Banjo Bowl Pre-GDT

[Pigskin]

Need a better start to this game. Hopefully Grant is back for this one.

[GOLDMEMBER]

We NEED Grant back. Zach needs to shake off this crap stretch he seems to be on.

[3rdand1.5]

Zach and Lawler need to get on the same page, they are both so talented but are not connecting enough yet.....

We better see some changes on specials....

[DM83]

Parker is not a return guy.  Probably no one is with the guys on special teams.  They shouldn?t even be on the roster.

[Lincoln Locomotive]

In years past we used to have a designated backup for our primary returner.    Remember Lucky Whitehead.   When Grant went down it wasn't a noticeable downgrade when he subbed in.   I remember those who wanted to keep him over Grant.   It's such an important aspect of the game now and when your primary returner is gone for half a season or more, you need a good back up on the roster.....or you go find someone.    Just waiting for your guy to come off the injury list and filling in with players who aren't up to it is pretty lame.....imho

[Blue In BC]

I wonder if Robertson will appeal or will he sit out on Saturday? If he plays it could develop into a brawl. If he appeals can they get it done before the end of the season? That's always been an issue of it taking so long.

[pjrocksmb]

I expect us to cream em

Runs and bombs are our friend

D will step up

Special teams need help

Zach will throw 3 tds, 1 int

I would be patient on Grant, guy is a top player no need to rush him.

[kronic]

I wonder if Robertson will appeal or will he sit out on Saturday? If he plays it could develop into a brawl. If he appeals can they get it done before the end of the season? That's always been an issue of it taking so long.

I hate to say it but the smart thing for them to do is appeal so he plays against us then sits when they play Edmonton when they lose the appeal.

I also think appealing would send a HORRIBLE message to their entire team, so I?d be shocked if they do. There?s no way Dickenson can try to defend it after seeing the replay.

[kronic]

Thinking about it again, I don?t think they stand a chance against us at home next weekend, so it might be smarter to let him sit against us and be stronger against Edmonton. Appealing it would be classless in any case imo.

[pjrocksmb]

There won't be an appeal imo

[kronic]

I expect us to cream em

Runs and bombs are our friend

D will step up

Special teams need help

Zach will throw 3 tds, 1 int

I would be patient on Grant, guy is a top player no need to rush him.

I expect a similar reaction to this game as the loss we had against BC.

[pjrocksmb]

I expect a similar reaction to this game as the loss we had against BC.

As long as we are healthy we win by 14

[kronic]

There won't be an appeal imo

I would hope this quote was before he saw the replay or there just might be?

?Don?t take the cheese, man!? said Dickenson. ?This is what (the Bombers) do. They?re good at it. They lead the league in the least amount of penalties and they draw the most amount of penalties. Every year.?

https://leaderpost.com/sports/football/cfl/saskatchewan-roughriders/sports-col-davis-riders-beat-bombers-in-labour-day-2023/wcm/081c8361-56be-44d4-85f6-e879d21ee81d/amp/

[kronic]

As long as we are healthy we win by 14

I didn?t SEE any significant injuries, so hopefully there weren?t any.

[pjrocksmb]

I didn?t SEE any significant injuries, so hopefully there weren?t any.

I only watched half of it.  I heard on the radio Kelly? got carried off the field but I wasn't sure if that was our player or Sask.

[Pete]

It is concerning the lack of in season adjustments we make, Haba goes down, we bring in Garbutt who doesn't see a down, Grant goes down and we try to repurpose a wide receiver, Miller goes down and we try to use a player that's never played fb . Adams isn't performing so we utilize Kramdl and don't appear to have a backup.
I know O'Shea likes to go the players that brought him but we need some adjustments Its typical of teams that have been good for a period that they don't make enough moves to stay on top. I know we still have a good record but chinks in the armor are showing

[kronic]

I only watched half of it.  I heard on the radio Kelly? got carried off the field but I wasn't sure if that was our player or Sask.

Their lineman. THAT didn?t look good. Out for a while for sure.

[GOLDMEMBER]

I think I smell the thrashing next Saturday as well.

I look no further than Zach and improved version of himself.

[dd]

I would hope this quote was before he saw the replay or there just might be?

?Don?t take the cheese, man!? said Dickenson. ?This is what (the Bombers) do. They?re good at it. They lead the league in the least amount of penalties and they draw the most amount of penalties. Every year.?

https://leaderpost.com/sports/football/cfl/saskatchewan-roughriders/sports-col-davis-riders-beat-bombers-in-labour-day-2023/wcm/081c8361-56be-44d4-85f6-e879d21ee81d/amp/

What an idiot dickenson is, don?t take the cheese. So he more or less is saying Collaros drew that penalty and it?s a farce anyth8ng was called because that is what they do!? Unbelievable. The league should fine him for his comments. Just disgusting. Can?t imagine living in Saskatchewan and having to cheer for this group of degenerates. What a disgrace

[blue_or_die]

What an idiot dickenson is, don?t take the cheese. So he more or less is saying Collaros drew that penalty and it?s a farce anyth8ng was called because that is what they do!? Unbelievable. The league should fine him for his comments. Just disgusting. Can?t imagine living in Saskatchewan and having to cheer for this group of degenerates. What a disgrace

Dickenson suits that organization and their fans just perfectly.

