I am considering returning to writing for this blog. Please let me know if you would read as I don't intend to spend time for nobody to read my thoughts/analysis.
HM
Tuesday, May 10, 2016
Monday, February 3, 2014
Changes Coming
To my 'loyal' followers, changes are coming in the near future for this blog. After a few years of independent blogging, I have been given the opportunity to move on. An old college roommate from my days in Lethbridge contacted me recently to gauge my interest in becoming part of a blog network that will focus on all that is sports in Canada. As such I have been asked to write a weekly column on the CFL with an emphasis on the Riders. The site, currently under construction, will be found at sfncanada.com. The Sports Fan Network is set to launch soon and I am thrilled to be a part of it. For all your Rider news, and anything sports related in Canada, Sports Fan Network Canada will be your one stop. In essence, I am not done blogging but will just be doing so as part of a larger network, something I truly look forward to. Catch you soon at sfncanada.com
HM
HM
Tuesday, January 21, 2014
Saying Good - Bye to a Legend.
At a press conference this morning in Montreal, Anthony Calvillo said good - bye to the Alouettes organization and the CFL, announcing his retirement after twenty seasons in the league. The 41 year old broke into the CFL in 1994 with the Las Vegas Posse as part of the largely unsuccesful expansion into the United States. After three seasons in Hamilton, the native of Los Angeles, California moved on to Montreal where he would spend the next sixteen seasons, two watching and learning under Tracey Ham prior to taking the reins himself in 2000. A three time Grey Cup Champ (2002, 2009 & 2010), Calvillo threw for nearly 79, 000 yards and 455 TD's. The last snap he took was this August in Regina when he left the game with a concussion following a hit from the Rider' Ricky Foley.
As a Rider fan it was easy to despise Calvillo for his abilities. I have always, perhaps wrongly, marked the abilities of a player by the fear he imposed on me as a fan. I was always nervous lining up against the Als simply because I knew what the man was capable of. Not a large man by any stretch of the imagination, Calvillo played much bigger than his stature. He was tough as nails and was capable of putting up points in bunches. One needs not look any further than the 16 point deficit he and the Als overcame in an eight minute span on a lovely Sunday evening in Calgary in 2009. Sure the Riders lost the game largely due to the 13th man debacle but AC put Montreal into a position which made that play meaningful, a situation that could have been entirely avoided were it not for the abilities of the man under centre.
I will always remember the Canada Day shootout he and Darian Durant had on opening night, 2010. Down 21 at the half, DD pulled the Riders back and had the game won until a great pass and catch from Calvillo to SJ Green set the game into OT only to have the Riders pull it out on an equally impressive catch by Weston Dressler in extra time.
I forget who wrote about it this morning, perhaps Mitchell Blair or maybe Rod Pederson; regardless they considered AC one of, if not the greatest QB our league has ever known. It would be very difficult not to annoint Calvillo as the greatest of all time. There have been a lot of great gun slingers roll through our league in its 101 year history but the numbers speak for themselves. In addition many players have AC to thank for much of the success they enjoyed; names like Jamel Richardson who was a non - factor here in Saskatchewan has flourished in Montreal, SJ Green has become one of the most feared recievers in the league at the moment and who can ever forget the chemistry he shared with Ben Cahoon. The Als have been for many years a team to fear and one you need to put in a full sixty minutes if you hope to find success. That was in large part due to the play of Anthony Calvillo. Do you honestly remember him having an off night? An off night for him was what many would consider a good day at the office.
Elsewhere in the CFL....
Craig Butler has made it known that he intends to test the free agency waters and determine his value on the open market come February 15th. To this there are two schools of thought: (1) How can he not want to go and play in the East and be closer to friends and family ala Andy Fantuz? or (2) Tyron Brackenridge did the exact same thing last year before deciding that the Rider's were the best fit for him at that point in his career. In the event he does leave, something I clearly hope does not transpire, I wonder if the Rider's would be interested in taking a run at someone like Shea Emry. I hate to play against him but would love to see him in the green and white. Generally speaking I have the same feelings for him that I had for Dwight Anderson last year and we all know how that worked out.
Weston Dressler has worked out for the Kansas City Chiefs and according to his agent, as many as four or five 'other' teams remain in the mix. Like Butler, it sounds like Dressler doesn't have his heart set on returning to the green and white should NFL aspirations fade away. Should he go, we need to remember the six years of blood, sweat and tears the man gave to this organization. Nobody who is a true fan of Dressler should be angry if he makes it down south. On the flip side however, should he return to the CFL with another team, the warm, fuzzy feelings may quickly dissipate.
