Well I left a Rider game to night earlier than I have ever left in my life.....eight minutes to go in the third quarter....down 38 - 14. Yes, they made a game of it, but still changes had better come for this team; as in tomorrow. A few things stand out from this miserable Mosaic experience. They are as follows, and as a season ticket holder who NEVER misses a game, I am justified in these comments:
(1) Nick Graham is the worst CB in the league. His tackling is horrendous and he couldn't cover his grandma at a family reunion.
(2) Doug Berry is the WORST offensive coordinator in the league, and possibly in football. Second and 20 and we are throwing a 4 yard screen...twice!? Are you kidding me?
(3) This team has no intensity. As the Riders were coming out tonight, my dad and season ticket partner were talking about how there seemed to be a bit of intensity and excitement in the crowd. The response of the Riders was to let the Stamps march up and down the field like that was their god given right.
In closing, here is what I think. Doug Berry must be fired ASAP and he can take Greg Marshall with him. Berry's offence has been atrocious, and Marshall would be hard pressed to excite a child with ADD. Brutal, brutal, brutal.
On a bright note, Shomari Williams had his BEST game as a Rider. Well done!
Friday, August 12, 2011
Tuesday, July 19, 2011
Been a While...
Here is my long overdue blog post. To be expected the Riders are at the centre of my sporting thoughts these days, and here are my observations in no particular order:
I am now convinced there was a reason Greg Marshall coached in this league for nearly two decades before getting a Head Coaching position. Three games in I know, but the man is NOT a Head Coach. When you go on the radio saying you are not going to give a speech to fire your team up, wake the hell up. True they are professional athletes, but regardless of your occupation, is a little inspiration not a good thing? In my mind, lose in Montreal on Sunday and then at home against Calgary and Marshall is out of a job. Ken Miller, please come down from your air conditioned office and straighten this mess out.
Darian Durant needs to be better, but the 0 - 3 record is NOT on him. Yes, I know he was awful in Hamilton, but when you give up on average 40 points a game, you won't win many, even in the CFL.
This team is lacking intensity. Rememeber last year and the year before when Kitwana Jones would lead them out of the tunnel, race to mid- field and chirp with the opposition? Well now, they half heartedly jog to mid field, do a little jump, and hardly even look at the opposition. You always knew Kitwana was ready to go; these guys look so disinterested right now.
In closing, I will continue to be a loyal supporter of this team and I will be at every home game this year regardless of the record (so long as my wife doesn't go into labour on game day). Things will get better, I only hope it is sooner rather than later.
I am now convinced there was a reason Greg Marshall coached in this league for nearly two decades before getting a Head Coaching position. Three games in I know, but the man is NOT a Head Coach. When you go on the radio saying you are not going to give a speech to fire your team up, wake the hell up. True they are professional athletes, but regardless of your occupation, is a little inspiration not a good thing? In my mind, lose in Montreal on Sunday and then at home against Calgary and Marshall is out of a job. Ken Miller, please come down from your air conditioned office and straighten this mess out.
Darian Durant needs to be better, but the 0 - 3 record is NOT on him. Yes, I know he was awful in Hamilton, but when you give up on average 40 points a game, you won't win many, even in the CFL.
This team is lacking intensity. Rememeber last year and the year before when Kitwana Jones would lead them out of the tunnel, race to mid- field and chirp with the opposition? Well now, they half heartedly jog to mid field, do a little jump, and hardly even look at the opposition. You always knew Kitwana was ready to go; these guys look so disinterested right now.
In closing, I will continue to be a loyal supporter of this team and I will be at every home game this year regardless of the record (so long as my wife doesn't go into labour on game day). Things will get better, I only hope it is sooner rather than later.
Thursday, June 30, 2011
Fearless Prognostication...
The CFL season kicks off tonight in Montreal as the two time defending Grey Cup Champs (I hate writing that by the way) host the B.C. Lions, who in my mind will be the most improved team in the entire CFL this year. Not that losing in double OT in the play - off's is anything to be ashamed of, but given their start last year
(0 - 7, the momentum they gained over the last half of the season and into the post season served them very well. Here we go, in no particular order with my picks for the week, my picks for the season, as well as my genereal thoughts.
Week One
B.C. @ Montreal:
Montreal 33; BC 29
Winnipeg @ Hamilton:
Hamilton 27; Winnipeg 13
Toronto @ Calgary:
Calgary 24; Toronto 21
Edmonton @ Saskatchewan:
Saskatchewan 34; Edmonton 24
The Predicted Standings at Season's End
EAST
1. Montreal Alouettes
The Alouettes are still the Alouettes. Despite the loss of Ben Cahoon, the CFL's all time leading reciever, the Als return 75% of the starters from last seasons Grey Cup victory in Edmonton. When you still have the likes of Jamel Richardson (who I am sure still gives Omarr Morgan nightmares) and S.J. Green, they are still very dangerous with their passsing attack; especially when you have the league's best triggerman firing the bullets. The run game will be the X factor with this team. Avon Cobourne split for the Steel City, leaving a three dog race for the starting job which was earned by Brandon Whitaker. While we haven't heard a whole lot from Whitaker, Jim Popp knows talent and I am sure this kid will be fine.
Defensively they improved their secondary with the addition of Dwight Anderson (biggest jackass in the league) and didn't lose much, if anything in this area. Shea Emry and Chip Cox are two of the most underrated players in the league I believe.
