A hugely disappointing season in Saskatchewan may have reached a new low in Monday’s loss to the Edmonton Eskimos.
Winnipeg @ Hamilton
Game Recap: Bombers 33, Ticats 17
I wasn’t sure how the Bombers would respond after last week’s heart-breaking loss to the Alouettes.
Having Buck Pierce back in the lineup definitely helped.
I thought this game was going to be crucial for the Bombers, knowing that they were tied for first place with the Als.
They got off to a quick, 10-point lead and really dominated throughout the game.
Chris Garrett had another great game rushing for 131 yards. Two Bombers receivers also had over 100 yards each (Denmark and Carr).
The Winnipeg defence also contributed to the scoreboard with Brandon Stewart returning a interception for a touchdown.
The Ticays are really starting to worry me. They have been inconsistent throughout this season. Kevin Glenn was 13-20 for 109 yards and one interception.
That’s not good enough to win.
To top it all off, they couldn’t run the ball either.
They need to wake up soon because the playoffs are right around the corner, and they still need to improve on all three phases of the game.
Calgary @ B.C.
Game Recap: Lions 33, Stampeders 31
What an exciting game.
I’m starting to think that the newly-renovated BC Place Stadium has given some mojo to the Lions’ players.
This game had a little of everything. On the first play from scrimmage for Calgary, Burris was sacked by Keron Williams and fumbled the ball. The result was a BC touchdown.
Paul McCallum-the ageless wonder-broke the consecutive field goals made record.
In the foruth quarter, he attempted his 31st consecutive field goal, and missed.
Larry Taylor weaved through the BC defence for a 122-yard touchdown return. That play easily could’ve broken the Lions’ backs. But they never gave up.
With 30 seconds to play, on third and 10, Lulay calmly connected with Arland Bruce for a 17-yard gain.
After missing on his fourth field goal attempt of the game, McCallum hit a 53-yard game winner as time expired.
What a fitting end to a record-breaking night for Paul McCallum.
Congratulations.
Toronto @ Montreal
Game Recap: Alouettes 29, Argonauts 19
This rivalry was always one of my favourites as a player. There was mutual respect from both teams, but there was also a genuine hatred between them.
Surprisingly, this game was fairly low scoring. The Argos had the lead 16-13 going into the third quarter.
It didn’t last long, Anthony Calvillo found Jamel Richardson for a record-breaking, 50-yard TD pass.
On that play, Calvillo became the all-time passing yards leader in pro football.
The Als payed a great tribute to Calvillo by showing interviews from some QB greats such as Dan Marino, Warren Moon and Damon Allen.
Very well done.
The Argos were also officially eliminated from the 2011 playoffs with the loss.
Once again, the Argos’ special teams scored a touchdown, their defence played solid but their offence couldn’t get anything going.
This team needs to start evaluating for next year. They need to start making some tough decisions on some of their current players.
I want to see how this team plays over the next few weeks, knowing they are out of the playoffs.
It will be a great test to see what kind of players they have and which guys they will bring back next year. The 100th Grey Cup will be played in Toronto next season. It will be critical for the Argos to field a competitive team.
Saskatchewan @ Edmonton
Game Recap: Eskimos 17, Riders 1
The Riders have not scored a touchdown in three games. They came into this game starting Ryan Dinwiddie over a injured Darian Durant at quarterback and they were fighting for their playoff lives.
Unfortunately, they didn’t play like it. Dinwiddie threw three first half interceptions and was eventually replaced by a hobbling Durant in the second half.
It was quite the defensive battle by both teams.
The Eskimos were able to get a 12-0 lead heading into halftime thanks to a huge run by Jerome Messam for the only touchdown of the game.
The Eskimos were finally able to end their losing streak at home. With the victory over the Riders, they have officially clinched a playoff spot.
As for the Riders, after being in three of the last four Grey Cups, this season was a huge disappointment.
Mathematically, they still have a chance. But realistically, it ain’t happening.
Brendan Taman and the Riders brass need to take a good look at all their current players. It is looking like time to re-build from the top on down.
Will Ken Miller be the head coach for the Riders next season?