Cory Chamblin is one of three coaches up for the CFL Coach of the Year award. Chamblin will be opposed by his foe in Grey Cup 101, Kent Austin of Hamilton and John Hufnagel of the Stampeders. I can not believe I am saying this but the right choice is Huf. Sure they dropped the ball (literally and figuratively) in the play - off's but he tallied a 14 - 4 record and used three different starting QB's at various points of the season. Chamblin may earn some votes by virtue of the Rider's Grey Cup victory but if I had a vote, Huf would get the nod.
Speaking of the Stamps, I still believe they made a mistake protecting Drew Tate while allowing Kevin Glenn to walk. Sure Tate is younger but Glenn proved last year that he is more than capable of still playing at a high level and personally I think Glenn could be a much better tutor and mentor for Bo Levi Mitchell both on and off the field than Tate. I ran into Kevin Glenn at the Grey Cup and he was more than willing to stop and talk when he easily could have ignored me and walked away. A very nice, endearing fellow who I wish nothing but the best for in Ottawa.
Speaking of Ottawa, what is up with them using the hashtag #RNATION. Uhm, isn't that our thing? Are they still angry that couldn't use the name Rough Riders again?
Last week or the week before I was driving home after work listening to the Sportscage and the voice of the Winnipeg Blue Bombers was on the air discussing the upcoming season in the Manitoba capital. He said a lot of things but what stood out for me was his contention that the Bombers should be a winning club in 2014. I almost hit the ditch; unless they bring in a bonafide CFL QB, they will not be a winner next year. For me the choice is simple, bring in Henry Burris to provide not only some stability at that position but also provide a live teaching tool for a youngster like Max Hall who I think can be good in the CFL but needs to learn how to play it.
Back to the Riders and with Khari Jones taking the position of Offensive Coordinator in BC, the Riders are now in need of a QB coach to replace him. The name that has been bantered about is Kerry Joseph. I adamantly believe he is not the best choice. Sure he won us a Grey Cup and for that the Rider fans should always be grateful. But all loyalty aside, he stunk in the Grey Cup and the remainder of his career following his trade to Toronto in the offseason after the 2007 Grey Cup victory was far from impressive. Does Darian still need a QB coach or is he at the point where he can do this on his own? I would be more inclined to lean towards the latter.
Later,
HM
Tuesday, January 7, 2014
Some Snap Judgements
It has been a while since I have shared with you my wisdom and insights. My quest to turn the Norquay Knights into the most dominant Boys 1A basketball team leaves only a few minutes for some quick thoughts. Here we go:
* Love it or hate it, the Canadian Men's roster at the Olympics is the best there is in this tournament....on paper anyways.
* The World Jr. Team needs to move away from the mentality that they need to take players to fulfill certain 'roles' on that team. I mean really the likes of Frederick Gauthier and Josh Anderson, so - called checkers did very little to help that team. Surely there was more skilled guys they could have taken. You don't see Sweden, Finland and the likes filling roles. They take the top forwards they have, throw them together and let them work their magic.
* Even the thought that the NHL should be forced to loan Jr. aged players to this tournament is preposterous. No NHL GM in the world is going to put the Canadian World Jr. team ahead of their own team, nor should they be expected to be.
* Nathan Dumba is highly over - rated.
* Where was Max Domi? Surely he could have added not only skill, but grit to go along with it.
* In all honestly, I struggle to believe that there aren't better choices than Jeff Carter and Marc - Edouard Vlasic for the Olympic team. To add to that, Chris Kunitz is really one of the top 14 forwards in our nation. Put him in Florida; does he score twenty?
* The Cincinnati Bengals have a serious decision to make regarding Andy Dalton. Is he, or isn't he the guy to move them into the NFL's elite? He isn' exactly 'red hot' in the play - offs.
* Being an NFL coach must be about the most fickle job in the world. Hired today and spoken highly of as the man to turn the team around, fired nine months later and said you werent' the man for the job. Is one season really a fair shot to see what you bring as a coach?
* Did you know the Cleveland Browns are paying nearly $50 million dollars to men who once were, but are no longer their Head Coach?
