RIDER LINEBACKERS ???

Will Riders trio follow Hall?

Talented linebackers Lloyd, McKenzie, Lucas become free agents Feb. 16

By Mario Annicchiarico, The Edmonton JournalJanuary 31, 2009


From the outside looking in, it appears Saskatchewan Roughriders general manager Eric Tillman has 16 days to pull a rabbit out of his hat when it comes to signing his three key free-agent linebackers.

Canadian Football League free agency kicks in Feb. 16 and talented Rider ' backers Maurice Lloyd, Anton McKenzie and Sean Lucas no doubt all look enticing to lurking GMs.
Not to mention ex-Roughriders defensive co-ordinators like new Eskimos head coach Richie Hall, who is all too familiar with the talented trio.

That's where Hall will likely be looking to revamp his new defence. He isn't saying it, but you know the Eskimos are thinking it.
Obviously, the trio must be contemplating it as well since none have signed for a return to Regina -- yet.

Lloyd was on a Regina radio station last month talking about his contract status and said he was looking forward to 2009.

"To be honest I am. I've been waiting for the new season. I'm just sitting here patiently waiting to see what's going to go on with the free agency and the contract thing."
Asked if he wanted to remain a Roughrider, the Daytona Beach, Fla., product stated: "The situation is that I want to stay, but it's a business," perhaps leaving the barn door open a crack.
It only makes sense that Hall would want to bust in and ride off with a prized purebred who's five-foot-11 and 235 pounds. You'll remember Lloyd is the man who rattled Esks quarterback Ricky Ray with a teeth-jarring hit in a 55-9 pasting in Regina late in the season.

"I'm happy he's getting the chance to be a head coach," said Lloyd of Hall. "He's been working hard for it, but at the same time it kind of hurts. You lose a friend when he left."
Lloyd, who turns 25 on the last available day of free agency, Feb. 15, was then
flat-out asked if Hall's departure would have any bearing on his decision.

"To be honest, I can't say. I don't know. His defence fit the type of player I am, but like I say this is a business and I have to do what's best for my family regardless of what others think or assume I may do."

Lloyd also had an opinion of fellow linebackers McKenzie and Lucas.
"People don't understand that you grow friendships with each player and chemistry is the most important thing out of a lot of things on that field," Lloyd told the radio station. "Not having those two would have a lot to do with how things go because you have to learn to play with new players. Those two don't have anything to do with my decision. What does, is my agent, Marty, and Eric Tillman putting me in the best situation possible."

Hall, obviously not wanting to get
challenged with tampering laws, turned down any discussion of the possibility of landing one, two or even all three of his former players.

"If players become free agents, they
become free agents," Hall told Regina media last month. "That doesn't mean they are coming to Edmonton. Wherever the guy goes, the decision has to be best for them and their families
because there aren't any guarantees. There is always the unknown, but I
really haven't thought about players because there are a million things
going through my mind."

Word has it Lloyd could draw upwards of $120,000-plus. Take away Agustin Barrenechea's six-figure deal the Esks just walked away from and you're almost there. The Esks are likely more interested in the services of Lloyd, an all-star middle linebacker, than the more under-rated Lucas. McKenzie is another option.

Lance Frazier, who re-signed with the Roughriders, has been in daily contact with Lloyd and told the Regina Leader Post's Murray McCormick that deep down his buddy wants to remain a
Rider.

"I can hear that in his voice when we talk every day,'' said Frazier. "I don't know what it's going to take to get him to sign before free agency ... He talks about his family a lot and he rarely speaks about the money.

"It's more of him being paid what he
deserves at this point as far as money goes,'' continued Frazier. "He wants to be a Rider -- period. If B.C. or Edmonton have interest in him ... if they threw the same amount of money at him as the Riders, he would be back. It would have to be a crazy amount of money for him to leave the Roughriders.''

One thing is certain, it will all unfold shortly and with this trio -- if they
remain unsigned -- it likely will not take long for those rabbits to start finding new hats.
Barrenechea a Tiger-Cat

Barrenechea, released Thursday by the Green and Gold, has rejoined the Hamilton Tiger-Cats, the CFL team said on
Friday.

He played his first four CFL seasons
in Hamilton before being traded to
Edmonton late in the 2007 season.
mannicchiarico@thejournal.canwest.com
© Copyright (c) The Edmonton Journal

Interested in checking out recently signed Roughriders' receiver Todd Blythe? The Iowa State product can be found on Youtube

CLICK HEREhttp://ca.youtube.com/watch?v=_lAfm1MoZ2Y

SCOUTING REPORT ON TODD BLYTH

By Rob Vanstone 01-30-2009 COMMENTS(0) Rider Rumblings

Here's the word on recently signed Roughriders receiver Todd Blythe.
The Ed McCaffrey comparison pretty much dictates the content of my first training-camp column!

2008 NFL Draft Prospect Scouting Report:personTodd Blythe, WR, Iowa St.Blythe has had a very productive four-year career at Iowa St. and though he may not be mentioned among the other elite receivers in the country, that doesn't mean he should be on the board for too long.He had an outstanding season as a freshman, catching 39 passes for 833 yards (21.4 yards per catch) and nine touchdowns. He kept up the productivity as a sophomore, catching 51 passes for 1,000 yards and nine scores. 2006 was set to be another big season, but he missed four games and was limited to only 34 catches and 484 yards. But, he still made plays (despite his and Iowa St.'s struggles), finding the end zone in all but one of eight games he played, totaling eight touchdowns.

This season, he was a bright spot in a 3-9 season, rounding out his Iowa St. career by becoming the Cyclones' all-time leading receiver, catching 52 passes for 779 yards and five touchdowns to finish with school records of 176 catches, 3,096 yards and 31 touchdowns.Blythe has all the makings of an excellent NFL receiver - great size (he's anywhere from 6'4 to 6'6, depending on where you look), great hands, and big-play ability. Also, he's a physical receiver, which helps him both as a pass-catcher and as a blocker.

The one knock on him is that he isn't as fast as some scouts would like for him to be. That hasn't stopped one of the most prominent talent evaluators out there (Gil Brandt) from speaking very highly of him in an October article in the Des Moines Register; where he raved about Blythe's blocking and pass-catching ability and compared him to former Denver Broncos receiver Ed McCaffrey, who had a similar make-up to Blythe.

This is a guy worth taking a chance on. His talent and production can't be overlooked and his playmaking skills and physicality can overrule any issues about how fast he may or may not be. He could see himself move up at least high into the third round if he runs well enough at the combine, but seems set to be a Day Two guy. If he falls too far (NFLDraftScout.com has him rated in the 7th round), he could be another guy that falls into the 'steal' category, making a lot of teams rue passing on him.

RIDERS SCHEDULE RELEASED

The 2009 CFL schedule is posted on the league's website. This (tentative?) information has yet to be released to the media.

Worth noting: This year's Labour Day Classic is a night game!
Anyway, here's what's up (all times are Saskatchewan time; home games are in caps).

EXHIBITION
June 17 — at Edmonton, 7 p.m.
June 23 — CALGARY, 7 p.m.
REGULAR SEASON
July 3 — B.C., 7 p.m.
July 11 — at Toronto, 11 a.m.
July 18 — MONTREAL, 1 p.m.
July 25 — EDMONTON, 2 p.m.
Aug. 1 — at Calgary, 7 p.m.
Aug. 7 — at B.C., 8:30 p.m.
Aug. 16 — HAMILTON, 5 p.m.
Aug. 21 — at Montreal, 5:30 p.m.
Sept. 6 — WINNIPEG, 5:30 p.m.
Sept. 13 — at Winnipeg, 2 p.m.
Sept. 20 — EDMONTON, 2 p.m.
Sept. 26 — at Edmonton, 4 p.m.
Oct. 2 — at B.C., 8:30 p.m.
Oct. 10 — TORONTO, 7 p.m.
Oct. 17 — at Calgary, 1:30 p.m.
Oct. 24 — B.C., 3:30 p.m.
Oct. 31 — at Hamilton, noon.
Nov. 7 — CALGARY, 6 p.m.

LEAVE IT TO BEAVER

Here's the latest from Riderville . . .

Saskatchewan Roughrider General Manager Eric Tillman announced today they have signed import running back Justin Beaver and import receiver Todd Blythe to contracts. Financial details of the signings were not released.

Beaver (5’7 – 190 lbs) had a remarkable college career at Wisconsin Whitewater where he was named the outstanding player in Division III football in his senior season when he rushed for 2,455 yards. He broke both team and conference rushing records for the Warhawks and the WIAC and was awarded with the 2007 Gagliardi Trophy, given to Division III's top student-athlete of the year. Beaver signed as a free agent with the Green Bay Packers in 2008, but was released prior to the season. "Justin is a terrific young man and player,” stated Tillman. “His life's story, which I'm sure much will be written about at training camp, is just as compelling as his athletic accomplishments. Running back is obviously an area of strength for us, but Justin Beaver is the kind of kid who relishes challenges. He may be short, but there's nothing small about his play. And, he has excellent quickness, too. The Packers staff described him as 'quick as a hiccup.

