Hope everyone has a great New Years Eve and a great 2009 !!
Wednesday, December 31, 2008
RIDERS OFFER LLOYD 6 FIGURES
REGINA -- The Saskatchewan Roughriders have extended a six-figure contract offer to middle linebacker Maurice Lloyd, who can become a CFL free agent in Feb. 15.
That is the word from Roughriders general manager Eric Tillman, who has been in touch with Lloyd’s agent, Marty Magid.
“I sent Mo a written contract proposal, via his agent, a week or so before Christmas,’’ Tillman said Tuesday. “As of today, we have not received a response. And, additionally, I attempted to reach Marty via phone on Monday.
“I sent Mo a written contract proposal, via his agent, a week or so before Christmas,’’ Tillman said Tuesday. “As of today, we have not received a response. And, additionally, I attempted to reach Marty via phone on Monday.
“In fairness, the holiday season impacts communication, with travel and family commitments complicating the ability to connect. And I’m sure this is the case with Marty, who’s always been great to deal with. But we did send them a six-figure proposal, which is a significant and much deserved-increase over Mo’s compensation in 2008, and we’re the ones waiting on a response.’’
Lloyd was named a West Division all-star in 2007 and a CFL all-star this past season. The Roughriders hope to have him back, but understand that there will be a considerable demand for his services.
“Who knows how this (free agency) will unfold?’’ Tillman said. “But Mo has every right to wait until February and to test the open market. He had a heck of a year for us and, from a business perspective, I fully understand and respect that approach, if that’s what they opt to do. Mo’s a good guy and Marty is, too. So, new deal or not, the process is almost certain to be respectful.’’
“Who knows how this (free agency) will unfold?’’ Tillman said. “But Mo has every right to wait until February and to test the open market. He had a heck of a year for us and, from a business perspective, I fully understand and respect that approach, if that’s what they opt to do. Mo’s a good guy and Marty is, too. So, new deal or not, the process is almost certain to be respectful.’’
© Copyright (c) The Regina Leader-Post
Tuesday, December 30, 2008
ARTICLE ON KENT AUSTIN
Austin takes circuitous route back to UM
Rick Cleveland • rcleveland@clarionledger.com • December 30, 2008 rs ago when Billy Brewer was the Ole Miss football coach and Kent Austin was a record-breaking Rebels quarterback who wanted to play in the NFL.
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Skeptical, I asked Brewer if Austin had NFL potential and Brewer answered, "I don't know if he can play quarterback in the NFL but he might someday own an NFL team."
Austin was a straight-A business administration honors student, a top NCAA post-graduate scholarship winner and a potential Rhodes Scholar.
Law school was a possibility. Business job offers were plentiful. The St. Louis Cardinals drafted him in the 12th round. There was a very real chance he could become a Rhodes Scholar.
The last career option - in his words "the very last thing on my mind" - was becoming a football coach.
"Not even on the radar screen," Kent Austin, football coach, said here Monday afternoon at a Cotton Bowl press conference.
Austin's career path back to his alma mater has to be one of the most unique among NCAA offensive coordinators.
Here's the CliffsNotes version: He passed on the post-grad scholarships and the Rhodes candidacy to try to play in the NFL. He lasted one season with the Cardinals, then moved to the Canadian Football League, where he became one of the most productive quarterbacks in league history, guiding two different teams to CFL championships.
After a 10-year playing career, he retired in 1996 to put that business degree and intellect to use in the telecommunications business.
Somewhere in there, his high school football coach, Carlton Flatt, asked him to come work with his quarterbacks and wide receivers as a volunteer high school assistant coach.
Austin did.
The team reached the state championship game. Shelley Austin, Kent's wife, told him she hadn't seen him so happy and enthused about work since his playing days. "You should coach," she told him.
Austin made a couple of calls and was hired right away by the CFL Ottawa Renegades in 2003.
Success happens
A year later he was the offensive coordinator of the Toronto Argonauts, who naturally won a CFL championship. In 2007, he became the head coach of the Saskatchewan Roughriders, who naturally won the league championship. Austin was the CFL coach of the year.
And then came the call from out of the (red and) blue. It was Houston Nutt, and he wanted Austin to consider leaving the CFL head coaching job to become offensive coordinator at his alma mater. The two didn't even know each other.