* Not much for basketball but the Chicago Bulls acquired Andrew Bynum late last night/early this morning. He was released this afternoon. Maybe he could be the next HC in Cleveland for the Browns.
* Nick Kypreos was pretty worked up that Dallas Eakins ran an 8:00 am practice yesterday morning for the Edmonton Oilers. Nick, do you know how many people accomplish more by 8:00 in the morning than most NHL'ers will in a month? If they want to make their millions, they can practice when their 'boss' tells them to.
* The same Nick Kypreos said that James Neal was the pureset goal scorer in the game aside from Alexander Ovechkin. Yeah sure Nick and your nose is the straightest in sports television.
* It's cold.
* Love it or hate it, the Canadian Men's roster at the Olympics is the best there is in this tournament....on paper anyways.
* The World Jr. Team needs to move away from the mentality that they need to take players to fulfill certain 'roles' on that team. I mean really the likes of Frederick Gauthier and Josh Anderson, so - called checkers did very little to help that team. Surely there was more skilled guys they could have taken. You don't see Sweden, Finland and the likes filling roles. They take the top forwards they have, throw them together and let them work their magic.
* Even the thought that the NHL should be forced to loan Jr. aged players to this tournament is preposterous. No NHL GM in the world is going to put the Canadian World Jr. team ahead of their own team, nor should they be expected to be.
* Nathan Dumba is highly over - rated.
* Where was Max Domi? Surely he could have added not only skill, but grit to go along with it.
* In all honestly, I struggle to believe that there aren't better choices than Jeff Carter and Marc - Edouard Vlasic for the Olympic team. To add to that, Chris Kunitz is really one of the top 14 forwards in our nation. Put him in Florida; does he score twenty?
* The Cincinnati Bengals have a serious decision to make regarding Andy Dalton. Is he, or isn't he the guy to move them into the NFL's elite? He isn' exactly 'red hot' in the play - offs.
* Being an NFL coach must be about the most fickle job in the world. Hired today and spoken highly of as the man to turn the team around, fired nine months later and said you werent' the man for the job. Is one season really a fair shot to see what you bring as a coach?
* Did you know the Cleveland Browns are paying nearly $50 million dollars to men who once were, but are no longer their Head Coach?
* Not much for basketball but the Chicago Bulls acquired Andrew Bynum late last night/early this morning. He was released this afternoon. Maybe he could be the next HC in Cleveland for the Browns.
* Nick Kypreos was pretty worked up that Dallas Eakins ran an 8:00 am practice yesterday morning for the Edmonton Oilers. Nick, do you know how many people accomplish more by 8:00 in the morning than most NHL'ers will in a month? If they want to make their millions, they can practice when their 'boss' tells them to.
* The same Nick Kypreos said that James Neal was the pureset goal scorer in the game aside from Alexander Ovechkin. Yeah sure Nick and your nose is the straightest in sports television.
* It's cold.
Tuesday, November 26, 2013
Take That!
Sunday evening saw the Saskatchewan Roughriders cap off a successful season. A 45 - 23 destruction of the Hamilton Ti - Cats (the score flatters Hamilton) saw the Riders hoist the Grey Cup for only the fourth time in their 103 years of existence. While the Riders victory is meaningful for a lot of reasons. With just thirty minutes before basketball practice, I will try to illustrate my thoughts.
* This victory is special for Brendan Taman. The Rider GM has been accused by many since taking over the position that he was inadequate at assembling a team capable of capturing a Championship. His scouting was inferior and he chose to bring in more 'wash - up's' as many said that bring in fresh talent. To this I bring up the name Kory Sheets; he was scouted and brought in. To this I say Dwight Anderson. Many resented this signing but boy was he big for us all year. To this I say Geroy Simon (more later). The Winnipeg team that lost to BC in 2011 was Brendan's work for the most part. Sure they never won but it was a good team. What Brendan Taman did two years ago after the debacle that was a 5 - 13 campaign was circle November 24th, 2013 on his calendar. He wanted to assemble a team that would stand a chance of playing in this game. Not only did he assemble arguably the most talent laden team this organization has even seen, but he put togeter a team that won convincingly in the division finals and Grey Cup game. While the Stamps may have had a better record, the way this team played the last two weeks, including the beat down at McMahon proved to everyone that when clicking, this was the best team in the CFL. Thank you Brendan.
