This is a game we should win. I would think DB4 would love to start this game against his old team back in Ottawa. The boys have to stay focused.
Start Brown, let him hang 50 points on Ottawa just to rub Dimwittie's face in it.
Another week of Dru please.
It wouldn't hurt to get Brown more playing time against a weaker opponent. We don't really know the extent of injury to Collaros so letting him sit for another week might not be the worst outcome.
If Brown starts we need to see the playbook opened up a bit more. We nearly eliminated Oliveria as a receiving option, didn't throw to Daniels at all.
Watch the Dru pressers. Pregame, postgame, everything. He's so even-keeled it's not even funny. And he doesn't talk smack at all about OTT: the opposite in fact. I don't think he'd be fired up either way to play OTT.
Like I said: the Kimi Raikonen of football.
Oh he d be fired up alright guaranteed. I hope he gets the start it would be awesome
Ottawa will be hungry and desperate, time to stomp the neck
Two teams that are currently the lowest scoring in the CFL. I'm not expecting a sudden explosion of points in this game regardless of who plays.
Quote from: Blue In BC on July 12, 2026, 02:38:13 PMTwo teams that are currently the lowest scoring in the CFL. I'm not expecting a sudden explosion of points in this game regardless of who plays.
Yeah, Jake Meier threw 4 picks against the Elks whereas DB threw one albeit that was one of his few mistakes of his first game back....with only one practice under his belt!
If Zac is healthy he plays, period. Last thing the team wants is a qb controversy
Quote from: Tecno on July 12, 2026, 03:12:15 AMWatch the Dru pressers. Pregame, postgame, everything. He's so even-keeled it's not even funny. And he doesn't talk smack at all about OTT: the opposite in fact. I don't think he'd be fired up either way to play OTT.
Like I said: the Kimi Raikonen of football.
"It's over and done with now. Obviously got a lot of relationships over there with some of the players and love those guys. But we each have different issues, different situations," said Brown.
"I wish them the best. But I'm focused on what we've got going on over here and excited to roll forward with it."
-Free Press
I will be surprised if it is not Zach. He has extra time to heal for this one.
Let's see ...we have a quarterback who knows his former team inside and out....I know which quarterback I'm starting....and it ain't ZC....NO BRAINER
Quote from: Pete on July 12, 2026, 03:59:23 PMIf Zac is healthy he plays, period. Last thing the team wants is a qb controversy
That's obviously going to be the team's position. We all know that.
That doesn't stop the QB controversy though. Fans are asking for Dru and you gotta think some of the players are too.
Looks like the boys will not practice until Tuesday. With the heat I don't expect the practices to be very long.
Quote from: Jesse on July 12, 2026, 05:59:41 PMThat's obviously going to be the team's position. We all know that.
That doesn't stop the QB controversy though. Fans are asking for Dru and you gotta think some of the players are too.
Fans gotta remember who took this club to 5 grey cups and chill out. This is still Zach's team no question. MOS won't stand for any talk of controversy at all, he will be 100% behind Collaros and rightfully so and the players know that. It's business as usual with a very good backup waiting in the wings if need be
Quote from: dd on July 12, 2026, 07:13:49 PMFans gotta remember who took this club to 5 grey cups and chill out. This is still Zach's team no question. MOS won't stand for any talk of controversy at all, he will be 100% behind Collaros and rightfully so and the players know that. It's business as usual with a very good backup waiting in the wings if need be
I don't believe anyone is disputing Zach's past record, but you have to acknowledge he has been fairly compensated as one of the CFL's top paid performers throughout his time in Wpg. So, what does any of that have to do with this season? Are we supposed to continue to feed him rope and ignore his declining performance over the past 2 seasons as his TD output dropped by half, while his interception rate doubled and then tripled? A QB transition is dawning and if they want to remain competitive it should be addressed this season rather than pushing it off for another year.
I'm a Zach fan and even I want Dru to play just because. Worst case scenario is we do our regular thing vs teams we should beat and lose(why do we do that anyhow?).
Would be nice for Dru to lay a 50 burger on them though. I don't think there'd be a QB controversy after that, there may already be one within the fans. I think the QB room is pretty good within themselves though. Except Elgersma, I'm unsure he's happy with his situation atm.
As soon as you make Dru the starter, your in a situation like Adams and Rourke. Each will have supporters in the locker room and result in a divided room and for someone like OShea its not acceptable.
If Zac fails then its a decision . But not after just one game with Dru where the opposing team wasn't fully prepared to defend him in our offence
Quote from: Pete on July 12, 2026, 10:21:11 PMAs soon as you make Dru the starter, your in a situation like Adams and Rourke. Each will have supporters in the locker room and result in a divided room and for someone like OShea its not acceptable.
If Zac fails then its a decision . But not after just one game with Dru where the opposing team wasn't fully prepared to defend him in our offence
I'm thinking MOS won't pull Zach unless he's not 100%
And he'll most likely play his cards tight to the vest as far as Zach's health status.....he'll wait as long as he needs to to make the official call. We still aren't sure about Zach's condition so it's anyone's guess at this time!!