As said earlier, the Als are the Als and they will be right there at the end again as they look for the trifecta.
2. Hamilton Tiger - Cats
The days of the Als running away with the East are over. Not because they are slipping, but because Hamilton is catching up. The Tiger Cats will go tooth and nail with the Als all year. Kevin Glenn had a fantastic season last year, and many of the key cogs from last years offense remain. Throw in the addition of Avon Cobourne and they are more dangerous than they have been in a few years.
Defensively, they have the best linebacking corps in the league. Knowlton, Johnson and newly acquired Rey Williams will be huge for the Cats. They will need to be as the secondary is young and largely inexperienced. The ability to pressure the QB on a regular basis will also aid with the secondary.
They won't win the East title during the regular season, but in a one game showdown in November, they could easily be in Vancouver at season's end.
3. Toronto Argonauts.
I struggle to see why so many peoplpe are enamored with the Argos. They still have Cleo Lemon at QB, no significant improvements were made to their recieving corps, and short of Cory Boyd, they don't scare me at all. Offensively, Boyd will carry the ball a lot. They will need to mix Chad Owens into the equation on offense more regularly to scare teams.
Defensively, you scan expect them to be solid again. However, I don't think they are going to be able to shut teams downs all year, meaning eventually Lemon and what I consider the lack of an offense will be the achilles heel of this team.
You know the Flyin Hawaiian will leave his mark as a returner which will be the most exciting aspect of this club.
They make the play - off's but only because Winnipeg is still too young to make a lot of noise. They are the lesser of the two weakest teams in the league. On a side note, Jim Barker is a loud mouth who looks like he should be selling used cars rather than being the Head Coach of a pro football team. Look at that guy's physique; it oozes sprinkles and whipped cream.
4. Winnipeg Blue Bombers.
The future is bright in Winnipeg. They have sold a record 21, 000 season tickets this year, they are one year away from a new stadium, and they are on the rise. Unfortunately they continue to climb this year before they reach the peack.
Offensively, a ton of potential exists at the Wide Reciever positions to go with the already proven Terrence Edwards. Fred Reid is a premier running back. The biggest question for the Bombers if Buck Pierce. He has never played an entire season because of injury, and this year their back - ups are more or less raw rookies who have hardly seen the field. If Pierce stays healthy, they are competitive. If not, its a long season in Winnipeg, but look on the bright side, the Jets are back.
Defensively, they will again be a team who puts a ton of pressure on opposing QB's. Jovon Johnson is as dangerous as anyone at returning the football.
This team will be relevant again, just not this year. Paul Lapolice is a good coach, and I can only hope they reward him for continuing to improve this football team.
WEST
1. Saskatchewan Roughriders.
Yeah, I know...homer pick, right? Not really. Yes they lost Fantuz, but aside from him, who left that was a factor in last year's run to the Grey Cup? All of the questions at receiver I don't see the problem. You still have Dressler, Getzlaf is only getting better, Koch was great when he played and I am eager to see what he can do for an entire year, Clermont is only going to see more action, and the new guys...well let's see. I liked what I saw of Wheelwright, Nunn caught everything in B.C. and we haven't seen him go deep yet. Darian is the second best QB in the league. I fully expect to see him clean up the interceptions and just continue his development into the premier signal caller in the league.
Defensively the obvious question is up front with the D - line. Montez Murphy played pretty well in the pre - season, Luc Mullinder has shown the ability to pressure the QB in the past, and I think Dario Romero up the middle is a significant improvement over Chunky. The linebackers will be strong again led by veteran Barrin Simpson, and if Freeman plays for 18 games the way he did in the play - off's last season you are looking at one of the best in the league. Minor concerns in the secondary but I am sure Richie will work things out, and we do have the best safety in the league in James Patrick.
2. B.C. Lions
Last year I thought Travis Lulay was going to soil his pants at Mosaic in the play - offs. What did he do? He played like a ten year veteran and nearly moved the Lions onto the West Final. Lulay only gets better this year in my mind, and he still has formidable targets to throw to in Geroy Simon, Paris Jackson and the newly acquired Kamau Peterson. Jamel Robertson continues to impress despite his age.
Defensively, they have a veteran secondary, but one still more than capable of getting the job done Solomon Eliminian is one hell of a football player.
They go back and forth with the Riders all year. The fact the Riders host BC twice and only travel to the west coast once, will in my opinion be the difference because the last few years neither team wins on the road.
3. Calgary Stampeders
Offensively, they can still score. Henry Burris is still got it, his recieving corps is one of the best in the league, and what a backfield with Joffrey Reynolds and Jon Cornish. So if they have such a good offense, why will they finsih third?
Well for starters the Riders and Lions are just better all around football teams. I don't think they are aware of how much losing Browner and Anderson from that secondary is going to hurt. I see them as having gone from the best secondary in the league, to the worst. Lot's of yards available through the air when the Stamps are the opponent.
They are easily a .500 team or better, but those two huge losses in the defensive backfield really hurt.
On a side note, since I clearly think the Stamps are not in the equation to be there in the end, why not allow Canadian Brad Sinopli to back up Hank? Bringing in Michael Bishop is a mind boggling decision. He is a bum...flat out...a bum I say. Oh well, just another reason to hate the Stamps. I can't wait till HEEEEEENNNNNNRRRRRRRYYYYYYYYYYY comes to town in August.