* I have been a supporter of Darian Durant since he took the reigns of this team in 2009. While many have questioned his ability and performance, I have never given up faith in the man they affectionately refer to as 'Doubles'. Ask anyone I know and they will attest to that unwavering faith. While some stayed faithful, many chose to criticize him over and over again to the point of nausea. For Darian to play the way he did in the play - offs is testament to the fact that he is so much more than most gave him credit for. He is a natural leader, a elite QB, and very much a part of the reason we are the Champions of 2013. All you who questioned him and called for Drew Willy, and you know who you are, can politely shut up and eat crow. You are the best QB in this league, and thankfully you are our QB.
* Geroy Simon; he was washed up and overpaid. Why did we bring him in? We brought him in to make plays like he did on Sunday. Two TD receptions, surprisingly his first two TD receptions in a Grey Cup that A) got us rolling, and B) pretty much sunk the Ti - Cats at the end of the first half. Again, BT knew something when he brought in Geroy. Great players make plays at opportune times and Geroy made those on Sunday in the biggest game of the history of the Riders.
* Richie Hall's defense is no good. They can't make a stop at critical times. Even I jumped on that train occasionally. Richie Hall's defense crushed the Stamps and Ti - Cat's in consecutive weeks. While many talk about Kent Austin's contributions to Rider folklore, Sunday was Hall's third Grey Cup victory with this organization. He played in 89 and was DC in 07. Again, thank you Richie for doing your job and not listening to the nutjobs that make up some of the fan base.
* This is a victory that means so much to the fans and the province. We are often laughed at as being the 'space between Manitoba and Alberta'. Not only did we put on the greatest party one could imagine, we capped it off with a Grey Cup victory in front of 45, 000 faithful fans of the green and white. To all the players and coaches in that locker room who were on the front lines on Sunday, to those who were scratched Sunday, to those who played at some point during the year or even those who spent the year on the practice roster helping prepare for the following week, I thank you from the bottom of my heart. You gave me the greatest season of Rider football I could ever expect. You gave me a chance to witness Rider history with my Dad in Section 24. You made me so very proud to be a Rider fan. You guys are the greatest. You often refer to us as the greatest fans in the league. It is easy to be the greatest fans when you are fortunate enough to cheer for the greatest team. See you in June; I can't wait!!!!
* This victory is special for Brendan Taman. The Rider GM has been accused by many since taking over the position that he was inadequate at assembling a team capable of capturing a Championship. His scouting was inferior and he chose to bring in more 'wash - up's' as many said that bring in fresh talent. To this I bring up the name Kory Sheets; he was scouted and brought in. To this I say Dwight Anderson. Many resented this signing but boy was he big for us all year. To this I say Geroy Simon (more later). The Winnipeg team that lost to BC in 2011 was Brendan's work for the most part. Sure they never won but it was a good team. What Brendan Taman did two years ago after the debacle that was a 5 - 13 campaign was circle November 24th, 2013 on his calendar. He wanted to assemble a team that would stand a chance of playing in this game. Not only did he assemble arguably the most talent laden team this organization has even seen, but he put togeter a team that won convincingly in the division finals and Grey Cup game. While the Stamps may have had a better record, the way this team played the last two weeks, including the beat down at McMahon proved to everyone that when clicking, this was the best team in the CFL. Thank you Brendan.
* I have been a supporter of Darian Durant since he took the reigns of this team in 2009. While many have questioned his ability and performance, I have never given up faith in the man they affectionately refer to as 'Doubles'. Ask anyone I know and they will attest to that unwavering faith. While some stayed faithful, many chose to criticize him over and over again to the point of nausea. For Darian to play the way he did in the play - offs is testament to the fact that he is so much more than most gave him credit for. He is a natural leader, a elite QB, and very much a part of the reason we are the Champions of 2013. All you who questioned him and called for Drew Willy, and you know who you are, can politely shut up and eat crow. You are the best QB in this league, and thankfully you are our QB.
* Geroy Simon; he was washed up and overpaid. Why did we bring him in? We brought him in to make plays like he did on Sunday. Two TD receptions, surprisingly his first two TD receptions in a Grey Cup that A) got us rolling, and B) pretty much sunk the Ti - Cats at the end of the first half. Again, BT knew something when he brought in Geroy. Great players make plays at opportune times and Geroy made those on Sunday in the biggest game of the history of the Riders.