Quote from: blueraid on July 12, 2026, 04:21:48 PMLet's see ...we have a quarterback who knows his former team inside and out....I know which quarterback I'm starting....and it ain't ZC....NO BRAINER
But it's not really the QB who is planning against the old team: it's the OC. So what we need (and probably has already happened) is Dru needs to spill the entire OTT O book to WFC & Condell. For once we are on the winning end of that intelligence steal!
I know, y'all are laughing "it's just OTT", but does anyone think for a minute our team is good enough to be
a lock against even lowly OTT? You gonna bet the farm on that one? So yes, stealing the Dinwiddie book since TC can have a lot of value.
OTT's probably stoked that they are up against arguably the weakest team in the W (from other cities' point of view). They're probably like "guys, we need to try extra hard as this is the only winnable one!".
I'd love to see Brown get the start, but I think if Collaros is cleared to play, he starts.
I just hope the latter can stay upright should he play.
All the talk here is Brown being motivated but I think Dinwiddie will pull out all the stops too. He doesn't want to be any more humiliated than he already is. This might be the biggest game of Ottawa's year. Our QB's should be ready for some cheap shots.
If you look at Colleros' stats this season he has a very good Qb rating. His Qb rating this season is the highest its been in about 5 years.
Quote from: bwiser on July 13, 2026, 03:09:46 PMIf you look at Colleros' stats this season he has a very good Qb rating. His Qb rating this season is the highest its been in about 5 years.
If both Bo and Zach had not been injured his record would be 1-3, his stat line may look better but the results this season have not been impressive.
Quote from: Throw Long Bannatyne on July 13, 2026, 06:08:24 PMIf both Bo and Zach had not been injured his record would be 1-3, his stat line may look better but the results this season have not been impressive.
The biggest difference between Collaros and Brown is that Zach needs everyone to execute pretty well perfectly around him. Brown is mobile and athletic enough to make guys miss in the pocket and he has the footspeed to do some stuff on his own even if he's absolutely a pocket passing QB. Zach used to be like that and maybe even more, but he just can't anymore. It makes a difference 2-3 plays a game and often 2 or 3 plays can be the difference between winning and losing.
Quote from: bwiser on July 13, 2026, 03:09:46 PMIf you look at Colleros' stats this season he has a very good Qb rating. His Qb rating this season is the highest its been in about 5 years.
Before Zach was knocked out of the Hamilton game he was ranked 8th among CFL QBs statistically albeit he had a high QB ranking. Statistics can often be misleading however Zach threw a pick on the very first play against the Cats. I can't even remember the last time that happened to a Bomber QB?!?!
Elgersma stepped in and basically helped us win the game and looked more in control than did Zach. I've been a huge fan of Zach all these years however his best playing days seem to be behind him. Twice in the loss to the Elks, he threw a bomb on second and medium which were both unsuccessful and killed promising drives.
Was that on Condell or Zach? I yelled at the TV screen "just make the first down ***"!!!
When you have a running back like Brady use him to eat up the clock and make critical first downs at critical times. Zach hasn't lived up to his paycheck either.....so there's that.
What Zach has is MOS's loyalty at the moment but he needs to step up his performance and prove to the team and to the fans that he's still our guy. Unfortunately football is a "what have you done for me lately" kind of sport and especially at QB. I get that he's our starter and MOS will cut him some slack....but his rope is getting shorter each game if he doesn't turn his game around.....despite his favourable "quarterback efficiency rating"....just sayin'
For succession's sake, it would be great if Dru Brown can get another start. It will also leave Collaros fresher for the post-season which I'm not opposed to.
If Dinwiddie was true with his words, maybe he should set his secondary no farther than 15 yards out and see if Dru Brown really doesn't have the arm.
Quote from: Throw Long Bannatyne on July 13, 2026, 06:08:24 PMIf both Bo and Zach had not been injured his record would be 1-3, his stat line may look better but the results this season have not been impressive.
Would? There was a lot of football left to play in that game. What was it? 10-4? And that's with a touchdown we practically spotted them.
Quote from: Sir Blue and Gold on July 13, 2026, 08:03:54 PMThe biggest difference between Collaros and Brown is that Zach needs everyone to execute pretty well perfectly around him. Brown is mobile and athletic enough to make guys miss in the pocket and he has the footspeed to do some stuff on his own even if he's absolutely a pocket passing QB. Zach used to be like that and maybe even more, but he just can't anymore.
Zach has no ability to form in his head a "picture" of the line situation, and mentally find the best escape route. In fact, he usually picks the absolute worst direction to go. Yes, he used to be better at this, but now he just completely sucks. Maybe worse than T.Harris.
Which is ironic, because Zach is one of the best at forming the picture of the coverage and picking the right read. Maybe all his brain power is going to the coverage pictures, and leaving no neurons left for the pocket situation.
Then there's guys like Rourke & Alexander (and remember Mike Reilly!) who seem to always pick the absolute best escape route! But maybe that's because they are using less brainpower on the pictures downfield -- hence why they are quick to leave the pocket.