4. Edmonton Eskimos
I do not envy Kavis Reed one bit as he premiers as a Head Coach in the CFL. They will be better than last year, but in the competitive west, I still don't see them as a factor. I heard a stat last night, something to the effect that they have six raw Canadian rookies, and like 50% of their lineup is new to the organization. Eric Tillman is making moves for the future, but the future is not now in Edmonton.
Ricky Ray is still a proven QB and Fred Stamps is a very talented slotback. Although, I could do without his self profession of being the best in the league. Daniel Porter ran rough shot the last few weeks of last season and I expect him to continue in his development. However, Ray has one target only..and god forbid Ray should get hurt because that means Kerry Joseph, the guy who in my mind has made the greatest plunge in the history of this league from Grey Cup champ to completely irrelevant.
Hey, it's the Eskimos...we love to hate them too so watching them struggle for another year will be an enjoyment.
What do you think????
Out.....
(0 - 7, the momentum they gained over the last half of the season and into the post season served them very well. Here we go, in no particular order with my picks for the week, my picks for the season, as well as my genereal thoughts.
Week One
B.C. @ Montreal:
Montreal 33; BC 29
Winnipeg @ Hamilton:
Hamilton 27; Winnipeg 13
Toronto @ Calgary:
Calgary 24; Toronto 21
Edmonton @ Saskatchewan:
Saskatchewan 34; Edmonton 24
The Predicted Standings at Season's End
EAST
1. Montreal Alouettes
The Alouettes are still the Alouettes. Despite the loss of Ben Cahoon, the CFL's all time leading reciever, the Als return 75% of the starters from last seasons Grey Cup victory in Edmonton. When you still have the likes of Jamel Richardson (who I am sure still gives Omarr Morgan nightmares) and S.J. Green, they are still very dangerous with their passsing attack; especially when you have the league's best triggerman firing the bullets. The run game will be the X factor with this team. Avon Cobourne split for the Steel City, leaving a three dog race for the starting job which was earned by Brandon Whitaker. While we haven't heard a whole lot from Whitaker, Jim Popp knows talent and I am sure this kid will be fine.
Defensively they improved their secondary with the addition of Dwight Anderson (biggest jackass in the league) and didn't lose much, if anything in this area. Shea Emry and Chip Cox are two of the most underrated players in the league I believe.
As said earlier, the Als are the Als and they will be right there at the end again as they look for the trifecta.
2. Hamilton Tiger - Cats
The days of the Als running away with the East are over. Not because they are slipping, but because Hamilton is catching up. The Tiger Cats will go tooth and nail with the Als all year. Kevin Glenn had a fantastic season last year, and many of the key cogs from last years offense remain. Throw in the addition of Avon Cobourne and they are more dangerous than they have been in a few years.
Defensively, they have the best linebacking corps in the league. Knowlton, Johnson and newly acquired Rey Williams will be huge for the Cats. They will need to be as the secondary is young and largely inexperienced. The ability to pressure the QB on a regular basis will also aid with the secondary.
They won't win the East title during the regular season, but in a one game showdown in November, they could easily be in Vancouver at season's end.
3. Toronto Argonauts.
I struggle to see why so many peoplpe are enamored with the Argos. They still have Cleo Lemon at QB, no significant improvements were made to their recieving corps, and short of Cory Boyd, they don't scare me at all. Offensively, Boyd will carry the ball a lot. They will need to mix Chad Owens into the equation on offense more regularly to scare teams.
Defensively, you scan expect them to be solid again. However, I don't think they are going to be able to shut teams downs all year, meaning eventually Lemon and what I consider the lack of an offense will be the achilles heel of this team.
You know the Flyin Hawaiian will leave his mark as a returner which will be the most exciting aspect of this club.
They make the play - off's but only because Winnipeg is still too young to make a lot of noise. They are the lesser of the two weakest teams in the league. On a side note, Jim Barker is a loud mouth who looks like he should be selling used cars rather than being the Head Coach of a pro football team. Look at that guy's physique; it oozes sprinkles and whipped cream.
4. Winnipeg Blue Bombers.
The future is bright in Winnipeg. They have sold a record 21, 000 season tickets this year, they are one year away from a new stadium, and they are on the rise. Unfortunately they continue to climb this year before they reach the peack.
Offensively, a ton of potential exists at the Wide Reciever positions to go with the already proven Terrence Edwards. Fred Reid is a premier running back. The biggest question for the Bombers if Buck Pierce. He has never played an entire season because of injury, and this year their back - ups are more or less raw rookies who have hardly seen the field. If Pierce stays healthy, they are competitive. If not, its a long season in Winnipeg, but look on the bright side, the Jets are back.
Defensively, they will again be a team who puts a ton of pressure on opposing QB's. Jovon Johnson is as dangerous as anyone at returning the football.
This team will be relevant again, just not this year. Paul Lapolice is a good coach, and I can only hope they reward him for continuing to improve this football team.
WEST
1. Saskatchewan Roughriders.
Yeah, I know...homer pick, right? Not really. Yes they lost Fantuz, but aside from him, who left that was a factor in last year's run to the Grey Cup? All of the questions at receiver I don't see the problem. You still have Dressler, Getzlaf is only getting better, Koch was great when he played and I am eager to see what he can do for an entire year, Clermont is only going to see more action, and the new guys...well let's see. I liked what I saw of Wheelwright, Nunn caught everything in B.C. and we haven't seen him go deep yet. Darian is the second best QB in the league. I fully expect to see him clean up the interceptions and just continue his development into the premier signal caller in the league.