* Richie Hall's defense is no good. They can't make a stop at critical times. Even I jumped on that train occasionally. Richie Hall's defense crushed the Stamps and Ti - Cat's in consecutive weeks. While many talk about Kent Austin's contributions to Rider folklore, Sunday was Hall's third Grey Cup victory with this organization. He played in 89 and was DC in 07. Again, thank you Richie for doing your job and not listening to the nutjobs that make up some of the fan base.
* This is a victory that means so much to the fans and the province. We are often laughed at as being the 'space between Manitoba and Alberta'. Not only did we put on the greatest party one could imagine, we capped it off with a Grey Cup victory in front of 45, 000 faithful fans of the green and white. To all the players and coaches in that locker room who were on the front lines on Sunday, to those who were scratched Sunday, to those who played at some point during the year or even those who spent the year on the practice roster helping prepare for the following week, I thank you from the bottom of my heart. You gave me the greatest season of Rider football I could ever expect. You gave me a chance to witness Rider history with my Dad in Section 24. You made me so very proud to be a Rider fan. You guys are the greatest. You often refer to us as the greatest fans in the league. It is easy to be the greatest fans when you are fortunate enough to cheer for the greatest team. See you in June; I can't wait!!!!
Tuesday, November 12, 2013
Worth It.
It was moderately cold on Sunday at Mosaic Stadium. I would say short of Grey Cup '95 it was the coldest weather I have ever watched football in. For three quarters it looked like I might leave not only cold, but grumpy and disappointed as the season looked to be ticking away. And then......
When his team needed him, Darian Durant put them on his shoulders (or legs) and willed them to a thrilling 29 - 25 victory and a berth in the Western Final Sunday in Cowtown. For most of the latter part of the season, the play of Durant was questioned by many. He wasn't good enough, would never take us where an 'elite' QB would, etc. I am proud to say I never wavered in my belief that not only is he our best QB but one of the best the league has to offer. If being named the Western All - Star QB didn't squash the 'Durant Haters', his play on Sunday should have.
I have stated a couple of times in the past on this very blog that Darian Durant is a much better QB when he uses his legs. He become the double - edged sword; what will you work to prevent; his legs or his arms? On Sunday what first downs were needed and time needed to be taken off the clock, he just took off and made it happen. How many times did he fight off arm tackles? He is like trying to bring down a linebacker. They would never say it, but honestly I would be inclined to think the Calgary Stampeders watched the game on Sunday and went 'Oh s#%T, he's back.' Like a good season wasn't enough reason for concern amongst the Stamps, the play of Durant on Sunday only compounds those concerns and makes game planning doubly difficult.
While the play of Darian was refreshing, the ability to stop the run was a bit concerning on Sunday. The efforts of Andrew Harris, Stefan Logan and even Travis Lulay created headaches for the Rider D as well as the faithful in the stands. Some players didn't have their best games of the season but that is something I look to see change this week. It may have been me, but did the Riders send a blitz once in the entire game? From what I saw they went with only the front four the entire game, and had next to no pressure on Travis Lulay in the process. Yes, our D - Line is presumably the envy of the league but you have to send a different look on occasion to mix things up. That will be something that I would look to change heading into the weekend.
All said and done, this is exactly where we all wanted the team to be; one game for a chance to play in the Grey Cup on home turf. While I would rather the game be taking place in Regina, part of me feels like we are due for a victory in McMahon to catapult us back home for the big one.
Moving to hockey, Nail Yakupov and his agent, Igor Larionov apparently have some issues with the role he has played thus far. Larionov has gone so far as to say he is travelling to Edmonton to meet with the team and speak with management and Head Coach Dallas Eakins about the role they see Yakupov playing with the organization. Honestly, Yakupov is starting to wear thin on my nerves; he earlier in the year said that he doesn't like skating without the puck and having to play the body. When a twenty year old kid and his agent want to call the shots, it may be time to move him before he becomes a serious problem. He may have said that he is committed to Edmonton, and I get that he may be frustrated. Use that as motivation to get back into the line - up and prove you are what you claim to be, a top notch NHL calibre forward. Just my thoughts.
Steven Stamkos injury could be a devastating blow to the Men's Hockey team in Sochi come February. Let's face it; he was permanent markered in as a top six, probably top line forward. A broken tibia and three to four month recovery time does not bode well for him lacing it up. He will be on the roster obviously but could be one of those injury shuffles 24 hours prior to the opening game of the tournament.