'" Blythe (6’5 – 214 lbs) played four seasons at Iowa State. He had 52 receptions for 779 yards and five touchdowns in his senior season and had an outstanding sophomore season when he compiled 51 catches for 1,000 yards and nine touchdowns. Blythe finished his collegiate career with 176 receptions for 3,096 yards and 31 touchdowns. He was named first-team all-conference as voted on by the Big 12 coaches in his sophomore season. Blythe signed as a free agent with the New Orleans Saints in 2008, but was released prior to the season.

"Todd is a big target, who runs good routes and has nice hands,” added Tillman. “His size, of course, will present significant matchup problems for opposing defenders, but, even if he were three inches shorter, Todd would be a very good player. We've been pursuing him for months and months, and we're delighted to finally have Todd as a Rider."

OFFENSIVE LINE LOOK FORWARD TO NEW COACH

By Ian Hamilton, Saskatchewan News Network; Regina Leader-PostJanuary 29, 2009 7:01 AM



REGINA -- In his 14 CFL seasons, Gene Makowsky has seen his share of turnovers -- not to mention turnover.

When the Saskatchewan Roughriders hire a new offensive line coach in the coming days, that individual will be the eighth position coach Makowsky has had since joining the team in 1995.

"(A coaching change) is a problem if you let it become one," said Makowsky, who has received guidance over his CFL career from (in chronological order) Pat Perles, Bill Dole, Bill Dobson, Carl Brennan, Marcel Bellefeuille, George Cortez and Mike Gibson.

"We all realize it's a change business. What you have to do is take the things that work for you that each coach has given you. I still have some basic things that coach Dole presented to me and I still try to incorporate those."

The Roughriders have been in the market for a new O-line coach since Gibson left Dec. 10 to become the Hamilton Tiger-Cats' offensive co-ordinator. Bob Wylie, currently a member of the Winnipeg Blue Bombers' staff, is the rumoured frontrunner.

Saskatchewan also needs a new defensive backs coach in the wake of the departure of Richie Hall, who became the head coach of the Edmonton Eskimos on Dec. 17. Argos defensive co-ordinator Kavis Reed is believed to be a candidate to replace Hall.

Hall's other job in Saskatchewan, that of defensive co-ordinator, went to Gary Etcheverry. That means the Roughriders are seeking a D-line coach as well, since Etcheverry filled that role last season after Ron Estay took a leave of absence. Estay has since retired.

"Richie Hall's defence really, really fit me as a defensive lineman," said veteran tackle Marcus Adams. "With Gary Etcheverry's defence, I don't know what to expect. With the new D-line coach, whoever that may be, you've got to make sure you adjust to what they want.

"I'm sure it will be different than Estay's and Richie Hall's teachings, but at the same time, I know it'll be right. I'm willing to do whatever it takes."
The willingness of players to adapt to a new position coach is vital. For the offensive linemen, that may mean learning new assignments and terms if the coach wants to make changes.

"I've seen offensive line coaches who came in and wanted to keep the same terminology so their offensive linemen felt comfortable," said centre Jeremy O'Day, who's about to work for his seventh O-line coach in Saskatchewan.

"I've also seen coaches come in who wanted to change every term in the playbook, just to make the guys not feel comfortable. It's just a matter of where their coaching philosophy is."
That said, coaches also can help the transition by being open to suggestions.
As perennial all-stars, Makowsky and O'Day obviously have a few tricks of the trade to share.

For a new coach to tell them to change the way they've done things throughout their careers would almost be counterproductive.

"Most coaches have given me a little leeway, especially later on in my career," Makowsky said. "Most coaches really don't care how you do it as long as you get it done.
"Some people might not have the best golf swing in the world, but they can still get it out there. Most coaches are pretty good that way. They're not so rigid that they can't compromise on certain ways of doing things."

And if players are too rigid -- well, there are seven other CFL teams with which to play.
"Even last year, Estay would have us do one thing and (Etcheverry) wanted us to do another thing," Adams said. "We questioned it, but when it comes down to it, every coach doesn't have the same mindset. But they do have one goal in mind and that's to win championships."

© Copyright (c) Canwest News Service

RIDERS ADD THREE TO DEFENCE

Saskatchewan Roughrider General Manager Eric Tillman announced today they have signed import defensive back Derrick Johnson, import linebacker Kye Stewart and import defensive end Trumaine "Joe" Sykes to contracts. Financial details of the signings were not released.

Johnson (5'11 – 190 lbs) has spent time with Seattle, Houston and Miami over the past two years. He dressed in five NFL games with Atlanta and Houston in 2006. Johnson was drafted in the 6th round of the 2005 NFL Draft by San Francisco and dressed in 14 regular season games for the 49ers in his rookie season and started in four of those games. Prior to joining the NFL, Johnson was a standout cornerback at the University of Washington.

Stewart (5'10 – 210 lbs) spent four seasons at Illinois State. He led his team in his senior season with 131 defensive tackles, 7.5 tackles for a loss and three quarterback sacks. He finished his collegiate career with an amazing 380 defensive tackles, along with 20 tackles for a loss.

Sykes (6'3 – 275 lbs) spent last season with the AFL2's Green Bay Blizzards and was named the league's Top Defensive Player. He finished last year with a league leading 22 tackles for a loss and 19.5 quarterback sacks, while picking up 49 defensive tackles, eight forced fumbles and five fumble recoveries. Sykes spent the 2006 season with the Washington Redskins where he dressed in one regular season game.

"All three of these young men will bring a very high level of competition to our upcoming training camp," stated Tillman. "In fact, each will have a very legitimate shot of earning a spot on a defence which is already very talented."
at 1/28/2009 0 comments

INTERVIEW WITH GARY ETCHEVERRY

INTERVIEW WITH GARY ETCHEVERRY. CLICK HERE http://www.saskriders.com/

INTERVIEW WITH GARY ETCHEVERRY

Interview with Gary Etcheverry. Click here http://www.saskriders.com/

REGINA -- Young role models from 15 Regina elementary schools learned Monday that conflicts happen everywhere but there are simple ways to resolve them.

Volunteer students in grades 4 to 8 who are part of the Playground Conflict Management program within their schools had the chance to meet another role model in their community — Saskatchewan Roughrider Jeremy O’Day.

As a guest speaker he congratulated the group of 400 conflict managers gathered at F.W. Johnson Collegiate for a conference, on their efforts to help younger students.

“You guys are the team captains of your schools,” O’Day said. “There is always someone who is looking up to you.”
In a classroom session with grade 7 and 8 students, O’Day talked about the types of conflicts that he sees while playing football. He said communicating with other players is important to see how to correct mistakes such as missing blocks or passes, rather than placing the blame on a teammate.

On a football team you have to get along with a big group to create a positive environment and that is exactly what playground conflict managers do.

“That helps everyone at the school when (kids) are able to feel comfortable and come to school without feeling like they are going to get bullied or picked on,” O’Day said.

During the afternoon conference, the conflict managers from across the city met with each other, participated in leadership activities and got a boost of encouragement for the volunteer work they do at recesses through the school year.

Janne Hislop, a teacher at Elsie Mironuck School helped co-ordinate the 12th annual conference. She said the students who volunteer are enthusiastic leaders who are helpful, caring and generous. She sees the success of the program on the playground at her school. The volunteers act as role models for younger students and are able to help out when common school-yard arguments break out.

“Older students are there to listen to both sides of the story, figure out exactly what happened and make sure that in the end both students are happy,” Hislop said.

Bryce Giesbrecht, a grade seven conflict manager understood that playgrounds are not always fun places, especially for kids who are not very popular. He said most problems he helps deal with are very simple, but sometimes they can escalate into fist fights where kids get hurt.

“The most common answer (to problems) is to just stay away from each other, but (this) doesn’t really help,” he said. “We don’t make solutions for them, they have to come up with them on their own, but we talk them through it.”

Hislop said the mediation training these students receive also gives them the skills to deal with peers their own age. She said the students are empowered to help each other rather than always going to an adult.

Meanwhile, a cycle of positive behaviour continues as younger students take on the responsibility and become conflict managers themselves.
achristianson@leaderpost.canwest.com

MIDNIGHT MUSINGS FROM REGINA

By Rob Vanstone 01-27-2009 COMMENTS(0) Rider Rumblings


A few random thoughts on the Saskatchewan Roughriders . . .

• No, they shouldn't go after Kevin Glenn, whom the Winnipeg Blue Bombers are attempting to trade. Glenn's stock has plummeted after an uninspired 2008 season. Let's see how Darian Durant, et al, fare in 2009.

• Yes, they should hire a quarterbacks coach. It only makes sense, given the inexperience at that position. However, it seems unlikely that such a coach will be appointed.

• Don't expect Bobby Jurasin to replace Ron Estay as the defensive line coach. Jurasin would appear to be a logical choice, but there appears to be an inexplicable chasm between No. 71 and some members of the Roughriders' hierarchy.