Maybe Zach should go fully Ricky Ray and just stay in the middle of the pocket no matter what -- come heck or high tackles. Just trust the OL and take the hits, like Ricky did. That might improve his passing results. Why on earth take a sack at the edge of the pocket rather than just sit in the middle and take it there? Plus, OL job becomes easier if they know for a fact that QB is in that middle no matter what (unless on a designed bootleg, of course).
Quote from: Waffler on July 13, 2026, 02:14:49 PMAll the talk here is Brown being motivated but I think Dinwiddie will pull out all the stops too. He doesn't want to be any more humiliated than he already is. This might be the biggest game of Ottawa's year. Our QB's should be ready for some cheap shots.
You better believe it. I'm scared to death of what Dinwiddie will come up with. Our D better be 10X better than the '24 GC, or we're going to get destroyed by useless Maier. That game was embarrassing, even before Zach's booboo.
If someone knows how to beat WPG with a garbage QB, it's Dinwiddie. I wonder if he had this game circled since the schedule came out.
I expect full dink & dunk for this one, and we have trouble against that. It'll be a good test to see if we have solutions that will help vs SSK.
Quote from: Tecno on July 14, 2026, 05:48:49 AMZach has no ability to form in his head a "picture" of the line situation, and mentally find the best escape route. In fact, he usually picks the absolute worst direction to go. Yes, he used to be better at this, but now he just completely sucks. Maybe worse than T.Harris.
Which is ironic, because Zach is one of the best at forming the picture of the coverage and picking the right read. Maybe all his brain power is going to the coverage pictures, and leaving no neurons left for the pocket situation.
Then there's guys like Rourke & Alexander (and remember Mike Reilly!) who seem to always pick the absolute best escape route! But maybe that's because they are using less brainpower on the pictures downfield -- hence why they are quick to leave the pocket.
Maybe Zach should go fully Ricky Ray and just stay in the middle of the pocket no matter what -- come heck or high tackles. Just trust the OL and take the hits, like Ricky did. That might improve his passing results. Why on earth take a sack at the edge of the pocket rather than just sit in the middle and take it there? Plus, OL job becomes easier if they know for a fact that QB is in that middle no matter what (unless on a designed bootleg, of course).
I don't think it's a matter of being good (or not good) at it, mentally. When the pocket needs navigating it mostly comes down to athleticism. Zach isn't picking the wrong way, it's just that at his age and speed, every choice he makes is wrong. That makes a big difference over the course of a game. And Zach's success has never really been in the pocket with a timing based game. He's always been much more of a play extending QB. He just can't do that anymore and the results over the last two years are basically his output when he's forced to play a different style game than his first 12 seasons in the league.
Quote from: Tecno on July 14, 2026, 05:48:49 AMMaybe Zach should go fully Ricky Ray and just stay in the middle of the pocket no matter what -- come heck or high tackles. Just trust the OL and take the hits, like Ricky did.
The difference is the concussions.
I wonder if to some extent, Zach worries about getting hit, and concussed every time he drops back.
He's never been the most exuberant player, but I'm not sure he's enjoying it much anymore.
He can't just stand there and absorb punishment . His long term health is in Jeopardy already.
If Zach is healthy, he starts.
I think starting Zach is the best bet, for sure, if he is healthy.
And let Dimwiddie know that.
And then, third offensive series, Dru comes out with a special package. Tosses a wrench into the works.
And then every series after, both Zach and Dru get ready on the sidelines, and the O has already been given the play, and the last player to take the field is the QB for that series.
They bring different looks, different talents, different proclivities.
When you have 1a and 1b, use it.
There's very little difference between Collaros and brown, it's not like brown is a running Qb like ford. The defense wouldn't adjust anything
Practice today, if Zach participates fully he'll be starting.
Quote from: Throw Long Bannatyne on July 14, 2026, 05:14:46 PMPractice today, if Zach participates fully he'll be starting.
FB says he is in pads practicing
So it's seems likely the Elgersma gets moved to RR this week.
Quote from: Blueforlife on July 14, 2026, 05:47:10 PMFB says he is in pads practicing
But Dru is taking 1st team reps.
Quote from: gobombersgo on July 14, 2026, 06:20:47 PMBut Dru is taking 1st team reps.
Wow sounds like a dream scenario
Get our leader healthy as the student hones his craft
so if Dru is taking all the reps will he be Dru's backup?
Quote from: gobombersgo on July 14, 2026, 06:20:47 PMBut Dru is taking 1st team reps.
Brown is the new guy and needs more reps than Collaros. It might mean Collaros is just easing back into practice or it could mean he sits out another week. I wouldn't read too much into it just yet.
Quote from: Sir Blue and Gold on July 14, 2026, 06:49:22 PMI'll take vague qualitative terms that sound smart when you know the quantitative data doesn't hold up, for $500.
Come back to reality as we have no clue what you are ranting about lol
Sounds like a vague razz which is not needed or welcome but I can't decifer the code lol
Please talk ball, that's what we come here for
Quote from: Blueforlife on July 14, 2026, 08:50:53 PMCome back to reality as we have no clue what you are ranting about lol
Sounds like a vague razz which is not needed or welcome but I can't decifer the code lol
Please talk ball, that's what we come here for
I will decipher your decifer for the $500
Quote from: gobombersgo on July 14, 2026, 08:35:03 PM
See Clercius 6:20 helmet in hand, should be ready to return shortly.