Not much else to say today. Loved the effort of Darian Durant on Sunday and eagerly look forward to Sunday afternoon. Some cool 'pops', some good friends, maybe some chips and dip and what I hope will be a green and white victory. Have a great week. Enjoy the W but be ready for Sunday. Those of you travelling to attend the game; I envy you.
When his team needed him, Darian Durant put them on his shoulders (or legs) and willed them to a thrilling 29 - 25 victory and a berth in the Western Final Sunday in Cowtown. For most of the latter part of the season, the play of Durant was questioned by many. He wasn't good enough, would never take us where an 'elite' QB would, etc. I am proud to say I never wavered in my belief that not only is he our best QB but one of the best the league has to offer. If being named the Western All - Star QB didn't squash the 'Durant Haters', his play on Sunday should have.
I have stated a couple of times in the past on this very blog that Darian Durant is a much better QB when he uses his legs. He become the double - edged sword; what will you work to prevent; his legs or his arms? On Sunday what first downs were needed and time needed to be taken off the clock, he just took off and made it happen. How many times did he fight off arm tackles? He is like trying to bring down a linebacker. They would never say it, but honestly I would be inclined to think the Calgary Stampeders watched the game on Sunday and went 'Oh s#%T, he's back.' Like a good season wasn't enough reason for concern amongst the Stamps, the play of Durant on Sunday only compounds those concerns and makes game planning doubly difficult.
While the play of Darian was refreshing, the ability to stop the run was a bit concerning on Sunday. The efforts of Andrew Harris, Stefan Logan and even Travis Lulay created headaches for the Rider D as well as the faithful in the stands. Some players didn't have their best games of the season but that is something I look to see change this week. It may have been me, but did the Riders send a blitz once in the entire game? From what I saw they went with only the front four the entire game, and had next to no pressure on Travis Lulay in the process. Yes, our D - Line is presumably the envy of the league but you have to send a different look on occasion to mix things up. That will be something that I would look to change heading into the weekend.
All said and done, this is exactly where we all wanted the team to be; one game for a chance to play in the Grey Cup on home turf. While I would rather the game be taking place in Regina, part of me feels like we are due for a victory in McMahon to catapult us back home for the big one.
Moving to hockey, Nail Yakupov and his agent, Igor Larionov apparently have some issues with the role he has played thus far. Larionov has gone so far as to say he is travelling to Edmonton to meet with the team and speak with management and Head Coach Dallas Eakins about the role they see Yakupov playing with the organization. Honestly, Yakupov is starting to wear thin on my nerves; he earlier in the year said that he doesn't like skating without the puck and having to play the body. When a twenty year old kid and his agent want to call the shots, it may be time to move him before he becomes a serious problem. He may have said that he is committed to Edmonton, and I get that he may be frustrated. Use that as motivation to get back into the line - up and prove you are what you claim to be, a top notch NHL calibre forward. Just my thoughts.
Steven Stamkos injury could be a devastating blow to the Men's Hockey team in Sochi come February. Let's face it; he was permanent markered in as a top six, probably top line forward. A broken tibia and three to four month recovery time does not bode well for him lacing it up. He will be on the roster obviously but could be one of those injury shuffles 24 hours prior to the opening game of the tournament.
Not much else to say today. Loved the effort of Darian Durant on Sunday and eagerly look forward to Sunday afternoon. Some cool 'pops', some good friends, maybe some chips and dip and what I hope will be a green and white victory. Have a great week. Enjoy the W but be ready for Sunday. Those of you travelling to attend the game; I envy you.
Monday, October 28, 2013
The Monday After....
Saturday night was the biggest game of the season for the Saskatchewan Roughriders. Riding a three game win streak, the green and white invaded McMahon Stadium in Calgary looking to knock off the hometown Stampeders and cling to their hopes of first place in the CFL's Western Division. In the end a 29 - 25 loss was the result and one that has brought with it much controversy and an abundance of different reactions. From it being a small bump in the road to pack it in, the season is over; Rider fans have lashed out and reacted in a number of different ways. In a nutshell, here are my thoughts:
* Once again everyone wants to blame this on Darian Durant. Let's stop and think for a moment. He didn't play great, but did he lose us this game. He did march us down the field to take the lead with under five minutes remaining. He got sacked seven times and hit a bunch. He didn't turn the ball over until the bitter end but even then the game had in my opinion been lost. Could he have been better? Sure. Did he put us in a position to win? Yes. Is this on him? No. According to my calculations this is the third time he has marched us down field and gave us a chance to win a game only to see the defence unable to hang on to the lead. Those of you who pin everything on him and say we will never win a Grey Cup with him at the helm, I would like to remind you of the Nealon Greene days. Aah, good times.
