Bleacher Report - Articles by Chris Allen

Anthony Calvillo: Montreal QB Wins Another CFL MVP Award

Chris Allen — Mon, 30 Nov 2009 01:22:43 -0500

For the second year in a row, Anthony Calvillo, QB for the Montreal Alouettes, was awarded the CFL's Most Outstanding Player Award at the CFL Players Awards on November 26th. Calvillo received 44 first place votes of the 55 possible votes.

“You never get tired of being at these games, and you never get tired winning,” said Alouettes quarterback Calvillo. “As I was walking over here, I was kind of just blown away at where I am right now in my career, to see myself hold another trophy. It just blows me away.

Calvillo had a great season, passing for 4,639 yards with 26 touchdowns and only 6 interceptions, while leading his Montreal Alouettes to a 15-3 record, their best in franchise history. He was also voted onto the CFL All-Star team for the 4th time in his career.

This seasons Most Outstanding Canadian was the B.C. Lions' DE Rick Foley, who finished the year with 12 sacks and 51 tackles.

The Most Outstanding Defensive Player this season was John Chick, DE for the Saskatchewan Roughriders. Chick had an outstanding season in which he accumulated 11 sacks, the second most in the CFL this season, as well as 4 forced fumbles and 32 tackles. Chick was also named a 2009 CFL All-Star.

The Alouettes OG Scott Flory received the honours of the CFL's Most Outstanding Lineman. Flory was the anchor of a dominant offensive line and received his second Most Outstanding Lineman in a row. He was also named a CFL All-Star for the 7th time in his career.

KR Larry Taylor, another Alouettes player, received the Most Outstanding Special Teams Player award. Taylor finished this season in outstanding fashion, with 788 punt return yards, which was first in the league. He also accumulated 1,059 kickoff return yards (5th) and 124 missed field goal yards (2nd). Taylor has three kick return touchdowns and was also named a CFL All—Star.

This season's Most Outstanding Rookie was Martell Mallett, RB for the B.C. Lions. Mallett finished the season with 1,240 rushing yards and 6 TD's. Mallett was also named a West Division All—Star.

The Tom Pate Memorial Award is awarded to a CFL player who makes a significant contribution not only to his team, but also the organization and his surrounding community. This years recipient of the award was Marwan Hage, C for the Hamilton Tiger—Cats.

The final award of the night was the Commissioner's Award, which is presented annually to someone who has made a tremendous contribution to the Canadian Football League. This year the award went to B.C. Lions Head Coach and General Manager Wally Buono, who not only set a new record for most wins by a head coach this season, but has also been involved with the CFL as a player, coach and GM for four decades.

The CFL Player Awards take place every year on Grey Cup Weekend.

Last-Second Penalty Gives Montreal Aloutettes Grey Cup Victory

Chris Allen — Mon, 30 Nov 2009 00:40:01 -0500

In a game where big mistakes are costly, the Saskatchewan Roughriders learned the hard way that this saying is all too true. Though the Riders were underdogs to the opposing Montreal Alouettes, they proved themselves, leading the game for all but the last second. After leading by as many as 16 points, the Roughriders fell short in the 97th Grey Cup at McMahon Stadium in Calgary.

With just over 30 seconds left to play in the fourth quarter, Anthony Calvillo threw two game—making passes to Jamal Richardson and Kerry Watkins. With the clock at :00, Damon Duval attempted a 43—yard field goal to win the Grey Cup for the Al's. Duval missed the uprights to the right and the sea of green went wild in the stadium.

However, penalty markers went down as soon as the play started. As fans watched nervously waiting for the call, there seemed to be a glimpse of hope for Duval and the Alouettes.

Montreal coach Marc Trestman and his Als had hope as Rider's coach Ken Miller stood in disbelief that the Roughriders had 13 men on the field. This moved the Als closer to victory, and Duval made the clutch field goal to put the Als up over the Riders, 28-27 the final score.

Riders special teams co—ordinator Kavis Reed took all the blame on himself and refused to name the player who cost his team the loss.

"The player's name is not important," Reed said. "What's important is that a mistake was made and ultimately I think I'm responsible for that mistake.

During the post-game report, there was an interesting question asked that caught my attention: Did the Als win or did the Riders lose?

Though everyone may think the Riders lost, I have to disagree with this. With the astounding difference in energy and commitment to playing that the Als had in the second half compared to their worst first half of the season, I think the Als deserved to win.

With the kind of skill it took for Anthony Calvillo to throw such on—target passes in possibly the highest stress levels in sports, and the level of playing the Als offence showed during their final drive, I firmly believe the Als deserved to win this football game.

Notes:

Avon Colbourne won the Grey Cup MVP Award

Ben Cahoon won the Most Valuable Canadian Award

Winnipeg Blue Bombers Sign Multiple Players

Chris Allen — Thu, 30 Apr 2009 15:14:22 -0400

The Winnipeg Blue Bombers have recently been singing multiple players to their rosters. Here is a list of the players and a quick bio on each of them.

The players the Winnipeg Blue Bombers have added are: Nick Kordic, John Eubanks, James Kilian, Montez Murphy, Justin Surrency, and Yvenson Bernard.

Nick Kordic

Has played in the CFL previously with the Hamilton Tigercats on special teams in 2008. His primary position is DB.

John Eubanks

Was signed with the Washington Redskins in 2006 as an undrafted free agent. He was named the Conference USA Special Teams Player of the Year in 2004. His primary position is DB.

James Kilian

Was a seventh-round pick of the Kansas City Chiefs in the 2005 NFL Draft. He also spent time with the Atlanta Falcons and the Indianapolis Colts. He is most known as a QB.

Montez Murphy

Played with the Edmonton Eskimos in the 2008 CFL season. He had three sacks, four pass knockdowns, and 24 tackles. He is a defensive lineman.

Justin Surrency

Has NFL experience and was selected in the 2006 NFL Draft. He spent time with the Seattle Seahawks and the Minnesota Vikings. Surrency is a receiver.

Yvenson Bernard

Was undrafted by the NFL in 2008 but did play with the St. Louis Rams and the Seattle Seahawks. He rushed for 3,862 yards at Oregon State University and finished as the school's second all-time leading rusher. Bernard is a running back.

Kobe, Lakers Take theJazz in Five

Chris Allen — Thu, 30 Apr 2009 14:48:55 -0400

Kobe Bryant and the Lakers were able to defeat the Utah Jazz in five games after a 107-96 win on Monday night.

The Lakers will now move on to play either the Houston Rockets, against whom they went 4-0 this season, or the Portland Trailblazers, against whom they went 2-2.

The Rockets lead that series 3-2 and will play Game 6 in tonight in Houston.

During their first-round series against Utah, the Lakers were stripped down and showed a very dangerous weakness. Throughout the series, the Lakers led by at least 20 points in all of their games but ended up having that lead widdled down by the end of every game.

In one case, it resulted in a two-point loss.