• Watch for confirmation that Bob Wylie will succeed Mike Gibson, now of the Hamilton Tiger-Cats, as the offensive line coach.

• Offensive co-ordinator Paul LaPolice is a very nice man.

• Do not judge defensive co-ordinator Gary Etcheverry by the team's porous performance in 2000, when he previously held that job description. In Year 1 of a rebuilding phase, the Roughriders did not have the personnel to stop anyone. That said, please note that linebacker George White was named the West Division's outstanding rookie in 2000, so give Etcheverry some credit for that.

• Where is the schedule? It would be nice to start planning some summer holidays.

LIVING ON THE ETCH
By Rob Vanstone 01-26-2009 COMMENTS(0) Rider Rumblings

Roughriders defensive co-ordinator Gary Etcheverry met the media on Monday. Here is what he had to say:

Does it feel any different than the first time? “It’s a lot different. The most significant difference is I’m missing Richie. I’m going to miss him big-time, as we all are in this organization. I wish him all the luck in the world, but I’m really going to miss him.’’You had a hand in putting that defence together and had quite a lot of influence on that defence. Are things really going to change all that much? “I think things are always changing. If you’re staying the same, then you’re going to be losing, so we’ve got to be ahead of the curve and see what happens.

’’How is your philosophy different from Richie’s? “I think maybe a little more aggressive. That probably isn’t even fair, because he had progressed quite a bit. We were very integral working together nine years ago. I don’t know that it’ll change that much.

’’How has your philosophy changed from your first time as defensive co-ordinator here? “Excellent question. It has changed quite a bit. I can’t share with you how it has changed, but it has changed quite a bit. There’s some things that are at the heart of sound that are really a key priority. We’re going to be sound. We’re just going to look like we’re going about it in very different ways.

’’You have been known as a guy who likes to think outside the box and dares to be different. Even last year, you were going with two-man rushes the odd time. Will we see the same kind of things that are a bit out of the norm? “You’ll see the same kinds of things that are different. We’ll do it exactly the way it’s been done before, just a little bit different.’’You were looking to become the head coach of a university program. Does this change anything?

“It’s still a goal. It’s a long-term goal now, instead of both a short- and long-term goal. That’s still where my passion lies. It’s something I want to do. I just have fallen short up to this point . . . As soon as Richie was announced, the job was offered to me. I very much appreciate the fact that both Ken and Eric and the organization did that. Quite honestly, at that point in time, I had come to grips with the fact that the University of Toronto had an opening and filled it. St. Francis Xavier had an opening and didn’t respond to my advances, so I assumed that they were going to go elsewhere to man their position, and they have since done so. When it was offered to me, I said, ‘I need to see these things out,’ and I did that.’’Who is going to coach what on defence?

“We’re still working that sort of thing out. We don’t know. It’s too early to tell. One of my big things is you learn best by teaching, so a lot of times the players are coaching themselves.’’Would you like as many of the same guys back as possible? You could lose some guys, like Maurice Lloyd.

“Both Eric and Ken are aware of the prototypes of the people we would be looking for. I’m kind of old-school. My mandate is to coach what comes off the bus. Personnel has never been an issue with Eric. In my interaction and interface with him, personnel is not an excuse, and it never has been. That’s certainly the way I looked at it last season with the personnel we had on defence. One of the things that needs to be said is with Eric, he and his family love this province. This is an ideal fit for him. He’s obsessed with not only short-term success but success that will take this franchise well into its future. In answer to your question, personnel is never an issue. He knows the players that I favour. Fundamentally, I’m working with the people that I’m working with.

’’How difficult was it to coach what came off the bus in 2000 when it was an entirely new group of defensive players? “What came off the bus in 2000 was a bunch of freshmen. There’s an old saying, especially in the secondary — where we were 100-per-cent freshmen in 2000 — that for every rookie, that’s a touchdown a game that you’re giving up. At times, it was pretty damn close to that. The 2000 season was a distinct anomaly. I don’t know if you went back in football history, you might be able to find some rural high school that went in with a plan that, ‘We’ll take our knocks in the first year or two with a bunch of first-year players and that will bear fruit three or four years down the road.’ I don’t know if that’s happened very frequently in professional football or pay-for-play football. I don’t know if that’s happened in Division 1, 2 or 3 in the NCAA in the U.S. That was quite an experiment . . . quite an experience.

’’What are going to be the trademarks of your defence? “I hope we can contribute to winning. That’s Number 1. We always look to see how we can contribute to winning the football game. I’ve said often that I’d sign a contract that if we gave up 700 yards and six touchdowns and we’d win every game, I’d be glad to author that defensive performance. Clearly, we don’t know that in advance and we’re not trying to do that. If I’m going to oversimplify it, I’d say that getting the ball out of the quarterback’s hands fast is a key starting point. If we in fact believe that this is a quarterback-centric league or game — I think it’s becoming a quarterback-centric game virtually anywhere you play it — then we’re going to get the ball out of his hands and see if we can’t beat the guy that gets the ball. He can’t have it for too long. That’s a good place to start.’’

Riders set to promote Etcheverry

Canwest News ServiceJanuary 26, 2009 11:52 AM

Riders defensive assistant coach Gary Etcheverry
Photograph by: Bryan Schlosser, The Leader-Post

Gary Etcheverry could be due for a promotion.

It appears Etcheverry, a defensive assistant coach with the Saskatchewan Roughriders, will be promoted to defensive co-ordinator. Etcheverry is expected to fill the vacancy which was created when Richie Hall was hired as the head coach of the Edmonton Eskimos on Dec. 17.
An announcement on Etcheverry's promotion could be made early this week. Etcheverry and Riders head coach Ken Miller have a relationship that dates back to their time as coaches with the Toronto Argonauts. When Etcheverry was the head coach with the Argonauts in 2002, he added Miller to his coaching staff.

Etcheverry has spent eight seasons in the CFL, including 2000 and 2008 with the Roughriders. He was the Roughriders' defensive co-ordinator in 2000, under head coach Danny Barrett.

The Riders are also believed to be in talks with Argos' defensive co-ordinator Kavis Reed, who is said to be considering coaching opportunities in the United States. Reed is being considered as a defensive backs coach.

CFL veteran Dave Ritchie also remains in the mix as a possible assistant coach.
It's believed that former Winnipeg Blue Bombers offensive line coach Bob Wylie is all but confirmed as the Riders' offensive line coach. Wylie would replace Mike Gibson, who left the Riders to become the offensive co-ordinator with the Hamilton Tiger-Cats.

NEIL HUGHES INTERVIEW

This a good interview with Neil Hughes after he signed his new contract.

Click herehttp://riderville.com/ and go to RiderVision

ROD PEDERSEN BLOG

5 BURNING QUESTIONS

The Canadian Football League has been in the news lots lately, in these dog days of winter. Dominating the headlines was the Toronto Argonauts' search for a new head coach, which concluded Friday with the hiring of longtime NFL assistant and NFL Europe head coach Bart Andrus.However with the CFL free agency deadline looming at midnight February 16, and still plenty of openings for assistant coaching positions across the league left to be filled, plenty of questions remain.

Here are some the most glaring:

1. Will Anthony Calvillo re-sign with the East Division Alouettes?- You would have to agree the 36-year old quarterback is the biggest fish in the current sea of free agents. His 5,624 yards passing and mind-boggling 43 touchdowns earned him the league's Most Outstanding Player Award in 2008 so by voting standards, he's the league's top player. The extension he signed in October of 2007 will run out in mid-February and barring a new deal with the Alouettes, he'll be free to listen to offers.However sources in Montreal say if Calvillo plays anywhere in 2009, it'll be with the Alouettes. The only thing standing in the way is his wife Alexia's ongoing battle with B-cell lymphoma. Calvillo hinted at retirement near the end of the 2008 campaign, but has yet to make his future known. Given the fact the Als lost the Grey Cup championship in their own park in November, it would be reasonable to expect A-C to return for some unfinished business.

2. Where will free agent non-import RB Jesse Lumsden sign, if not with the Hamilton Tiger-Cats?- It's hard to believe Lumsden is already entering his fifth CFL campaign. It seemed like only yesterday he burst onto the Ticats' scene as their first round, 6th overall pick in the 2005 Canadian College Draft after a stellar career at McMaster University. However injuries have hampered his promising career mightily, limiting his rushing yards to just 307, 163, 743 and 584 respectively over the past four seasons.Now 26 years of age, the 6'2", 226 lb back finds himself at a crossroads. The Ticats have reportedly put a deal on the table which would make Lumsden one of the highest-paid Canadians in the game. However sources in Edmonton say the Eskimos made a strong play to land Lumsden at last season's trade deadline but were rebuffed. Might they be putting together a solid financial offer in hopes of attracting him once the deadline hits? It would seem like a natural fit, as Lumsden was born in Edmonton during his father Neil's glory days with the powerhouse Eskimos. But don't expect the Tabbies to let him slip through their fingers easily. He has become the face of their franchise.