* That being said, I do not want to appear critical of the defense as I thought they were pretty good for most of the game on Saturday. A pile of pressure in the first half leading to four turnovers which could have been turned into more points. That being said, this team seems to have a bad reputation for being unable to make that key stop when needed.
* That takes me to my next point. With the Stamps down three they faced a 2nd and long. Terrell Maze plays it perfectly, knocking the ball down which forces a 3rd down gamble but more likely a punt with that much time remaining. A couple of first downs and the game is won, but wait!! There is a flag on the play; pass interference for playing it exactly as the rule book says is acceptable. Whoa, another flag?! Here's another 15 yards for objectionable conduct on the bench. The extra fifteen yards was unnecessary because it came on the heels of a terrible call in the first place. Turn the clock back to the first half and Dwight Anderson gets a 15 yarder for what? From what I can tell for being flagged in the past. Reputation and not action was the reason for that flag. The officiating in this league has become atrocious. Sadly, the ineptitude of these men to get it right, or at least less wrong than they have been is going to cost somebody a title at some point. What is the answer to increasing the consistency and quality of officiating at this CFL level? If someone has it, Tom Higgins could sure use it.
* Kory Sheets had a meltdown on Saturday night. A meltdown rivalled by my two year old son when told I refuse to watch the 'Cat in the Hat' for the eighth time in three days. That being said, I am unsure how to react to this. On one side it looks selfish and self - centred. He did after all spend the week talking about how he is better than Calgary's Jon Cornish, something he was unable to prove on Saturday; something that clearly upset him. On the other hand, the guy was given three carries in the first half. Twice we were inside the ten with first and goal and he never touched it on either occasion. Is it just me or do you want the ball in the hands of your play - makers? Perhaps they abandoned the run far too quickly. I mean Cornish fumbled twice in the first half but they kept feeding him the ball. I can see the argument that Cortez slighted Sheets and his abilities. At the end of the day, he maybe had a reason to be upset but didn't have to act the way he did. In my books, water under the bridge, move forward, have it make you hungrier, prove your worth in the post - season. Fair enough?
* All that aside, as I said on this blog last week, Saturday night was NOT the game I wanted to beat Calgary in. Rather, I want to beat them on November 17th. Provided we take care of BC at home on November 10th, let's go in there and prove as Dwight Anderson so eloquently stated that the Riders are better than Calgary. I, unlike many of the loyal fans refuse to turn my back on the team, any players, management, etc. I remain a loyal supporter of this football team. After all, that is what 'real fans' do.
The Edmonton Oilers continue to struggle.
The New York Islanders got robbed yesterday. Right before their very eyes the Buffalo Sabres walked in and fleeced them. Headed to the Island is Thomas Vanek. On the way back to Buffalo, Matt Moulson, the Isles 1st this year and 2nd next. All that for a guy who is a UFA at the end of the season and could very well leave. That is a hefty price to pay for a glorified 'rental'. Moulson is a guy I have liked more and more every year. A guy who quietly puts up good numbers and never complains. A guy who was there through some very thin times in New York and right when it appears they are turning the page and becoming a legitimate force in the East he get's a one way ticket to Buffalo, arguably the only team in the league worse than Edmonton. The 'unfairness' of sport at its best.
Willie Middlebrooks tripped Allen Craig on Saturday night giving the Cardinals a 5 - 4 victory in Game Three of the World Series, a series that has now been evened up by the Red Sox. Jake Peavey called it a joke, John Farrell wanted a rule that has been in place for more than 150 years taken from the books. Really? The guy cheated, got called on it and his team lost because of it. I give Jim Joyce credit for having the 'balls' to call it. I don't care if it is the World Series or game 34 of the season, the rules are the rules. Middlebrooks says he was trying to get 'up'; lie down on your belly right now and try to get up....what do your legs do? I know what mine do and they look nothing like Willie Middlebrooks on Saturday night.