Quote from: Throw Long Bannatyne on July 14, 2026, 09:22:38 PMSee Clercius 6:20 helmet in hand, should be ready to return shortly.
A lot of players are very close to returning. The next two weeks should be interesting.
Quote from: Pigskin on July 14, 2026, 09:39:41 PMA lot of players are very close to returning. The next two weeks should be interesting.
Yes, several player should be able to return after this week. Whether there is a need or not may decide how the roster is shuffled to accommodate availability.
Dru needs reps in this system, with these receivers, if he wants to be a proper backup, Collaros does not.
If Collaros is starting, if he gets some reps on the last day of practice, he'll be OK.
I'd love to see Dru start, though...
Sooner than later succession planning needs to start. Also having a rested 100% Collaros during the playoffs is much better than a gimpy 50% Collaros.
Might as well put Dru in when the schedule allows it instead of Labour Day onwards due to some catastrophe.
Quote from: Blue In BC on July 14, 2026, 10:07:24 PMYes, several player should be able to return after this week. Whether there is a need or not may decide how the roster is shuffled to accommodate availability.
Wonder who's all headed to the practice roster, somewhat depends on who comes off the 6 game, but not a lot players to choose from that would accept PR demotion willingly.
Possibilities.
Corcoran or Cobb
Hazen
Kornelson
Ethan Stuart
Brody Clark
Reese or Dixon or Fletcher (Jenkins may get shuffled out the door)
Mostly due to being low man on the totem pole and showing their willingness to wait for their next opportunity.
Quote from: Throw Long Bannatyne on July 15, 2026, 01:57:34 AMWonder who's all headed to the practice roster, somewhat depends on who comes off the 6 game, but not a lot players to choose from that would accept PR demotion willingly.
Possibilities.
Corcoran or Cobb
Hazen
Kornelson
Ethan Stuart
Brody Clark
Reese or Dixon or Fletcher (Jenkins may get shuffled out the door)
Mostly due to being low man on the totem pole and showing their willingness to wait for their next opportunity.
Corcoran got more reps last game but was rotating with Cobb, coaches likely wanted film on both as will factor in
Hard to say who goes out of the other names, will depend on timing and who comes back on but a good list!
Quote from: Throw Long Bannatyne on July 15, 2026, 01:57:34 AMWonder who's all headed to the practice roster, somewhat depends on who comes off the 6 game, but not a lot players to choose from that would accept PR demotion willingly.
Possibilities.
Corcoran or Cobb
Hazen
Kornelson
Ethan Stuart
Brody Clark
Reese or Dixon or Fletcher (Jenkins may get shuffled out the door)
Mostly due to being low man on the totem pole and showing their willingness to wait for their next opportunity.
Depends on new injuries. If we don't have any new ones this week, we may need to trim a few currently on the PR if some on 6 game IR are added to AR. Obviously they'd have to make space on the PR to accommodate.
Brown could add to Redblacks early woes (https://www.tsn.ca/cfl/article/brown-could-add-to-redblacks-early-woes/)
Quote from: blue_gold_84 on July 15, 2026, 04:56:24 PMBrown could add to Redblacks early woes (https://www.tsn.ca/cfl/article/brown-could-add-to-redblacks-early-woes/)
time to stomp the neck
we have a short week next week - save zach for that.
Dru Brown is first up again today. Zach practicing but limited.
Sure is sounding like Dru will be the guy this week. If he is and Collaros is actually 100%, colour me shocked. Not that I don't agree with the move. I think just about everyone wants to see more Druski. No shade against the Zach Legendary, of course...
Quote from: blue_or_die on July 15, 2026, 06:35:26 PMSure is sounding like Dru will be the guy this week. If he is and Collaros is actually 100%, colour me shocked. Not that I don't agree with the move. I think just about everyone wants to see more Druski. No shade against the Zach Legendary, of course...
Zach's neck hasn't been good since 2023 so he's always gone to be one picky flick away from the clipboard.
Dru sure took the bull by the horns this season.
I admire him for getting himself out of a mess and into a good place.
I have a feeling things will be a little harder for Dru this week not sure why just a gut feeling/ Ott D. Sure hope I'm wrong. Time to get the run game cooking!
I love what Zach has done for the franchise. He's the best QB I've ever seen play for the bombers!
However....
Dru is better right now. I think Zach is holding this offence back a little bit. We have a solid group of receivers, a great OL and a top 3 back in the league. To go along with all that, we have a new OC who seems to be doing really well actually!
Nyles Morgan suffers broken hand with Ottawa Redblacks - 3DownNation https://share.google/Kn4tJV2xtNEiv1ngH
Quote from: LXTSN on July 15, 2026, 08:24:20 PMI love what Zach has done for the franchise. He's the best QB I've ever seen play for the bombers!
However....
Dru is better right now. I think Zach is holding this offence back a little bit. We have a solid group of receivers, a great OL and a top 3 back in the league. To go along with all that, we have a new OC who seems to be doing really well actually!
