ&_nc_ss=782a8&oh=00_AQB9nws_BxkegarPJkkuKMux59VVcx8yn3Z-_n2oBbkRiw&oe=6A56006B)
Original #1d lol
Quote from: bunker on July 09, 2026, 08:35:24 PMIf we had decent scouts they should be able to find a bigger American like Bailey who can actually block and catch.
We have good scouts who will improve once they get more experience
Quote from: dd on July 09, 2026, 08:30:47 PMIt will be understandable if DB is slow starting off as he didn't get any meaningful reps in Ottawa this season, so there will be a certain amount of rust as well, with a new offensive personnel, but he will succeed, its the defensive secondary vs Kelly passing that I fear the most, they'll put up 30 points, but can we?? And ditto on getting Singer on the field, we need more play makers on offense, and he's a playmaker
Some great points, good summary and well written
Quote from: ModAdmin on July 09, 2026, 11:08:35 PMJovon Johnson is in town. Currently DB coach with the Argos...
(https://scontent.fyvr1-1.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.30808-6/742295146_122233331960056040_574459942295510831_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_tt6&cstp=mx1342x1342&ctp=p526x296&_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=aa7b47&_nc_ohc=fOOwBKPQ2-sQ7kNvwF6ngag&_nc_oc=AdpmKQR-spd1JTGBrFnf5FZeZDpP6ahbvXgJNIix2SUYIS2LyLZuPrLQEY6wgYoGoGY&_nc_zt=23&_nc_ht=scontent.fyvr1-1.fna&_nc_gid=WIhNaJ8zNUxBoPdzlwRazQ&_nc_ss=782a8&oh=00_AQB9nws_BxkegarPJkkuKMux59VVcx8yn3Z-_n2oBbkRiw&oe=6A56006B)
Loved Jovon, both as a DB and a returner. Sorry I am sitting behind the bombers bench on the west side, and not the Argos so I could shout out to him. Or will they switch benches since Argos are the home team? A bit confusing.
Quote from: Jesse on July 09, 2026, 06:38:03 PMlol. How many reps are all these LBs getting?
I don't understand your point, if Singer plays he has to come off any time they wish to use a formation with a TE, 6th man, or FB, which are all Natl. positions, he would spend more time on the sidelines watching than he does on the field. Playing Cobb might drive some people crazy, but he is also relegated to the sidelines for a large percentage of plays.
Quote from: bunker on July 09, 2026, 11:57:29 PMLoved Jovon, both as a DB and a returner. Sorry I am sitting behind the bombers bench on the west side, and not the Argos so I could shout out to him. Or will they switch benches since Argos are the home team? A bit confusing.
Good question. Do the Bombers play from the east side bench tomorrow?
Quote from: Throw Long Bannatyne on July 10, 2026, 12:25:22 AMI don't understand your point, if Singer plays he has to come off any time they wish to use a formation with a TE, 6th man, or FB, which are all Natl. positions, he would spend more time on the sidelines watching than he does on the field. Playing Cobb might drive some people crazy, but he is also relegated to the sidelines for a large percentage of plays.
My point is that the LB we are rostering instead of an extra receiver will also be on the sidelines for a large percentage (virtually all) of plays. And will be on the field for zero defensive snaps.
So I'd rather have a capable American on for a handful of offensive snaps as well as be insurance if one of White/Pokey gets hurt.
Quote from: dd on July 09, 2026, 08:30:47 PMIt will be understandable if DB is slow starting off as he didn't get any meaningful reps in Ottawa this season, so there will be a certain amount of rust as well, with a new offensive personnel, but he will succeed, its the defensive secondary vs Kelly passing that I fear the most, they'll put up 30 points, but can we?? And ditto on getting Singer on the field, we need more play makers on offense, and he's a playmaker
Great chance for Dru to rip the QB crown off Zach's head and run away with it, could be the most exciting battle we have to look forward to this season if it happens. This game should be huge for Brown, in the course of his career this could be a key moment or a nothing burger.
Quote from: Throw Long Bannatyne on July 10, 2026, 12:25:22 AMI don't understand your point, if Singer plays he has to come off any time they wish to use a formation with a TE
No, Singer would become 4th. Nield would be the one benched when TE comes on. Besides 1 game where Nield did a few things, he's been invisible.
Quote from: dd on July 09, 2026, 08:30:47 PMIt will be understandable if DB is slow starting off as he didn't get any meaningful reps in Ottawa this season
Like TE, we're gonna need a better abbreviation/nickname for Dru. DB... Ugh. "TE is throwing the ball! No, DB is throwing the ball!" (me: why are tightends and defensive backs throwing anything?)
Quote from: bunker on July 09, 2026, 05:25:24 PMwhen we have ratio room for an import, failing to use the designated American label on anyone, it's like we start every game with one hand tied behind our back.
Then we'd lose that coveted and useful supplemental 2RDP (essentially the first 3RDP). Ooooh, scary.
I actually think we don't care at all about that DP, the WFC braintrust just doesn't want to make their brains hurt figuring out 25-snap sets!!
Quote from: Blue In BC on July 09, 2026, 04:16:49 PMIt wasn't a pick 6 but it was a bad outcome to start the game. I have already suggested he should have been put on the 6 game IR.
The fact he is not on 6G already means this is just another "banged his head, let him rest 1-2 weeks" thing we see every year. He's fine, but they want to let him have a break.
Quote from: Throw Long Bannatyne on July 09, 2026, 04:08:04 PMWeirdly Brown might give them a better chance of winning than Zach would, Plan B often works better for the Bombers than Plan A.
Do you remember the last 10 starts of Dru in OTT? Ya, he was getting pretty bad. Ya, the team sucked, but then again ours isn't lighting anything up right now either. You could argue Dru's OTT had better RECs than WPG does right now... And our OL is known to have issues.
And he gets injured just as fast as Zach, who's like 10 years older than him!!
I hope that if Dru has stunk the joint up by haltime we are quick to switch to Elgersma. The excuse can be "well Dru's only been here 2 weeks, he needs more book study time".