3. Whom will the Saskatchewan Roughriders look to to replace defensive coordinator Richie Hall, who left to become the head coach in Edmonton?Roughrider General Manager Eric Tillman says an announcement on this very topic may be made by the end of this week. Tillman also pointed out on Wednesday that an offer to the new DC has been made, and in turn, has been accepted. All that's left is the official announcement. The smart money is on former Argo coach Gary Etcheverry, who spent the 2008 season as a defensive consultant in Saskatchewan. He has worked with Miller in prior football incarnations and clearly there's a welcome familiarity there. However the names of Dave Ritchie and Kavis Reed have entered the mix.There's a very real possibility all three may be hired and share the role with Etcheverry as the top dog. Ritchie left the BC Lions as their defensive coordinator after the 2007 season, citing retirement, but it's clear the coaching bug hasn't left him. Does it ever really? With Ritchie's advanced age and Etcheverry's stated desire to be a head coach at the CIS level, Reed could enter the equation as a defensive backs coach with a succession plan where he may one day become the D.C. With the departure of Hall, the Riders lost a coordinator AND a DBs coach.

4. What are the B.C. Lions going to do with all of their cap space?With the release of high profile veterans such as SB Jason Clermont, LB Otis Floyd and DT Tyrone Williams, the departure of free agent DE Cameron Wake to the NFL's Miami Dolphins and their decision not to pick up the option on RB Charles Roberts' contract, Lions coach and GM Wally Buono is sitting on reportedly $500,000 in extra salary to throw around.Rumours persist the Lions are lining their ducks in a row to put forth an offer in the neighbourhood of $150,000 per season for Saskatchewan Roughriders' linebacker Maurice Lloyd, who is poised to become a free agent. Lloyd would have to be considered the top defensive free agent on the market, coming off an All-Star season where he was also named Saskatchewan's defensive MVP. Although he's made it known his preference is to remain in Saskatchewan, Tillman may not be prepared to match the Lions' offer. The Eskimos may join the party as well, creating a bidding war.

5. Who will new Argonauts coach Bart Andrus hire to fill out his coaching staff?This may be the most intriguing question of them all. Only offensive coordinator Steve Burratto will be retained from the staff employed by Toronto head coaches Don Mathews and Rich Stubler during the 2008 season. Andrus brings an offensive mind to Toronto, so the retention of Burratto is something of a head-scratcher. Perhaps it's for continuity and guidance.Andrus' first hire (other than Burratto) was journeyman Peter Kuharchek as defensive coordinator. Kuharchek's 40-plus years in the coaching ranks have included stops in NFL Europe with the Rhein Fire, the Arena Football League and the B.C. Lions back in 1991. Kuharchek told the media upon his hiring Wednesday, that he has lots of homework to do in order to catch up to speed with the new CFL.

RIDER UPDATE

Update on the Rider coaching situation and talks with Maurice Lloyd.

Click herehttp://www.leaderpost.com/sports/index.html

Then scroll down to Multi Media and play the interview with Eric Tillman

It turned out to be an eventful day on the Riders beat.I talked to Teale Orban and Neal Hughes, two Regina products who had chances to fulfill their football dreams by playing for the Saskatchewan Roughriders.

Orban’s opportunity was shorter than the one enjoyed by Hughes. Orban attended the Riders training camp in 2008 and was released. He’s a free agent and waiting for a call from any CFL team.Hughes re-signed with the Riders on Tuesday. He’s headed into his sixth season in 2009 and truly loves being a Roughrider.“My heart is with the Roughriders,’’ Hughes said. “I grew up loving the team and they were always my favourite players on the field. To be one of them now . . . it’s surreal. Someday I will look back on it when I’m retired and appreciate it more.

’’Hughes has remained a Rider because of his versatility. Orban wants to be a Canadian quarterback in the CFL but knows that will take a special organization to see that dream come true.“There has to be a general consensus by the coaching staff that is something we’re going to try,’’ said Orban. “Whether it’s on offense or defence, you’re probably going to take some flack for it. For it to happen, it’s going to have to take the right group of guys and they are going to have to be dedicated to seeing it happen.

’’Hughes showed Tuesday why he’s considered to be among the Riders’ best players, despite modest statistics. He re-signed with the Riders then headed to the gym to continue his off-season workouts.

About 15 Riders work out together as they gear up for the 2009 season.Orban is also working out and remains optimistic that he might get another shot. He appreciates the support he has received from the community while he pursues that dream.“I really appreciate what the Riders did for me and everyone has been awesome,’’ Orban said. “The first time was the chance of a lifetime. That was pretty cool.’’

Ken Miller Talks !!

Saskatchewan Roughriders head coach Ken Miller was on 620 CKRM's Sportsline last night (photo courtesy goredlands.com). Here's what he said:

CKRM: Any plans for announcements of hirings on your coaching staff? O-line, defensive coordinator, DBs ... ?MILLER: I think Eric Tillman will be making some announcements as early as Tuesday or Wednesday on some of the positions. We're pretty close on just about everybody. There are just some details to wrap up before we make the announcements.

CKRM: Will you announce all the new coaches at once?MILLER: I don't know if we'll get 'em all announced at once but we're pretty close to having a staff nailed down.

CKRM: It is imperative that they all have CFL experience?MILLER: Well, they all do. And that's pretty important to me. Marc Trestman proved you can be successful without it, but Jim Popp had tremendous influence on what went on in Montreal. But CFL experience is important.

CKRM: There's a farewell party for Richie Hall on Friday. We're sure you'll miss him.MILLER: Who? (laughs) Richie and I are great friends and I respect him enormously. One of the things the Riders have had over the years is a defensive identity and part of that is going to go with him to Edmonton. Some of the things we did are specific to him so we'll have to form a new identity that'll revolve around our new coordinator.

CKRM: You also have to replace Mike Gibson as O-line coach because he's the new offensive coordinator in Hamilton, correct?MILLER: That is correct. And when losing men like that is really hard for us, but through all last year I said we had the best staff in the league and when you lose your defensive coordinator to become a head coach and your O-line coach to become a coordinator, I think it proves that out.

CKRM: You signed a couple new receivers last week. There will be a lot of receivers in camp this year...MILLER: It's gonna be really competitive for those American positions. Really, every position. I'm really looking forward to seeing these guys though because Bam Childress is a great returner too. And Quinn has returned a lot with some success as well. I'm anxious to see them.

CKRM: Are you planning to hire a quarterbacks coach?MILLER: We'll probably go in with a fourth offensive coach, and he'll be assigned to that position.

CKRM: Would you have changed anything you did last year?MILLER: Our players played with tremendous effort throughout the season and I thought our coaching staff was cohesive and worked real hard. I think had things turned a bit one way or the other, we would've gone further than we did. The thing we need to improve on is the way we finished.

CKRM: How did you get them to play so hard game in and game out?MILLER: We talked constantly everyday about effort being our edge. We said if we played with that effort on every play, when we got down to the end of the game we'd see what the scoreboard said and most of the time it was in our favour.

CKRM: People are asking about the linebacking pair of Anton McKenzie and Maurice LLoyd?MILLER: Mr. Tillman is in negotiations with those people and for me to jump in with my two cents would not maintain our integrity with those negotiations. But they're in the process.

CKRM: Let's talk about Darian Durant..MILLER: Absolutely. As we go in we'll designate him as our #1 because he had the most experience from last year and did a really nice job. He has seniority and we look forward to some growth. The opportunities he had, and the success, will make him much better.

CKRM: Will your offense change radically with the slotbacks Fantuz and Clermont?MILLER: I think we'll fit them into the system that we have. Fantuz is a big part of that system and now we need to find out how to work Jason into that system as well. I just can't tell you how excited I am to have Jason Clermont on our team. He and I met last week and had a tremendous conversation. I was really excited about him and for him.He is just dedicated to doing anything he can to help the team win. He is a disciplined and hard-nosed player with the local flavour so it's great for our fans as well.

CKRM: Does that local player depth mean you can load up on Americans elsewhere??MILLER: We have thought about it. As I've talked to Eric Tillman about ratio, we're agreed to use an American in positions where we traditionally haven't.

CKRM: The Calgary Stampeders are the favourites coming back. I'm sure you'd agree..MILLER: They have great talent and are well-coached so they'll be formidable. We look forward to competing against them.

CKRM: Lastly, will you be relieved to get this staff named?MILLER: Absolutely. 10 days ago it looked like it was going to be an unsolvable puzzle but we've had some unbelievably good luck so once we get things in place with contracts, I think people will be pleased with our coaching staff.----

Neil Hughes Re - signs

By mmccormick36 01-20-2009 COMMENTS(0) Rider Rumblings

The latest re-signing from Riderville. Hardly a suprise but still a good re-signing.

General Manager Eric Tillman announced today that potential free agent running back Neal Hughes has re-signed with the Saskatchewan Roughriders. Financial details of the contract have not been released.