Agree all but OL is good not great (yet)
It's not looking like Collaros will be on the AR this week. That neck injury has been an issue for a couple of years now. OTOH, he's " limited " in practice so it's a GTD I suppose. He doesn't need to have the most reps compared to Brown who is new to this system.
So I won't be surprised either way this goes.
Lots of players not practising: Demski, Oliveria, Eli, Vibert and Lawson. That's not completely unusual.
I see that Dixon and Woodbey are both practising at full but not likely to be available until after game 7. At least we know their injuries were not season ending.
Lots of variables that might impact the ratio and roster decisions for this week. Wallace was not 100% last week and with Eli and Vibert not practising. Might we see Mazzccua back as depth?
Ottawa is losing Baldanado, Frye and Morgan on defence due to current injuries. Morgan broke his wrist so he's gone for awhile.
Quote from: LXTSN on July 15, 2026, 08:24:20 PMI love what Zach has done for the franchise. He's the best QB I've ever seen play for the bombers!
However....
Dru is better right now. I think Zach is holding this offence back a little bit. We have a solid group of receivers, a great OL and a top 3 back in the league. To go along with all that, we have a new OC who seems to be doing really well actually!
It's hard to compare players from different eras. Matt Dunigan, Tom Clements, Khari Jones and Dieter Brock to name a few would rank higher IMO. Then of course the all time # 1 QB Ken Ploen would did so many other things besides just play Qb.
Quote from: Blue In BC on July 15, 2026, 09:25:29 PMIt's not looking like Collaros will be on the AR this week. That neck injury has been an issue for a couple of years now. OTOH, he's " limited " in practice so it's a GTD I suppose. He doesn't need to have the most reps compared to Brown who is new to this system.
So I won't be surprised either way this goes.
Lots of players not practising: Demski, Oliveria, Eli, Vibert and Lawson. That's not completely unusual.
I see that Dixon and Woodbey are both practising at full but not likely to be available until after game 7. At least we know their injuries were not season ending.
Lots of variables that might impact the ratio and roster decisions for this week. Wallace was not 100% last week and with Eli and Vibert not practising. Might we see Mazzccua back as depth?
Ottawa is losing Baldanado, Frye and Morgan on defence due to current injuries. Morgan broke his wrist so he's gone for awhile.
Those losses could explain Ottawa's late game collapse last weekend against the Elks, up till then the defence was holding their own, but once the floodgates broke Rankin ran wild.
Today's injury report lists Zach as "Did not practice".
Definitely starting to look like a Dru game.
Party on garth
Tommy Condell may have some flaws as an OC but he's worlds better than Jason Hogan was last year. Not sure how the Bombers brass saw how he was ready, bless his kind soul.
we will see some players sitting practice as we have another sunday to friday turnaround next week.
Bomber Special Teams doing well so far this season. It would be nice to see the CFL add new awards for the best coordinator in all 3 categories at the end of the year, these coaches don't get enough recognition. Mike Miller would be a contender every year.
The Blue Bombers special teams have clearly been the squad's most consistent unit through the 3-2 start and rank first or second in many of the key statistical categories the Canadian Football League tracks. Among them:
2nd in net punting (38.2)
2nd in punt return yards (15.9)
2nd in kickoff return average (25.9)
1st in punt return average against (11.2)
2nd in kickoff return average against (17.7)
1st in kick return big plays (6; includes punt or missed field goal returns of 30-plus yards, kickoff returns of 40-plus yards)
And, conversely, they are the only team in the CFL so far to have yet to surrender a big play on special teams.
https://www.bluebombers.com/2026/07/15/mike-miller-were-basically-the-keepers-of-momentum/ (https://www.bluebombers.com/2026/07/15/mike-miller-were-basically-the-keepers-of-momentum/)
Quote from: bomberjunkie on July 15, 2026, 11:33:39 PMTommy Condell may have some flaws as an OC but he's worlds better than Jason Hogan was last year. Not sure how the Bombers brass saw how he was ready, bless his kind soul.
If anything, Hogan's failure was more a Mafia failure. I'm still convinced it was all a money thing, as well as maybe the "real" OC we wanted not being available yet... I bet we had to rejig to the coaches cap to make it work for this season. Maybe some of the big(ger)-wigs took a haricut?
Quote from: Blue In BC on July 15, 2026, 09:25:29 PMLots of variables that might impact the ratio and roster decisions for this week. Wallace was not 100% last week and with Eli and Vibert not practising. Might we see Mazzccua back as depth?
Ottawa is losing Baldanado, Frye and Morgan on defence due to current injuries. Morgan broke his wrist so he's gone for awhile.
What makes you say Wallace was not 100%? We have proof of that?
I doubt both Eli & Vibert can be out on IR at the same time. One will be good to play. No way Mazzcua goes depth -- you start him if he's on the AR. Our sets don't allow for ratio-swapping on the OL -- backup is ALWAYS NAT.
OTT without Bald & Morgan will be severely neutered. Good!
Quote from: The Zipp on July 15, 2026, 05:44:29 PMwe have a short week next week - save zach for that.
Great point. Could definitely be part of the calculus.