We'll let Nutt explain that part.
"David Lee, my offensive coordinator at Arkansas, kept telling me about Kent Austin and what a great offensive mind he was," Nutt said. "When I took the Ole Miss job and David decided to go to the (Miami) Dolphins, he told me I ought to call Kent. So I did."
Lee had recruited Austin to Ole Miss back in 1981, and, Austin says, has been like a "second father to me."
Lee not only convinced Nutt to try to hire Austin, he convinced Austin to listen to Nutt's offer.
Remember, Lee was convincing Nutt to hire a coach who had never recruited a college player and a guy who was used to calling plays on a 110-yard field with 12 players. Remember, Lee was convincing Austin, a head coach of a championship team, to consider a lesser-paying job working for a man he didn't know.
Naturally, it has worked out beautifully.
Under Austin's tutelage, Jevan Snead has progressed splendidly as a quarterback. The balanced Ole Miss offense has accounted for 399 yards per game, the fourth-most in school history, and 370 points, the third-most in Ole Miss annals.
There were several factors that entered Austin's decision: The chance to return to his alma mater; the opportunity for his three children to attend U.S. schools; and Lee's insistence that he would love working for Nutt.
And then there's this: The low temperature in Saskatchewan Monday was minus-1 degrees and it felt like minus-15. The high in Oxford was 60.
"Sometimes, I tell Kent we need to work inside because it's so cold, and he looks at me like I'm crazy," Nutt says, laughing.
Nutt actually believes Austin's experience on the wider, longer CFL field has helped him as an American college coach.
"Kent really knows how to spread the field with the right spacing," Nutt says. "We're running pass routes that nobody else in college football was running until this year. Now some people are copying us. I've already seen other teams starting to do it."
Snead says Austin's teaching has been invaluable, both in the physical and cerebral parts of the game.
"He's really helped me with my mechanics and footwork," Snead says. "In the film room, he's taught me how to watch film, what to look for."
Austin pooh-poohs such talk.
"Jevan's success and improvement is a credit to Jevan," Austin said. "He just needed to play. He just needed the experience of playing. You know, Fran Tarkenton told me a long time ago that the thing about quarterbacks is you don't really learn everything you need to know to play the position well until you're too old to play it. There's a lot of truth to that. It all comes from experience."
No agenda
With his CFL championship track record and his success at Ole Miss this season, Austin is sure to get looks from schools seeking head coaches.
Nutt expects it and says he has no doubts Austin will become a head coach, probably sooner rather than later.
Austin?
"I had no agenda when I came here, and I told Houston that," Austin says. "I came with just one thing in mind and that was to do what I was asked to help improve this football team."
In Austin's case, consider that mission accomplished.
Reach Rick Cleveland at rcleveland@clarionledger.com
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coachgt wrote:
I apologize... I ran through the available characters without having mentioned the most significant feature about Coach Austin's persona. I'm sure that Ole Miss fans have, by now, become familiar with the coach's absolute refusal to accept accolades for team success, deflecting such to others. As a coach, he is absolutely dedicated to the team ethic.... it is a true commitment, not mere posturing. Above all, my brief experience with Coach Austin has convinced me of his unimpeachable integrity as a coach and as a human being.Sorry to have prattled on so long.... I just wanted your readers to have an opportunity to appreciate the gem that they have at the U of M.12/30/2008 3:58:44 PM I apologize... I ran through the available characters without having mentioned the most significant feature about Coach Austin's persona. I'm sure that Ole Miss fans have, by now, become familiar with the coach's absolute refusal to accept accolades for team success, deflecting such to others. As a coach, he is absolutely dedicated to the team ethic.... it is a true commitment, not mere posturing. Above all, my brief experience with Coach Austin has convinced me of his unimpeachable integrity as a coach and as a human being.