[Lincoln Locomotive]

What an idiot dickenson is, don?t take the cheese. So he more or less is saying Collaros drew that penalty and it?s a farce anyth8ng was called because that is what they do!? Unbelievable. The league should fine him for his comments. Just disgusting. Can?t imagine living in Saskatchewan and having to cheer for this group of degenerates. What a disgrace

That was disrespectful and I hope they play it in the Bomber locker room.    Not a fan of Dickheadson....sp?

[dd]

Dickenson suits that organization and their fans just perfectly.

Yes he does. When he?s standing on the sidelines with that dazed open mouth blank stare on his face he looks like something right out of deliverance!!!

[theaardvark]

In years past we used to have a designated backup for our primary returner.    Remember Lucky Whitehead.   When Grant went down it wasn't a noticeable downgrade when he subbed in.   I remember those who wanted to keep him over Grant.   It's such an important aspect of the game now and when your primary returner is gone for half a season or more, you need a good back up on the roster.....or you go find someone.    Just waiting for your guy to come off the injury list and filling in with players who aren't up to it is pretty lame.....imho

McCrae has been our backup at PR/KR for a couple years...

[theaardvark]

I wonder if Robertson will appeal or will he sit out on Saturday? If he plays it could develop into a brawl. If he appeals can they get it done before the end of the season? That's always been an issue of it taking so long.

I really think that appeals should carry a penalty if they are upheld. Like a coaches challenge.  Penalty is assessed, you challenge, you need to lose something more.   Like an additional game...

Would really stop the idiotic "appeal so I can play the next game" scam...

[dd]

If he appeals so he can play next game he?s stupider than I ever thought he was. There will for sure be retribution in the Banjo Bowl, Bombers will be up 20 points and things are going to get out of hand. And dickenson will be yelling? don?t take the cheese from the top of his lungs? on the sideline. It will get ugly quick

[Lincoln Locomotive]

McCrae has been our backup at PR/KR for a couple years...

Even so....he is not a returner per se....he is a running back/receiver who has been assigned to being the back up.    Janarian Grant is a returner which is his primary job....he gets into the offence on occasion.   Parker is not a returner either however he can fill in as one.    I understand it would be difficult to have two bonafide returners on the roster at the same time.    However, both Parker and McCrae do not appear t9 be comfortable in that role.   Find someone who is....perhaps easier said than done however our dismal stats in return yards tell all.   

[pjrocksmb]

Their lineman. THAT didn?t look good. Out for a while for sure.

Thanks man, I didn't think we dressed Kelly.  Is he one of their starters?

[Blue In BC]

I only watched half of it.  I heard on the radio Kelly? got carried off the field but I wasn't sure if that was our player or Sask.

It was the Rider OL that was injured. He's their RT.

[Blue In BC]

I really think that appeals should carry a penalty if they are upheld. Like a coaches challenge.  Penalty is assessed, you challenge, you need to lose something more.   Like an additional game...

Would really stop the idiotic "appeal so I can play the next game" scam...

I can never understand appeals. He did it, it was caught on video and he was suspended. The only thing that usually happens is when an appeal is for more than 1 game and the appeal results in a reduction.

[TecnoGenius]

In years past we used to have a designated backup for our primary returner.    Remember Lucky Whitehead.   When Grant went down it wasn't a noticeable downgrade when he subbed in.   I remember those who wanted to keep him over Grant.

Later in that season, and the post-season, we did not dress both Grant and Lucky.  Grant won the spot.  And Lucky left because he was too good for the PR/IR.  You can't keep two all-star mostly-returner-only players in the CFL, you just can't.

Ya, Lucky is having his worst season ever, and isn't even doing returns.  They tried to Banks-him but he's not Banks (weak hands, still).  He should go back to primarily-returns, where hands don't matter.

Grant was the better choice.  The best we can hope for at the moment is some other AR guy can be ok at returns.  Think Fogg.

[TecnoGenius]

Parker is not a return guy.  Probably no one is with the guys on special teams.  They shouldn?t even be on the roster.

Hahaha, I've been saying that for the last 2 months of "McCrae can't return!" posts.  Not many people listened.

McCrae will somewhat slowly run straight north every time (except the one time he went east and got a huge return, imagine that) and get a few Y.

Parker will somewhat quickly run straight east or west every time and run a long way to get a few Y.

It does't matter.  Just have the placeholder hold the place and not cause a TO.  That's it.  Alternate between them to throw opponents off (slightly).  Then everyone pray for Grant.  But it'll sure be nice to have a totally fresh returner for the final quarter-season and playoffs!!

[Jesse]

Hahaha, I've been saying that for the last 2 months of "McCrae can't return!" posts.  Not many people listened.

McCrae will somewhat slowly run straight north every time (except the one time he went east and got a huge return, imagine that) and get a few Y.

Parker will somewhat quickly run straight east or west every time and run a long way to get a few Y.

It does't matter.  Just have the placeholder hold the place and not cause a TO.  That's it.  Alternate between them to throw opponents off (slightly).  Then everyone pray for Grant.  But it'll sure be nice to have a totally fresh returner for the final quarter-season and playoffs!!

I don't think anyone ever expected Parker to replace Grant. I certainly didn't.

The difference was clear. Parker caught the ball cleanly every time. McCrae's first time out, he immediately drops the ball. Can't have that.