The Lakers also have their strong points, however, with a team full of chemistry and stars. No matter who the Lakers face in round two of the NBA Playoffs, fans and analysts seem to think they will come out on top.

Alexis Serna Misses Again, Worrying Blue Bombers Fans

Chris Allen — Tue, 07 Oct 2008 03:36:02 -0400

After another game with misses from Alexis Serna, Bombers fans are wondering when enough will be enough for Doug Berry and the Winnipeg Blue Bombers. Serna currently sits at last place in the CFL for kicking percentages, at a sad 60.5 percent.

Bombers fans were finally through with Serna after he missed three field goals in their game against the Edmonton Eskimos on Sept. 26. Though Serna has not missed from anything inside 30 yards, this Bombers team is currently a struggling one that needs a kicker who has the ability to kick from far out if they are unable to make a first down.

Serna, it seems, just can't come through.

The Bombers have reported that the names of Troy Westwood and Duncan O'Mahony have come to mind. Westwood, a Bombers veteran kicker, was released in the offseason by the organization. O'Mahony was released after injuring his toe after being signed by the Bombers.

However, the Bombers do have another option. Warren Kean has been signed by the Bombers to the practice roster for over two weeks now, and he is definitely an option.

I think it will be interesting to see what the Bombers organization does about this situation.

Milt Stegall Sets Recieving Record in Winnipeg Blue Bombers Win on Retro Night

Chris Allen — Sun, 14 Sep 2008 15:38:31 -0400

Remember this scene? I sure do. Its an image that has been replayed in my mind over and over again. I remember getting the tickets to the game on July 27th, 2007, and hoping that Stegall wouldn't get that TD until I was there. The day had come, and there was Stegall, still one touchdown away from being the all time CFL TD leader. And there I was in the box seats that my dad had scored from an old business friend, watching the game.

I remember with about nine minutes left in the second quarter, Milt Stegall caught a big pass downfield and I thought that was it. Then, with about seven and a half minutes left, he caught the pass at the one. Could this get any closer, I asked myself. Now, I did do some research on those last two, but this one, I will remember forever. Stegall lines up on the left side, and motions across.

The ball is then snapped, and Kevin Glenn throws a one-yard score to Stegall. I remember the stadium roaring so loud, and there I was, goosebumps on my arms, cheering along. I also remember getting a picture with Milt Stegall the next day, being almost the last in line to do so.

Now, what does this have to do with the article name? Well, not only did the Winnipeg Blue Bombers get a much needed win last night over the Toronto Argonauts, and not only was in Retro Night, but Milt Stegall the Touchdown Beagle broke yet another record. There are still more accomplishments for Milt Stegall, but for now, I would like to congratulate him on this great accomplishment.

Injuries Raise Question: Should NFL preseason be shortened?

Chris Allen — Sun, 24 Aug 2008 16:06:36 -0400

There has been a debate for years now if the NFL preseason should be shortened from four games to two. Leagues such as the CFL have a two game preseason for each team, and NFL fans have been thinking about doing so as well. And this preseason, injuries have been adding to the pot.

Carson Palmer is just one of the many key players who have been injured in preseason action this year.

Palmer broke a nasal bone while being sacked against the New Orleans Saints on Saturday night. Palmer is questionable for Thursday night's preseason-ender for the Bengals against the Colts.

Jason Taylor is also out for up to two weeks. Taylor was injured during a game against the Panthers this week, and though the injury is not as serious as the Redskins thought, he is still expected out for 10-14 days. This could end Taylor's 130 consecutive game streak if he is unable to play.

Osi Umenyiora has told reporters he will be out for the season because of season-ending knee surgery.

Umenyiora was injured in the Giants latest preseason game against the New York Jets on Saturday. He is expected back and healthy for the 2009 season.

Harry Williams, a wide receiver for the Houston Texans, may not ever play again. After fracturing his vertebra in a preseason game against the Dallas Cowboys because of a head to head collision with teammate Nick Ferguson, his agent has said he would "pay him to never play football again."

The list goes on of preseason injuries, and people are wondering if the current amount of preseason games are needed. I know of other injuries that have happened this preseason as well, putting teams in tough positions because of the losses.

I personally know that in football training camp there are scrimmages in practices, and I know that the two preseason games and training camp scrimmages that my football team endures will be plenty of preparation for the season. And I'm not even a pro.

Many people think that for a professional athlete, two games is enough to get back in the mindset for the regular season, plus the fact that they do have week after week of training camp.

These latest injuries raise the question: should the NFL preseason be shortened? Many players are being injured in preseason action, and teams are suffering the consequences of four preseason games.

The question should be answered. I know what I think. As for the league? I think I'll let you decide what you think should be done about the current length of preseason games. Feel free to voice your opinion in the comments section below.

Winnipeg Blue Bombers Go Into Bye Week At 2-7

Chris Allen — Tue, 19 Aug 2008 08:57:57 -0400

The Winnipeg Blue Bombers have gone into the East Division bye week with a record of 2-7, and surprisingly, they are tied for third in the division with the Hamilton Tigercats. They are just three wins away from a first place spot, and it seems there is hope still for the Bombers.

With A superb performance by Kevin Glenn and the Bombers offence in their last game against the Hamilton Tigercats, it seems Glenn may have his MVP arm back and the offence back in full spin with Milt Stegall back in the lineup. Charles Roberts recorded 145 yards in the game, making that his first 100-yard game of the season.

The Bombers will be playing the 6-1 Saskatchewan Roughriders in their next game, which could be a very interesting game for the Bombers. If Kevin Glenn plays as well as he did in his last game, this game could be a close one. The Bombers also play the Roughriders the following weekend for the Banjo Bowl.

The Bombers will definitely have a better chance of winning at the Banjo Bowl then the Labour Day Classic, because it seems that the Bombers are more efficient in playing at home. The Bombers have allowed an average of 23.4 points per game at home, and have scored an average of 24 points at home. This could be a very close game. Let's hope the Bombers can get a huge win against the Roughriders on September 1st.

Warren Kean Signing May Be Wakeup Call for Alexis Serna

Chris Allen — Mon, 11 Aug 2008 06:36:50 -0400

The image above shows what seemed to be a frequent event during the Winnipeg Blue Bombers game against the Montreal Alouettes last Friday. It happened approximately three times. Doug Berry is fed up with Alexis Serna missing field goals, and Bomber fans are, too. The only difference is, Berry can do something about it.

And he did.

On Sunday, Kicker/Punter Warren Kean landed in Winnipeg, Manitoba, adding onto the Bombers' current kicking saga. Kean has been placed on their practice roster, but if he performs well in practice this week he could be moved up to the starting K/P position for Thursday night's game against the Hamilton Tigercats.

Kean recieved the CIS All-Canadian Award while kicking for Concordia. He was also the second overall draft pick of the Edmonton Eskimos in 2007. Kean is primarily a placekicker, but has the ability to punt as well.