This is kind of a hope & prayer thing right now. I hope for his sake Brady said his prayers and has heavenly help making that blindside read & block this time.
Quote from: Tecno on July 10, 2026, 01:00:39 AMNo, Singer would become 4th. Nield would be the one benched when TE comes on. Besides 1 game where Nield did a few things, he's been invisible.
No, Singer would def be behind Nield.
Quote from: Jesse on July 10, 2026, 01:17:06 AMNo, Singer would def be behind Nield.
Not if he comes on and lights it up like PS! Nield has done almost nothing outside of one game. He might be the most useless mid-high-paid NAT in the league right now.
Quote from: Tecno on July 10, 2026, 01:21:13 AMNot if he comes on and lights it up like PS! Nield has done almost nothing outside of one game. He might be the most useless mid-high-paid NAT in the league right now.
it will be interesting to see who Dru's go to guy will be. might be the invisible Tommy.
Quote from: The Zipp on July 10, 2026, 01:32:31 AMit will be interesting to see who Dru's go to guy will be. might be the invisible Tommy.
Usually the backup goes to the B-team guys, because that's who they practice with. That's why I think Elg was going to the Cobb/Corcoran spot when Zach ignores it.
But Dru has had maybe 2-3 practices in 2 weeks... not enough time to make friends even with the B team. My hope is that he'll spread it out evenly and take what is given, rather than forcing it to a favorite.
Quote from: Tecno on July 10, 2026, 01:01:43 AMLike TE, we're gonna need a better abbreviation/nickname for Dru. DB... Ugh. "TE is throwing the ball! No, DB is throwing the ball!" (me: why are tightends and defensive backs throwing anything?)
TE13, DB4, pretty simple.
Quote from: Pigskin on July 10, 2026, 04:40:01 AMTE13, DB4, pretty simple.
Simple, but lame! WFC always comes up with good nicknames for guys. Remember Poop? And if they won't tell us what the names are, we can come up with ones here.
Until then, it's Elgs & Dru for me. Taylor & Brown are completely useless as monikers -- to generic and ambiguous.
And since when have we ever used the initials+number for
QBs?! Never. They are privileged with real nicknames.
AI suggests that:
"Taylor Elgersma was sometimes referred to as "The Canadian Cannon" The Canadian Cannon and occasionally dubbed "The Freak" The Freak due to his standout size, athleticism, and arm strength while starring as a quarterback at Wilfrid Laurier University"
and:
"Dru Brown's nickname in college was "Sunshine," a moniker he earned while playing for the Hawaii Rainbow Warriors."
Sunshine and The Freak... less lame enough for you?
Quote from: theaardvark on July 10, 2026, 05:48:43 AMSunshine and The Freak... less lame enough for you?
Could be worse! I wonder if the team knows what AI thinks... They'll let it slip in pressers over the next while, they always do (especially Zach)!!
Looking at the TOR depth chart vs their desired/week-1 chart, they seem to be at full strength except for Judge & Priester. Herslow too, but he's been nursing injury since last season.
Assuming they really are a middling or good team, we're in tough. It'll take some magic on both O & D to win. I also would like to see Vaval outperform oldster Grant. Almost guaranteed our full ST unit is better than theirs.
Dru reminds me of Dressler: in look, in stature, in demeanor. His presser yesterday really highlights that.
Even though this is Dru's first start for us, we have to remember he's started a ton of games in OTT, so teams will have ample film on him. Let's hope being here puts a new spin on his game so they don't just trot out the same things that confused Dru in OTT.
Quote from: Tecno on July 10, 2026, 04:05:32 AMUsually the backup goes to the B-team guys, because that's who they practice with. That's why I think Elg was going to the Cobb/Corcoran spot when Zach ignores it.
But Dru has had maybe 2-3 practices in 2 weeks... not enough time to make friends even with the B team. My hope is that he'll spread it out evenly and take what is given, rather than forcing it to a favorite.
Elg was hitting the shortest route because he was only allowed to throw 3 yards down the field.
Quote from: Jesse on July 10, 2026, 12:06:04 PMElg was hitting the shortest route because he was only allowed to throw 3 yards down the field.
Ya, but even when the shortest route was 25 yards away from him laterally? Usually noobs are told to throw the easiest completion, not the least yards from scrimmage!
Wide outs, which are tricky angles to throw and always risks of ints, are usually off the menu.
Quote from: Tecno on July 10, 2026, 12:35:08 PMYa, but even when the shortest route was 25 yards away from him laterally? Usually noobs are told to throw the easiest completion, not the least yards from scrimmage!
Wide outs, which are tricky angles to throw and always risks of ints, are usually off the menu.
His goal was not the shortest to himself, but the furthest away from the DBs.
hope out DB's spent some time on the Jugs machine this week. we have to make the INT's when they are there. chad will try and make every throw and take some risks - we have to capitalize on them.
Mital and Coxie scare me if chad has time in the pocket.
Quote from: Tecno on July 10, 2026, 04:55:58 AMSimple, but lame! WFC always comes up with good nicknames for guys. Remember Poop? And if they won't tell us what the names are, we can come up with ones here.
Until then, it's Elgs & Dru for me. Taylor & Brown are completely useless as monikers -- to generic and ambiguous.
And since when have we ever used the initials+number for QBs?! Never. They are privileged with real nicknames.
Yeah, sorry Piggy but I can't get onboard with the initials/number thing you do. But you do you - no hate
I've been referring to TE as "Gers". It's already morphing into "Gerzy" and as of today I've already turned that into Gerzy Shore. I'm cringe like that.
Terrence Edwards will always be TE
Quote from: blue_or_die on July 10, 2026, 02:58:25 PMYeah, sorry Piggy but I can't get onboard with the initials/number thing you do. But you do you - no hate
I've been referring to TE as "Gers". It's already morphing into "Gerzy" and as of today I've already turned that into Gerzy Shore. I'm cringe like that.
I'm immediately in on Gerzy and about 20 minutes from jumping all in on Gerzy Shore.
Gabe Wallace has the best nick name, he admitted in an interview with Ed, he has Big and Rig tattooed on his upper thighs. Lucky ladies might misinterpret the meaning, but probably not.