I'd certainly be open to trying other people than Parker, but McCrae is a liability out there. I have no idea how he keeps getting chances.

[Blue In BC]

Is this a 2 or 3 practice week? A good chance we see some players returning from IR this week although a couple are going to be questionable all week. Hansen and Grant are the two that would most help the team IMO. Clement and Haba might be ready but it's not clear if they will be added.

[Lincoln Locomotive]

Is this a 2 or 3 practice week? A good chance we see some players returning from IR this week although a couple are going to be questionable all week. Hansen and Grant are the two that would most help the team IMO. Clement and Haba might be ready but it's not clear if they will be added.

Grant and Hansen back would be huge...seeing how are STs have been sooooo bad.   The yardage differential on returns was 150 yards.   If they both come back that gap closes rest assured.   

[wpg#1]

LET'S KICK THEIR BUTTS ! SERIOUSLY !!

[The Zipp]

Is this a 2 or 3 practice week? A good chance we see some players returning from IR this week although a couple are going to be questionable all week. Hansen and Grant are the two that would most help the team IMO. Clement and Haba might be ready but it's not clear if they will be added.

practice starts Wednesday...

[blue_gold_84]

I don't think anyone ever expected Parker to replace Grant. I certainly didn't.

The difference was clear. Parker caught the ball cleanly every time. McCrae's first time out, he immediately drops the ball. Can't have that.

I'd certainly be open to trying other people than Parker, but McCrae is a liability out there. I have no idea how he keeps getting chances.

Parker also let the ball bounce past him a few times, too. Not as bad as bobbling it out of the air but not much better.

Maybe Parker is more comfortable on Saturday but neither he nor McCrae seems able to hold a candle to Grant's return abilities.

[Pigskin]

practice starts Wednesday...

It looks like this is the only open practice for the week. I will be there.

[GOLDMEMBER]

It looks like this is the only open practice for the week. I will be there.

thank you!

[bluebeard]

LET'S KICK THEIR BUTTS ! SERIOUSLY !!

I think I underestimated the Riders from the begiining of the year.  I called them a last placed team in the West.  They are not the worst team and not the best team... but what they are is a tough middle of the pack team.  I will not underestimate them again.  Even Dolegala seems to be improving at QB and with more exoerience may turn out to be a good starter.

[Pigskin]

thank you!

Players I hope to see out there. Miller, Grant, Haba, Hansen, and Clements. A few fresh bodies for game day would be nice.

Willy looked dead tired out there on Sunday. Love to see us bring in another DL (Haba). for this game.

[GOLDMEMBER]

Players I hope to see out there. Miller, Grant, Haba, Hansen, and Clements. A few fresh bodies for game day would be nice.

Willy looked dead tired out there on Sunday. Love to see us bring in another DL (Haba). for this game.

greats points at around! I agree on all fronts and hopes.

[Nic16]

Whatever roster is decided on, it NEEDS to be and play better! And the game prep and plan NEEDS to be better!

That said, Bomber fans will be ready to make life difficult for Dolegala and the Riders offence!

[Blue In BC]

Players I hope to see out there. Miller, Grant, Haba, Hansen, and Clements. A few fresh bodies for game day would be nice.

Willy looked dead tired out there on Sunday. Love to see us bring in another DL (Haba). for this game.

I don't think we'll see Miller. Even Hansen and Grant might practice but not be added to AR. However I am in wait and see what changes we do make this week.

Didn't really notice Jefferson as tired but we didn't really have many extra players in rotation. Gauthier lost for 6 weeks and Briggs still not 100%.

[Nic16]

I don't think we'll see Miller. Even Hansen and Grant might practice but not be added to AR. However I am in wait and see what changes we do make this week.

Didn't really notice Jefferson as tired but we didn't really have many extra players in rotation. Gauthier lost for 6 weeks and Briggs still not 100%.

My uneducated guess is we do not see any of them back until the BC and Argos btb.

Due to injuries and stubbornness MOS may make minor changes to the AR for the BB, but outside of that they still hold their fate in their own hands. So I do not expect much to change over the next 2 wks.

[Pete]

The labor day game was plus 31, lots of smoke, no wonder dline got wore out. One of those games where decision to dress only 6 dline came back to bite us.

[Nic16]

The labor day game was plus 31, lots of smoke, no wonder dline got wore out. One of those games where decision to dress only 6 dline came back to bite us.

Excellent point. In a post game comment Biggie said his throat was very dry.

Affects both teams but with the BB only dressing only 6 DL could have played a role in the lack of pressure on Dolegala.

[3rdand1.5]

In overtime I am more of a gambling man, I would have liked to see us send a heavy blitz.

Reasoning, back-up QB may give him happy feet. They are almost sure to score something anyway, so go big go for a sack to take them outta FG range or hope for an errant throw that could be picked. Worst case scenario they beat the blitz and score a TD well heck, it's very likely anyway and we had the ball last.

As to the smoke yes, but both teams played in it the same...Honestly Sask. just wanted it more and it showed and they were successful. If we don't show we want it more next week, then something is wrong with our team.

It starts with special teams, a large portion of special teams is heart and fearlessness. We need to get that pride and fight back into our teams, we better see them jacked-up in the BJ Bowl

[BBRT]

Excellent point. In a post game comment Biggie said his throat was very dry.