It seems this has all come after everyone's frustration with Alexis Serna's poor performance in Friday night's game. Serna was good on only one of his four attempts, missing 49, 40, and 49 yard field goals.

He has missed eight of his last 15 field goals. Although he was good on his first seven field goals in the CFL, he just isn't cutting it for the Bombers.

Serna is last in the league in all kicking stats, including a 31.7-yard net punting average and a 42.5-yard punting average. Serna's current field goal percentage is sitting in the CFL basement at 63.6 percent and this is simply not good enough for the Bombers players, coaches, and fans.

Berry seems to be trying to put some pressure on Serna to perform by bringing in another kicker to challenge his starting position. This Bombers kicking saga has been going on since the preseason, and Berry must be wishing that the horror would end.

"I've just got to keep working and do what I've got to do and just get better every week," Serna said after practice Sunday. "[The last two games, in which he's gone just two for six] is in the past. I'm just trying to get ready for Hamilton this week and trying to get prepared."

It all started when the Blue Bombers released 17-year team veteran Troy Westwood. After signing Duncan O'Mahony the Bombers were forced to sign Serna when O'Mahony broke his toe in his house at night. Since then, Alexis Serna has been the starting K/P for the Bombers.

It seems that may change again if Warren Kean can prove himself in practices this week.

Winnipeg Blue Bombers Name Kevin Glenn Starting QB

Chris Allen — Mon, 11 Aug 2008 05:52:56 -0400

He sat on the sidelines for the past week, watching his team get its first win of the season, then continue on with two straight loses. People have been wondering if last year's Eastern Division MVP had "lost his spark".

After last week's game, it seems maybe not. Kevin Glenn led the Winnipeg Blue Bombers offense down the field, 80 yards in seven plays, capping off the drive with a seven-yard TD pass to Derick Armstrong. Glenn scored the only TD pass of the game for the Bombers, and he definitely showed that he wants his starting position back.

And he got it.

However, Glenn seemed to be focused and concentrated on getting the win against the Hamilton Tigercats this Thursday night. When asked about his feelings after being named the team's starting quarterback, Glenn said "Umm...I mean, what can you say? It's an opportunity for you to go back in and ah, you know, help your team get the win. That's the most important thing."

When Glenn was asked if he should perhaps be a vocal leader, he said "I've never thought that words win games, so as far as vocals goes, if that's your nature, then that's what you do. We have to go out, everybody has to go out, and step it up and play as a team, and our actions on the field need to show, and thats what will produce wins, not just talking about it."

Doug Berry has also announced that Glenn will be calling his own plays on Thursday night, but Glenn seems a bit worried about the idea.

"Uh yeah, so, we'll see how that goes. You know, I'm 50-50 on it, sometimes it's at a disadvantage for a quarterback to do that kind of stuff, instead of worrying about the game, you're worried about other things as far as what play to call, and if this is the right play, and am I satisfying everybody getting the ball."

Glenn also seemed to have no hard feeling about being benched for the three games.

"Like I said, you always learn, you know, whether you're on the field or off the field, you always learn, you always can sit back and you can watch the games, and take notes from other guys that are playing...no one wants to sit on the bench, and everyone wants to play, thats why we play this sport, because we're competitors."

Doug Berry was also still pleased with Ryan Dinwiddie's performance, and is happy he has some experience in the backup QB now.

"You know, we played with Ryan Dinwiddie, and we got the spark we were looking for from him. We hoped we would be able to get it for another game, and when it was evident after two more that it just wasn't happening, I just felt like it was time to go back to who I believe to be our number one quarterback, unless he was taken out, and nobody's knocked out the champion."

"He still has tremendous respect from his teammates and the coaches, so, we'll put a little bit more onus on him now that he's back, and I think he's gonna look forward and relish this opportunity."

Bombers fans all over are hoping that Glenn can relish this oppurtunity and get the Bombers their second win against the season against the Hamilton Tigercats this Thursday night.

And some hope from Kevin Glenn, who said himself that the Toronto Argonauts started off the season at 2-7 and were able to make it all the way to the first place spot in the Eastern Division, and lost in the Eastern Final, which was hosted in Toronto.

Winnipeg Blue Bombers Go 1-6 after Loss to Montreal Alouettes

Chris Allen — Sat, 09 Aug 2008 15:35:21 -0400

As the janitors pick up the last few popcorn boxes and hang up the brooms and mops, the parking lot of Canad Inns Stadium empties. Another day in Winnipeg has come to an end.

As we fans of the Winnipeg Blue Bombers set our alarm clocks for the morning and shut off the lamp on the bedside table, we must go to bed disappointed once again.

This week at Canad Inns Stadium the Bombers had what many would call a “must win game.” However, in their current state, it seems every game is a must win game for the Bombers. And they were up against the Montreal Alouettes, a team looking to fly into first place. No pun intended.

So folks, it was time for another edition of Wendy's Friday Night Football on TSN, and wow, what a start. The first quarter was definitely a sleeper, and I'm sure many fans had to be woken up after the first 15 minutes.

The only scoring was a 33-yard field goal by Montreal Alouettes K Damon Duval on the opening drive of the game. For the remaining 10 minutes and eight seconds, there was no scoring.

So, after everyone was woken up, the second quarter began. The first play was another Damon Duval field goal, this time from 42 yards out, making the score 6-0 for the Montreal Alouettes.

And, to make matters worse, Dinwiddie would go three-and-out on the next drive, and Montreal Alouettes QB Anthony Calvillo would capitalize on the turnover, throwing a 54-yard pass to Kerry Carter. This put the Montreal Alouettes on the one-yard line, and after one incomplete pass, Adrian McPherson ran in the one-yard score, making the score 13-0 for Montreal.

The Winnipeg Blue Bombers would get a single point in the half, however, and in a quite comical event that made me laugh, the fans in Canad Inns Stadium sarcastically applauded their single point. Before the half, Damon Duval would connect again, making the score 16-1 for the Als at the half.

Winnipeg would, however, come out strong in the second half, scoring their only field goal of the game thanks to Alexis Serna. In a horrific event, Serna connected on only one of his four attempts on Friday night, missing from the 49, 40, and 49 yard attempts throughout the game.

The Alouettes matched their field goal on the next drive, however, making the score 19-4.

After Winnipeg’s third missed field goal of the night, Anthony Calvillo would move the ball down the field with a combination of running and passing 74 yards before throwing a 29-yard pass to Brian Bratton for the touchdown. The score was 26-4 for the Bombers going into the fourth quarter, and folks, this game was definitely over.

After the kickoff from the Als' touchdown, Ryan Dinwiddie threw an incompletion on first down before throwing an interception on second down. Doug Berry had had enough, and sent Kevin Glenn out on Winnipeg’s next drive. Damon Duval connected on yet another field goal before Kevin Glenn made his way onto the field, however.

Then, Kevin Glenn gave Doug Berry and his offensive staff something to think about. He showed us all that he badly wants his starting job back, as Kevin Glenn moved the ball 73 yards down the field with some help from Charles Roberts before throwing a seven-yard TD pass to Derrick Armstrong.