Defensively the obvious question is up front with the D - line. Montez Murphy played pretty well in the pre - season, Luc Mullinder has shown the ability to pressure the QB in the past, and I think Dario Romero up the middle is a significant improvement over Chunky. The linebackers will be strong again led by veteran Barrin Simpson, and if Freeman plays for 18 games the way he did in the play - off's last season you are looking at one of the best in the league. Minor concerns in the secondary but I am sure Richie will work things out, and we do have the best safety in the league in James Patrick.
2. B.C. Lions
Last year I thought Travis Lulay was going to soil his pants at Mosaic in the play - offs. What did he do? He played like a ten year veteran and nearly moved the Lions onto the West Final. Lulay only gets better this year in my mind, and he still has formidable targets to throw to in Geroy Simon, Paris Jackson and the newly acquired Kamau Peterson. Jamel Robertson continues to impress despite his age.
Defensively, they have a veteran secondary, but one still more than capable of getting the job done Solomon Eliminian is one hell of a football player.
They go back and forth with the Riders all year. The fact the Riders host BC twice and only travel to the west coast once, will in my opinion be the difference because the last few years neither team wins on the road.
3. Calgary Stampeders
Offensively, they can still score. Henry Burris is still got it, his recieving corps is one of the best in the league, and what a backfield with Joffrey Reynolds and Jon Cornish. So if they have such a good offense, why will they finsih third?
Well for starters the Riders and Lions are just better all around football teams. I don't think they are aware of how much losing Browner and Anderson from that secondary is going to hurt. I see them as having gone from the best secondary in the league, to the worst. Lot's of yards available through the air when the Stamps are the opponent.
They are easily a .500 team or better, but those two huge losses in the defensive backfield really hurt.
On a side note, since I clearly think the Stamps are not in the equation to be there in the end, why not allow Canadian Brad Sinopli to back up Hank? Bringing in Michael Bishop is a mind boggling decision. He is a bum...flat out...a bum I say. Oh well, just another reason to hate the Stamps. I can't wait till HEEEEEENNNNNNRRRRRRRYYYYYYYYYYY comes to town in August.
4. Edmonton Eskimos
I do not envy Kavis Reed one bit as he premiers as a Head Coach in the CFL. They will be better than last year, but in the competitive west, I still don't see them as a factor. I heard a stat last night, something to the effect that they have six raw Canadian rookies, and like 50% of their lineup is new to the organization. Eric Tillman is making moves for the future, but the future is not now in Edmonton.
Ricky Ray is still a proven QB and Fred Stamps is a very talented slotback. Although, I could do without his self profession of being the best in the league. Daniel Porter ran rough shot the last few weeks of last season and I expect him to continue in his development. However, Ray has one target only..and god forbid Ray should get hurt because that means Kerry Joseph, the guy who in my mind has made the greatest plunge in the history of this league from Grey Cup champ to completely irrelevant.
Hey, it's the Eskimos...we love to hate them too so watching them struggle for another year will be an enjoyment.
What do you think????
Out.....
Tuesday, June 28, 2011
You have got to be kidding me.....
Remember this guy? The guy with a million dollar arm and a ten cent brain (to steal a line from my dad) is back in the CFL. Michael Bishop was a star in college at Kansas State, and that about ends the good that I can say about his football career. Well, apparently the Calgary Stampeders can't find a better emergency replacement than this guy. Following a shoulder injury to back up Drew Tate on Friday, the Stamps are bringing Bishop in to fill the void in Tate's absence. Is the talent pool of unemployed quarterback's really this low? I mean, I am pretty sure that anyone would be better than Bishop....and I do mean anyone. Hello...Todd Dillon......Jeff Bentrim.......Joe Paopao.....are you out there?
The NHL off season is in full swing and for some reason the Vancouver Canucks deem Max Lapierre worth two million dollars over the next two years. I mean if that is the going rate is for a guy with marginal skill at best, who likes to mouth off but lacks the manhood to ever finish what he started, Chaps you are in the wrong business.
Brooks Laich signed a new deal with Washington...good for him but I was hoping the Oil would take a run at him. Oh well, guess we'll see who they can lure to Oil Country come July 1 and beyond.
Beleive it or not, the house will be rocking in t - minus 5 days. Yes, Sunday afternoon, 5:00 the season starts at the madhouse that is Mosaic when the Riders welcome the Edmonton Eskimos to town. I always enjoy the season openers, particularly when it involves kicking the evil empire to the curb.
Not much else kicking in the world of sports......
Out....
Friday, June 24, 2011
Where to Start?
First off, two days late but the Riders stunk out the joint in Vancouver on Wednesday. Let's not panic as you need to remember this is a meaningless game aside from the fact that a majority of the guys on both sides were fighting for a job. Secondly, many important cogs in the Rider wheel were not in the line up..Dressler, Hawkins, Romero, Patrick, et al. These guys will be in the line - up on July 3rd.
After the final decisions are made no later than tomorrow, this team will have seven full days to work together to knock off the rust, improve on timing and positioning, and just to generally prepare for the home opener on July 3rd against Edmonton.