Affects both teams but with the BB only dressing only 6 DL could have played a role in the lack of pressure on Dolegala.

I was at the game and yes it was hot and smokey. Heat effected both teams and the BB only dressing 6 DL may have played a part. However the BB knew what the tempature was going to be long before game time. And smoke alerts were issued days in advance so IMHO if they needed to dress more than 6 DL they knew what the conditions were going to be long before game time. However I am not sure that was a major issue with why the pass rush was not all that great. I believe the Rider OL has improved somewhat and our DL play has pretty much dropped off this year when compared to the past. I also believe that Biggie (no matter how much I love the guy) is getting pretty close to his best before date. I tried to pay attention to his play at the game and did notice at least IMHO he was not really any major force so to speak.

[Pigskin]

I was at the game and yes it was hot and smokey. Heat effected both teams and the BB only dressing 6 DL may have played a part. However the BB knew what the tempature was going to be long before game time. And smoke alerts were issued days in advance so IMHO if they needed to dress more than 6 DL they knew what the conditions were going to be long before game time. However I am not sure that was a major issue with why the pass rush was not all that great. I believe the Rider OL has improved somewhat and our DL play has pretty much dropped off this year when compared to the past. I also believe that Biggie (no matter how much I love the guy) is getting pretty close to his best before date. I tried to pay attention to his play at the game and did notice at least IMHO he was not really any major force so to speak.

Agree, Biggie has lost a step. But, he is still very good. Biggie had 2 of our 4 sacks, and 6 tackles.  I think a lot of what mite be seen as pressure problem mite be the D Hall is calling. JJ94 - 2 DTs. RW9 - 1 DT, 1 sack,    AB98 - 1 DT, 99,95,5, no DTs. DL made 4 DTs and 1 Sack.

[Nic16]

I was at the game and yes it was hot and smokey. Heat effected both teams and the BB only dressing 6 DL may have played a part. However the BB knew what the tempature was going to be long before game time. And smoke alerts were issued days in advance so IMHO if they needed to dress more than 6 DL they knew what the conditions were going to be long before game time. However I am not sure that was a major issue with why the pass rush was not all that great. I believe the Rider OL has improved somewhat and our DL play has pretty much dropped off this year when compared to the past. I also believe that Biggie (no matter how much I love the guy) is getting pretty close to his best before date. I tried to pay attention to his play at the game and did notice at least IMHO he was not really any major force so to speak.

The BB have dressed 6 DL with one being a rookie Canadian DE for the majority of the season. My guess is, that and the fact our DL is not getting any younger is playing a major role in the drop in effectiveness.

[buckzumhoff]

Big hill covered one pass that was a big play . If it wasn't for him on the play the defender had no chance with the receiver. Bighill didn't even watch the receiver was reading the qb and helped the db knockdown a pass. Which ended up bombers getting the ball back.  Defensively I thought we were good

[TecnoGenius]

I also believe that Biggie (no matter how much I love the guy) is getting pretty close to his best before date. I tried to pay attention to his play at the game and did notice at least IMHO he was not really any major force so to speak.

Agree, Biggie has lost a step. But, he is still very good. Biggie had 2 of our 4 sacks, and 6 tackles.

Complaining about Biggie getting "old" is legit, but we can't complain about this game.  He was a monster out there.  His 2 sacks were things of beauty, and somewhat rare for him as he often gets stuffed more so than actually break through.  I haven't rewatched yet to see what scheme worked for this, but kudos to the D getting Biggie home on those game-changing blitzes.

[Blue72]

I would like to see what Burtenshaw can do with the ball as he is almost the same size and weight as Oliveira. Just like what Toronto are doing with their two big backs. Give the guy a chance and maybe Oliveira can have a bit of a break two nat RBs.

[Pete]

Linebacker play wasn't an issue, what was that we we were only able to get to Domigala when we brought extra pressure. The 4 down linemen were less effective later in the game. Also while Bennet's run prevention has come miles, he's pass rush is almost nonexistent.

[buckzumhoff]

Sask will try to run the ball more so bombers better stuff the line . Stop the run like they did last game

[DM83]

Lucky is a novelty player at best.  He?s a poor receiver. And he?s not great as a returner.I can?t see him lasting once BC gets healthy.  He can?t catch.

Did someone say the defense was good?
Yeah those guys on the corner were really good?.for Sask.
I can?t even take them seriously.

Bombers have not looked good for over a month.
What?s wrong with Collaros.  Constantly under throwing guys, I.m.o.

Buck run some crossing routes, get Jackson out of there and get Agudusi  in

[pjrocksmb]

Lucky is a novelty player at best.  He?s a poor receiver. And he?s not great as a returner.I can?t see him lasting once BC gets healthy.  He can?t catch.

Did someone say the defense was good?
Yeah those guys on the corner were really good?.for Sask.
I can?t even take them seriously.

Bombers have not looked good for over a month.
What?s wrong with Collaros.  Constantly under throwing guys, I.m.o.

Buck run some crossing routes, get Jackson out of there and get Agudusi  in

Disagree with almost everything here

[The Zipp]

Day 1 of Bombers practice?Thiadric Hansen, Malik Clements and Celestin Haba all practicing.

No sign of Janarion Grant.