* Once again everyone wants to blame this on Darian Durant. Let's stop and think for a moment. He didn't play great, but did he lose us this game. He did march us down the field to take the lead with under five minutes remaining. He got sacked seven times and hit a bunch. He didn't turn the ball over until the bitter end but even then the game had in my opinion been lost. Could he have been better? Sure. Did he put us in a position to win? Yes. Is this on him? No. According to my calculations this is the third time he has marched us down field and gave us a chance to win a game only to see the defence unable to hang on to the lead. Those of you who pin everything on him and say we will never win a Grey Cup with him at the helm, I would like to remind you of the Nealon Greene days. Aah, good times.
* That being said, I do not want to appear critical of the defense as I thought they were pretty good for most of the game on Saturday. A pile of pressure in the first half leading to four turnovers which could have been turned into more points. That being said, this team seems to have a bad reputation for being unable to make that key stop when needed.
* That takes me to my next point. With the Stamps down three they faced a 2nd and long. Terrell Maze plays it perfectly, knocking the ball down which forces a 3rd down gamble but more likely a punt with that much time remaining. A couple of first downs and the game is won, but wait!! There is a flag on the play; pass interference for playing it exactly as the rule book says is acceptable. Whoa, another flag?! Here's another 15 yards for objectionable conduct on the bench. The extra fifteen yards was unnecessary because it came on the heels of a terrible call in the first place. Turn the clock back to the first half and Dwight Anderson gets a 15 yarder for what? From what I can tell for being flagged in the past. Reputation and not action was the reason for that flag. The officiating in this league has become atrocious. Sadly, the ineptitude of these men to get it right, or at least less wrong than they have been is going to cost somebody a title at some point. What is the answer to increasing the consistency and quality of officiating at this CFL level? If someone has it, Tom Higgins could sure use it.
* Kory Sheets had a meltdown on Saturday night. A meltdown rivalled by my two year old son when told I refuse to watch the 'Cat in the Hat' for the eighth time in three days. That being said, I am unsure how to react to this. On one side it looks selfish and self - centred. He did after all spend the week talking about how he is better than Calgary's Jon Cornish, something he was unable to prove on Saturday; something that clearly upset him. On the other hand, the guy was given three carries in the first half. Twice we were inside the ten with first and goal and he never touched it on either occasion. Is it just me or do you want the ball in the hands of your play - makers? Perhaps they abandoned the run far too quickly. I mean Cornish fumbled twice in the first half but they kept feeding him the ball. I can see the argument that Cortez slighted Sheets and his abilities. At the end of the day, he maybe had a reason to be upset but didn't have to act the way he did. In my books, water under the bridge, move forward, have it make you hungrier, prove your worth in the post - season. Fair enough?
* All that aside, as I said on this blog last week, Saturday night was NOT the game I wanted to beat Calgary in. Rather, I want to beat them on November 17th. Provided we take care of BC at home on November 10th, let's go in there and prove as Dwight Anderson so eloquently stated that the Riders are better than Calgary. I, unlike many of the loyal fans refuse to turn my back on the team, any players, management, etc. I remain a loyal supporter of this football team. After all, that is what 'real fans' do.
The Edmonton Oilers continue to struggle.
The New York Islanders got robbed yesterday. Right before their very eyes the Buffalo Sabres walked in and fleeced them. Headed to the Island is Thomas Vanek. On the way back to Buffalo, Matt Moulson, the Isles 1st this year and 2nd next. All that for a guy who is a UFA at the end of the season and could very well leave. That is a hefty price to pay for a glorified 'rental'. Moulson is a guy I have liked more and more every year. A guy who quietly puts up good numbers and never complains. A guy who was there through some very thin times in New York and right when it appears they are turning the page and becoming a legitimate force in the East he get's a one way ticket to Buffalo, arguably the only team in the league worse than Edmonton. The 'unfairness' of sport at its best.
Willie Middlebrooks tripped Allen Craig on Saturday night giving the Cardinals a 5 - 4 victory in Game Three of the World Series, a series that has now been evened up by the Red Sox. Jake Peavey called it a joke, John Farrell wanted a rule that has been in place for more than 150 years taken from the books. Really? The guy cheated, got called on it and his team lost because of it. I give Jim Joyce credit for having the 'balls' to call it. I don't care if it is the World Series or game 34 of the season, the rules are the rules. Middlebrooks says he was trying to get 'up'; lie down on your belly right now and try to get up....what do your legs do? I know what mine do and they look nothing like Willie Middlebrooks on Saturday night.
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