Quote from: Pigskin on July 10, 2026, 04:40:01 AMTE13, DB4, pretty simple.
Nah, not many on here use those but a select few and never caught on and only confuses
It's going to be a warm one tonight. Right now 28c with 96% humidity. Hope the boy are taking in lots of fluids. Hope DB4 can put up some decent numbers and not turnover the ball. Toronto D has given up a lot of point. Feed BO20 early and often. Looking for TN83 to show up tonight. We also need some pressure from our front 7.
no official announcement that the game is sold out last i saw was 250 tickets left
I like gerz and gerzy. But surely we're pronouncing g as in gear... We can't use j sound like Jersey, because he's not eljersma, right?
It's hot, but not too hot. But no breeze so it feels very hot! Maybe we'll get a wind when it cools off.
Zipp is right. Our d may not be that hot, but it's kind of designed to deal with slingers like Kelly. Think of how well we've taken care of Rourke and vaj over the past few years.
He'll get yards and TDS, but we should get some ints.
just got to our seats - ads in the end zone for coinbase, my rocky bud light and bmo
apart from that not seeing much differnt
gotta protect the ball wilson.
what a great drive then wilson gives it up
Brown looking great so far.
defence did their job.
come on dru
Quote from: Throw Long Bannatyne on July 11, 2026, 12:45:08 AMBrown looking great so far.
Already looks better and more poised, and quicker release than Zach
Don't know where Kramdi was but he wasn't playing Safety.
Brown is looking good. Ball security is important. Cmon Pokey!
We DO have more receivers Dru!
Ew, that TSN spot on Kelly is gross.
that series dru looked less than good. forcing the ball into double coverage.
run the ball
Corners abandoning assignment and undercutting our corner route throws and intercepting them Is a Zach trademark
Be better Dru
Quote from: Sway on July 11, 2026, 12:48:10 AMAlready looks better and more poised, and quicker release than Zach
2nd series - not so good
Quote from: Sway on July 11, 2026, 12:53:06 AMCorners abandoning assignment and undercutting our corner route throws and intercepting them Is a Zach trademark
Be better Dru
Or you know it's the receivers.
Kramdi at safety experiment is over
That's a good thing
joey corcoran wipes out a good run with a holding call
Haven't learned how to protect on that pass play have we
Dru nailed blind side
better than maier - let's go dru!!
Nice White! Good stretching it out for the TD!
This is how I thought they would look this season. Zach can't hit these quick hitters.
Brown is pumped and I love it! Take that Dinwiddie!
Dru gonna throw for 400 and 5tds and Oshea will still go with Zach ;D
Kramdi looked as weak as a punter in coverage on that last play
And then he forces a turn over, lol
kramdi wheee he belongs
Quote from: The Zipp on July 11, 2026, 01:06:49 AMkramdi wheee he belongs
He's lining up at SAM, can not tell yet if he is rotating with Griffin.
looked like PI TO me
Quote from: Sway on July 11, 2026, 01:04:54 AMDru gonna throw for 400 and 5tds and Oshea will still go with Zach ;D
I dunno if he would. Then again, I'm in HR. You have to use the most senior person for their role. I don't know if he thinks that way. He shouldn't. Play the hot hand.
seeeeergio
Not sure Command Centre......sure looked like PI
Look at that - TOP is back baby!
great pressure on chad
Looked like PI
Some sort of phantom Intentional Grounding call
Sergio can see clearly now with those specs
How was that intentional grounding when Kelly's wasn't?
sergio is on fire
time count and intentional grounding - i guess those are expected with a qb with limited practice reps
Great to see every game doesn't have to be a struggle, amazing to see this transformation.
nichols torched - again
and just like that the game is on
terrible defence
Quote from: The Zipp on July 11, 2026, 01:22:15 AMnichols torched - again
He needs to step up or they'll be looking for his replacement.
Quote from: Throw Long Bannatyne on July 11, 2026, 01:22:11 AMGreat to see every game doesn't have to be a struggle, amazing to see this transformation.
not over yet.
lots of football to be played, we need TD's
o line can not pick up a blitz - it's a legit problem
Sergio and the specks are on.... .
vaval is very very good
Quote from: The Zipp on July 11, 2026, 01:29:55 AMo line can not pick up a blitz - it's a legit problem
Demski should not be left behind to block, Nield and Daniels are more qualified.
tony jones is having a game
Quote from: Throw Long Bannatyne on July 11, 2026, 01:32:28 AMDemski should not be left behind to block, Nield and Daniels are more qualified.
Pretty sure that was Brady's man, again
Quote from: BomberFan73 on July 11, 2026, 01:33:32 AMPretty sure that was Brady's man, again
Brady missed his man, Demski got flattened but held the block.
First time in 3 years I've seen the Bomber offence look this good
need td's
not sure about the handoff to chris
he isn't your best offensive player
dru looks good but need TD's
Well, hard to be upset with a half like that. Keep it up boys!
Let's see what happens......but.....I may eat a little crow for our defence.....it was bad....like really bad....but so far today, it's almost crow served.....
Quote from: The Zipp on July 11, 2026, 01:46:49 AMneed td's
not sure about the handoff to chris
he isn't your best offensive player
dru looks good but need TD's
Good play, next half 3 passes to Daniels.
Dru doing great for only one practice
Quote from: tlf on July 11, 2026, 01:57:37 AMDru doing great for only one practice
so true.
This game won't be the decider, but the next game Zach struggles at home the crowd will be looking for Dru to bale him out, once that happens it's over.
has kyrie wilson made a single impactful play this season ?
Quote from: Throw Long Bannatyne on July 11, 2026, 02:04:22 AMThis game won't be the decider, but the next game Zach struggles at home the crowd will be looking for Dru to bale him out, once that happens it's over.
Can't we just enjoy the moment and stop focusing on this? Let us enjoy this game.
Quote from: The Zipp on July 11, 2026, 02:06:14 AMhas kyrie wilson made a single impactful play this season ?
Not that I can remember now that I think of it. One okay play but it wasn't impactful.