Hughes is entering his sixth season with the Green and White. The Regina product dressed in 12 regular season games and the West Semi-Final in 2008. He finished the season with 35 carries for 130 yards and four touchdowns. He also had 16 receptions for 187 yards and three touchdowns.

During his CFL career, Hughes has dressed in 64 regular season games and has 39 rushes for 149 yards and five touchdowns. He has also caught 18 passes for 207 yards and three touchdowns.

The former University of Regina Ram star has also excelled on special teams recording 61 special teams tackles while with the Riders."We're very pleased to extend Neal's relationship with our club,” stated Tillman. “In truth, he's been a Rider since 1980 when he was born here. Growing up in this province, Neal has a unique love for this franchise, and, over the past couple of years, he has certainly developed into one of our best players.

eal is so versatile: he can play both backfield positions, he catches the ball very well, and is one our best special team performers. As such, Neal will be significant factor in our future success."

BC LIONS LOSE WAKE !!

The B.C. Lions have lost a huge piece of their defence as defensive end Cameron Wake has signed a four-year deal with the NFL's Miami Dolphins.
The deal is worth $4.9 million and according to a report in the Globe and Mail it includes a guarantee of $1-million, making it the largest contract ever signed by a CFL player heading to the NFL.

The two-time CFL defensive player of the year worked out for several teams south of the border the past three weeks including the Dolphins.
Wake will likely shift back to outside linebacker for the Dolphins to fully exploit his abilities to get at the quarterback. Wake starred as a linebacker for Penn State before coming to the CFL.

Austin's presence remains with Riders


By Murray McCormick, Leader-PostJanuary 15, 2009



REGINA -- Kent Austin, a year removed from his position as head coach of the Saskatchewan Roughriders, has kept up on the happenings with the CFL team.
Austin, who spent one season as the Riders head coach before resigning to become the offensive co-ordinator with the University of Mississippi Rebels, was pleased to hear that Richie Hall had been hired as the head coach of the Edmonton Eskimos. Hall and Austin were teammates on the 1989 Grey Cup championship team. Hall was Austin’s defensive co-ordinator when the Riders won the 2007 Grey Cup.

“It’s a great opportunity for Richie because he has always wanted to be a head coach,’’ says Austin, who was named the CFL’s coach-of-the-year after his only season at the helm of the Riders. “He has such a great body of work and he’s such a great person. You always like to see good things happen to good people. Richie is one of the good ones.’’

Austin also had an opportunity to coach Darian Durant when he was a backup quarterback with the Riders in 2007. Durant, who was eligible to file for free agency on Feb. 15, re-signed with the Riders on Jan. 4. Riders head coach Ken Miller said recently that Durant would head into training camp on June 7 on top of the quarterback depth chart.

The Riders have four quarterbacks — Durant, Steven Jyles, Drew Tate and Dalton Bell — who are also expected to contend for the position.
Austin wasn’t around to see Durant start in 2008, but remembers that he exhibited most of the traits that he looks for in a quarterback. Austin says a quarterback has to make great decisions in regards to every aspect of the offence, needs to be accurate and make the throws which are required and to be mentally and physically tough.

“Though I didn’t work with him in 2008, I know that he was a great decision-maker and he’s accurate,’’ says Austin. “That’s why I was a fan of Darian’s, because you can work with those first two qualities. You just have to build a system, if he’s going to be your guy, that draws on his strengths and eliminates his weaknesses.
Austin says one of Durant’s strengths at quarterback is his intelligence.
“He also knows how to prepare,’’ says Austin. “A lot of quarterbacks don’t know how to prepare properly and he does.’’
Building that system is the responsibility of Miller and offensive co-ordinator Paul LaPolice. Austin feels that Durant gives them a good foundation.
“I know that they have modified the offence from what I was doing because everyone has their own beliefs in how to attack,’’ says Austin. “None are exactly the same and there are a lot of different ways to skin the cat.’’
The early development of Durant may be part of the legacy left from Austin’s year with the Roughriders. There are other carryovers and Riders general manager Eric Tillman says that Austin’s impact with the Riders is still being felt.
“Kent did so many positive things during his time here but none was greater than creating an environment with a genuine expectation of success,’’ says Tillman. “He was so confident, so positive, and our players, fans, and organization fed off of that energy. It was contagious and that mindset continues today.’’

RIDERS PLANNED FOR SALARY CAP STATUS QUO

Riders planned for salary cap status quo


By Murray McCormick, Saskatchewan News Network; Regina Leader-PostJanuary 15, 2009 5:28 AM


REGINA -- It's business as usual for the CFL and the Saskatchewan Roughriders in regards to the salary cap for 2009.

On Wednesday, the CFL announced that the salary expenditure cap would remain at $4.2 million for a second consecutive year. Eric Tillman, the Riders' general manager, has been operating under the assumption that CFL salary cap would remain the same. In 2008, the cap was increased by 3.75 per cent, from $4.05 million to $4.2 million.

"Because we've been operating under the premise that the cap would remain the same, the announcement will not impact us," Tillman said Wednesday. "Given the current state of the economy, all of us with jobs should be very thankful. Just getting a paycheque is a blessing."

CFL commissioner Mark Cohon said in a media release that the current cap reflects the CFL's responsible approach to the current economy. The league recorded an average attendance of 29,000 in 2009, with the Riders averaging 29,996 after selling out each home game. The CFL also garnered strong ratings on TSN.

"Our league is well positioned for challenging times, because it is affordable for Canadian families, accessible to our fans and prudent in how it conducts its business," Cohon said. "The Board of Governors has strived to maintain that affordability, accessibility and prudence in holding the cap number steady for 2009."

The Riders exceeded the salary cap in 2007 by $76,752 and were fined that amount by the league. That was the first season of the league-enforced salary cap and Tillman inherited a team that was salary heavy.

Tillman declined to answer when asked if the Riders would be over the salary cap for 2008, adding the CFL has asked teams to let it speak in regards to that issue. In 2008, the Riders endured numerous injuries. The Riders were forced to place some players on the nine-game injured list, even though they might have been able to return earlier.

"By sitting players out longer than they were actually injured (placing them on the nine-game injured list), we drove our bottom line up, hurt our product on the field but helped ourselves with the cap," Tillman said. "In truth, we had no other choice because without doing so we were going to be an absolute salary cap disaster."

The Riders also made serious salary-cap decisions leading up to the 2008 season. Quarterback Kerry Joseph, the league's most outstanding player in 2007. was traded to the Argonauts and defensive end Fred Perry was dealt to the Edmonton Eskimos. Veteran linebacker Reggie Hunt and returner-running back Corey Holmes were allowed to leave via free agency to help ease the salary cap crunch.

"We're totally supportive of the cap in the big-picture concept," Tillman said. "Without our brutal injury situation, we would have been in great shape cap wise. I think many people will be surprised when it's official, given the magnitude of what the final number might have been."

KEN MILLER ARTICLE

Patton: Ex-Redlands coach not on ice


11:32 PM PST on Monday, January 12, 2009
By GREGG PATTONThe Press-Enterprise

Before he could get to his office one day last week, Ken Miller had to shovel four inches of snow from his driveway.
But at least, said the head coach of the Saskatchewan Roughriders, "The weather warmed up a bit -- it's around 20-below Celsius."
For those of us here down south, sidestepping palm fronds on the way to work, that would convert to about zero degrees Fahrenheit. If most people who are getting close to their retirement years tend to head for, or stay in, warmer climes, the 67-year-old Miller has happily gone the other way.

Since 2002, the one-time boss of the University of Redlands football program has been an assistant coach in the Canadian Football League, first with the Toronto Argonauts and the past two seasons in Regina, Saskatchewan.

Last month, the Roughriders promoted him to the top spot, 21 years after his last head coaching job at U of R.

"I used to tell my students," said Miller, who as recently as 2001 was teaching biology at Bloomington High School, "If you have an opportunity for an adventure, take it."
No matter when it crops up.

The former Yucaipa High School coach, Miller was a fixture at the U of R for 24 years, 20 of them as an assistant. He ran the program from 1984 to 1987, when the Bulldogs went 10-29. But he remained on staff when Mike Maynard took over, and was on board for seven of Maynard's 10 Southern California Interscholastic Athletic Conference championships.
Maynard isn't surprised that Miller is still going strong.

"He has this horsepower, a high energy level," said Maynard, remembering him from practices and meetings. "He was still coming through when everyone else was getting tired and cranky."
But that isn't the only thing, Maynard said, that impresses people about Miller, whose personality cuts against the coaching stereotype.

"He has a personal warmth," said Maynard. "People just like him. He's honest and consistent.
"He has an ability to see people and problems in a positive way. That's something I've tried to learn from him."

Miller took early retirement from the school after the 2000 season, but wasn't done with football. A former SCIAC colleague, Gary Etcheverry, was coaching in Toronto and lured Miller to the Argonauts in 2002 to assist with the quarterbacks. The "adventure" was on.

