The visiting Calgary Stampeders feel that they have what it takes to deal with a strong group of Winnipeg Blue Bomber receivers Friday night.
“The key is just to do our jobs, play smart and try to take advantage of our opportunities,” Stampeders defensive back Jonathan Moxey said. “They’re a veteran group, they make plays, but we make plays, too, and I’m betting on us every day of the week.”
With such receivers as Dalton Schoen (CFL-high 325 receiving yards), Drew Wolitarsky, Nic Demski, Rasheed Bailey and Brendan O’Leary-Orange, Winnipeg presents a challenge for any defense in the league. Quarterback Zach Collaros — the league’s reigning MVP — knows how to use them.
“Whoever is out there, they run their scheme, they run their system, they do a good job and they’re physical and they make plays on the ball,” Stampeders coach Dave Dickenson said. “They’re a good group. My opinion is just give it everything you’ve got, be focused, lock in. Your mindset is to stop them.”
The Stampeders (1-2) are coming off a 29-26 overtime loss to the visiting Saskatchewan Roughriders June 24.
The Blue Bombers (3-1) defeated the host Montreal Alouettes 17-3 on Saturday. It was a response to their humiliating 30-6 home loss to the BC Lions June 22, in which they allowed seven sacks. They allowed only two sacks against Montreal.
“I don’t like humble pie, but it’s always good for the soul,” Winnipeg offensive lineman Jermarcus Hardrick said. “I’m 33 years old now, and every point of my football career I’ve had to eat some humble pie. And that’s why I’m here now. So I’m glad I know what it tastes like. I don’t want to keep tasting it. But it keeps me humble.”
Winnipeg defensive tackle Cameron Lawson returned from a knee injury to play his first game of the season against Montreal and had two sacks and a forced fumble.
“You set expectations for yourself and obviously, getting hurt wasn’t in the plan,” Lawson said. “Getting that first sack of the season is always a big relief, it’s always the hardest one to get.”
Calgary will be without receiver Luther Hakunavanhu (hip), running back Peyton Logan (hamstring) and offensive lineman Caleb Benenoch (back) Friday.
Winnipeg listed defensive back Redha Kramdi (hip) and linebacker Shayne Gauthier (foot) as doubtful Friday.
–Field Level Media