Quote from: The Zipp on July 11, 2026, 02:06:14 AMhas kyrie wilson made a single impactful play this season ?
Last impact play was the illegal contact on a loose ball Block punt in 24GC.
Terrible
The Pokey show!
Quote from: Throw Long Bannatyne on July 11, 2026, 02:04:22 AMThis game won't be the decider, but the next game Zach struggles at home the crowd will be looking for Dru to bale him out, once that happens it's over.
I don't actually think Osh would change it then. Walters would have to send Zach to Hamilton to force that. Memories of Nichols...
On 2nd and 5 I actually have faith we might get it with Dru in
Quote from: bludan on July 11, 2026, 02:09:31 AMI don't actually think Osh would change it then. Walters would have to send Zach to Hamilton to force that. Memories of Nichols...
I also think this. I could see Brown starting next year though.
Quote from: tlf on July 11, 2026, 02:10:30 AMI also think this. I could see Brown starting next year though.
Can't we just enjoy the moment and stop focusing on this? Let us enjoy this game.
Quote from: Throw Long Bannatyne on July 11, 2026, 02:14:10 AMCan't we just enjoy the moment and stop focusing on this? Let us enjoy this game.
haha ok. I'm really liking Major Williams
haven't tried a legit deep shot yet
Quote from: The Zipp on July 11, 2026, 02:15:32 AMhaven't tried a legit deep shot yet
Deep shot? longer than 5-7 yards though. I'll take 30 yarders. Patience. He's only had one practice. Can't cover everything in it.
Like discussed it previous threads
These non dink and dunk QBs don't do too well vs Bombers D
Gunslingers like Kelley Rourke and Vern have trouble
Arbuckle, Bo, Harris etc. Pick us apart
there it is...bad throw by dru more points off the scoreboard
nothing is easy
There's a deep shot. Wish we hadn't done that. Not good.
Zach has an earpiece in, tablet and went over the interception with Pokey. For you that think he does nothing on the sidelines.
Sacking other Qbs, esp Kelly, never grows old!
nichols again
that pick by dru may have changed the game
this game is not over by any means
needed td's not fg's
all the time in the world. Wow. Wheres the D?
Quote from: The Zipp on July 11, 2026, 02:27:48 AMthis game is not over by any means
needed td's not fg's
Yes. We've ended up on both ends of this story before.
303 yards for Dru so far
RTP?? >:(
snaps and handoffs not looking crisp
Corner routes kinda suck
Unless the receiver is wide open
It's a hard throw. Only see them completed maybe 10 percent of the time. Unless you're Ricky ray
right choice to take the points but man needed TD's
defence has to hold
On the last play Bryant misses his man and watches Brady try to make the first down rather than push him
cam lawson - great play
Nice play by Lawson
vaval with a huge mistake - he has been so good
oh no...
Come on - really?
turnovers - typically sign of a poorly coached team
Time out?
We have too many men??
Stew Johnston muting his tv
Osh with the play of the game icing the kicker!!
what a time to call a timeout
not understanding what they called someone help me
Quote from: The Zipp on July 11, 2026, 02:55:58 AMnot understanding what they called someone help me
when? On Coxie? he got disqualified for tapping our helmet. It was dumb imo.
I'm not liking this
Quote from: tlf on July 11, 2026, 03:03:03 AMwhen? On Coxie? he got disqualified for tapping our helmet. It was dumb imo.
no the play before. we had them punting and they came back out
Quote from: The Zipp on July 11, 2026, 03:04:48 AMno the play before
the RTP? On the radio they mentioned we grabbed the ear part of Kelly's helmet so it was RTP.
Quote from: tlf on July 11, 2026, 03:06:29 AMthe RTP? On the radio they mentioned we grabbed the ear part of Kelly's helmet so it was RTP.
did not look like that live
Quote from: The Zipp on July 11, 2026, 03:08:53 AMdid not look like that live
At first they questioned it then the replays they said they saw the ear part get hit so it was RTP.
Looked like he grabbed a handful of front of his jersey to me
Replay center does a Quick Look and gives it to them
Beauty catch by Nield
334 for Brown so far
rouge for the W
bad snap on the fg
C Kelly is limping
Bombers Win!
Props to Coach Osh on icing the kicker. That caused a 10 point swing!
play of the game has got to be the time out call by MOS
Quote from: tlf on July 11, 2026, 03:19:40 AMBombers Win!
Props to Coach Osh on icing the kicker. That caused a 10 point swing!
Not sure that's what happened.
Doesn't really fit Oshea to ice the kicker and waste a time out with 9 mins left
He'd rather not even use a time out in a game
I do not like to question reffing.....but no PI on Demski from CC....the CC jumps in for the RTP, that was contact on the front of the shoulder....then T.O gets 25 and an ejection for a weak tap on the Helmut while we are holding the guys legs down.....I kinda feel all three were wrong and impactful....
But he'll ya Brown......2 points....
I can't believe we didn't even give up 50 yards rushing - especially after that 1st big run!
Quote from: The Zipp on July 11, 2026, 03:08:53 AMdid not look like that live
It was called a horse collar
Quote from: BomberFan73 on July 11, 2026, 03:25:15 AMIt was called a horse collar
I agree in that was what was called but it really was a weak call by the Ref's.
Jefferson also had a good game. Kelly was chased a lot tonight.
Overall a pretty well played game. The turnovers could have cost us the game. That's something we need to improve. A fumble on their 3 yard line and a pick in the end zone cost us at least 6 points.
Brown did very well for a QB that hasn't had much time to learn the entire playbook or build chemistry with the receivers.
Vaval is the man. Initially I thought just let it go through the end zone for no point and good field position. It was a risk fielding it that deep but it paid off.
We didn't take too many penalties which seemed like an improvement. I didn't notice any new injuries, which is good.
Quote from: BBRT on July 11, 2026, 03:28:08 AMI agree in that was what was called but it really was a weak call by the Ref's.
Disagree. Hand went from the front collar slide into the back of the shoulder pads. By any definition that is a horse collar penalty. It doesn't have to be excessive to be called and it did pull him back and down.