If no Grant - prob why we signed this new returner (should have been done long ago)

[GOLDMEMBER]

Day 1 of Bombers practice?Thiadric Hansen, Malik Clements and Celestin Haba all practicing.

No sign of Janarion Grant.


If no Grant - prob why we signed this new returner (should have been done long ago)

thank you

Great news on the defensive fronts and crap news on the return game!

[The Zipp]

Kenny Lawler is shouting at the defensive backs/a defensive back. Very heated about something.
Winston Rose stepped up to talk to him and cooler heads prevailed.


Then Demski makes a leaping catch over Kramdi and falls to the ground. Demski gets up and spikes the ball hard.

There?s some fire today

From DT

[ModAdmin]

Gord Barnsley
@WinnipegGordo

20m
Things are heated at Bombers practice. Lawler and Rose were yelling at each other and Kenny went over to Rose looking to fight him.

[blue_gold_84]

This is the kind of intensity needed at practice after losing a game the way they did.

I hope the Banjo Bowl is a massacre. Of green.

[Pigskin]

Day 1 of Bombers practice?Thiadric Hansen, Malik Clements and Celestin Haba all practicing.

No sign of Janarion Grant.


If no Grant - prob why we signed this new returner (should have been done long ago)

No Grant, Briggs, or Miller. Miller in flip flops.

[Pigskin]

Kenny Lawler is shouting at the defensive backs/a defensive back. Very heated about something.
Winston Rose stepped up to talk to him and cooler heads prevailed.


Then Demski makes a leaping catch over Kramdi and falls to the ground. Demski gets up and spikes the ball hard.

There?s some fire today

From DT

He didn't just spike the ball hard, he spiked it at Kramdi.

[Pigskin]

Kenny Lawler is shouting at the defensive backs/a defensive back. Very heated about something.
Winston Rose stepped up to talk to him and cooler heads prevailed.


Then Demski makes a leaping catch over Kramdi and falls to the ground. Demski gets up and spikes the ball hard.

There?s some fire today

From DT

The play that started this looked pretty normal. Rose didn't like something that happened between Lawler and BA. Lawler and Rose tried to get at each other a couple of time. That's when the trash talking started. BA was pissed, and headed for the dressing room. BA came back later, but wasn't happy. A number of players and a couple of coaches spoke with him, but he wasn't having any of it. BA was limping after what ever occurred. Rose and Lawler, had a chat and they seemed fine.

Looked like Blackmon was wearing #13. Made a couple of nice catches, and was working on punt returns. Seems to have good speed.

CA86 and JM87, continue to make very good catches.

Biggie had a nice pick off of ZC8.

Brown looked very Sharpe. Very quick release on a couple of throw. Seemed like the Bombers were working on getting the ball out quicker.

[Nic16]

The play that started this looked pretty normal. Rose didn't like something that happened between Lawler and BA. Lawler and Rose tried to get at each other a couple of time. That's when the trash talking started. BA was pissed, and headed for the dressing room. BA came back later, but wasn't happy. A number of players and a couple of coaches spoke with him, but he wasn't having any of it. BA was limping after what ever occurred. Rose and Lawler, had a chat and they seemed fine.

Looked like Blackmon was wearing #13. Made a couple of nice catches, and was working on punt returns. Seems to have good speed.

CA86 and JM87, continue to make very good catches.

Biggie had a nice pick off of ZC8.

Brown looked very Sharpe. Very quick release on a couple of throw. Seemed like the Bombers were working on getting the ball out quicker.

Please delete your last line asap. It goes against forum rules!

[The Zipp]

I deleted the part about a certain type of play...

hopefully BA is OK

Love the updates Pigskin - thanks !!

[Pigskin]

Like to see a couple of fresh bodies for this game. It looks like it will either be Parker or Blackmon returning on Saturday. No one else took any reps.

JA27 with a couple of very nice catches today.

[Lincoln Locomotive]

No Grant, Briggs, or Miller. Miller in flip flops.

pretty much given up on Miller as good as he was....not faulting him in any way, shape or form either, however he can't help our team from the ice tub!   

[bwiser]

pretty much given up on Miller as good as he was....not faulting him in any way, shape or form either, however he can't help our team from the ice tub!   

Its appearing more everyday that Millers season and possibly career may be coming to an end. He just doesn't seem to be making any progress.

[TecnoGenius]

Kenny Lawler is shouting at the defensive backs/a defensive back. Very heated about something.
Winston Rose stepped up to talk to him and cooler heads prevailed.

There?s some fire today

This is the kind of intensity needed at practice after losing a game the way they did.

Fire is great.  Disunity and internecine discord is bad.  We don't want to be that team that's falling apart at the seams and fighting each other rather than the enemy.  That's when teams go from functional to lose-every-game.

From what I just read here, it sounds like it's just Lawler caused an ouchie on BA that BA took offense to.  I won't/can't take sides, but last thing we need is for BA to get injured, especially in practice.  Hopefully they clear it up pronto.  The team has to act as one single entity to win games and cups.

[theaardvark]

Dolegala vs. 33k raving fans...

Will be interesting to see how he handles IGF at full roar

[pjrocksmb]

Last page seen some folks complaining about Biggie.  Heard that story a couple years ago and then we got two cups.  Key cog.  Old yes, washed up, hell no.

