Tuesday, June 19, 2007

Stampeders coming to town on Friday.


This Friday will be coach Austin's last look at some of his players competing for a roster spot with the Riders. Kent Austin and his staff will have to pare down the active roster down to 42 players plus 4 players on the the reserve roster. Some positions still up for grabs are running back, slotback, offensive line (3 spots), defensive tackle, linebacker (2 spots) and defensive back (2 spots). My guess is that the safety role will be shared between Canadians Tristian Clovis and Scott Gordon.

This week's game should feature more of the starters and players who are in the front running for starter. One position that I find particularly interesting will be the nose tackle position left vacant by Nate Davis. Vying for this spot are veterans; Luc Mullinder, Marcus "Chuck" Adams and new-comers Eddie Freeman and Andrew Browning. My guess is that former KC Chief, Eddie Freeman has an inside track on this position, purely based on his size (6'-6", 320lbs.). His large frame exceeds that of Nate Davis', meaning the Riders front seven shouldn't miss a beat with Freeman in. Applying heat to Freeman is Marcus Adams, who's been with the Riders since the 2003 season. Adams isn't a large player (5'-11, 285lbs) but plays with a lot of heart and intensity. The player possibly on the bubble will be rookie Andrew Browning, whose lack of CFL experience is hindering is first tryout in the CFL. However, I wouldn't be surprised if Kent Austin and Richie Hall keep him around for future considerations.

With Calgary coming into town the defense will be faced with a daunting task. Calgary's offense features a strong aerial attack, coupled with a more than capable ground game. The Stampeder's offensive line is much improved this year and should be able to provide Burris with the time he needs to make decisions. The order for the Rider defensive secondary will be rather tall, especially considering that the Stampeders will be featuring the talents of Ryan Thelwell and Marc Boerigter. Not to mention the fact that the Stamps will also bring with them Kenyon Rambo, Nik Lewis, Marcus Howell and Jermaine Copeland. If Kent Austin ever needed a test for his defense, this will be it. Don't get me wrong, the BC Lions were adequate foes for last Friday's game, but for much of the game the starters were on the sidelines. This game, Calgary will probably be featuring their starters for at least half of the match, giving Austin a real clear look at just how well his defensive secondary will perform. I for one, am happy that the Riders drew Calgary and BC as pre-season opponents.

Friday's result:
Calgary: 22
Saskatchewan:
34

That's all I got for today!
Enjoy the game - GO RIDERS!

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