Strategies for the Semi-Finals

TecnoGenius · November 03, 2022, 04:37:51 AM

Thoughts on how the semi-final teams draw their game plans up?

I have a theory about CGY: I think they've been hiding their pass game a bit for several weeks now. Maier isn't the best, but he's easily a 275Y QB in a playoff game with that team. If you asked anyone right now what CGY will do, they'll all say "run the ball" with Carey/Logan and maybe Mills. That's what Campbell in BC is saying in his pressers. That's what TSN people were saying in the final week.

So I think CGY comes out pass-heavy and maybe doesn't even run the ball until they get close to the red zone on their first drive. They'll send the message they are going to pass all game right when the BC DC has mostly prepared to stop the run. Then once they've loosened up the whole D, then CGY will start running down their throats. I think that's the key to an easy CGY victory.

I think CGY will make a mistake by playing Jorden too much and he'll flounder just like he did in the '19 WSF. He's a #3 read at best now. They should let him go in the off-season. And I still haven't found the answer to my question: Will Henry be back? That would be huge.

BC will have to figure something out with Burnham still nicked, wearing a wrist contraption, Lucky likely out or playing severely injured, and Rourke likely nursing a Strevy-style foot (without the Strevie-style lionheart). I'll give BC's best strategies some thought, because as of yet I really can't think of any way for them to win!

Waffler · November 03, 2022, 10:24:04 AM

The upper deck is open in BC. If they can fill that or close, that will help a lot. That was a tough place to win in the 80's when it was built and they'd sell out. Maybe BC will have the loudest fans or at least the loudest building like they used to. That would give them a boost. I also expect BC to show no quit, still thinking super close game by the end.

TBURGESS · November 03, 2022, 01:18:22 PM

I think Calgary shows off their running game and guts BC with it.

Ridermania · November 03, 2022, 01:33:51 PM

If BC cannot stop the run game, Calgary is heading to Winnipeg.

3rdand1.5 · November 03, 2022, 01:49:56 PM

I'm thinking BC will be heavy on quick plays. In our game he got rid of the ball quickly but was off just slightly especially on the long attempts which was a big part of his game earlier on. I don't know how his foot will hold up but if he gets rid of the ball as quick as he showed against us and can get some of his deep accuracy back Cal. will be forced to defend that and BC does have one of the best backs in the league which they can then use and IMO they can beat Cal.

I think if BC/Rourke can't get the quick release and deep ball accuracy game going Cal. defence will take over.

As to Calgary, Meir has more film out now and has showed some weaknesses, I believe they have set up the run game and will use it, BC's defence is pretty good but they struggle a bit against a good RB. IMO BC will be looking for the quick scores, and Cal. will be looking to win TOP and grind them out.

Both teams play hard and I am looking for very physical game, we kinda beat up on BC last game so I'm sure they will be a little more surely this week. I know we are all sick of hearing Rourke, Rourke, Rourke, but I believe a potential BC win is all on his shoulders, I truly do not believe that BC is good enough to beat Cal. unless he plays like he did earlier in the season.

My prediction is Rourke surprises many and BC pulls out a win for the home crowd in their nice comfy dome.

Lincoln Locomotive · November 03, 2022, 02:12:47 PM

BC goes as Rourke goes. A tall order after sitting on the shelf for half a season nursing a serious injury. If his foot isn't 100% his throwing, especially deep balls will be affected as will his mobility. If he can regain his early season form, which is a tall order, they have a chance. It would be a minor miracle if he does and this will be his first playoff game ever. If your a betting person....Calgary is a solid choice.
If BC can pull off a W it would be quite a coup for Rourke.

Nic16 · November 03, 2022, 02:36:14 PM

Quote from: TBURGESS on November 03, 2022, 01:18:22 PM
I think Calgary shows off their running game and guts BC with it.

I agree.

And unless Rourke was hiding his true mobility last game I think the Stamps front 7 will create too many issues for him to overcome.

PurpleReign · November 03, 2022, 04:59:55 PM

In the Playoffs running game is most important. Calgary will unleash a heavy dose of running and control the clock, keeping the football away from Rourke.

The Zipp · November 03, 2022, 11:55:31 PM

Quote from: PurpleReign on November 03, 2022, 04:59:55 PM
In the Playoffs running game is most important. Calgary will unleash a heavy dose of running and control the clock, keeping the football away from Rourke.

Over by halftime - Calgary wins

GOLDMEMBER · November 04, 2022, 12:34:05 AM

Quote from: The Zipp on November 03, 2022, 11:55:31 PM
Over by halftime - Calgary wins

Wow Zippy no respect eh?

Jesse · November 04, 2022, 02:12:07 AM

I don?t buy into Calgary the way everyone else seems to.

BLUEBOMBER · November 04, 2022, 03:26:09 AM

I pick Calgary to win the Grey Cup. They are built very well from coaching, offense, defense to special teams. Not much weakness to exploit. Their run game is pretty much unstoppable and they have a very capable QB.

Waffler · November 04, 2022, 11:06:51 AM

I don't think the Calgary run game means as much in the dome. I can see Calgary winning the time of possession and still be behind on the score board due to Rourke being able to strike quickly and pile up points. The dome favors deep passes since there is no wind to worry about. I don't think BC will ever be out of it. Campbell took Rourke out early last week precisely so he would be ready for this game. Can't wait to see this one.

Sec223 · November 04, 2022, 11:57:49 AM

A Calgary loss will probably free up more tickets and rooms for Grey Cup. Lots won't make the drive to Regina

Go Big Blue · November 04, 2022, 12:37:54 PM

Prediction: Rourke goes on a tear for the half and builds up enough of a lead for BC to win the game. He is pulled when his foot is re-injured and he can't heal fast enough to play in the western final. BC limps into Winnipeg for a repeat of their last game of the regular season at IGF. All the BC receivers will be gun-shy, looking over their shoulders for the big hit that's coming from the Bombers secondary who will also have tight pass coverage with a few pick 6 interceptions thrown in. The offence will be healed, well rested and ready to light up the scoreboard. Then it's off to Regina for another shot at the Grey Cup the following weekend against the Argos.

Go Big Blue