Damon Duval then connected on his sixth field goal of the game, a career best for him, making the score 36-11 with just over two minutes left in the game. Then, after a third down in completion for Kevin Glenn, the Montreal Alouettes charged up the field for another touchdown. The game ended with a score of 39-11.

So, as the clock struck 0:00, the Winnipeg Blue Bombers went 1-6 and the Montreal Alouettes took the lead in their division thanks to a Toronto loss from the Hamilton Tigercats.

And Winnipeg fans will have more to talk about in the office on Monday, including K Alexis Serna kicking one of his four field goal attempts in, and who they think should start on Aug. 14against the Hamilton Tigercats.

Player of the Game

My player of the game award for this week goes to Damon Duval. Not only did he have a career-high six field goals in the game, but he also had a career-long 52-yard field goal in the second quarter. Congratulations to Damon Duval on a game to remember.

Ryan Dinwiddie Leads Bombers to First Victory of Season with Last Second TD

Chris Allen — Fri, 25 Jul 2008 14:44:39 -0400

In a miraculous act for all Bombers fans, Ryan Dinwiddie led the Winnipeg Blue Bombers to their first win of the season against the now 3-2 Calgary Stampeders. Dinwiddie threw 24 completions of his 39 attempts for 450 yards, with one TD pass on the day. This TD pass was the game winner in their contest against the Stamps'.

However, in my opinion the game should not have been so close. Alexis Serna missed his first two field goals, and the Bombers' had to settle for two single points on the returns being conceded in the end zone. Also, a TD pass was called back on a holding call for the Bombers in the second quarter.

The Stamps' started off with the game, but on the first play, Ken-Yon Rambo fumbled the ball he caught after being hit by Jovon Johnson. This resulted in a Bombers' ball after the recovery was made by Johnson. The Bombers would not be able to make progress, and Serna would come out to kick, but missed his 44-yard attempt. The Stamps', however, conceded a single point for the Bombers'.

Serna would also miss later in the first quarter, this time from the 39 yards. The Calgary Stampeders conceded a point in the end zone once again, giving the Bombers' another point. The score was 2-0 at the end of the first quarter.

At the beginning of the second, the Bombers' had the ball on third down, and quickly made a 5-0 lead after Serna redeemed himself with a 24-yard field goal attempt.

On the Bombers' next possession, Rombey Bryant caught an amazing pass for 28 yards, putting the Bombers in the red zone on the five-yard line.

On the next play, Derick Armstrong was roughed up in the end zone by Brandon Browner, bringing a forward pass interference call and placing the ball on the one. There was also a roughing up at the passer penalty on Shannon James. Graeme Bell would run in a one-yard score on the next play, making the score 12-0 for the Bombers.

Calgary progressed on their next drive, however. After two consecutive completions to Rambo totaling 49 yards, the Stamps were on the 13-yard line. After two straight incompletions and a penalty, making the play still second down, Henry Burris would connect with a 13-yard score for Nik Lewis.

The ruling of TD was challenged by Coach Doug Berry of the Bombers, but the call stood, thinning the Bombers' lead to 12-7.

Alexis Serna put up a field goal before the half ended, and DeAngelis put up a field goal as well. Adding a single point by punter Burke Dales, the score was 15-11 at the half.

On the Stampeders' first drive of the half, Joffrey Reynolds had a huge 29-yard catch to help put the Stamps on the board in the third quarter with a field goal, making the game a close 15-14 in favour of the Winnipeg Blue Bombers.

On the Bombers next drive, Arjei Franklin would catch a 24-yard catch before being pushed out of bounds by Shannon James. After a 19-yard pass to Franklin on the very next play, the Bombers were on the 17-yard line.

After going two-and-out, Serna would come in and kick a 20-yard field goal to put the Bombers up by four. Another field goal on their next drive put them up by seven.

Calgary's first possession was huge, and with the Stamps being down by a touchdown and 8:39 left on the clock, Henry Burris threw a pass to Lewis, who, after watching it bounce off his hands, caught the ball and ran all the way into the end zone. This tied the game for the Stampeders at 21-21.

On the Bombers' next possession, Ryan Dinwiddie threw a deep pass to Terrence Edwards, who would catch it for a gain of 41 yards, putting the ball in Stamps' territory, on the 36-yard line. After going two-and-out, Serna missed once again, making this a one-point game after a single point on the play.

After an 11-yard run by Joffrey Reynolds on the first play of the Stamps' next drive, Burris threw what seemed to be a perfect spiral to Chris Jackson, but Kelly Malveaux showed up in front of Jackson, catching Burris' only interception of the game and returning it eight yards.

Serna would get a field goal out of this opportunity, making it a four-point game, and meaning that the Stamps would need a touchdown if they wanted to win.

On their next drive, the Stamps' dominated down the field, and after many short yardage catches, Calgary was on the six-yard line. On the next play, Burris found Jeremaine Copeland in the end zone, putting the Stamps' up by three.

It seemed that this may have been another B.C. Lions game for the Blue Bombers, who were defeated last week in a fourth quarter comeback by the Vancouver-based team.

However, Dinwiddie would throw back-to-back first down passes, with an 11-yard pass to Charles Roberts and a 27-yard pass to Arjei Franklin, putting the Bombers' on the 35-yard line.

The big question for the Blue Bombers now was, with 20 seconds left, do you move and then try for the field goal, or do you go all the way? Most coaches would say, "Bomb it out on first down, then if you don't make it, run it up a bit on second down and kick the field goal on third."

That's exactly what Dinwiddie did.

With TSN commentators pondering aloud if we would have the year's first overtime, Dinwiddie sent the fans home buzzing, wondering not only if Winnipeg could defeat the Argos next week, but who Doug Berry would start in that game.

Dinwiddie stepped back and threw a beautiful pass to Rombey Bryant, who fell back into the end zone for the touchdown.

So, with 12 seconds left Ryan Dinwiddie had won the Winnipeg Blue Bombers their first win of the season with a beautiful pass. Fans were cheering loudly, and I'm sure Boise State fans all over the United States were cheering on their former QB on his first professional win.

Player of the Game

For those of you who didn't see this coming, I can't help but wonder who you chose and why the heck you would choose them over the one man who truly deserves this. Congratulations to Ryan Dinwiddie on his game well played and his first CFL win.

Also, congrats on being the only QB to record a win with the Bombers' this season, and the first QB besides Kevin Glenn to record a win with the Bombers' since Glenn started playing with Winnipeg.

Ryan truly deserves this award, and as a Bombers' fan, I hope he gets the start next week against the Argos.

Winnipeg Blue Bombers Breaking News: Barrin Simpson Out, Ryan Dinwiddie In

Chris Allen — Mon, 21 Jul 2008 14:19:43 -0400

Fans of the Winnipeg Blue Bombers, just when we thought this season couldn't go any worse, it did. Today, Blue Bombers coach Doug Berry held a press conference and there was some very bad news, and some hopefully good news. I have decided to save the best for last, and start with the bad news.