As for the game on Wednesday night, Darian got better as the game went on, and if not for some dropped passes, well too many dropped passes, this team would have scored much more than the six measly points they mustered.
The kicking was awful...either Johnson or Milo need to start delivering with consistency or a new body needs to be brought in for some stability until Luca returns, hopefully sometime around Labour Day.
It looks like Wes Cates not only hangs around for the year; he is still our starter. Based on the fact Hugh Charles didn't get a carry and minimal opportunities in the return game, I am led to believe he has lost the battle to Brandon West who has earned the back up position which means Charles is moreless done as a Rider. He gets scooped if we put him on the PR, so let's work out a deal I guess. If you ask me, Wes Cates needs to be the odd man out. Both Charles and West are in my opinion just as good as he is, presumably better by virtue of their speed plus both are more valuable in the sense that they are capable return men. Wes Cates will not rush for 1, 0000 yards this year. He may lead the league in TD's again but lots of guys can plunge in from a yard out. Just my thoughts.
Others who impressed me....
Gavin Newman, AKA Sunshine.....if we can find a spot for this kid, I think he has demonstrated that he belongs on a CFL field...he will not supplant James Patrick anytime soon but he provides us with a proven non - import backup, as well as somebody I think can be useful on the teams as a gunner on the cover teams.
Terrence Nunn and Ernie Wheelwright in my opinion have earned spots as recievers. I expect to see Nunn start on the wide side with Wheelwright coming in to spell Nunn and Getzlaf as well as provide a capable set of hands when we spread the field with six recievers.
D - Line is anybody's guess. Man I would love to see what Brent Hawkins could do for an entire year if he were healthy.
No matter what happens, I am glad I am not the one making the decisions. However, I am glad that our scouting and front offence has done such a good job of bringing in talent that they are faced with these difficult decisions. This all adds up to another great season of Rider football in 2011....we WILL be there in the end.
The NHL draft goes tonight in Minnesota, but already the Philadelphia Flyers are making the most noise. Yesterday they shipped out Mike Richards (to LA for Wayne Simmonds, Brayden Schenn and a 2012 2nd rounder) and Jeff Carter (to Columbus for Jakub Voracek, the eight pick tonight and a 3rd rounder. I had heard rumors of Carter going to Columbus but the Richards deal shocks me. How do you trade the heart and soul of your team who is at the prime of his career. And then to turn around and give Ilya Bryzgalov nine years and more than $50 million? Bryzgalov is as sure a thing as ice in the summer. He hasn't won anything...EVER and brings a shitty attitude to boot. I realize goaltending has long been an issue in Philly...why not give him a two year deal, allow him to prove who he really is, and then either give him an extension or let him walk. I guess that's why I am not an NHL GM...but if this doesn't work out...neither will Paul Holmgren be an NHL GM.
Draft tonight and the Oilers have the top pick for the second year in a row. The sexy pick if Ryan Nugent Hopkins but I am not sold on this kid. I don't think the Oil need another stud up front...the back end is in need of improvement and I really like Adam Larsson out of Sweden. Is he a number one pick? Maybe they trade down to take him where he is most likely to go...like #3 and the team that owns that pick, Florida....is apparently hot on Steve Tambellini's trail in their efforts to attain the top pick to get their hands on Ryan NH. Only time will tell.
I really think the team who walks away with Gabriel Landeskog tonight will be the winner of the draft. I see him as being the gem of the draft; the forward most likely to have a long, productive career. He has the skill of a Swede coupled with the toughness and heart of a Canadian....does it get much better?
On the flip side, I don't think Jonathan Huberdeau will amount to what people are saying. I heard very little of him prior to the Memorial Cup; was he even invited to the World Junior Camp...? I see him as being a little too frail to be able to bank with men for eighty two games, and lets face it, the space and time he had in the QMJHL is going to disappear quickly. Here's hoping the Oil don't take him.
Out....
After the final decisions are made no later than tomorrow, this team will have seven full days to work together to knock off the rust, improve on timing and positioning, and just to generally prepare for the home opener on July 3rd against Edmonton.
As for the game on Wednesday night, Darian got better as the game went on, and if not for some dropped passes, well too many dropped passes, this team would have scored much more than the six measly points they mustered.
The kicking was awful...either Johnson or Milo need to start delivering with consistency or a new body needs to be brought in for some stability until Luca returns, hopefully sometime around Labour Day.
It looks like Wes Cates not only hangs around for the year; he is still our starter. Based on the fact Hugh Charles didn't get a carry and minimal opportunities in the return game, I am led to believe he has lost the battle to Brandon West who has earned the back up position which means Charles is moreless done as a Rider. He gets scooped if we put him on the PR, so let's work out a deal I guess. If you ask me, Wes Cates needs to be the odd man out. Both Charles and West are in my opinion just as good as he is, presumably better by virtue of their speed plus both are more valuable in the sense that they are capable return men. Wes Cates will not rush for 1, 0000 yards this year. He may lead the league in TD's again but lots of guys can plunge in from a yard out. Just my thoughts.
Others who impressed me....
Gavin Newman, AKA Sunshine.....if we can find a spot for this kid, I think he has demonstrated that he belongs on a CFL field...he will not supplant James Patrick anytime soon but he provides us with a proven non - import backup, as well as somebody I think can be useful on the teams as a gunner on the cover teams.