The CFL, of course, has its own unique charms divorcing it from the American game. The field is larger (110 yards by 65 yards), with 20-yard end zones. There are 12 players per side and the "offence" gets only three plays to earn a first down.

The pace is more frenetic, too, with a 20-second play clock and no restrictions on backfield players going in motion, forward or otherwise.

The CFL requires about half of the players to be Canadian. Teams do rely heavily on talent that

gets cut from NFL tryouts and mini-camps.

"It's still blocking and tackling," Miller said. "And throwing and catching.
"What still catches me is the tempo of the game. Calling plays, you have to be alert, quick, fast."

He did catch on. He ran the Argos' offensive line from 2003 to 2005, then became a defensive coach for 2006. In 2007 he joined the Roughriders as offensive coordinator. The team led the CFL in touchdowns and went on to win the much-beleaguered franchise's first Grey Cup in 18 years.

It was only the third Grey Cup for Saskatchewan since it began competing for the prize in 1924. The team was 12-6 this past season, but lost in the first round of the playoffs, and head coach Kent Austin left to direct the offense at his alma mater, Mississippi. Miller had made enough of an impression in two years to earn the bump.

"It wasn't because he knew somebody," Maynard said. "He got up there and they saw him work. They said, 'Wow, he's good.' "

Miller said success has enlivened the Saskatchewan faithful, which has filled the team's 30,945-seat stadium for 17 consecutive games.

"The fans are wild here," he said. "This is a small province and we're the only pro team. This is one of the oldest franchises, but we've only won three Grey Cups. Now that we're winning, the expectations are unbelievable."

Miller welcomes the pressure.
"To coach at the pro level the last seven years has been a blessing," said Miller, whose wife, Maureen, shares their sunset adventure in Regina.
They have five grown children living in the States, spread out from coast to coast.

"It's easy to figure out that I'm getting closer to the end of my career," Miller said. "To finish at the pro level is an attraction in its own right, but this is also a great place to be.

"I love being around the players. It's a great organization. I've had a great time here."
The shoveling notwithstanding.
Reach Gregg Patton at 951-368-9597 or gpatton@PE.com

MICHAEL BISHOP

No calls from the CFL
Sean Fitz-Gerald, National Post Published: Tuesday, January 13, 2009
Related Topics

Michael Bishop
Kerry Joseph
Saskatchewan Roughriders
Toronto Argonauts
Football


Michael Bishop has been working out and playing basketball. He has been trying to get a business off the ground in his hometown, about an hour's drive north of Houston, and he has also been waiting.

Nine weeks to the day after the Saskatchewan Roughriders released him, the 32-year-old quarterback had still not received a single telephone call from an executive anywhere in the Canadian Football League. Bishop was hoping someone would call, but resigning himself to the possibility someone would not.

"If someone calls me, they call me -- if not, I'm prepared for a life without football," he said yesterday. "I've been playing football for a long time. I've been around some great players, I've been around some great coaches, but I've also seen the ugly side of football and what it brings."

And perhaps no season was as ugly as the one he completed last year. Bishop lost his job as a starter with the Toronto Argonauts before training camp and was placed on recallable waivers in July before, finally, being traded to Saskatchewan on Aug. 23.

His up-and-down tenure in Regina ended when he was intercepted three times and lost a fumble in a 33-12 West Division semi-final loss to the B. C. Lions. He was released two days later. Most of the frustration from his odd journey, though, lies with the Argos, and the way he was sent packing after more than six seasons in uniform.

Toronto had acquired quarterback Kerry Joseph in a trade with Saskatchewan in March, a move that ultimately split the team's dressing room. Bishop was traded in a bid to end the simmering quarterback controversy.

"I wasn't making any money, so it definitely wasn't a money issue," he said. "I think it was people talking: 'Kerry won the MVP, won a championship, and Saskatchewan doesn't want to bring him back, so let's bring in a name that everybody will recognize.'

"It was the same thing when they brought in Andre Rison, brought in Ricky Williams. It was the same thing with Kerry, and the plan backfired on them. They won four games."
Toronto general manager Adam Rita could not be reached for comment.

The Argos ended the season on a nine-game losing streak, finishing with a 4-14 record that kept them out of the playoffs for the first time since 2001. Bishop had been 11-1 as a starter with the team in 2007.

"I didn't divide the locker room," he said. "I came in, didn't say anything, took my reps, worked out and still hung out with the players. Maybe I should have stepped up and complained and did all the things that, I guess, people thought I would do -- and maybe I would have still been there, I don't know."

Bishop does not know where he will be this spring. With no obvious openings around the CFL, and with the Arena Football League having suspended operations, he has begun to investigate the possibility of playing in two minor-pro leagues trying to get off the ground in the United States -- the United National Gridiron League, and the All American Football League.
He has also been working at his football camp, Fourth Quarter Fitness, where he has been teaching football fundamentals to a group of about 70 teenaged hopefuls. He has also been helping out at his old high school in Willis, Tex.

"Do I want to play football? I've been playing football all my life, so of course I want to play," he said. "But in reality, you can't play football all your life. And I think a lot of people try to play past their prime, or hang on to it instead of looking in another direction. If I need to look in another direction, then I'm able to do that, and I can deal with it."
sfitzgerald@nationalpost.com

MATT DOMINQUEZ IN SASKATOON

Shelly White, the new owner of Buttons'n'Bows, snagged Roughrider Matt Dominguez to show up at her store's grand opening, Saturday Nov. 29. "They were so down to earth and very easy to talk to," she said. "It made it for a great afternoon and start to new new business venture."Pictured here are Dominguez, White's son Carter, 12 months, White, her husband Doug, and their son Jesse, 11.
Photograph by: Shelly White, Reader photo

CHUNKY AND ABOU - MECHREK TO HAVE FOOTBALL CAMP

By Rob Vanstone 01-13-2009 COMMENTS(0) Rider Rumblings

The Cross The Line football camp for offensive and defensive linemen of all ages is to be held Feb. 22, March 1, March 8 and March 15 at the Credit Union EventPlex.The camp is geared toward skills and technique as well as combine training. The cost is $100 per person for four sessions. Linemen will wear full gear. The first three sessions are from 8 to 10 a.m. The final session is from 4 to 5 p.m.

The coaches are Saskatchewan Roughriders offensive lineman Mike Abou-Mechrek, Roughriders defensive tackle Marcus (Chunky) Adams and Brian Murray of Sweatinbuckets Aquatic Fitness.For more information, call Brian Murray at 536-7000 or e-mail sweatinbuckets@hotmail.com

BAM CHILDRESS

Career Transactions



Brandon "Bam" Childress was signed by the Patriots as an undrafted free agent on July 24, 2005 ... Released by the Patriots (9/3/05) and signed to the practice squad (9/4/05) ... Signed from the practice squad to the Patriots' active roster (12/31/05) ... Released by the Patriots (9/3/06) and signed to the practice squad (9/4/06) ... Signed from the practice squad to the Patriots' active roster (9/10/06) ... Released by the Patriots (9/12/06) and signed to the practice squad (9/13/06) ... Signed from the practice squad to the Patriots' active roster (12/23/06).



Career Statistics
View Bam Childress's Career Statistics >>



2006 Season
2006 (2/0, 0/0): Played in the season opener against Buffalo and then joined the practice squad until being re-signed to the active roster (12/23) ... Was listed as a day of game inactive for all three playoff contests.
Buffalo (9/10): Saw action in a reserve role at wide receiver but did not record a reception in the Patriots' 19-17 victory over the Bills. Jacksonville (12/24): Played in a reserve role at wide receiver and grabbed two receptions for seven yards ... Snared his first reception of the season, a 5-yard catch, over the middle in the second quarter.



2005 Season



2005 (1/0/0/0): Saw action in his first career NFL contest and grabbed his first career reception on 7-yard pass play from Matt Cassel against Miami (1/1/06).
Miami (1/1): Saw action at wide receiver and cornerback … Led the team with three receptions for 32 yards … Grabbed his first career reception on 7-yard pass play from Matt Cassel in the second quarter … Converted a key third-and-nine with a 21-yard reception in the fourth quarter … Collected five tackles (2 solo).
2005 Postseason (0/0/0/2): Jacksonville (1/7): Inactive. at Denver (1/14): Inactive.



College



Played in 49 games with seven starts over four seasons with the Ohio State Buckeyes from 2001-04 ... Recorded 33 career receptions for 392 yards and also recorded nine kickoff returns for 159 yards. 2004 (Senior): Played in all 12 games and grabbed a career-high 17 receptions for 205 yards ... Served as the Buckeyes' third wide receiver for much of the year and tied for third on the team with 17 receptions. 2003 (Junior): Played in all 13 games with three starts ...





Finished the season with 11 catches for 133 yards. 2002 (Sophomore): Played in 13 games and finished the season with four grabs for 47 yards for the BCS champions. 2001 (Redshirt Freshman): Played in 11 games and made one catch for seven yards in the home finale ... Also returned four kickoffs for 74 yards.