Quote from: Sir Blue and Gold on July 14, 2026, 01:02:36 PMI don't think it's a matter of being good (or not good) at it, mentally. When the pocket needs navigating it mostly comes down to athleticism. Zach isn't picking the wrong way, it's just that at his age and speed, every choice he makes is wrong. That makes a big difference over the course of a game.
I still disagree. It's both. Yes, he's less athletic now. But he still misses the 1 or 2 escape hatches in the pocket most times. If you carefully examine plays where QBs escape, you can usually see amazing openings, often with wide open expanses of flat behind them. Especially on 4 man pass rush. The good QBs find that escape. Heck, even Cody is better at it than Zach, and he's not that great.
Like one of the near-final plays in the '22 GC (I think). Perfect example where heat is coming and instead of going to where rushers are blocked or absent, he runs straight to a DT or DE dancing with Stan (I think), and while Stan is still holding him Zach just stands there and lets the dude grab him by the jersey and turtle until the whistle. That arguably cost us a GC.
He's like a blue & gold moth to the DL player flame. Runs straight to them. It's weird. And it costs us games.
Quote from: Tecno on July 16, 2026, 02:40:50 AMIf anything, Hogan's failure was more a Mafia failure. I'm still convinced it was all a money thing, as well as maybe the "real" OC we wanted not being available yet... I bet we had to rejig to the coaches cap to make it work for this season. Maybe some of the big(ger)-wigs took a haricut?
The Jarious Jackson hiring was pretty messed up, late arrival and quick departure after the season could signal O'Shea was none too pleased. I think Hogan may have become the default when that hiring didn't work out as planned. The fact they even hired Jackson indicates their CFL contacts are from the distant past. Don't be surprised if O'Shea continues to elevate his own guys into the coaching ranks, neither Miller or Jake had any intention of pursuing that career until O'Shea convinced them.
Speaking of Jackson, saw him on the sidelines of the Stamps game, but mistook him for Nik Lewis.
Does Ott have any film on Dru?
Which "familiarity" gives the most advantage, his knowledge off the OTT defense, or their knowledge of his tendencies?
Quote from: theaardvark on July 16, 2026, 03:54:08 AMDoes Ott have any film on Dru?
Which "familiarity" gives the most advantage, his knowledge off the OTT defense, or their knowledge of his tendencies?
There's tons of film on Dru in OTT, and enough here to start dissection.
Dru probably won't know much about the OTT D book, but he sure as heck knows the OTT O book, and I hope we did the uber-debrief, like Biggie did when he gave CGY the entire WPG book (and admitted as much on video -- no tinfoil needed).
Quote from: Tecno on July 16, 2026, 05:33:01 AMThere's tons of film on Dru in OTT, and enough here to start dissection.
Dru probably won't know much about the OTT D book, but he sure as heck knows the OTT O book, and I hope we did the uber-debrief, like Biggie did when he gave CGY the entire WPG book (and admitted as much on video -- no tinfoil needed).
No one ever said tin foil on that one. It just doesn't matter because everyone already has everyone's play book. It doesn't give you any extra edge they don't already have.
Quote from: Jesse on July 16, 2026, 01:59:26 PMNo one ever said tin foil on that one. It just doesn't matter because everyone already has everyone's play book. It doesn't give you any extra edge they don't already have.
Brown practised against the Redblacks defence, so yes he does have knowledge on how to defeat them.
Quote from: Blue In BC on July 16, 2026, 02:53:48 PMBrown practised against the Redblacks defence, so yes he does have knowledge on how to defeat them.
And Dinwiddie is aware of that experience so it's the same chess match as any other game.
Quote from: Tecno on July 16, 2026, 02:43:09 AMWhat makes you say Wallace was not 100%? We have proof of that?
I doubt both Eli & Vibert can be out on IR at the same time. One will be good to play. No way Mazzcua goes depth -- you start him if he's on the AR. Our sets don't allow for ratio-swapping on the OL -- backup is ALWAYS NAT.
OTT without Bald & Morgan will be severely neutered. Good!
We had moved Wallace to the RR ( shoulder issue ) and started Mazzccua at LG. So yes, several of our Canadian OL are nicked to some degree. I'm only saying he'd have been a better depth choice than Hazen last week.
This week's IR report shows Eli and Vibert as having issues. Vibert was sick and Eli has an ankle injury.
Whether Mazzccua is a better LG is still a debate but we were able to get him on the AR with no ratio issue. Whether he should start was not the point being made. It's about not needing another import LB as a DI compared to any other depth choice at receiver, DB or OL.
Quote from: Jesse on July 17, 2026, 12:39:03 PMAnd Dinwiddie is aware of that experience so it's the same chess match as any other game.
I hope the Bombers sink his battleship on Sunday.
Quote from: blue_gold_84 on July 17, 2026, 01:08:53 PMI hope the Bombers sink his battleship on Sunday.
Literally zero excuses not to.
Ott going to be hungry, stave em early and they get hangry and you stomp the throat
Let em get up early and they could feast
Should be a good one
Sure would like to see a no doubter by 1/2 time with none of those silly RedBlack wood chips being cut.