As much as Aryes and Wilson have helped added to MLB spot take one out move Jones back and add another IMP receiver
Quote from: Blue72 on July 11, 2026, 03:36:36 AMAs much as Aryes and Wilson have helped added to MLB spot take one out move Jones back and add another IMP receiver
Yeah I don't get it either. K. Wilson doesn't seem to be adding much on defence IMO. Smith was getting a lot of reps tonight.
I'd like another import receiver at the very least in rotation. We only throw to Wilson, Smith and Demski. It was only in the 4th Q we threw to Nield and Corcoran only once IIRC. We didn't really need the new LB Hazen tonight. He didn't record a stat and I didn't notice him on ST's but he might have seen duty there.
I suggest that was more due to limited practice time for Brown.
Gotta luv the team victory
Great nite for Dru, Pokey, Vaval and certainly liked Reese's game
Quote from: Blue72 on July 11, 2026, 03:36:36 AMAs much as Aryes and Wilson have helped added to MLB spot take one out move Jones back and add another IMP receiver
Ayers showed off his speed keeping up with Vaval on the punt return TD, also made a couple of big tackles on ST.
Quote from: Blue In BC on July 11, 2026, 03:43:14 AMYeah I don't get it either. K. Wilson doesn't seem to be adding much on defence IMO. Smith was getting a lot of reps tonight.
I'd like another import receiver at the very least in rotation. We only throw to Wilson, Smith and Demski. It was only in the 4th Q we threw to Nield and Corcoran only once IIRC. We didn't really need the new LB Hazen tonight. He didn't record a stat and I didn't notice him on ST's but he might have seen duty there.
I suggest that was more due to limited practice time for Brown.
Every member of the D-line had a pretty good game, especially Willie.
Dru brown is the real deal. Ottawa fans must be livid they let him go and chose hapless maier as their starter, what the heck were they thinking.
Brown played an excellent game and I think gives us a better chance than Collaros does. Night and day difference in the offense vs last weeks game in Hamilton. Massive difference between Dru brown and Taylor Elgersma.
Quote from: Throw Long Bannatyne on July 11, 2026, 04:29:34 AM
Coach O'Shea had a great line on the CJOB post game show when asked about Trey Vaval's 129-yard MFG return
"That's a pretty good indicator of where we want the posts to be"
Quote from: JockitchwithRich on July 11, 2026, 04:01:08 AMGotta luv the team victory
Great nite for Dru, Pokey, Vaval and certainly liked Reese's game
WJ5 was outstanding tonight.
Pokey had a great game 10/14, 133 yards. The fumble wasn't good.
White 3/3 60 yards.
Nield 4/4 58 yards. Some clutch catches.
Our special teams are outstanding.
QuoteCoach O'Shea had a great line on the CJOB post game show when asked about Trey Vaval's 129-yard MFG return
"That's a pretty good indicator of where we want the posts to be"
No kidding, leave them right where they are!! Play of the game doesn't happen if stu gets his way!!
Things heard in the hall that are not true or won't happen.
1. Willie is slowing down or not an impact player
2. We don't value or get pressure on the QB
3. Kramdi isn't a key part of our D
4. Younger needs to be replaced or step down
5. Defense is bad
6. Offense is bad
7. We overpaid for Brown
8. Maier has better deep ball than Brown lol
We back baby, time to crush Ottawa and build momemtum
Stuff to work on for sure but a step in the right direction, I didn't expect the DL or Dru to play that good
Quote from: dd on July 11, 2026, 04:29:08 AMDru brown is the real deal. Ottawa fans must be livid they let him go and chose hapless maier as their starter, what the heck were they thinking.
Everyone knew and knows Dru is 10X better than Maier. Everyone knows Maier is not a franchise guy. Everyone. Even Dinwiddie.
So why did he do it? It must be neither Maier nor Dru is who Dinwiddie wants. Maybe he wants to implode things completely in OTT in some bid to obtain the QB he really wants. Who that is, remains to be seen. It's not MBT nor Maier.
My money is still on Kelly. But how does Dinwiddie get him in time for '27?? And why purposely implode '26? I don't know what it is, but he
must have a master plan.
Quote from: Sway on July 11, 2026, 02:18:06 AMLike discussed it previous threads
These non dink and dunk QBs don't do too well vs Bombers D
And I always sit there when these teams play us and wonder why they don't just dink & dunk us! HAM/BLM was patient and did that in our game 1 with them, and they creamed us. Then in the 2nd game they completely went away from it and they couldn't get any traction, even with BLM. It's the weirdest thing.
But half the teams are dunkers now... so we also need to prove we can beat the master dunkers like SSK. Have we figured that out yet? That will be the key to the season.
Quote from: 3rdand1.5 on July 11, 2026, 03:24:15 AMI do not like to question reffing.....but no PI on Demski from CC....the CC jumps in for the RTP, that was contact on the front of the shoulder....then T.O gets 25 and an ejection for a weak tap on the Helmut while we are holding the guys legs down.....I kinda feel all three were wrong and impactful....
Always question the refs. Some of them are horrid.
The intentional grounding 2Q12:51 on Dru was pretty bogus. Even if it was flying over the rail 4Y short the refs NEVER flag that. They only do it when it's really egregious, or the QB is falling down. I'm not sure I've ever seen it when the QB has all day to throw and can pick his angle carefully.
Because it's against precedent, I call it a bad call. Someone needs to tell #33 that you don't have to be a stickler librarian; not on penalties that have "whisper rules" by all the other refs. Just like no one has called tandem block in 4 years even though it happens every couple of weeks and is clearly illegal.
Booth guys had an intelligent thing to contribute (for once) on this one: there were RECs nearby. Yes, everyone knew it was a throwaway, but the rule doesn't judge intent. Who's to say he wasn't targeting the REC and just whiffed? She can't say he wasn't.
The Bombers as a team played a pretty solid game tonight. With the exception of a couple of bad turnovers, and couple of breakdowns in our secondary. I would like to see more TDs and less FGs. At the end of the day, I am $800 richer, and the Bombers have there first home win of the season.