[Nic16]

Personally I have zero complaints about Biggie. I wouldn?t want to see the D without him leading it.

And funny thing is, a few BB fans & more recently Rider fans have stated Biggie is slowing down. Larry Dean is just a few months older than Biggie, and there is talk he could be up for MODP.

Dean has certainly been good, but IMO Biggie is more versatile and has been just as good defensively this year. He was more noticeable - in a good way - in the LDC than Dean was.

[GOLDMEMBER]

Its appearing more everyday that Millers season and possibly career may be coming to an end. He just doesn't seem to be making any progress.

He is my favourite player on the roster now BUT this is getting silly. The does everything but play or practise. Not even camp. It is at the point where I just do not get he is even around useless they are grooming him for coaching I guess.

[GOLDMEMBER]

Personally I have zero complaints about Biggie. I wouldn?t want to see the D without him leading it.

And funny thing is, a few BB fans & more recently Rider fans have stated Biggie is slowing down. Larry Dean is just a few months older than Biggie, and there is talk he could be up for MODP.

Dean has certainly been good, but IMO Biggie is more versatile and has been just as good defensively this year. He was more noticeable - in a good way - in the LDC than Dean was.

I have zero issues with Bighills play this year! He has been great.

[Pigskin]

He is my favourite player on the roster now BUT this is getting silly. The does everything but play of practise. Not even camp. It is at the point where I just do not get he is even around useless they are grooming him for coaching I guess.

He was doing a lot of coaching today.

[TecnoGenius]

I have zero issues with Bighills play this year! He has been great.

Biggie has been much better this year than last.  The only real problem that seems to generate the most complaints is when he's trying to run to keep up with or catch a guy who's already out in space.  Ya, Biggie's slow on the run compared to the 24 year old speedsters.  So what.  I don't see Dean or anyone similar putting up hot 40 numbers.

You scheme around this Biggie limitation.  Let's give Biggie credit, he still runs to the ball even when it's hopeless, when most MLBs would just stop and stare.

[BLUEBOMBER]

The whole BB team (except for Demski and Oliveira) needs to improve and play like it's for the Grey Cup every game. The Riders should not have beat the BB especially with a newbie Dolegala at QB.

[blue_gold_84]

He was doing a lot of coaching today.

That's as good as we can hope for right now until he's cleared to return.

[Lincoln Locomotive]

The whole BB team (except for Demski and Oliveira) needs to improve and play like it's for the Grey Cup every game. The Riders should not have beat the BB especially with a newbie Dolegala at QB.

We were ahead 4 points with just under 2 minutes in a LDC.   Then MOS declines a no yards penalty giving up that valuable point so he can scrimmage from the 40 YL instead of the 30 YL.   Then we go tow and out and punt allowing another big return and the rest is history.    MOS finally admitted that he might do that differently as the no yards call in the end zone was a gift.   
Coulda wouda shoulda but give some credit to Dolegala and the Rider D.   

[buckzumhoff]

That wasn't good for only 10 yards 1 point. Never give up a point unless you start from the 20 or less or can't get out of your endzone

[GOLDMEMBER]

We were ahead 4 points with just under 2 minutes in a LDC.   Then MOS declines a no yards penalty giving up that valuable point so he can scrimmage from the 40 YL instead of the 30 YL.   Then we go tow and out and punt allowing another big return and the rest is history.    MOS finally admitted that he might do that differently as the no yards call in the end zone was a gift.   
Coulda wouda shoulda but give some credit to Dolegala and the Rider D.   

It is refreshing he admitted he messed up there.

[The Zipp]

We were ahead 4 points with just under 2 minutes in a LDC.   Then MOS declines a no yards penalty giving up that valuable point so he can scrimmage from the 40 YL instead of the 30 YL.   Then we go tow and out and punt allowing another big return and the rest is history.    MOS finally admitted that he might do that differently as the no yards call in the end zone was a gift.   
Coulda wouda shoulda but give some credit to Dolegala and the Rider D.   

i could be wrong but i think the play where we declined the no yards - we drove for a TD...the conceding the single came after that and we went two and out.  I am not going to bother watching that game again so someone who has a better memory can confirm.

[Throw Long Bannatyne]

i could be wrong but i think the play where we declined the no yards - we drove for a TD...the conceding the single came after that and we went two and out.  I am not going to bother watching that game again so someone who has a better memory can confirm.

It doesn't matter what they did on that drive, it's the decision to give up one point that sunk them.

[Blue In BC]

It doesn't matter what they did on that drive, it's the decision to give up one point that sunk them.

Hindsight is always 100%.

[northof30]

It doesn't matter what they did on that drive, it's the decision to give up one point that sunk them.

Absolutely correct, no hindsight needed.

[Pigskin]

I would have also given up the single point and bet on our O to get a couple of first downs and run out the clock, kick a field or single to force them to score TD to tie or beat us with pretty much no time on the clock. That was a terrible 2 and out.

[theaardvark]

Going to miss the Banjo Bowl live for the first time in a while... tested positive yesterday... thank goodness for stubhub and people that have too much money...

[The Zipp]

Derek Taylor
@DTonOB
?
12m
O?Shea confirms that LB Malik Clements will return on Saturday to (my words) crush souls on special teams.