Also want to see Ike touch the ball at least a couple times
Positive BB turnover ratio with a couple Int's.
Dru upright throughout and getting young El reps in the 4th.
All doable
Quote from: JockitchwithRich on July 17, 2026, 02:51:53 PMSure would like to see a no doubter by 1/2 time with none of those silly RedBlack wood chips being cut.
Also want to see Ike touch the ball at least a couple times
Positive BB turnover ratio with a couple Int's.
Dru upright throughout and getting young El reps in the 4th.
All doable
Agree.
Those receiver sweeps and double backfield looks with some speed are required based on how teams play Brady given his north/south running style.
There's room over there on the edges, the challenge usually it's just getting there without it being a giant tell. There's also some benefit to making sure the linebackers who are always down in the box have to run out to the field and boundary a bunch even if they don't stretch like we would ideally want them to.
Re-watched the last game and noticed Corcoran taking a lot more reps than Cobb in different situations, I think they like him better as a blocking receiver along the edge and maybe that had something to do with the success of Pokey's sweeps, could be he's a better grappler. Good to see Condell paying close attention to Sask. game film.
Also, he's the only receiver that plays on the line on SY teams.
Lineup across is Eli, Stan, Wallace, Elsbury, Neufeld, Broxton, Daniels, MCI, Corcoran.
what is dinwiddies coaching record against the Bombers?
Bombers can't take this game lightly at some point things will start to go better for the RB's
never forget the Crum back game
Quote from: The Zipp on July 17, 2026, 05:22:01 PMwhat is dinwiddies coaching record against the Bombers?
Bombers can't take this game lightly at some point things will start to go better for the RB's
never forget the Crum back game
Ottawa is far from a hopeless team, if they could develop a strong running attack it would go a long way to reducing the burden on Maier to do everything through the air. They have Bell and Adeboye but have not made a strong enough commitment to making the running game an important component of their attack IMO. Dinwiddie prioritizes the passing game, even with the Argos he didn't do much to develop the run despite having Harris and Thor as RB's.
Quote from: Throw Long Bannatyne on July 17, 2026, 04:11:50 PMRe-watched the last game and noticed Corcoran taking a lot more reps than Cobb in different situations, I think they like him better as a blocking receiver along the edge and maybe that had something to do with the success of Pokey's sweeps, could be he's a better grappler. Good to see Condell paying close attention to Sask. game film.
Also, he's the only receiver that plays on the line on SY teams.
Lineup across is Eli, Stan, Wallace, Elsbury, Neufeld, Broxton, Daniels, MCI, Corcoran.
Yeah seen that live. I think they evaluating both. Agree on blocking.
Dru is starting, Zach didnt practice.
Coach O'Shea was clear - Zach is out against Ottawa and the most recent injury report indicates Bray is "questionable".
CFL Injury Reports: Week 7 - CFL.ca https://share.google/Aw66fAK2v5OYI7EdY
Quote from: ModAdmin on July 17, 2026, 09:18:05 PMCoach O'Shea was clear - Zach is out against Ottawa and the most recent injury report indicates Bray is "questionable".
Bray?
I expect to see Bethel Thompson at some point on Sunday. Maier has been mediocre at best so far this season and was just plain bad last week throwing 4 INT's. I am sure the Bombers will be ready for both.
As I said earlier this week my concern is about the short and long term health of Collaros. This is not new and I think a few of us wondered if should have retired after last season.
Missing 2 1/2 games at this point is a questionable situation. We aren't getting the real info on his injury. It's not that we deserve full disclosure. I may be wrong but I suspect this is more concussion related than " neck injury " related.
Regarding other news it appears that Lawson might miss this game. Hazen is out and Jenkins is back. One DL out and one in makes sense filling a need rather than another LB.
Jenkins needs to step up though.
If they were concerned about Oliveria not playing they would have added Peterson to the roster.
Quote from: ModAdmin on July 17, 2026, 09:18:05 PMCoach O'Shea was clear - Zach is out against Ottawa and the most recent injury report indicates Bray is "questionable".
O'Shea is clear as mud, he's using every word in the thesaurus to confuse us, "questionable", "doubtful", "unquestionable", "maybe no". If all of those on the injury list were unable to play, they wouldn't have enough bodies to play the game.
Quote from: bwiser on July 17, 2026, 11:07:51 PMI expect to see Bethel Thompson at some point on Sunday. Maier has been mediocre at best so far this season and was just plain bad last week throwing 4 INT's. I am sure the Bombers will be ready for both.
The Bombers are historically terrible when a back up QB comes in
Barely won 2021 GC
Lost 2022 GC to Kelly
Crum Back
2024 GC Arbuclkle
Come to mind off the top of my head, probably others
Little worried about this game but with Dru having extra motivation they should destroy them
Quote from: Throw Long Bannatyne on July 17, 2026, 11:46:18 PMO'Shea is clear as mud, he's using every word in the thesaurus to confuse us, "questionable", "doubtful", "unquestionable", "maybe no". If all of those on the injury list were unable to play, they wouldn't have enough bodies to play the game.