During the Blue Bombers game against the BC Lions, Barrin Simpson, one of the Bombers' defensive leaders, injured his pectoral muscle while tackling Clarence Coleman. Simpson sat out the rest of the game with an ice bag on around his arm.

An MRI on Monday confirmed the worries—Simpson does have a torn pectoral muscle from the fourth quarter tackle and will have to have season-ending surgery. Simpson has been placed on the nine-week injured reserve list. This is a first for Simpson, who has never missed a game in his CFL career.

Now for the good news. Doug Berry also anounced that Ryan Dinwiddie will be starting this Friday night in Winnipeg against the Calgary Stampeders. Dinwiddie has had only one other CFL start, in the Grey Cup game last year. This happened after Kevin Glenn broke his arm in a sidelining injury.

This time, however, Glenn is not injured. The Bombers are going into a game against the 3-1 Calgary Stampeders as the only winless team in the CFL at 0-4, and are looking for a boost with Dinwiddie starting. If this doesn't work, I could only guess they might send a phone call to QB Micheal Bishop.

The Bombers play host to Calgary this Thursday in Winnipeg. Lets hope they can finally get something going with a new QB starting. I must admit though, as a Bombers fan, it was weird to see "Backup Quarterback" under Kevin Glenn's name on Global News's interview with him tonight.

Blue Bomber Notes: Duncan O'Mahony has been released by the Winnipeg Blue Bombers.

CFL: Winnipeg Blue Bombers Fall to 0-4 After Comeback Victory by BC Lions

Chris Allen — Mon, 21 Jul 2008 06:30:30 -0400

Under the dome at B.C. Place on Friday night, the BC Lions were looking to "win one for Bob." as Bob Ackles, BC Lions’ President and Chief Executive Officer, died at the age of 69 from a heart attack on July 6.

The Lions hoped to get their second win of the season, and the Winnipeg Blue Bombers hoped to get their first win.

The Bombers would get the first score of the game with a beautiful 74-yard TD pass from Kevin Glenn to Romney Bryant, who after escaping a diving attempt by a BC Lions defender, ran the ball in for a 7-0 lead for Winnipeg.

On Kevin Glenn's next possession, however, Reggie Myles would intercept his pass for a one yard return.

Reggie Myles's interception would end in a goal line stand by the Blue Bombers defense. The 12 play, 5:19 long drive ended in a 12 yard field goal by BC's Kicker Paul McCallum, who missed his first field goal in the first quarter.

McCallum’s field goal would make the score 7-4 for the Blue Bombers.

On the Bombers next drive, Romney Bryant would make a nice catch for a first down. Bryant's 16-yard catch would put them on their 50-yard line.

After a few more gains, the Bombers were able to set up a beautiful 42-yard field goal for Alexis Serna, who has not missed a field goal yet in his rookie CFL career with the Bombers.

However, on the next Bombers possession, BC Lions' DB Koery Banks would pick off the pass, and after rolling and getting back up, Banks would score a 36-yard TD off the interception.

This would make the score 11-10 for the BC Lions. Jason Nugent would retaliate with an interception of his own in the end zone with just over 25 seconds left in the second quarter.

The Blue Bombers would have a 11-11 tie at the end of the second quarter, but that would all change quickly as Cam Hall would intercept a pass by Jarious Jackson and take it home untouched for a 22-yard Bombers score.

The score was now 18-11 for the Blue Bombers.

On the second last play of the third quarter, Jarious Jackson would throw a deep pass that would be caught by Lions WR Paris Jackson for a 56-yard gain. The drive would end in a 18-14 Bombers lead after a 25-yard field goal by K Paul McCallum.

On a 2nd and 20, the BC Lions would have a huge play. Jarious Jackson would air it out into the end zone for a 48-yard TD pass to Geroy Simon. This would give the BC Lions a 21-18 lead early in the fourth quarter.

The Lions would also get another field goal for a 24-18 BC Lions lead.

Kevin Glenn knew he needed to get some points, and he needed them fast. With the fourth quarter ending in 6:19, Kevin Glenn threw a deep ball to Romney Bryant, who would take it 52-yards before being tackled.

This would set up the Winnipeg Blue Bombers on the BC Lions 23-yard line.

However, after the next play would come, the biggest controversy yet in the game. Korey Banks would intercept a pass intended for Arjei Franklin in the end zone and take a touchback.

However, no matter what replay was seen, it was clear to even Lions’ fans that Banks pushed Franklin, who fell to the ground. However, the play was not reviewed by the referees, and the game went on.

The Lions would score one final field goal and would come out of this one victorious, winning 27-18. This would put the Lions at 2-2, and the Bombers would stay winless at 0-4.

The Bombers face the Calgary Stampeders on Thursday night in Winnipeg and will look for their first win.

Player of the Game: In a losing effort, the player of the game, in my opinion, must go to Romney Bryant, who had many key receptions in the game. He caught five balls for a total of 146 yards, averaging out to 24.2 yards per catch.

Congratulations to Romney Bryant on a great game.

CFL Question of the Week, Volume One

Chris Allen — Sat, 12 Jul 2008 20:30:36 -0400

Hello, CFL Fans. In order to try and get more participation out of the CFL Section on Bleacher Report, I have come up with a new idea, and this is it: the CFL Question of the Week. Basically, I will ask a controversial question in hopes that posts will be made in response.

However, there will hopefully be more than one CFL Question of the Week, so if you have any ideas for questions, please contact me at cougar1028@hotmail.com or post on my bulletin board.

Here is the first CFL Question of the Week:

Should Winnipeg Blue Bombers QB Ryan Dinwiddie be the starting quarterback in the Blue Bombers' next game against the BC Lions?

Here are the two Bombers' stats from this past week:

Kevin Glenn: 9/17 82 Yards 0 TD 2 INT 2 Rushing Yards 0 Rushing TDs

Ryan Dinwiddie: 20/33 227 Yards 1 TD 2 INT 38 Rushing Yards 1 Rushing TD

Answer this question in the comments section below.

With the CFL Question of the Week, I'm Chris Allen.

CFL: BC Lions Get First Victory of Season Over Winless Winnipeg Blue Bombers

Chris Allen — Sat, 12 Jul 2008 19:56:54 -0400

On Friday night at the Canad Inns Stadium in Winnipeg, Manitoba, the Winnipeg Blue Bombers received yet another beating, and lost to the BC Lions.

The Bombers now hold the oh-so-prestigious title of "the only winless team in the Canadian Football League." Not so prestigious after all, is it?

The first quarter started off with a bang, as Fred Ried used some swift spins and broke some tackles to return the kickoff 33 yards, all the way to the Winnipeg 49-yard line. Kicker Alexis Serna would kick a 48-yard field goal for a 3-0 Bombers lead.