[The Zipp]

I would have also given up the single point and bet on our O to get a couple of first downs and run out the clock, kick a field or single to force them to score TD to tie or beat us with pretty much no time on the clock. That was a terrible 2 and out.

It really was in so many ways.

[The Zipp]

Clements, Hanson and Haba back would be huuuuuge

[Pigskin]

It was a closed practice today. Would have been interesting to see, who was on the field, and what they were doing. Blackmon, mite need more then 2 practices. That would leave us with Parker.

Nice to see Clements back, he was having a good year before his injury. Haba and Hansen, both looked ready go on Monday.

[TecnoGenius]

We were ahead 4 points with just under 2 minutes in a LDC.   Then MOS declines a no yards penalty giving up that valuable point so he can scrimmage from the 40 YL instead of the 30 YL.   Then we go tow and out and punt allowing another big return and the rest is history.    MOS finally admitted that he might do that differently as the no yards call in the end zone was a gift.   

That wasn't good for only 10 yards 1 point. Never give up a point unless you start from the 20 or less or can't get out of your endzone

I don't know where you guys are getting 10 yards.  I think we're talking about the final rouge?  The non-penalty one?  Going by memory I think it would have been caught around the 10YL.  Cover teams were pretty close already.  We were averaging 8 yard returns I think?  I bet we get 5-10 on the return.  So you're trading 1 point for 20-25 yards.  AND taking the rouge gets you out of the shadow of the EZ and potential safety touch by the QB or subsequent punt punter.

MOS gambled we'd have a drive and kill the clock.  He put the game on the O.  The O let us down (2&out).  We lose.

The alternative was to field the ball, get to the 20, punt to the opposite 45, give up a 25y return, which puts the other team at our 40.  You really want to put the game on our D at that moment to stop a TD from our 40?  Heck, the overtime series shows what would have happened.  So if we field that ball we outright lose instead of get a mini-game to try to regain our composure.

Given these choices most HCs would choose to own their fate and rely on their O, not their D.

[Pete]

looks like Streveler will be on hand for the banjo bowl signing autographs! Let the rumors begin...or rather keep on going depending on your perspective

[Throw Long Bannatyne]

I don't know where you guys are getting 10 yards.  I think we're talking about the final rouge?  The non-penalty one?  Going by memory I think it would have been caught around the 10YL.  Cover teams were pretty close already.  We were averaging 8 yard returns I think?  I bet we get 5-10 on the return.  So you're trading 1 point for 20-25 yards.  AND taking the rouge gets you out of the shadow of the EZ and potential safety touch by the QB or subsequent punt punter.

MOS gambled we'd have a drive and kill the clock.  He put the game on the O.  The O let us down (2&out).  We lose.

The alternative was to field the ball, get to the 20, punt to the opposite 45, give up a 25y return, which puts the other team at our 40.  You really want to put the game on our D at that moment to stop a TD from our 40?  Heck, the overtime series shows what would have happened.  So if we field that ball we outright lose instead of get a mini-game to try to regain our composure.

Given these choices most HCs would choose to own their fate and rely on their O, not their D.

It is the previous rouge that is being discussed, O'Shea had the choice of taking the no yards penalty which would have cancelled the rouge and placed the ball at the 30.  Instead he declined the penalty gave up the rouge and they started at the 40.

[kkc60]

Clements, Hanson and Haba back would be huuuuuge

Haba to PR. i get it, we need STs help. But adding some juice to our pass rush would be beneficial. If we waste Haba to roster Cole/ Jackson, that?s gonna hurt. He has potential that those two don?t.

[TecnoGenius]

It is the previous rouge that is being discussed, O'Shea had the choice of taking the no yards penalty which would have cancelled the rouge and placed the ball at the 30.  Instead he declined the penalty gave up the rouge and they started at the 40.

What's the math on the 30?  25 because it was downed in the EZ + 5 because it was a 5Y NY?  Is this the only instance left where a NY is only 5Y?

Did MOS clarify which rouge he said he might think differently on in the future?  Are we sure it's the NY one?

That earlier rouge had even more time on the clock... so I can see MOS caring less about the point.  However, if it really was 10Y difference then his choice was a major mistake.  Maybe he didn't know it would be 30 vs 40??  My brain didn't immediately go there... maybe MOS's didn't either.

Didn't we have this exact play in (maybe) 2019 except there the coverage was "hovering" when it was NY.  MOS wanted an extra hover penalty upgrade (it's in the rules).  He didn't get it.  BUT... he did take the penalty instead of the rouge!  Caused some confusion amongst fans.  But I could swear he didn't get to start at the 30.  It was the 10 or something... Someone may have to check this stuff.  Something doesn't sound right.

My point is MOS has taken the penalty instead of the rouge before; this situation is not new to him.

[GOLDMEMBER]

It was a closed practice today. Would have been interesting to see, who was on the field, and what they were doing. Blackmon, mite need more then 2 practices. That would leave us with Parker.

Nice to see Clements back, he was having a good year before his injury. Haba and Hansen, both looked ready go on Monday.

OK lets get that pass rush in business now!

[GOLDMEMBER]

looks like Streveler will be on hand for the banjo bowl signing autographs! Let the rumors begin...or rather keep on going depending on your perspective

really where did you read that?