Terrence Nunn and Ernie Wheelwright in my opinion have earned spots as recievers. I expect to see Nunn start on the wide side with Wheelwright coming in to spell Nunn and Getzlaf as well as provide a capable set of hands when we spread the field with six recievers.
D - Line is anybody's guess. Man I would love to see what Brent Hawkins could do for an entire year if he were healthy.
No matter what happens, I am glad I am not the one making the decisions. However, I am glad that our scouting and front offence has done such a good job of bringing in talent that they are faced with these difficult decisions. This all adds up to another great season of Rider football in 2011....we WILL be there in the end.
The NHL draft goes tonight in Minnesota, but already the Philadelphia Flyers are making the most noise. Yesterday they shipped out Mike Richards (to LA for Wayne Simmonds, Brayden Schenn and a 2012 2nd rounder) and Jeff Carter (to Columbus for Jakub Voracek, the eight pick tonight and a 3rd rounder. I had heard rumors of Carter going to Columbus but the Richards deal shocks me. How do you trade the heart and soul of your team who is at the prime of his career. And then to turn around and give Ilya Bryzgalov nine years and more than $50 million? Bryzgalov is as sure a thing as ice in the summer. He hasn't won anything...EVER and brings a shitty attitude to boot. I realize goaltending has long been an issue in Philly...why not give him a two year deal, allow him to prove who he really is, and then either give him an extension or let him walk. I guess that's why I am not an NHL GM...but if this doesn't work out...neither will Paul Holmgren be an NHL GM.
Draft tonight and the Oilers have the top pick for the second year in a row. The sexy pick if Ryan Nugent Hopkins but I am not sold on this kid. I don't think the Oil need another stud up front...the back end is in need of improvement and I really like Adam Larsson out of Sweden. Is he a number one pick? Maybe they trade down to take him where he is most likely to go...like #3 and the team that owns that pick, Florida....is apparently hot on Steve Tambellini's trail in their efforts to attain the top pick to get their hands on Ryan NH. Only time will tell.
I really think the team who walks away with Gabriel Landeskog tonight will be the winner of the draft. I see him as being the gem of the draft; the forward most likely to have a long, productive career. He has the skill of a Swede coupled with the toughness and heart of a Canadian....does it get much better?
On the flip side, I don't think Jonathan Huberdeau will amount to what people are saying. I heard very little of him prior to the Memorial Cup; was he even invited to the World Junior Camp...? I see him as being a little too frail to be able to bank with men for eighty two games, and lets face it, the space and time he had in the QMJHL is going to disappear quickly. Here's hoping the Oil don't take him.
Out....
Monday, June 20, 2011
Another New Week...
We start off the week with Rider talk, Rory McIlroy and already NHL off season discussions.
The story of the weekend has to be Rory McIlroy. At the age of 22, the young man from Northern Ireland not only won the US Open at Congressional; he set six new records in the process, including the scoring record. Never before had anyone reached - 13 in the history of this tournament. Not only did McIlroy get there, he finished at - 16.
Several players would have walked away thinking they could do nothing more to win the Open. Generally speaking anywhere close to even par will win you this tournament. Numerous guys were not only on that number, but well ahead of it. On any given year, the likes of Jason Day, Y.E. Yang, and Fredrick Jacobson to name a few would have run away with this thing. That just shows how well McIlroy played from start to finish in winning his first, and presumablu far from last Major Championship.
What I don't want to continue is the comparison of McIlroy to Tiger. I like Rory McIlroy and if the media and others make this comparison and it gets to the point that all we see is McIlroy, despite where he may be in that tournament, my fondness, as well as that of countless other golf fans will quickly dissipate.
A little Canadiana for ya...the only birdie on the eighteenth hole yesterday came courtesy of our own Adam Hadwin. Is it just me or is Northern Ireland the new hotbed of golf? McDowell last year, McIlroy this year....will Darren Clarke continue the run next year?
Off to the Riders, and while I wasn't in the crowd at Mosaic on Friday, I did watch at home and here are my observations and thoughts as we enter the second week od pre - season, and are now only 13 days from the season opener.
First off, my controversial thought....we have all thought it and I am going to say it. The Riders should cut ties with Wes Cates. Hugh Charles and Brandon West are faster, smoother, and generally speaking, a lot more dangerous than Cates. Yes, Wes had sixteen touchdowns last year but a no less than a dozen of these were from two yards or less. Sure, he has done a lot for this organization but every player's time comes to an end. Keeping Cates at the risk of losing one of these two would be, in my opinion, ridiculous.
All I heard for the last two weeks was Terrence Nunn, Terrence Nunn. A whopping total of one ball was thrown his way on Friday. While I am certain the weather conditions took away his ability to go deep, you would think they would look his way a little more often. I would expect to see a more involved Terrence Nunn on Wednesday in Vancouver. The reciever who did impress me was Ernie Wheelwright; good hands, good speed, a lot to like there.
Chris Graham made an impression; two sacks and a fumble recovery will certainly earn him a serious look this week, and possibly a spot on the season opening roster. This will be more likely if Brent Hawkins continues to be plagued by his shoulder injury. That to me, is the one area where a whole lot of questions remain, the D Line. Too many guys, nobody jumping out....a long hard look will need to take place along that front on Wednesday.