2Q7:28 Dru takes a sack on 8-man blitz. Look carefully: first point of contact has the D's hand on the lower part of Dru's knee, or under the knee. His hand is fully on the blue sock, with none of it on the gold shorts.
The D's hand slides up a bit as he pulls on Dru. But ends up lower than the knee and he ends up holding the entire leg beneath the knee with both arms.
My point being: since 1 year ago that's an illegal low tackle on the passer, RTP, and 15Y. It's the "Strev rule". And we've seen plenty of these called even when the hit is just above the knee.
The rule says: "When a blow is delivered to the knee or below of the passer, when the defender has a clear view to contact, and there are no mitigating circumstances such as contact with other players altering what would otherwise be legal contact."
I say since Dru got his legs pulled out from under him in an instant, that counts as a "blow". The D had a "clear view". Brady tries to push him wider, but fails. The D goes low on his own because he's going to overshoot. So I say "no mitigating circumstances".
These ones usually don't require a challenge. The EITS usually calls it down, because it's so hard for refs to see in realtime. Lots of cases of this. I'm miffed they didn't catch it this time. Sets a bad precedent.
Jake Kelly had his best game.
David Reese is finding his CFL footing and looking good.
ST's have been exceptional: returns, coverage and kicking.
Dru Brown had a very good game with so little practice time. Made a few early mistakes with 3 near pics and an int in the end zone. He moved the ball on offence and won TOP in the 1st half by 11 minutes. The defence did their job and kept giving the ball back to our offence.
So good job on both sides of the ball.
There were some warts but we controlled the game from start to finish.
This is the first game this year that gave me hope. A full 60 minutes. Offence, Defence and Special teams all looking good. Pressure with only the front 4 was key. Vaval was amazing. Brown took a hit and popped right back up.
Even with all the good things, it took us making 2 long FG's, them missing 2 FG's & having one of those run back for a TD to get the win 13 point shift on the 2 misses. Add a 14th point on the bobbled ball on our missed FG.
I'm not sure the exact timing, but there was an Argos run (or maybe a screen?) to the camera-side sideline in Q4 that went about 9 yards before he was pushed out. In the background you can see the Argo RT has Willie J in a complete bear hug, arms wrapped around both of Willie J's arms, preventing Willie from getting his arms up or shifting into the flat ...no call on the play
Quote from: Throw Long Bannatyne on July 11, 2026, 01:06:44 PM
He says no other professional team plays away 5 games away from home and it's unprecendented? Lions? Many hockey teams?
Maybe not 5 weeks, but I don't think they are on the road for all 5 weeks.
Quote from: Tecno on July 11, 2026, 09:26:15 AM2Q7:28 Dru takes a sack on 8-man blitz. Look carefully: first point of contact has the D's hand on the lower part of Dru's knee, or under the knee. His hand is fully on the blue sock, with none of it on the gold shorts.
The D's hand slides up a bit as he pulls on Dru. But ends up lower than the knee and he ends up holding the entire leg beneath the knee with both arms.
My point being: since 1 year ago that's an illegal low tackle on the passer, RTP, and 15Y. It's the "Strev rule". And we've seen plenty of these called even when the hit is just above the knee.
The rule says: "When a blow is delivered to the knee or below of the passer, when the defender has a clear view to contact, and there are no mitigating circumstances such as contact with other players altering what would otherwise be legal contact."
I say since Dru got his legs pulled out from under him in an instant, that counts as a "blow". The D had a "clear view". Brady tries to push him wider, but fails. The D goes low on his own because he's going to overshoot. So I say "no mitigating circumstances".
These ones usually don't require a challenge. The EITS usually calls it down, because it's so hard for refs to see in realtime. Lots of cases of this. I'm miffed they didn't catch it this time. Sets a bad precedent.
The rule protecting QBs from low hits while in the pocket has been around for nearly 20 years. The clause about mitigating circumstances was a recent addition.
There is a difference between rules as written and rules as intended. That difference was exposed just 2 or 3 weeks into the season after this rule came into effect. A defender was penalized for tackling a QB from behind and the CFL realized a clarification was needed.
The intent of the rule is to protect the QB from low hits that drive his legs &/or knees in a backward motion while his feet are planted in the ground. That is where the worst injuries to QBs can happen.
A defender who makes a tackle from the backside by wrapping up the legs is not to be penalized. I believe that is what happened on this play.
The CFL did not rewrite the rule back then; instead it issued a statement with the amended interpretation.
I miss the days of greater transparency via Ask the Ref or an alternate media site which published rules interpretations. The current media site (https://press.cfl.ca/) is very basic.
Quote from: tlf on July 11, 2026, 05:45:19 PMHe says no other professional team plays away 5 games away from home and it's unprecendented? Lions? Many hockey teams?
Maybe not 5 weeks, but I don't think they are on the road for all 5 weeks.
Not quite true the Argos homebase has been shifted to Guelph, so they have to travel to practice as Kelly explained.
Something caused a change in the player's attitude.
Something from coaches, something from within the players, or both.
They played hard, for the first time this season, and maybe longer than that.
Jones had a very good game. Close to deranged, Maybe it came from him. Going tinfoil, maybe Bighill spoke to someone.
Gatkuoth met their running back at the line of scrimmage and stopped him cold. Great to see.
Willie had a great game.
Dontaria was fired up, making tough yards.
Correct me if I'm wrong, but a lot of d line rotation happened. Also great to see, and it showed.
This was the first game where I had hope that this team could go places this season, even with the pick and turnover on punt, our offense moved the ball, would be nice to score more majors but heck that will come
Quote from: dd on July 11, 2026, 08:03:27 PMThis was the first game where I had hope that this team could go places this season, even with the pick and turnover on punt, our offense moved the ball, would be nice to score more majors but heck that will come
Even with Brown not convinced they can beat the Stamps, Riders or Als yet but we'll see, protecting the QB from ferocious pass rush is my biggest concern. Brown took his life in his hands yesterday when he backed up to throw that short pass to Demski and got ran over and buried by 2 D-linemen from behind, that was a mistake that risked his health which he can't afford to make again.
