I find myself in an unfamiliar position as I type
this post. Generally I’m in a jovial mood because the Riders won on Labour Day and I’m ready to unleash a
barrage or ridicule and insults on our halfwit eastern neighbours… ok halfwit
isn’t a fair term, its more technically closer to eighth-wit. But this year, the Riders will roll into
Winnipeg with a whimper. The only thing good about their current record is that
it is a number that Manitobans can count to as its taught in the 6th
grade curriculum.
Everything I said about the Bombers last week remains
valid. None of their wins have come against teams with winning records. Their
offense is still mediocre at best. I mean, do know how bad you have to be to
only score 1 TD on the Riders D? That’s like a Manitoban only managing to get
to second base on their ruffied cousin (or as it is more commonly referred to
locally: a traditional marriage proposal). The fact remains that if Crapigna
could make a kick or if the refs learned what pass interference actually is,
the Riders would have beat the Bombers. But hypothetical victories are about as
meaningful as hypothetical mortgage payments.
Let’s focus on the adjustments that will need to be
made if the Riders hope to change their fortunes. Offensively, let’s start
with receivers running the right routes and Durant checking to make sure they
do before releasing the ball. We need to continue spreading the ball around
like we did. Last game 5 different players had at least 5 catches. Hard
for defenders to key on anyone with that going on. I would suggest running but
that would be a waste of time so instead I’ll suggest that we keep Durant
mobile. Running yes but not all the time. More rolling out. Even just the
prospect of him running will open things up (and take pressure off our O-line)
Defensively, if Cox could be less of a cheater that
would be great. (in case that doesn’t translate through the interwebs, that is
sarcasm). My only real knock on the D was giving up that big play to McDuffie.
Take that one pass away and it’s a different game. I also think we gave up a
bit too much to Harris on the ground but that will happen with a back like him.
D-line looked competent, it would be nice to see them take the next step to
being impactful.
The biggest adjustment needed is by the coaches. We
can’t afford to sleep through the first half like we always do. If we get down
early in an environment as hostile as Investors Group Field things will unravel
very quickly. Coaches need to get the players ready to play.
Amazingly enough the all-time Banjo Bowl series is
tied 6-6 (though Winnipeg has won 2 of the past 3). As much as I can’t in good
conscious bet on this team, this game is no gimme. While it wouldn’t totally
make up for Labour Day, a win in Winnipeg would give a much needed boost to a
fan base that is growing weary. As much as I would love to see the Riders shut
the Bombers up…
Bombers by a Harris TD.
No comments:
Post a Comment