Brown to Lead Offence Amidst Key Absences
The Winnipeg Blue Bombers are set to start Dru Brown at quarterback for the third consecutive game as they prepare to host the Calgary Stampeders on Friday. Brown will lead the offence in the absence of star quarterback Zach Collaros, who remains on the six-game injured list due to a neck injury. This marks Brown’s third straight start for the Blue Bombers, who currently hold a 4-2 record.
Brown, who began his CFL career with the Blue Bombers in 2021, was reacquired by Winnipeg last month following a trade with the Ottawa Redblacks. He had previously lost his starting position to Jake Maier. This season, Brown has secured victories in both of his starts for Winnipeg, accumulating 656 passing yards, three touchdowns, and one interception. Taylor Elgersma, a Canadian rookie, will serve as the backup quarterback.
In addition to Collaros, the Blue Bombers will also be without starting safety Redha Kramdi, who is sidelined with a hand injury. Jake Kelly will step in as the starting safety for Friday’s game. Kelly, who is in his fourth season with the team, recorded his first career interception last week during a win against the Ottawa RedBlacks. He has appeared in all six games this year as a backup defensive back, and this will be his fourth career CFL start.
Team Adjustments and Player Returns
Blue Bombers head coach Mike O’Shea commented on Kelly’s opportunity, stating that he has been receiving significant snaps and can play various positions, demonstrating a strong understanding of the team’s strategies. O’Shea also noted that while Kramdi was placed on the six-game injured list, the exact duration of his absence is uncertain, with the standard practice being to place players on the list and monitor their recovery.
The Blue Bombers have made five changes to their active roster, bringing four players off the injured list. Receiver Kevens Clercius is set to make his season debut, backing up Gavin Cobb at wide receiver. Defensive back Ethan Ball, defensive tackle Tanner Schmekel, and linebacker Lane Novak will also be making their season debuts. Additionally, defensive back Matthew Jackson will play in his first career CFL game.
To accommodate these additions, receiver Joey Corcoran, defensive end Kydran Jenkins, defensive back Ethan Stuart, and linebacker Charles-Elliot Bouliane have been moved to the practice roster from the game day roster.
Focus on Game Performance
The Blue Bombers have achieved three consecutive victories, but their starts to games have been a point of concern. In their last three contests, the team has turned the ball over on their first possession, with incidents including a fumble, a turnover on downs, and an interception. Brown acknowledged the need for sustained focus throughout the entire game, noting that while the team’s strong finishes are visible, improving their starts is a priority.
The upcoming game against the Calgary Stampeders will be held at Princess Auto Stadium. The Blue Bombers previously defeated the Stampeders 30-28 in Week 1 of this season. Kickoff is scheduled for 7:30 p.m. on Friday.
Read Also
Source: winnipeg.citynews.ca