We can run with and beat any of them. When your offense can sustain drives score a few points and keep the other team off the field you got a chance and that's all you can ask for
Quote from: Throw Long Bannatyne on July 11, 2026, 09:07:14 PMEven with Brown not convinced they can beat the Stamps, Riders or Als yet but we'll see
Where did you hear that?
Quote from: Tecno on July 11, 2026, 10:46:10 PMWhere did you hear that?
Wut??? I'm just making it up as I go.
Quote from: Stats Junkie on July 11, 2026, 06:01:53 PMThe CFL did not rewrite the rule back then; instead it issued a statement with the amended interpretation.
I miss the days of greater transparency via Ask the Ref or an alternate media site which published rules interpretations. The current media site (https://press.cfl.ca/) is very basic.
Thanks Junkie. Ugh, yet another example of "whisper rules" dominating the officiating. "Memos" issued that are not public being used to decide penalties. It almost seems shady. And I get called tinfoil a lot partly for my "conspiracy theories" about the rule book not being the rule book all the time.
Do the teams get these memos, or just the officials?
So we have a rule book that lists rules that are actually not rules -- or have major contradicting caveats.
I guess that explains why tandem block is never called anymore. I guarantee there was a memo for that one after Proulx dared call it 5+ years back. As a fan, this is all very frustrating. If they don't want to clutter up the main book, attach an addendum that contains all the memos issued.
Quote from: markf on July 11, 2026, 06:24:18 PMSomething caused a change in the player's attitude.
See my "putting in more work" thread. This is that. Someone, or everyone, realized they weren't going to win anything by spending 1 hour at 1 practice 1 time a week. Not when the good teams were putting in max effort all the time.
The good teams training like Drago in Rocky 4. And we were training like
Paulie.
Maybe after 2019 we were able to just slide on through on momentum and raw talent. Did it take until 2026 to realize we're back to being the 2016-2018 Bombers, who have to work twice as hard to scrape every win?
This is a great sign that we're finally getting buy-in. Maybe it's by consensus, or maybe a leader is emerging. We can't know yet.
Can't recall if anyone checked yet, so I did. The MOS timeout followed by the Vaval KRTD was for a too-many-men. We had 13. 11 on line, 1 just behind line, Vaval behind the post. No wonder MOS dropped like 3 f-bombs.
You can just make them out to count on the live shot before the snap.
Some people had suspected already. Just confirming it.
Quote from: Tecno on July 13, 2026, 12:22:25 PMCan't recall if anyone checked yet, so I did. The MOS timeout followed by the Vaval KRTD was for a too-many-men. We had 13. 11 on line, 1 just behind line, Vaval behind the post. No wonder MOS dropped like 3 f-bombs.
You can just make them out to count on the live shot before the snap.
Some people had suspected already. Just confirming it.
Thanks for checking
Alot of people giving Oshea credit for icing the kicker..... I doubt he even believes in that, especially with 9 minutes left.
Even 50 year cfl analyst Glen Suitor thought too many men, but the they never did a proper replay
Quote from: Sway on July 13, 2026, 12:52:07 PMThanks for checking
Alot of people giving Oshea credit for icing the kicker..... I doubt he even believes in that, especially with 9 minutes left.
Even 50 year cfl analyst Glen Suitor thought too many men, but the they never did a proper replay
Whatever it was, it worked! They mentioned on OB they may have had too many men, but it still ended up icing the kicker as the refs didn't catch it.
Quote from: Sway on July 13, 2026, 12:52:07 PMThanks for checking
Alot of people giving Oshea credit for icing the kicker..... I doubt he even believes in that, especially with 9 minutes left.
Even 50 year cfl analyst Glen Suitor thought too many men, but the they never did a proper replay
We had too many, could see it live. Didn't notice in the formation but after we used the timeout someone ran off and no one came back on.
Quote from: Tecno on July 13, 2026, 12:22:25 PMCan't recall if anyone checked yet, so I did. The MOS timeout followed by the Vaval KRTD was for a too-many-men. We had 13. 11 on line, 1 just behind line, Vaval behind the post. No wonder MOS dropped like 3 f-bombs.
You can just make them out to count on the live shot before the snap.
Some people had suspected already. Just confirming it.
Was that the same play Vaval was signalling furiously? Looks like he's the one that caught it.
How much did TO miss Judge? Who was playing in his spot?
Judge was replaced by Owen Goss. I was surprised at how well he played. There was one play in particular where he saw Brady leaking out of the backfield on a screen. He quickly closed on him even before he caught the ball, beat a block from Wallace (who has no foot speed whatsoever in the open field), and tackled him for a loss. Occurs at 10:48 3rd quarter.
Quote from: bunker on July 13, 2026, 11:30:32 PMJudge was replaced by Owen Goss. I was surprised at how well he played. There was one play in particular where he saw Brady leaking out of the backfield on a screen. He quickly closed on him even before he caught the ball, beat a block from Wallace (who has no foot speed whatsoever in the open field), and tackled him for a loss. Occurs at 10:48 3rd quarter.
Excellent find by the Argos who never seem able to hold onto their linebackers for very long, mark him as one to watch.
Quote from: Throw Long Bannatyne on July 13, 2026, 11:43:20 PMExcellent find by the Argos who never seem able to hold onto their linebackers for very long, mark him as one to watch.
Yeah, he actually sacked Brown midway throught the second quarter as well. Had a pick six against Dolegala in preseason as well.
He's a rookie the argos signed straight out of college. I can't ever see JY and the bombers starting a rookie linebacker on defense. Would have to go to PR for a season, then 2 seasons of special teams, then maybe rotated in for the odd play in their 4th year :D. I'm being a bit sarcastic, but only a bit. To be fair, Jaylen Smith is getting fairly regular reps on defense right now, and is only in his second year.
The linebacker we added was Hazen, did he see a snap? Surprised we didn't add a receiver instead
Quote from: bunker on July 13, 2026, 11:30:32 PMJudge was replaced by Owen Goss. I was surprised at how well he played. There was one play in particular where he saw Brady leaking out of the backfield on a screen. He quickly closed on him even before he caught the ball, beat a block from Wallace (who has no foot speed whatsoever in the open field), and tackled him for a loss. Occurs at 10:48 3rd quarter.