[kkc60]

OK lets get that pass rush in business now!

if i was a betting man, I would say DIs are gonna be Jackson, Castillo, Cole and Clements. Our black of pass rush depth has hurt us recently, unfortunately so has our lack of viable STers.

[TecnoGenius]

if i was a betting man, I would say DIs are gonna be Jackson, Castillo, Cole and Clements. Our black of pass rush depth has hurt us recently, unfortunately so has our lack of viable STers.

Don't need 2 IMP WILLs DIs.  Surely we have another IMP we can DI.  Didn't someone say Haba will be back?  It's weird that our IMP roster cupboard is so bare.

So you may be correct, but it just seems very odd to me that is the best use of our limited spots.

[Lincoln Locomotive]

really where did you read that?

https://3downnation.com/2023/09/07/bombers-hosting-autograph-session-with-free-agent-qb-chris-streveler-ahead-of-banjo-bowl/

[kkc60]

Don't need 2 IMP WILLs DIs.  Surely we have another IMP we can DI.  Didn't someone say Haba will be back?  It's weird that our IMP roster cupboard is so bare.

So you may be correct, but it just seems very odd to me that is the best use of our limited spots.

apparently Haba to PR. Whether that sticks, not too sure. But losing Gauthier, Briggs missing some practice and Burtenshaw to the PR makes it make sense. This roster is not built well in terms of depth.

[Pigskin]

In 6 games Haba had 9 DTs, 3 Sacks, 1 FF. Like to see this kid back on the field.

[Pete]

totally agree about Haba unless he needs 1 more week to be ready. For some reason we keep playing the same di's ie jackson and cole, even when the results don't warrant it. We are also bringing back Mcgee and Givhan to the pr when we have yet to see what the existing players ie Garbutt and fox can do. Its baffling really.  I know there is some depbate on jackson but for the limited amount of plays he's involved in a rotational player such as haba makes more sense.

[Jesse]

In 6 games Haba had 9 DTs, 3 Sacks, 1 FF. Like to see this kid back on the field.

Haba to the PR (unless he's still injured, but then why wouldn't you put him on the one game) makes me so upset.

[Blue In BC]

Haba to the PR (unless he's still injured, but then why wouldn't you put him on the one game) makes me so upset.

Makes no sense. Adding Murphy over Burtenshaw seems like a random choice as well. Maybe he'll be added for ST work? This could change today I suppose but is baffling. Haba was listed as practising full.

Transactions didn't include Hansen or Clement being added yet.

[M.O.A.B.]

https://twitter.com/Wpg_BlueBombers/status/1700154573107712190/photo/1

Clements and Murphy in
McCrae and Burtenshaw out

That's the only change

4 American LBs
Parker as the KR and extra American DB

and Jackson is still there. 

[theaardvark]

Starting 8 Nats again, no indication of fake nats.  Guessing they will declare 6 Nats on O and 1 on D by having Murphy on the roster. 

Parker with KR/PR duties...

[kkc60]

Haba to the PR (unless he's still injured, but then why wouldn't you put him on the one game) makes me so upset.

unbelievably frustrating. this roster construction is going to burn us

[Blue In BC]

Hansen not added either??? Haba to PR???

Count me as confused and annoyed. If they win it will be water under the bridge but why is O'Shea so enamoured with Jackson as a DI?

With Clement back on the roster I'd expect Jackson won't be on ST's or defensive rotation, unless we're blowing the Riders out.

[Pete]

Also surprised that we added murphy vs kelly, who'd you think would be more effective on st's.Going forward i would like to see;
Haba, Clements, Blackmon in Jackson, Cole, Parker on pr

[M.O.A.B.]

I don't know why they dont use Oleary-Orange on FB purposes. He is a big guy (6.04 223). I would think he can make blocks for Oliveira.
Murphy as 4th Cdn receiver gives you more depth on that department. That will give you an extra DA spot for Haba (or other DL)

If that's not viable, is it that hard to pickup a Cdn FB?

[LXTSN]

Also surprised that we added murphy vs kelly, who'd you think would be more effective on st's.Going forward i would like to see;
Haba, Clements, Blackmon in Jackson, Cole, Parker on pr

Good point, I forgot about Kelly. He started out on the AR at the beginning of the season and I believe he played great on special teams!
Also, Burtenshaw played pretty well on special teams during those 2 games he played.
I'd like to see:
Kelly replace Murphy
Haba replace Jackson for DA
Burtenshaw replace Briggs or Bennett

[3rdand1.5]

I am really surprised that Haba went to the PR.

I continue to be surprised we are only rostering 6 D-line and one is Bennet. Fox and Garbutt are mostly unknown, so I kinda get it, but Haba outplayed Bennet right outta the gate, and it's not like we need Bennet for CDN/Import ratio reasons, we have Thomas/Lawson to fill that need.

At minimum I would have Haba in and Bennet out...even if was on the 1 game with a "thorax".

Glad to see they are appearing to be doing something with special teams as they arguably cost us a game....although one could make a pretty solid argument that the lack of D-line rotation cost us the Ott game...but I will keep my focus on tomorrow's game and look forward not back....

[Pigskin]

I like Murphy. Catches everything thrown to him, has good speed, and works hard on cover team.

[Pete]

I agree Murphy looks like he has similar tools to Philpot... i just hope he gets some reps in. We keep relying on the same ol vets to get the job done, rather than looking to develop players for the future.