Ya, not sure I've seen "doubtful" before? Are these terms in the mandated practice injury reports standardized by the league? Or do the teams just write whatever words they want?
Is "doubtful" more likely to be "out" than "questionable"?
Quote from: Blue In BC on July 17, 2026, 11:14:42 PMRegarding other news it appears that Lawson might miss this game. Hazen is out and Jenkins is back. One DL out and one in makes sense filling a need rather than another LB.
But if Lawson sits that makes a ratio problem. I guess with 3 IMP OL it won't matter, but it does limit us elsewhere.
Does this mean Korney starts or can we have both Ceresna and Fletcher start?
Quote from: Tecno on July 18, 2026, 12:53:01 AMYa, not sure I've seen "doubtful" before? Are these terms in the mandated practice injury reports standardized by the league? Or do the teams just write whatever words they want?
Is "doubtful" more likely to be "out" than "questionable"?
This is pretty standard language.
Questionable = 25% chance of being out
Doubtful = 75% chance of being out
Quote from: ModAdmin on July 18, 2026, 12:02:12 AMSorry. Add a d between the a and y. ;D
Oh, shoot. My bad.
I looked over both injury reports and could not figure it out, lol.
Quote from: Throw Long Bannatyne on July 17, 2026, 11:46:18 PMO'Shea is clear as mud, he's using every word in the thesaurus to confuse us, "questionable", "doubtful", "unquestionable", "maybe no". If all of those on the injury list were unable to play, they wouldn't have enough bodies to play the game.
Yip, you can usually tell what he's gonna do by him trying to not tell us with his gibberish
Except that 2022 GC week, he was using all his gibberish but then he trotted out Bighill and Shcoen who both couldn't walk and ended up costing us in the end
Quote from: Tecno on July 18, 2026, 12:54:43 AMBut if Lawson sits that makes a ratio problem. I guess with 3 IMP OL it won't matter, but it does limit us elsewhere.
Does this mean Korney starts or can we have both Ceresna and Fletcher start?
We'll rotate in Kelly and Smith whether Kornelson starts or not. I would expect to see a 4 import DL quite a bit tomorrow.
Quote from: Blue In BC on July 18, 2026, 03:59:38 PMWe'll rotate in Kelly and Smith whether Kornelson starts or not. I would expect to see a 4 import DL quite a bit tomorrow.
Add Gatkuoth and Kramdi, that gives them 5 Natl. options on defence, no problem.
No pregame show on CJOB??\
And it starts as I type this
Technical difficulties
And swear words out of nowhere
Finally that soccer BS is over now onto real football!
Hear we go!
Nice sack fletcher
Mr Fletcher makes another big play!
been dropping all my insights in the wrong thread.
dumb gamble
fletcher is great
moxey plays too far off
Quote from: The Zipp on July 19, 2026, 11:29:44 PMbeen dropping all my insights in the wrong thread.
dumb gamble
fletcher is great
moxey plays too far off
lol me to.
Quote from: The Zipp on July 19, 2026, 11:29:44 PMbeen dropping all my insights in the wrong thread.
dumb gamble
fletcher is great
moxey plays too far off
Why are there 2 threads?
Quote from: Throw Long Bannatyne on July 20, 2026, 12:32:14 AMWhy are there 2 threads?
Unless we change to starting the "official GDT" 5-6 days early there will always be 2 threads: the shooting-the-poop in-week thread, and the official one 1-2 days before the game.
Quote from: GOLDMEMBER on July 19, 2026, 11:01:10 PMFinally that soccer BS is over now onto real football!
Hear we go!
Tell me about it! I was glad to prove myself right to my son & daughter that nearly every soccer game ends 0-0 or 1-0. 2 to 2.5 hours of your life wasted just to reach 0-0. I really love the soccer highlights as they highlight... nothing! Yay, they ran into the middle, then the other team ran into the middle, then they run back into the middle. Then 6 guys side-by-side jump up in the air accomplishing nothing. Then someone pretends to get hurt. Yay soccer!
But it's not all a joke: once again I miss the first 30-45 minutes of a CFL game!! And TSN never replays these things anymore (unless you win the Tuesday-night vote) so forever more I will not have the first 30 of this game on PVR. And THAT really cheeses my OCD off like you wouldn't believe.
Looks like they always tape over TSN1 with the crappy overrun of soccer, but TSN3 is usually clean. Just look at the preceding program, if it's misplays of the month, its not running over...
I tape all of the feeds that say CFL just in case.
Quote from: theaardvark on July 20, 2026, 06:46:11 AMLooks like they always tape over TSN1 with the crappy overrun of soccer, but TSN3 is usually clean. Just look at the preceding program, if it's misplays of the month, its not running over...
I tape all of the feeds that say CFL just in case.
Ya, I'm going to have to start doing that. Because after soccer then golf or tennis will start having overages. My comp PVR may not let me automate preferring TSN3, but I will certainly try! Otherwise add a manual PVR adjustment to my pickems/fantasy regimen. I'll look for your TSN3+"crap shows before it" tricks.
Ya, my Shaw would let me just record everything, but my computer PVR can only do 1 at a time. Yes, I can transfer between the 2, but man is that a royal pain.