With 10 minutes left in the first quarter, the Blue Bombers defence gave the fans in Canad Inns Stadium something to cheer about.

After a crisp pass from QB Jarious Jackson to Jason Clermont, DB Jason Nugent had a huge hit on Clermont that seemed to have injury written all over it. However, Clermont shook off the monstrous hit and play continued.

However, Clarence Coleman was able to avenge the big hit on Clermont. With 7:31 left in the first, Coleman caught a ball from Jackson on the goal line and fell into the end zone, making the score 7-3 for the BC Lions.

BC would increase its lead to 13-5 in the second quarter with a 1-yard pass to backup FB Rolly Lumbala. This would put the Lions up 20-5, and BC led 21-5 at halftime.

The Lions would come out with a fast score on their first play of the half. Geroy Simon would beat out the Bombers defence in a sprint all the way to the end zone, a 76-yard TD passing score. This would but the Bombers down 28-5.

On the Lions' next drive, QB Jackson would throw a ball for a beautiful catch by Jason Clermont for 36 yards, placing the Lions offence at the 3-yard line. On the next play, Jackson would connect with Geroy Simon again in the end zone, this time with a 3-yard score.

The Bombers have decided by now that they have had enough of Kevin Glenn, and they put Ryan Dinwiddie on the field. And then folks, the game starts rolling. On his second drive, Dinwiddie sets up a field goal, making the score 35-8 for the Bombers.

On the next drive, the BC Lions Stefan Logan showed his speed and picked up 66 yards after finally being tackled by Kelly Malveaux at the 9-yard line. The drive was capped off by a 9-yard TD pass on the next play to Clarence Coleman, making the score a whopping 42-8.

However, Dinwiddie would give the Bombers something to talk about with an amazing 4-yard TD pass to Derick Armstrong, making the score 42-15. The Lions P/K Paul McCallum would also take a safety, and the score was then 42-17.

With 2:11 left in the fourth quarter on a third-and-10, Dinwiddie would have a 20-yard run up to the 20-yard line. Dinwiddie would later run for a 1-yard score, making this game 42-24 for the BC Lions.

Dinwiddie must be hoping for the start, as he played this game until the very end.

So, as time ran out, the Blue Bombers still had a glimpse of hope: Ryan Dinwiddie. So, we will have to wait until next week, when these two teams face again in British Columbia, to see if Ryan Dinwiddie gets the start against the BC Lions.

Player of the Game: This choice was not made because I am a Winnipeg Blue Bombers fan, but my player of the game is Ryan Dinwiddie. He played with a lot of heart until the end, even when there was 0 percent chance of winning this game. Congratulations to Dinwiddie, and I personally think he really deserves the start against the BC Lions next week.

-Chris Allen

CFL Pregame: BC Lions and Winnipeg Blue Bombers Looking For First Win on Friday

Chris Allen — Thu, 10 Jul 2008 18:10:24 -0400

This Friday night at the Canad Inns Stadium in Winnipeg Manitoba, the Blue Bombers and the British Columbia Lions are both looking to win their first game of the season.

For two teams who were often predicted as the Grey Cup match-up, 0-2 is definitely not a good start to the season. Depending on how the rest of the season goes, this could still be a Grey Cup preview.

It wouldn't be the first time that a team had come back from 0-2 to win the Grey Cup though. In 2002, BC Lions coach Wally Buono went 0-3 to start the season with the Calgary Stampeders. Buono won the Grey Cup that year.

The Blue Bombers have had trouble in all areas during the first two weeks of this CFL season, but none to big, totaling a score of 61-40 for the opposing team this season.

The Bombers will not be doing to bad in the standings with a win this weekend, as Toronto lost to the Edmonton Eskimos on Thursday night, making them 1-2, and the Calgary Stameders defeated the Montreal Alouettes, for a 2-1 record.

Depending how the Hamilton Tigercats do against the Roughriders after the Bombers game, there could be a three-way tie for second place in the east division.

That’s right, folks, the Bombers are still closer than it seems to clinching second place.

The B.C. Lions, however, are not so lucky on the west side of things.

The Edmonton Eskimos and Calgary Stampeders have both gone 2-1 on Thursday with wins, and the Saskatchewan Roughriders could stay undefeated at 3-0 or go to 2-1 tomorrow, depending on the results of the game against Hamilton tomorrow.

No matter what the outcome is against the Winnipeg Blue Bombers, the BC Lions will stay in last place in their division.

In their last meeting, the Blue Bombers lost to the BC Lions in Winnipeg.

Now, for my big question...why hasn't Milt Stegall been playing? It's a good question, and no one is really sure. However, Stegall is not injured, the Bombers are 0-2, and once again, Stegall is not scheduled as the starting Slotback for tonights game.

Now, I am not saying that without Stegall, the Blue Bombers are nothing, because Milt Stegall was supposedly 100% sure that he was retiring last year, so 0-2 is where they would've been anyways. However, with a match-up of Stegall, Edwards, Franklin and Armstrong, I have a feeling that the Bombers offence would be unstoppable.

One more question, in reference to my article here. While researching information for the article, it seemed to me that the Bombers medical and training staff thought this would be a quick injury. However, with the third week coming up, Alexis Serna is on the depth chart as both punter and kicker. Bombers fans will hope that Serna is able to handle punting duties after a blocked punt in week one and a sack in week two. For more on Serna's situation see here.

Who will win this game?

It depends on whether the Blue Bombers can show some enthusiasm in Friday night’s game, which was non-existent in their last loss against the Alouettes. For more on this, check out Matt Eichel's article here.

Watch the game at 7:30 PM (ET) on Wendy's Friday Night Football, only on TSN, Canada's Sports Leader.

Montreal Alouettes Still Undefeated with 38-24 Win against Winnipeg

Chris Allen — Sat, 05 Jul 2008 17:05:23 -0400

In Montreal, Quebec on Friday night the sun was setting and it was time for the Montreal Alouettes' home opener. Ben Cahoon had a chance to take the club record for most TD receptions from Peter Della Riva, with whom Cahoon was tied at the start of the game with 55 touchdowns.

However, the first TD of the game went to Jamal Richardson with 9:50 left in the first quarter. Richardson, a WR for the Alouettes, had a b-e-a-utiful one-handed grab fro QB Anthony Calvillo. This catch was TSN's Sportscenter's HON (Highlight of the Night).

With 3:56 left in the quarter, Alexis Serna was up to punt after Kevin Glenn threw an incomplete pass on 2nd-and-3. The long snap was very inaccurate, and Serna was able to grab it, but it slipped out of his fingertips, resulting in a fumble.

Serna would be tackled by Richardson, who also had the TD pass earlier. It may have been a coincidence, but Serna (No. 18) was tackled by Richardson (No. 18) for an 18-yard loss.

Then, it happened. Anthony Calvillo dropped back out of the pocket, and was able to get the ball off before being tackled. The ball landed just inside the end zone in the arms of the Alouettes' new all-time leader for TD receptions, Ben Cahoon.