Personal
Brandon Childress was born the son of John and Willeen Childress on March 31, 1982 ... Attended Chanel High School in Warrensville Heights, Ohio where he earned 12 varsity letters (four each in football and basketball and two each in track and baseball) ... As a senior in 1999, was named Ohio's Mr. Football, USA Today's Ohio Player of the Year and the Division V





Defensive Player of the Year ... Is a cousin of Broncos cornerback Champ Bailey ... Majored in Family Resource Management at Ohio State.



Extra Points
In his first career NFL game on Jan. 1, 2006, Bam achieved the rare feat of achieving significant statistics on both offense and defense in the same game. He led the team with three receptions, while also picking up five tackles as a reserve cornerback

RIDERS SIGN TWO RECEIVERS

BAM CHILDRESS




17 Johnny Quinn, WR
Height/Weight: 6-0/202 Birthdate: 11/06/1983 Birthplace: Team: Green Bay College: North Texas


JOHNNY QUINN



By Rob Vanstone 01-12-2009 COMMENTS(0) Rider Rumblings

This just in from Riders headquarters . . .

Saskatchewan Roughrider General Manager/Vice President of Football Operations Eric Tillman announced today they have signed import receivers Brandon “Bam” Childress and Johnny Quinn to one-year plus an option contracts. Financial details of the signings were not released.

Childress (5’9 – 185 lbs) played four seasons at Ohio State and was a member of the 2002 BCS National Championship team. He finished his collegiate career with 33 catches for 392 yards and added 159 yards on nine punt returns. Childress signed with New England following his collegiate career and spent three seasons on the Patriots practice roster. He dressed in one regular season game and recorded three receptions for 32 yards. He signed with Philadelphia in 2008 and attended training camp with the Eagles. "Bam was a part time starter at Ohio State, but his athletic ability made him one of the surprises in New England's training camp back in 2005,” stated Tillman. “He was a long shot to make their team, but the Patriots loved his speed, intelligence and versatility and, as such, kept Bam for two seasons." "Playmaker is the first word they used to describe him in our discussions. The second comment was about his intelligence.

Those are pretty good starting points. We will initially look at Bam at wide receiver, but he has the ability to play corner, too, if called upon. The Patriots gave him a lot of snaps in practice at corner. So, combined with his return skills, Bam is an ideal candidate to help us in many ways.

"Johnny Quinn (6’1 – 200 lbs) finished his collegiate career at North Texas as the school’s leader in receptions with 187, receiving yards with 2,706 and 21 receiving touchdowns. He led the team in receiving in each of his four seasons. He also returned 39 kickoffs for 696 yards and 50 punts for 421 yards and a touchdown. He signed with the Buffalo Bills as a free agent in 2007 and also spent time on the Green Bay Packers practice roster.

"Our initial interest in Johnny was based on a high recommendation by Dalton Bell, who spent time with Johnny in Green Bay,” continued Tillman. “After doing our research, we validated everything Dalton had told us about this young man: great character, strong work ethic, a history of production, an excellent blocker and a very solid return guy."

RIDERS IN THE COMMUNITY

RIDERS IN THE COMMUNITY
The following is a list of player appearances for this upcoming week.

Date: Monday, January 12th Event: Michael Palmer, Wes Cates and Marcus Adams will be speaking to students.Location: Confederation Park School – Saskatoon, SK – 11:45 – 12:45

Date: Monday, January 12th
Event: Syngenta Crop Protection Customer Appreciation. Marcus Adams, Jeremy O'Day, Mike McCullough, Michael Palmer Chris Szarka and Wes Cates will be present. Location: Travelodge – Saskatoon, SK – 6:00 pm

Date: Friday, January 16th
Event: Mike Abou-Mechrek will be the Keynote Speaker for a Wild Game Dinner.
Location: Regina RCMP Heritage Centre – Regina, SK

Date: Saturday, January 17th
Event: Michael Palmer will share his Journey of Faith with members of the church at a breakfast.
Location: Westhill Baptist Church – Regina, SK – 8:00 am

Date: Saturday, January 17th
Event: Weston Dressler will be the Keynote Speaker for a Sports Dinner
Location: Weyburn, SK

Date: Friday, January 23rd
Event: Weston Dressler will be present for the 2009 Men's Northern Provincial Curling Playoffs.
Location: Tisdale Curling Club – Tisdale, SK

RIDER DEFENSIVE COORDINATOR POSITION

A rare Saturday off today afforded a chance to bop around the Queen City, run some errands, and pop by Mosaic Stadium for a Rider update.

From those I spoke to, it appears the Riders are narrowing in on a decision for a new defensive coordinator to replace Richie Hall. And apparently, the decision will pretty much entirely be head coach Ken Miller's to make.

In the mix of course, are incumbent defensive consultant Gary Etcheverry along with veteran CFL warhorse Dave Ritchie. Miller flew to Pittsburgh last week to meet with Ritchie, and came away impressed. Ritchie also comes with a strong endorsement from Rider GM Eric Tillman, whom won a Grey Cup with Ritchie in 1994 with the B.C. Lions.

Also entering the equation however is former Argo defensive coordinator Kavis Reed. The longtime CFL defensive back-turned-coach is exploring some opportunities in the U.S. but if they don't pan out, expect the Riders to make him an offer (if they haven't already). Reed also comes with a strong recommendation from Tillman.

Right now though, Etcheverry is the clubhouse favourite to get the top defensive job. He's highly thought-of by Miller, and is popular with the players. That doesn't mean however, that Ritchie couldn't join the staff altough he remains open to any offers which will allow him to remain in the eastern time zone, closer to his family and grandchildren in Ohio, Rhode Island and Pennsylvania.

With Etcheverry's apparent -- and publicized -- interest in landing a CIS head coaching job, Tillman is hoping for a younger assistant to be groomed for the D.C. job in the event of an Etcheverry departure. That candidate may in fact, be Reed.

These three names aren't the only ones the Riders are talking to however.It's also interesting to note that new Edmonton Eskimo coach Richie Hall has offered a position on his staff to Rider linebacker/special teams coach Alex Smith. The Riders are hoping he stays in Saskatchewan.
----
I've also learned Montreal Alouettes head coach Marc Trestman is being considered for the head coaching job with the Oakland Raiders. He's a former offensive coordinator in Oakland.
When Tom Cable was hired to replace the fired Lane Kiffin this season, it was on an interim basis.
RP

MO INTERESTED IN STAYING ??

Interestingly, a comment on one of our Rider stories on leaderpost.com says Maurice Lloyd joined a facebook group dedicated to him staying with the Roughriders. Does this mean he wants to remain in Regina? I don't know but I sure hope so!

RANDOM THOUGHTS FROM ROB VANSTONE

By Rob Vanstone 01-10-2009 COMMENTS(0) Rider Rumblings

Off-day Robservations . . .

• One more reflection on 2008: During the year just passed, the Saskatchewan Roughriders’ three Grey Cup-winning quarterbacks were seldom far from our thoughts. On Jan. 16, Kent Austin (1989) stepped down as the Roughriders’ head coach to become the offensive co-ordinator at the University of Mississippi. Kerry Joseph (2007) was traded to the Toronto Argonauts in March. And on Sept. 18, we lost Ron Lancaster — quarterback of the 1966 champions — at age 69.

• A sendoff is being held for outgoing Roughriders defensive co-ordinator Richie Hall — now the Edmonton Eskimos' head coach — on Jan. 23 at The Exchange.

• If the Roughriders decide to hire a quarterbacks coach, how about Marcus Crandell? Darian Durant, who will begin camp atop the depth chart, already has a ton of respect for Crandell — and for good reason. An intelligent, widely respected gentleman such as Crandell would be an excellent mentor for the young quarterbacks.

* Free, unsolicited advice to the Roughriders: Invite Saskatoon-born punter Chris Bodnar to training camp. Bodnar, a member of the Saskatoon Hilltops, is honing his punting skills over the winter in Arizona — emulating none other than Jon Ryan. Bodnar, who turns 21 in April, averaged 41.3 yards per punt during the 2008 PFC season. Riders punter Jamie Boreham, by comparison, had a 41.6-yard average last year.

KEN MILLER INTERVIEW

Click here for the interview with Ken Miller http://www.saskriders.com/ and then go to RiderVision.

BUILDING A NEW COACHING STAFF

By Murray McCormick, Leader-PostJanuary 8, 2009



REGINA -- Ken Miller isn’t in a rush to fill the vacant coaching positions with the Saskatchewan Roughriders, but he would prefer to have it done soon.

“By Monday,’’ Miller said with a laugh Thursday when asked when he would like to announce replacements for offensive line coach Mike Gibson and defensive co-ordinator Richie Hall. “From a realistic point of view I would like to have things in place in the next couple of weeks. There is a sense of urgency to get things together, but I want to make sure that the pieces fit together correctly.’’

