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Here we go, game day to start off week 5 of the CFL season. The Calgary Stampeders are on the road, they’ll take on the 0-4 Winnipeg Blue Bombers at the Canad Inns Stadium. Much has been written and spoken about this being a “trap game”, a game where the Stamps might “overlook” the vastly underachieving Bombers. I don’t buy it.
Is this a dangerous game for Calgary? Yes. But if they lose, it won’t be because they haven’t prepared for this game. The Bombers will be desperate, and they will be out to prove something…prove that Dinwiddie can play, prove that their offence is top notch, prove that the defence can function minus Barrin Simpson, prove that Charles Roberts is still elite. It won’t be easy for the Stampeders, and there is an opportunity for an upset. But it’s still a very winnable game for the Stamps.
The biggest worry I have is on the defensive side of the ball for Calgary…JoJuan Armour has been incredible so far this season, in so many ways. His on-field play has been outstanding, the team has fed off his intensity, and he’s turned into a leader on the defence. I think the Stamps will feel his loss most when the Bombers hand the ball off…he’s very good in helping this Stampeders impressive run-stop. It could mean a bigger day for Charles Roberts who is averaging less than 50 yards per game to this point.
The Stamps will be on Ryan Dinwiddie all game long, that goes without saying. The pass rush has been impressive all season long, and I don’t think that changes tonight going against a Bombers O-line that has been less than impressive. I believe the Bombers put up some points tonight, but I don’t believe it will be enough.
The Stampeders offence has been in such a groove so far, especially the last 6 quarters of football. The team realizes what can be done when they play a full, consistent 60 minutes and the know how potent they are when spreading the ball around. No defence can key onto what the Stamps do when they’re going, and I have no doubts they will be going tonight. The loss of Barrin Simpson really hurts the Blue, so as much as I think Winnipeg puts up points, I really think Calgary puts up more.
My prediction…Stamps 39, Winnipeg 28
My hope is that the Stamps try to run Joffrey up the middle as often as possible, try and tire out the front end of Winnipeg’s defense. Winnipeg’s receiving core has a few questions too so hopefully we can get some picks as well. Dangerous game for our boys, let’s hope they’re ready for it.
PS: I like that you use the term “dangerous”, because it certainly will be. My take is Winnipeg is proficient offensively, but their D won’t be able to keep up to the Stamps in this one.
- Bob in the Abbey