In a show of appreciation, Peter Della Riva made his way up to the TSN commentators booth to congratulate Cahoon on his achievement.

With 13:03 left in the second quarter, Kerry Watkins broke two tackles to get an 18-yard TD, making the score 21-0 for the Alouettes with just over one quarter finished. The Bombers needed to show more intensity and enthusiasm in their playing if they wanted to have a chance.

However, the Montreal Alouettes would be the next to score with yet another TD pass, this time to Desriveaux. With just over two minutes left in the half, this would make the score 28-0 for the Alouettes.

However, the Bombers would get on the scoreboard before halftime. With 1:22 left before the end of the half, Charles Roberts ran one in for the team, his second of the season, making this a 21-point game. Not too enticing, I know. The Alouettes would kick a 42-yard field goal, making the score 31-7.

The Bombers were the first to score in the second half, closing in on the Alouettes. Derick Armstrong caught a 29-yarder from QB Kevin Glenn in the end zone, closing the lead to 17 points.

Then the Winnipeg Blue Bombers had their biggest play of the night. QB Anthony Calvillo threw an interception and Jevon Johnson broke a tackle to run 80 yards all the way back for the TD, bringing the score to 31-21.

Kevin Glenn then threw a huge pass to Terrence Edwards on second down, who would gain 35 yards. This ended with a nine-yard field goal attempt for Alexis Serna, which was good, bringing the score to 31-24 for the Alouettes.

Folks, hold onto your hats! We have ourselves a game!

On a 2nd-and-15 with 7:52 left in the fourth quarter, Anthony Calvillo had a 15-yard run all the way for the first down. Calvillo had a 29-yard run later in the series. This would set up a one-yard TD run for Avon Colbourne, which would put the nails in the coffin for Winnipeg, as there were only about five minutes left.

Player of the Game

Oooh, this is a tough one. Just kidding, Ben.

Congrats to Ben Cahoon for receiving my player of the game award...a group hug from fellow players for breaking the club's all-time TD reception record!

Ben Cahoon is a role model for all Montreal Alouettes players, young and old, and he deserves to be honoured. Congrats again!

Winnipeg Blue Bombers Lose to Toronto Argonauts, 23-16

Chris Allen — Sun, 29 Jun 2008 20:34:15 -0400

In a close game on Friday night, the Toronto Argonauts prevailed over the Winnipeg Blue Bombers. The final score was 23-16. In a very strong effort from both teams, the Argos came away with their first victory of the season, leaving the Bombers to lose their home opener

Derick Armstrong played amazingly today. As seen on all the highlight reels, he made an amazing 37-yard catch in the first quarter with the Argos' DB Willie Middlebrooks holding him in an almost bear-hug position.

This catch was the highlight of the first quarter, and fans went wild at this spectacular reception. Also, Alexis Serna made his first CFL field goal. At the end of the first, the Bombers had a 3-0 lead.

At the start of the second, Glenn lost six yards on a sack, making it third down. Serna punted, and after getting by four close tackles, Toronto PR Dominique Dorsey returned the punt 39-yards after finally being tackled by Serna.

The Argos were able to make a first down, but after that, they had to kick a field goal from the 24-yard line. Mike Vanderjagt came out to kick the field goal, but missed it left by a hair. It was so close that from the TV, I thought it was a tie game.

With 7:34 left in the second quarter, Cam Hall sacked Kerry Joseph and the ball was fumbled. The ball was jumped on quickly by DE Tom Canada. The Bombers were unable to connect for a first and goal, and Kicker Alexis Serna connected for a 22-yard field goal, his second of the night.

On one of the most exciting plays for Argos fans, QB Michael Bishop waited for a doggy pile on a 3rd-and-1, and ran around the pile to gain 19-yards. After two completions, Vanderjagt stepped up for another field goal attempt, and this time went wide right. This time, you could tell he missed from your TV sets.

However, with 1:14 left before halftime, Michael Bishop was able to connect with Jamal Robertson. After shaking off a few defenders, the Argos had a 52-yard touchdown and were up 8-6, thanks to their RB Robertson.

At the beginning of the third quarter, it seemed that the refs may have been favoring Toronto. After a 32-yard gain by Armstrong, Toronto challenged that Reciever Romby Bryant was down before he lateraled to Armstrong. However, the call was reversed to a seven-yard gain for Bryant because of a forward lateral.

Is it just me, or was it illegal for the refs to change the call for something other than the challenged issue?

In an unfortunate play for temporary punter Alexis Serna, the snap was poor and Serna had to pick it up off the ground. It was too late, however, as he tried a punt and was blocked by Safety Wayne Shaw and recovered by WR James Robinson at the four-yard line.

Jamal Robertson then ran in the four-yard score on second down. But this play was challenged by Winnipeg, as it appeared that the player's knee touched the ground before he got back up and ran it in.

The referees reviewed the play and the call was unchanged. After seeing the replays on TV, it was clear, however, that this call was correct.

With one second left in the third quarter, Derick Armstrong had another amazing play. Glenn threw the ball to Armstrong in a last-second attempt, and Armstrong caught the ball hairs away from the sideline, and then was pushed out by DB Willie Middlebrooks.

There was quite a bit of commotion from the Toronto players close to the play that Armstrong was forced out. After a review from the officiating booth, Armstrong was found to have both feet on the ground, and the 30-yard gain was counted. The score was 15-9 for the Argos at the end of the third quarter.

Only 1:10 into the fourth, Roberts had a one-yard touchdown after the Derick Armstrong catch moved the Bombers up to the 13-yard line, making it a 16-15 lead for them.

With 8:50 left in the fourth, the Bombers' QB overthrew Terrence Edwards, and the ball landed in the hands of Argos CB Byron Parker, who returned the interception all the way to the 27-yard line before being pushed out of bounds by Offensive Lineman Ryan Donnelly. Vanderjagt would then miss a 51-yard field goal.

With 5:51 left, Alexis Serna would take a knee in the endzone, putting the Argonauts up by one point, the score being 17-16. This gave the Argos the ball at their 35-yard line.

After a 22-yard pass interference penalty against DB Kelly Malveaux, the Argos goy their first three points from Vanderjagt, who connected on a 49-yard attempt.

On a desperate 3rd-and-8 attempt for the Bombers with 2:24 left, Kevin Glenn would be intercepted by CB Byron Parker. He was then horse-collared by Terrence Edwards, gaining them 15 yards. Mike Vanderjagt then put the Argos up by six with a 44-yard field goal.

The Bombers got the ball back with 1:25 on the clock. They moved all the way up to Toronto's 39, but after a time delay call on Kevin Glenn, it was a 3rd-and-20 from Toronto's 49-yard line.

The Bombers would be intercepted with 0:49 seconds left by DB Willie Middlebrooks. After three knees taken by QB Michael Bishop, the Bombers wrote a loss in their home opener as the Toronto Argonauts prevailed in a six-point, 23-16 point win.