And last but not least, barring a miracle it most certainly appears that Chris Leak will be the odd man out at the QB position. Durant is clearly the guy, and Dinwiddie and Bergquist were just flat out better than Leak. I really liked what I saw from Bergquist; strong arm, good presence in the pocket, stays calm as he checks down until he finds a guy. I could honestly see him as the backup over Dinwiddie. Again though, Wednesday will go a long way in finalizing this roster.
And less than a week after the Stanley Cup was awarded, already a lot of talk regarding off season moves, and plenty of it involving the Oilers. First off, apparently GM Steve Tambellini is entertaining offers for the Oilers second first round pick, along with other picks and/or players to earn two picks in the Top Five in the Entry Draft on Friday in Minnesota. In the event that the right picks and players are involved, I like the fact that they remain committed to the re - build. However, that being said, if picks are going the other way, lets make sure that we improve as I would hate to see early picks slip through our grasp if that is the case.
And one more rumour regarding the Oilers is the potential return of Captain Canada, Ryan Smyth. According to TSN, Smyth has told the Kings (his current employer) that if they decide to move him, Edmonton is his preference. While I like the theory of bringing in his leadership, his best days are behind him, he still brings a cap hit of around $4 million, and given the way it ended the first time, I think the Oilers need to avoid this. I realize that veteran leadership is something we lack, but let's explore other avenues. Yes, he was great and he bled blue and orange but if he wanted to come back so badly, he could have come as a free agent rather than signing on with Colorado a few years ago. In summation, bringing him back is just not the right thing to do...not like he can bring more fans to a rink that is already full?
More tomorrow....
The story of the weekend has to be Rory McIlroy. At the age of 22, the young man from Northern Ireland not only won the US Open at Congressional; he set six new records in the process, including the scoring record. Never before had anyone reached - 13 in the history of this tournament. Not only did McIlroy get there, he finished at - 16.
Several players would have walked away thinking they could do nothing more to win the Open. Generally speaking anywhere close to even par will win you this tournament. Numerous guys were not only on that number, but well ahead of it. On any given year, the likes of Jason Day, Y.E. Yang, and Fredrick Jacobson to name a few would have run away with this thing. That just shows how well McIlroy played from start to finish in winning his first, and presumablu far from last Major Championship.
What I don't want to continue is the comparison of McIlroy to Tiger. I like Rory McIlroy and if the media and others make this comparison and it gets to the point that all we see is McIlroy, despite where he may be in that tournament, my fondness, as well as that of countless other golf fans will quickly dissipate.
A little Canadiana for ya...the only birdie on the eighteenth hole yesterday came courtesy of our own Adam Hadwin. Is it just me or is Northern Ireland the new hotbed of golf? McDowell last year, McIlroy this year....will Darren Clarke continue the run next year?
Off to the Riders, and while I wasn't in the crowd at Mosaic on Friday, I did watch at home and here are my observations and thoughts as we enter the second week od pre - season, and are now only 13 days from the season opener.
First off, my controversial thought....we have all thought it and I am going to say it. The Riders should cut ties with Wes Cates. Hugh Charles and Brandon West are faster, smoother, and generally speaking, a lot more dangerous than Cates. Yes, Wes had sixteen touchdowns last year but a no less than a dozen of these were from two yards or less. Sure, he has done a lot for this organization but every player's time comes to an end. Keeping Cates at the risk of losing one of these two would be, in my opinion, ridiculous.
All I heard for the last two weeks was Terrence Nunn, Terrence Nunn. A whopping total of one ball was thrown his way on Friday. While I am certain the weather conditions took away his ability to go deep, you would think they would look his way a little more often. I would expect to see a more involved Terrence Nunn on Wednesday in Vancouver. The reciever who did impress me was Ernie Wheelwright; good hands, good speed, a lot to like there.
Chris Graham made an impression; two sacks and a fumble recovery will certainly earn him a serious look this week, and possibly a spot on the season opening roster. This will be more likely if Brent Hawkins continues to be plagued by his shoulder injury. That to me, is the one area where a whole lot of questions remain, the D Line. Too many guys, nobody jumping out....a long hard look will need to take place along that front on Wednesday.
And last but not least, barring a miracle it most certainly appears that Chris Leak will be the odd man out at the QB position. Durant is clearly the guy, and Dinwiddie and Bergquist were just flat out better than Leak. I really liked what I saw from Bergquist; strong arm, good presence in the pocket, stays calm as he checks down until he finds a guy. I could honestly see him as the backup over Dinwiddie. Again though, Wednesday will go a long way in finalizing this roster.
And less than a week after the Stanley Cup was awarded, already a lot of talk regarding off season moves, and plenty of it involving the Oilers. First off, apparently GM Steve Tambellini is entertaining offers for the Oilers second first round pick, along with other picks and/or players to earn two picks in the Top Five in the Entry Draft on Friday in Minnesota. In the event that the right picks and players are involved, I like the fact that they remain committed to the re - build. However, that being said, if picks are going the other way, lets make sure that we improve as I would hate to see early picks slip through our grasp if that is the case.