Sorry to have prattled on so long.... I just wanted your readers to have an opportunity to appreciate the gem that they have at the U of M. coachgt
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OrbisUnum wrote:
As an Ole Miss fan, I feel like we're really lucky to have Kent Austin. He really is a credit to the football program and a classy guy. It would suck to lose him to another team but if it's a promotion to head coach then more power to him. Go Rebs...Beat the he-ll out of Texas Tech!!!!!!!!!!!12/30/2008 3:54:36 PM As an Ole Miss fan, I feel like we're really lucky to have Kent Austin. He really is a credit to the football program and a classy guy. It would suck to lose him to another team but if it's a promotion to head coach then more power to him. Go Rebs...Beat the he-ll out of Texas Tech!!!!!!!!!!! OrbisUnum
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coachgt wrote:
I have coached amateur football in Canada for some 35 years. Among many experiences has been the opportunity to serve as a guest coach during the past two training camps of the Saskatchewan Roughriders of the CFL. As such, I had the rare good fortune to spend time with Coach Austin during his one-year tenure as head coach of that team. I suspect that the good people who care about Ole Miss football are just now beginning to become aware of the truly great prize that has dropped into their collective lap. I spent the time that I was gifted to spend witnessing Coach Austin's coaching intrigued, impressed, inspired. Added to his sweeping insight as a coach are truly unmatched abilities as a teacher. He didn't merely instruct players how to perform certain skills in order to make plays successful... he led them to an understanding of the play as a complex interplay of movements and forces. He is a brilliant offensive innovator... I wish that I could continue to learn from him.12/30/2008 3:52:10 PM I have coached amateur football in Canada for some 35 years. Among many experiences has been the opportunity to serve as a guest coach during the past two training camps of the Saskatchewan Roughriders of the CFL. As such, I had the rare good fortune to spend time with Coach Austin during his one-year tenure as head coach of that team. I suspect that the good people who care about Ole Miss football are just now beginning to become aware of the truly great prize that has dropped into their collective lap. I spent the time that I was gifted to spend witnessing Coach Austin's coaching intrigued, impressed, inspired. Added to his sweeping insight as a coach are truly unmatched abilities as a teacher. He didn't merely instruct players how to perform certain skills in order to make plays successful... he led them to an understanding of the play as a complex interplay of movements and forces. He is a brilliant offensive innovator... I wish that I could continue to learn from him. coachgt
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yankeegohome wrote:
Didn't realize how smart Austin was.....sounds like a good pickup for Nutt and Ole Miss. Also, good luck Ole Miss fans in your bowl game....make MS proud.12/30/2008 1:29:38 PM Didn't realize how smart Austin was.....sounds like a good pickup for Nutt and Ole Miss. Also, good luck Ole Miss fans in your bowl game....make MS proud. yankeegohome
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Rick Cleveland • rcleveland@clarionledger.com • December 30, 2008 rs ago when Billy Brewer was the Ole Miss football coach and Kent Austin was a record-breaking Rebels quarterback who wanted to play in the NFL.
OAS_AD('ArticleFlex_1');
Skeptical, I asked Brewer if Austin had NFL potential and Brewer answered, "I don't know if he can play quarterback in the NFL but he might someday own an NFL team."
Austin was a straight-A business administration honors student, a top NCAA post-graduate scholarship winner and a potential Rhodes Scholar.
Law school was a possibility. Business job offers were plentiful. The St. Louis Cardinals drafted him in the 12th round. There was a very real chance he could become a Rhodes Scholar.
The last career option - in his words "the very last thing on my mind" - was becoming a football coach.
"Not even on the radar screen," Kent Austin, football coach, said here Monday afternoon at a Cotton Bowl press conference.
Austin's career path back to his alma mater has to be one of the most unique among NCAA offensive coordinators.
Here's the CliffsNotes version: He passed on the post-grad scholarships and the Rhodes candidacy to try to play in the NFL. He lasted one season with the Cardinals, then moved to the Canadian Football League, where he became one of the most productive quarterbacks in league history, guiding two different teams to CFL championships.
After a 10-year playing career, he retired in 1996 to put that business degree and intellect to use in the telecommunications business.
Somewhere in there, his high school football coach, Carlton Flatt, asked him to come work with his quarterbacks and wide receivers as a volunteer high school assistant coach.
Austin did.
The team reached the state championship game. Shelley Austin, Kent's wife, told him she hadn't seen him so happy and enthused about work since his playing days. "You should coach," she told him.
Austin made a couple of calls and was hired right away by the CFL Ottawa Renegades in 2003.