Player of the Game

I have to give this to Derick Armstrong, who had two key catches throughout the game, and ended at an astounding seven catches for 116 yards, with his longest being the 37-yard catch in the first quarter. Congratulations to Derick Armstrong on such a strong performance.

-Chris Allen

sources: youtube.com

Watch CFL Highlights on on Youtube. Just search CFL TV under the Channels section.

Anthony Calvillo and Montreal Alouettes Crush Tigercats 33-10

Chris Allen — Thu, 26 Jun 2008 20:29:22 -0400

In the 2007 season, the Hamilton Tigercats were 3-15. In 2006, 4-14. In 2005, 5-13.Unfortunately for the Ti-Cats, it seems that their 2008 season may be just as bad as the past three after a 23-point loss to the Montreal Alouettes, who were 8-10 last year.

The kickoff went to the Alouettes, and immediately KR Jason Armstead returned the opening kickoff 26 yards. On the next play, Hamilton Tigercats Jykine Bradley would have a huge tackle on Al's WR Danny Desriveaux, who was injured on the play.

The Al's would get back at the Ti-Cats 3 plays later, when WR Kerry Watkins caught a pass from Calvillo, and then spun around a defender and gained 35 yards on the play. The Alouettes would end up with a field goal on the opening drive, and the score was 3-0 in favor of Montreal.

After a 4-yard run on second down by the Hamilton Tigercats QB Carey Printers, the Ti-cats were looking to convert on a 3rd and inches. However, Jesse Lumsden was unable to convert, and the ball was turned over on downs to the Montreal Alouettes. The Al's would come out with a 9-yard TD pass, making it 10-0 for Montreal.

Montreal would score 2 more field goals, making the score 16-0, but the Tigercats would respond with a field goal of their own, making the score 16-3 at halftime.

With 4:59 left in the third quarter, Anthony Calvillo would make his day. Anthony Calvillo passed Danny McManus in passing yards, ranking 2nd on the all time list. Calvillo passed him in style, making a 32-yard pass to Jason Armstead, who had to spin around some players to move up to the 32, and on the next play, Calvillo would cap off the drive with a 32 yard TD pass to WR Kerry Watkins, making the score 23-3 for the Al's.

There was a big play in the fourth quarter with a 29-yard pass to Danny Desriveaux. This series was capped of a 3-yard TD run by Avon Colbourne.

However, folks, the Hamilton Tigercats fans would get something to cheer about. After receiving the hand off from QB Casey Printers, RB Tre Smith would run 75 yards for a touchdown. The games final score was 33-10 for the Alouettes, with their new Head Coach Mark Trestman winning his firts CFL game with the Alouettes.

This game, however, all goes to Montreal Alouettes QB Anthony Calvillo in my mind. Calvillo moved up to second place in most passing yards. Although he is still over 20,000 yards away from former Toronto Argonauts QB Damon Allen, this is still quite an accomplishment.

Overall, I think the Ti-Cats' poor quality of play left their home crowd of 20,589 wondering if this would be a repeat of the past three years (the total record of the three years is 12-42).

Mark Trestman's first game as Alouettes head coach was a success, and the players gave their new leader a good old Gatorade dumping as a congratulations for his first CFL win.

"It is undeniable that this is my first win as a head coach," Trestman said. "But at the end of the day, we have a long season. It was a good start. But we have a long, long way to go." said Trestman, who has quite a NFL-filled history.

Trestman was chosen over several candidates, including Edmonton Eskimos head coach Tom Higgins. Alouettes fans will be hoping that every game ends the same as this last game, and that they can improve this season with a new coaching staff.

Player of the Game: This goes out to Anthony Calvillo, who moved up on the passing yard list into second place. There's still a long way to go Calvillo, but you've clinched the second place spot. Congratulations Calvillo, this game was yours.

Sources: youtube.com

Fatal Accident at the Dallas Cowboys' New Stadium

Chris Allen — Mon, 16 Jun 2008 04:55:55 -0400

Timothy Mackinnon, 45, an electrician for JMEG Electric, died on Saturday in the fourth accident at the Dallas Cowboys new stadium construction site. This is the second accident in the past week.

Mackinnon was preforming a power test on a ladder when he touched a high-voltage line. He then became wedged between the ladder and the stadium wall. A co-worker carried him down and tried to revive him, but the attempts were unsuccessful.

The Arlington Fire Department was called at approximately 11:05 AM, five minutes after the accident occurred. They arrived after five minutes, and their revival attempts were also unsuccessful.

Mackinnon was pronounced dead at the Arlington Memorial Hospital. JMEG Electric was a subcontractor hired by the stadium's main contractor, Manhattan Construction.

This, however, was not the first accident at the construction site. Only two days before, a crane accident sent three workers to the hospital. In August, a worker was hit in the back with a crane hook, and stayed in the hospital overnight.

In January 2007, a worker fell 20' through a hole between levels of the stadium. He was taken to the hospital in critical condition, but recovered and returned to work at a later date.

Manhattan Construction released a statement saying that its employees are "deeply saddened."

"Our focus right now is with the family and friends of this individual as well as on the investigation of the incident," said the statement, released after the accident occurred.

Winnipeg Blue Bombers: Milt Stegall to Return for Another Season

Chris Allen — Fri, 15 Feb 2008 10:48:22 -0500

Milt Stegall is back for another season, and is looking to build on the success of last season, but with one exception.

Stegall wants the Grey Cup win.

"I always say I think we have a great chance to win a Grey Cup. Coach Berry and everyone there, they've put together a great team and a great atmosphere and I want to be a part of that."

Star wide receiver Stegall and his Blue Bombers lost the Grey Cup championship game last year after Quarterback Kevin Glenn was injured in the Conference Championship game trying to recover a botched hand off to Charles Roberts.

Stegall hopes to build on his already record-breaking career with the Blue Bombers as he scored his 138th touchdown last year, breaking the previous record. Stegall currently has 141 touchdowns.

Stegall decided to move north in 1995, deciding to play for the Winnipeg Blue Bombers. He started as a wide receiver, but later became a slotback. Stegall has played for the Bombers for his whole time in the CFL. Stegall holds the following records:

Most TDs in a career - 144
Most TD receptions in a career - 141
Most TDs in one season - 23 (2002)
Most TD receptions in one season - 23 (2002)
Most yards per catch in a season - 26.5 (1997)
Most yards receiving by a Bombers receiver - 14,695
Most yards in one season by a Bombers receiver - 1896 (2002)
Most 1000+ yard receiving seasons by a Bombers receiver - 10
CFL Most Outstanding Player - 2002

Stegall has in total received for 14,695 yards in his 13 seasons with the Bombers, with his top year being 2002, where Stegall received for 1,896 yards. Stegall, along with the other Blue Bombers players and fans, hope for the Winnipeg team to win their first Grey Cup since 1990, the longest current Grey Cup drought.