And one more rumour regarding the Oilers is the potential return of Captain Canada, Ryan Smyth. According to TSN, Smyth has told the Kings (his current employer) that if they decide to move him, Edmonton is his preference. While I like the theory of bringing in his leadership, his best days are behind him, he still brings a cap hit of around $4 million, and given the way it ended the first time, I think the Oilers need to avoid this. I realize that veteran leadership is something we lack, but let's explore other avenues. Yes, he was great and he bled blue and orange but if he wanted to come back so badly, he could have come as a free agent rather than signing on with Colorado a few years ago. In summation, bringing him back is just not the right thing to do...not like he can bring more fans to a rink that is already full?
More tomorrow....
Thursday, June 16, 2011
With Every New End Comes a New Beginning
What is there to say that hasn't already been said in regards to last night's episode in Vancouver? First off....the game. In my mind Vancouver was just outclassed last night in nearly every aspect of the game. Sure the shots were 37 - 20 in favor of the 'Nucks but I truly feel the Bruins carried the game.
While I don't have any sort of fondness for Roberto Luongo, I guess the human in me is glad he wasn't the reason the Canucks lost last night, although his comments sure must have fired up Tim Thomas who was once again exceptional, and the rightful recipient of the Conn Smythe Trophy.
Too many errors, and what appeared to be a lack of jump (save for Ryan Kesler) hurt Vancouver. The first goal of the game is not the result of anything other than the Bruins outhustling and outworking Vancouver. On that play the Canucks won the draw only to have Brad Marchand beat them all to the puck. He then played keepaway from Christian Ehrhoff, leaving two Bruins, including Patric Bergeron in front, to be defended by one Canucks...1 - 0.
The second goal, just an example of the Canucks running around in their own end, and Marchand being quicker around the net than Luongo and/or his defense.
Goal # 3, great play be Bergeron, Ehrhoff has to take him down and fortunately/unfortunately (depending on what side you were rooting for) the puck goes in the net. Game Over, Boston wins a series that they were clearly the better team in.
And then the 'shit' show. I don't understand why fans, victorious or in defeat feel the need to destory their city. Yes, it is all right to party in the city as was the case with the Red Mile (Calgary in 2004) and White Avenue (Edmonton in 2006) but to do what the idiots of Vancouver did is disgusting, shameful and an embarrasement to all the real sports fans who watched, hoped and were disappointed with the result. The people that did that were NOT true sports fans, they are thugs and hooligans looking for any excuse to cause trouble. I hope they catch each and every one of them and lay the bricks to them good.
BUT.....as the title says, with the end of the NHL season comes a new beginning...CFL football and more importantly in these parts, a six month celebration of the greatest team on earth, the Saskatchewan Roughriders. Speaking of the CFL, how well do you think TSN2's coverage of last night's Stamps/Lions game drew?
Anyway, the guys in green take to Mosaic tomorrow night when Eric Tillman and the Evil Empire roll into town. Darian Durant will dress but not play from what I hear, along with Weston Dressler. I am not attending tomorrow night. Really all I want to see is how good Terrence Nunn really is, but I am sure that by the reports I read, if he is as good as advertised, he will be out there July 3rd when the Riders kick off season #101.
Not a whole lot today; the situation in Vancouver obviously something that is disappointing to the people in that city but look on the bright side, the Lions won.
Later....
While I don't have any sort of fondness for Roberto Luongo, I guess the human in me is glad he wasn't the reason the Canucks lost last night, although his comments sure must have fired up Tim Thomas who was once again exceptional, and the rightful recipient of the Conn Smythe Trophy.
Too many errors, and what appeared to be a lack of jump (save for Ryan Kesler) hurt Vancouver. The first goal of the game is not the result of anything other than the Bruins outhustling and outworking Vancouver. On that play the Canucks won the draw only to have Brad Marchand beat them all to the puck. He then played keepaway from Christian Ehrhoff, leaving two Bruins, including Patric Bergeron in front, to be defended by one Canucks...1 - 0.
The second goal, just an example of the Canucks running around in their own end, and Marchand being quicker around the net than Luongo and/or his defense.
Goal # 3, great play be Bergeron, Ehrhoff has to take him down and fortunately/unfortunately (depending on what side you were rooting for) the puck goes in the net. Game Over, Boston wins a series that they were clearly the better team in.
And then the 'shit' show. I don't understand why fans, victorious or in defeat feel the need to destory their city. Yes, it is all right to party in the city as was the case with the Red Mile (Calgary in 2004) and White Avenue (Edmonton in 2006) but to do what the idiots of Vancouver did is disgusting, shameful and an embarrasement to all the real sports fans who watched, hoped and were disappointed with the result. The people that did that were NOT true sports fans, they are thugs and hooligans looking for any excuse to cause trouble. I hope they catch each and every one of them and lay the bricks to them good.
BUT.....as the title says, with the end of the NHL season comes a new beginning...CFL football and more importantly in these parts, a six month celebration of the greatest team on earth, the Saskatchewan Roughriders. Speaking of the CFL, how well do you think TSN2's coverage of last night's Stamps/Lions game drew?
Anyway, the guys in green take to Mosaic tomorrow night when Eric Tillman and the Evil Empire roll into town. Darian Durant will dress but not play from what I hear, along with Weston Dressler. I am not attending tomorrow night. Really all I want to see is how good Terrence Nunn really is, but I am sure that by the reports I read, if he is as good as advertised, he will be out there July 3rd when the Riders kick off season #101.
Not a whole lot today; the situation in Vancouver obviously something that is disappointing to the people in that city but look on the bright side, the Lions won.
Later....
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)