Yes, Goss had 4 DTs and a Sack. I also agree, Wallace does not run well.
Quote from: Pete on July 14, 2026, 12:11:16 AMThe linebacker we added was Hazen, did he see a snap? Surprised we didn't add a receiver instead
In my rewatch/study I haven't seen Hazen yet. Maybe he was on ST.
Quote from: Throw Long Bannatyne on July 13, 2026, 05:26:59 PMWas that the same play Vaval was signalling furiously? Looks like he's the one that caught it.
No, I checked, Vaval was not freaking out on this one. It was an earlier kick or punt. And I'm not sure what his beef was. Maybe signally a side-shift after seeing the kicker line up?
Quote from: tlf on July 13, 2026, 05:11:40 PMWhatever it was, it worked! They mentioned on OB they may have had too many men, but it still ended up icing the kicker as the refs didn't catch it.
Refs won't flag a TMM until after the snap. They'll sit there waiting, knowing you're over, and let you shoot yourself in the foot. 99.9% they noticed it and were going to flag it. Not sure I've ever seen them miss it. One official (if not 2) has the job of counting every snap.
What I'm glad to see if whoever WFC tasks with counting every snap made sure we knew and fixed it before the snap. So while the set deployment failed, the failsafe didn't.
If TMM is 10Y (I think it is?) then that would have given TOR a free 1st down? That would be disaster.
Quote from: Tecno on July 14, 2026, 04:24:52 AMIn my rewatch/study I haven't seen Hazen yet. Maybe he was on ST.
The only snaps Hazen didn't play on teams was FGs.
Quote from: Pigskin on July 14, 2026, 04:41:55 AMThe only snaps Hazen didn't play on teams was FGs.
Is there a database available that keeps track of the number of snaps each player takes? That info. would be very useful.
Interestingly, when Castillo misses his final FG, it seems to be because of a sudden crosswind blowing to the left. You can hear it on the spidercam, and see the flag go left right after the ball leaves the tee.
Yes, it was somewhat left already, but it would have gone in.
Quote from: Throw Long Bannatyne on July 14, 2026, 04:58:44 AMIs there a database available that keeps track of the number of snaps each player takes? That info. would be very useful.
No, but Derek Taylor usually tracks things things and will give you the answer if you ask him on twitter.
So MOS gets an "accidental icing the kicker" award. I'll take it.
As to Wallace having no speed in open field, if you are looking at a 330lb+ olineman and quibbling about his 40 times, I think the point is missed.
QuoteRefs won't flag a TMM until after the snap. They'll sit there waiting, knowing you're over, and let you shoot yourself in the foot. 99.9% they noticed it and were going to flag it. Not sure I've ever seen them miss it. One official (if not 2) has the job of counting every snap.
What I'm glad to see if whoever WFC tasks with counting every snap made sure we knew and fixed it before the snap. So while the set deployment failed, the failsafe didn't.
If TMM is 10Y (I think it is?) then that would have given TOR a free 1st down? That would be disaster.
3 officials,count the defense every play~side judge, back judge and field judge, while the ref and umpire count the offense every play.
Quote from: theaardvark on July 14, 2026, 02:52:42 PMSo MOS gets an "accidental icing the kicker" award. I'll take it.
As to Wallace having no speed in open field, if you are looking at a 330lb+ olineman and quibbling about his 40 times, I think the point is missed.
Its not his 40 time, its his agility to be able to make a block in the open field. Obviously O-linemen will not be able to be as agile as a smaller more athletic player, but there's a spectrum, and Wallace looks to be on the lumbering end of the spectrum.
Quote from: bunker on July 14, 2026, 03:53:11 PMIts not his 40 time, its his agility to be able to make a block in the open field. Obviously O-linemen will not be able to be as agile as a smaller more athletic player, but there's a spectrum, and Wallace looks to be on the lumering end of the spectrum.
I'd say Neufeld and Geoff Gray were the best downfield blockers in recent years, Wallace is better at bulldozing big O-linemen out of the way along the line and creating horizontal gaps. It's up to the coaching staff to use players attributes in the best possible way and not assign them near impossible tasks. Wallace is great at what he can do and not very good at what he can't do, they need to use him appropriately in coordination with the player's talent on either side of him.
With so much player rotation in the game now for specialists it's surprising this trend has not effected O-lines, if roster allowed they could accomodate specialists for run blocking and pass protection.
To be fair to Wallace, Goss did take off like a rocket before Brady even got the ball, which did not give Gabe much time to adjust. As he turned around, Goss was almost on his way past him.
Quote from: bunker on July 14, 2026, 05:01:17 PMTo be fair to Wallace, Goss did take off like a rocket before Brady even got the ball, which did not give Gabe much time to adjust. As he turned around, Goss was almost on his way past him.
Goss could be like Kramdi, effective playmaker but hard to slot into a starter position unless they make up a spot for him. He's listed as a DB, 6'-0" 202 lbs. but they have him playing WIL, it might be smarter to move him to Safety.
Quote from: Throw Long Bannatyne on July 14, 2026, 05:29:40 PMGoss could be like Kramdi
Is Goss NAT? Harder to keep him on if IMP. If NAT, he might have a good career just starting here. If IMP, he's a dime a dozen :D
Quote from: theaardvark on July 14, 2026, 02:52:42 PMAs to Wallace having no speed in open field, if you are looking at a 330lb+ olineman and quibbling about his 40 times, I think the point is missed.
But if the play depends on most / every OL making their 2nd & 3rd level blocks (after the 1st is taken care of!), as most of our run plays do, then having an OL downfield blocking air is ruining the entire play.
And we've been having problems with that this season. And not just Wallace. Broxton is having a rough time getting the hang of his new role. Elsbury is having growing pains, too. I've started grading out Brady run blocks the last 3 games and it's enlightening to see who's doing what and who's screwing up.
We aren't that good yet, and Brady has to struggle for every inch. The rare times we get 10 are when everything managed to work out just right and/or Brady did a good first-contact shed.