Success happens
A year later he was the offensive coordinator of the Toronto Argonauts, who naturally won a CFL championship. In 2007, he became the head coach of the Saskatchewan Roughriders, who naturally won the league championship. Austin was the CFL coach of the year.
And then came the call from out of the (red and) blue. It was Houston Nutt, and he wanted Austin to consider leaving the CFL head coaching job to become offensive coordinator at his alma mater. The two didn't even know each other.
We'll let Nutt explain that part.
"David Lee, my offensive coordinator at Arkansas, kept telling me about Kent Austin and what a great offensive mind he was," Nutt said. "When I took the Ole Miss job and David decided to go to the (Miami) Dolphins, he told me I ought to call Kent. So I did."
Lee had recruited Austin to Ole Miss back in 1981, and, Austin says, has been like a "second father to me."
Lee not only convinced Nutt to try to hire Austin, he convinced Austin to listen to Nutt's offer.
Remember, Lee was convincing Nutt to hire a coach who had never recruited a college player and a guy who was used to calling plays on a 110-yard field with 12 players. Remember, Lee was convincing Austin, a head coach of a championship team, to consider a lesser-paying job working for a man he didn't know.
Naturally, it has worked out beautifully.
Under Austin's tutelage, Jevan Snead has progressed splendidly as a quarterback. The balanced Ole Miss offense has accounted for 399 yards per game, the fourth-most in school history, and 370 points, the third-most in Ole Miss annals.
There were several factors that entered Austin's decision: The chance to return to his alma mater; the opportunity for his three children to attend U.S. schools; and Lee's insistence that he would love working for Nutt.
And then there's this: The low temperature in Saskatchewan Monday was minus-1 degrees and it felt like minus-15. The high in Oxford was 60.
"Sometimes, I tell Kent we need to work inside because it's so cold, and he looks at me like I'm crazy," Nutt says, laughing.
Nutt actually believes Austin's experience on the wider, longer CFL field has helped him as an American college coach.
"Kent really knows how to spread the field with the right spacing," Nutt says. "We're running pass routes that nobody else in college football was running until this year. Now some people are copying us. I've already seen other teams starting to do it."
Snead says Austin's teaching has been invaluable, both in the physical and cerebral parts of the game.
"He's really helped me with my mechanics and footwork," Snead says. "In the film room, he's taught me how to watch film, what to look for."
Austin pooh-poohs such talk.
"Jevan's success and improvement is a credit to Jevan," Austin said. "He just needed to play. He just needed the experience of playing. You know, Fran Tarkenton told me a long time ago that the thing about quarterbacks is you don't really learn everything you need to know to play the position well until you're too old to play it. There's a lot of truth to that. It all comes from experience."
No agenda
With his CFL championship track record and his success at Ole Miss this season, Austin is sure to get looks from schools seeking head coaches.
Nutt expects it and says he has no doubts Austin will become a head coach, probably sooner rather than later.
Austin?
"I had no agenda when I came here, and I told Houston that," Austin says. "I came with just one thing in mind and that was to do what I was asked to help improve this football team."
In Austin's case, consider that mission accomplished.
Reach Rick Cleveland at rcleveland@clarionledger.com
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coachgt wrote:
I apologize... I ran through the available characters without having mentioned the most significant feature about Coach Austin's persona. I'm sure that Ole Miss fans have, by now, become familiar with the coach's absolute refusal to accept accolades for team success, deflecting such to others. As a coach, he is absolutely dedicated to the team ethic.... it is a true commitment, not mere posturing. Above all, my brief experience with Coach Austin has convinced me of his unimpeachable integrity as a coach and as a human being.Sorry to have prattled on so long.... I just wanted your readers to have an opportunity to appreciate the gem that they have at the U of M.12/30/2008 3:58:44 PM I apologize... I ran through the available characters without having mentioned the most significant feature about Coach Austin's persona. I'm sure that Ole Miss fans have, by now, become familiar with the coach's absolute refusal to accept accolades for team success, deflecting such to others. As a coach, he is absolutely dedicated to the team ethic.... it is a true commitment, not mere posturing. Above all, my brief experience with Coach Austin has convinced me of his unimpeachable integrity as a coach and as a human being.