Hall and Gibson fit in well with the Riders. Hall spent 15 seasons with the Riders, including the last eight as defensive co-ordinator. Hall has moved on to become the 23rd head coach of the Edmonton Eskimos
Gibson, who spent two seasons with the Riders, was added to the Hamilton Tiger-Cats’ coaching staff as an offensive co-ordinator. Miller was disappointed to see Hall and Gibson leave but the second-year head coach knows that change and adapting to those changes are a part of football.

“As I went through the season last year, I talked several times about the quality of our coaching staff,’’ Miller said. “I felt that it was one of the best, if not the best, in the league. When you have a coach who leaves to become an offensive co-ordinator with another team and one leaves to become a head coach, it would substantiate that. It’s to be expected when you have good people and people recognize that.’’

It’s believed the former Winnipeg Blue Bombers offensive line coach Bob Wylie is in the running for Gibson’s position. Riders assistant coach Gary Etcheverry and CFL veteran Dave Ritchie are among the candidates for the defensive co-ordinator.
Miller declined to go into details about the individual candidates. He did express generally what he’s looking for in regards to a defensive co-ordinator.

“We would really like to have someone with experience, a stable background and has experienced success in that capacity,’’ Miller said. “We also want people who have a similar philosophy in terms of schemes. It doesn’t have to be an exact match, but there has to be a certain compatibility.
“One of the things that is really crucial is to have cohesiveness among the coaches, whether it’s on the offensive or defensive side of the ball. One of the great things about our team was the cohesiveness in the locker room and that was really brought about by our coaching staff.’’
It’s hasn’t been all subtraction this off-season. The Riders signed slotback Jason Clermont, who was released after seven seasons with the B.C. Lions. The Roughriders also re-signed quarterback Darian Durant on Monday.

Miller was excited to see the Clermont signing and what it means for the Riders’ offence.
“One of our strengths is our home-grown talent,’’ said Miller. “To add another player to that pool is really something. Jason has been an inspirational guy with the Lions and a leader. He makes the clutch catches and is a popular local guy. For us, it’s a huge catch.’’
Miller said Durant is expected to be first on the depth chart when the Riders open training camp June 7. Miller said that Durant earned that spot in 2008 because he had the most playing time of the four returning pivots, but there will still be competition for the position.

The Riders had a league-high 19 players eligible to file for free agency on Feb. 15. There are 61 players available across the league but Miller feels that re-signing the Riders’ potential free agents should be a priority.
http://www.leaderpost.com/Sports/Miller+confident+coaching+positions+filled+quickly/1156588/mmccormick@leaderpost.canwest.com

GREAT STORY !!!

Not Sure If You've Seen This Yet.......

But it's worth repeating. It was sent to me by Chris Pollock and Kelly Markwart:

Subject: Great Hockey StoryIn the middle of a grueling six game road trip where a very young hockeyteam is away from home, the third game of the trip ends late on a coldCanadian Saturday night.

This is the only break on the trip and the threedays between games allow them the only break to get back home in their ownbeds for a couple of days before going back on the road. A scheduledcommercial flight waits for them at Toronto 'S International Airport forthe short flight home. They could be home by midnight.

This plane departson schedule, but without a single member of the hockey team on board.

Earlier, back in the locker room, a vote was taken after the game and aunanimous decision is made by this young team to skip this flight and stayone more day. They make arrangements to check back in the hotel and on afrozen Sunday morning charter two buses that have no heat and begin ajourney two hours straight north into a sparsely inhabited Canada , butwhere hockey is its passion.

They arrive at their destination to the surprise of the team's generalmanager who is there attending his father's wake. After a few emotionalhours, this team boards the buses and head back for a two hour trip back toToronto.

On the way they ask the bus drivers to stop in a tiny Canadiantown because they are hungry.To the shock of the patrons and workers at this small hockey townsMcDonald's, a professional team walks out of two rickety buses and into therestaurant, which just happens to have pictures of two members of this teamon its wall.

The patrons know every single one of these players by sightbeing fanatic fans of hockey in these parts. One can only imagine theiramazement of the locals seeing and entire professional hockey team sit downand have a meal in their tiny little town in the middle of a hockey season.After a while they board the buses and catch their same flight, 24 hourslater, giving one day of their time to their general manager.

Have I made this up? Is this an excerpt from some fictional book?No this a true story of the Chicago Blackhawks last Saturday night as theydecided to attend Dale Tallon's father's funeral.

It's amazing that such agood story can be found nowhere on the Internet, and not even mentioned inthe Chicago papers. Had one of the Blackhawks got into a fight and punchedsome drunken loser in a Toronto bar it would be plastered all over papersand the television.This being said, it's hard to imagine any professional football, basketballor baseball team doing this, but the members of the Blackhawks claim any"hockey" team would have done this.

This is one reason I continue to be abig hockey fan, and another reason I am excited about this Chicago team. Ithought I would share this story as it appears to have gone unnoticed.What a Great Hockey Story.

Most of the players on the Team are Canadiankids. Born and raised with the values that we all sometimes forget.Remember that we are not all destined to play hockey in the NHL but , weare all destined to take pride in our Canadian way of life and the way weare looked at for being respectful, polite, hardworking and most of allHOCKEY FANS and HOCKEY PARENTS.Please pass it on.
at 1/07/2009 1 comments

EVEN WITH SUCCESS THE RIDERS HAVE MUCH UNCERTAINTY

There is a sense of uncertainty as the Saskatchewan Roughriders head into 2009.
The departures of defensive co-ordinator Richie Hall and offensive line coach Mike Gibson have contributed to that feeling.

Hall left to become the head coach of the Edmonton Eskimos. Gibson has moved onto become the offensive co-ordinator with the Hamilton Tiger-Cats.
Hall was the architect of one of the CFL's top defences. Gibson oversaw an offensive line that performed as well as it could considering the number of injuries.

Their positions will be filled in the New Year. Bob Wylie, who was the offensive line coach with the Winnipeg Blue Bombers for two seasons, appears to be the favourite to take over for Gibson. Riders defensive assistant coach Gary Etcheverry and CFL veteran Dave Ritchie are candidates for defensive co-ordinator.

The uncertainty isn't limited to the coaching staff. The Riders finished 12-6 in 2008, good enough for second place in the West Division, and earned the opportunity to play host to a home playoff game for the second consecutive season.
They accomplished those feats despite numerous injuries. It's possible the Riders endured enough broken legs to carry them through another two or three seasons. They don't need any more bad breaks in 2009.

Those injuries slowed the Riders' progress in 2008 because it's tough to develop a sense of cohesion when starters are on the sidelines.
The injuries were part of the reason for the quarterback carousel.
The Riders tried to find a quarterback who could be effective with an ever-changing group of receivers. That didn't take place, but Riders rookie head coach Ken Miller was able to win 12 games with four different starting quarterbacks.

Miller ran out of miracles in the West Division semifinal, which the Riders lost 33-12 to the B.C. Lions. Starting quarterback Michael Bishop was ineffective against the Lions' formidable defence and turned over the ball four times.
Bishop was replaced by Darian Durant in the fourth quarter, but by then the game was well out of reach.

Bishop's inability to guide the Riders' offence led to him being released just two days after the 2008 campaign. Although the decision didn't leave any doubt about Bishop's role with the Riders in 2009, there is uncertainty around the quarterbacks.

The Riders head into training camp with four unproven quarterbacks. Durant appears to have the edge followed by Steven Jyles, Drew Tate and Dalton Bell. Durant showed the most in his limited appearances as a starter and will be given every chance to become the No. 1 quarterback.

But there is the uncertainty of starting a new campaign without a veteran quarterback providing leadership. Durant was eligible to become a free agent Feb. 15, but has already agreed to terms with the Riders. He feels he can fill the leadership void because of the three seasons he spent with the Riders as a backup to Kerry Joseph and Marcus Crandell.

"It definitely helps to have a veteran presence,'' Durant said. "Being around Kerry and Marcus taught me so much that hopefully I can transfer that over to the football field. I'm confident that I can do that.'' Durant also plans on arriving in Regina a month ahead of training camp to begin his preparations. He will also have an opportunity to start working with Jason Clermont, who signed with his hometown Riders after being released by the Lions in December.

Clermont's signing was an early Christmas gift for the Riders. He became available after being cut by the Lions after seven seasons. It's a good move for Clermont and one that strengthens the Riders' offence. Clermont is a tough, sure-handed receiver who can help the young quarterbacks develop.

The linebacking situation is another contributor to the uncertainty around the Roughriders. The Riders' starting linebacking trio of Maurice Lloyd, Anton McKenzie and Sean Lucas are all eligible to be free agents. Lloyd and McKenzie, who were CFL all-stars, should attract league-wide interest. There has already been some speculation of the players following Hall to Edmonton.

The trio of linebackers enjoyed playing in Regina, which should help tip the scales towards the Riders' side. McKenzie is expected to return. Lloyd will likely sign with another team and who knows about Lucas?

Free agents, coaching and the quarterbacking situation are among the questions facing the Riders heading into 2009. It will take time and many games before those questions can be answered. So, until the, we are left with uncertainty.