Sorry to have prattled on so long.... I just wanted your readers to have an opportunity to appreciate the gem that they have at the U of M. coachgt
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OrbisUnum wrote:
As an Ole Miss fan, I feel like we're really lucky to have Kent Austin. He really is a credit to the football program and a classy guy. It would suck to lose him to another team but if it's a promotion to head coach then more power to him. Go Rebs...Beat the he-ll out of Texas Tech!!!!!!!!!!!12/30/2008 3:54:36 PM As an Ole Miss fan, I feel like we're really lucky to have Kent Austin. He really is a credit to the football program and a classy guy. It would suck to lose him to another team but if it's a promotion to head coach then more power to him. Go Rebs...Beat the he-ll out of Texas Tech!!!!!!!!!!! OrbisUnum
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coachgt wrote:
I have coached amateur football in Canada for some 35 years. Among many experiences has been the opportunity to serve as a guest coach during the past two training camps of the Saskatchewan Roughriders of the CFL. As such, I had the rare good fortune to spend time with Coach Austin during his one-year tenure as head coach of that team. I suspect that the good people who care about Ole Miss football are just now beginning to become aware of the truly great prize that has dropped into their collective lap. I spent the time that I was gifted to spend witnessing Coach Austin's coaching intrigued, impressed, inspired. Added to his sweeping insight as a coach are truly unmatched abilities as a teacher. He didn't merely instruct players how to perform certain skills in order to make plays successful... he led them to an understanding of the play as a complex interplay of movements and forces. He is a brilliant offensive innovator... I wish that I could continue to learn from him.12/30/2008 3:52:10 PM I have coached amateur football in Canada for some 35 years. Among many experiences has been the opportunity to serve as a guest coach during the past two training camps of the Saskatchewan Roughriders of the CFL. As such, I had the rare good fortune to spend time with Coach Austin during his one-year tenure as head coach of that team. I suspect that the good people who care about Ole Miss football are just now beginning to become aware of the truly great prize that has dropped into their collective lap. I spent the time that I was gifted to spend witnessing Coach Austin's coaching intrigued, impressed, inspired. Added to his sweeping insight as a coach are truly unmatched abilities as a teacher. He didn't merely instruct players how to perform certain skills in order to make plays successful... he led them to an understanding of the play as a complex interplay of movements and forces. He is a brilliant offensive innovator... I wish that I could continue to learn from him. coachgt
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yankeegohome wrote:
Didn't realize how smart Austin was.....sounds like a good pickup for Nutt and Ole Miss. Also, good luck Ole Miss fans in your bowl game....make MS proud.12/30/2008 1:29:38 PM Didn't realize how smart Austin was.....sounds like a good pickup for Nutt and Ole Miss. Also, good luck Ole Miss fans in your bowl game....make MS proud. yankeegohome
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INTERVIEW WITH MAURICE LLOYD
Free agent Saskatchewan Roughrider linebacker Maurice Lloyd was on 620 CKRM's Sportsline last night talking about his contract status with Canada's Team. He's due to become a free agent if not re-signed prior to February 15
:LYNCH: Are you looking forward to 2009?LLOYD: To be honest I am. I 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. I've just been home in Connecticut relaxing.
HADESBECK: Is the situation that you want to remain a Roughrider?LLOYD: The situation is that I want to stay, but it's a business
PEDERSEN: Where's it at as of today?LLOYD: The last time my agent talked to GM Eric Tillman was right before I left to come home. I told my agent that if there's not a good offer, don't tell me and I haven't talked to him ever since then and that was at the beginning of November. My agent says he hasn't talked to Eric Tillman since before the holidays so we're just sitting here waiting to see what's going to happen.
PEDERSEN: Carm Carteri tells me you may be interested in trying the NFL. Has anybody approached you?LLOYD: No one's approached me this year but last year I got approached by Tampa Bay so we just have to see what's going to happen. My agent said no NFL teams reach out to anybody in the CFL until January so if that presents itself, I'm going to give it a shot. But right now I'm a Canadian football player and that's where my heart is.
LYNCH: What did you think about Richie Hall going to Edmonton as head coach?LLOYD: I'm happy he's getting the chance to be a head coach. He's been working hard for it, but at the same time it kind of hurts. You lose a friend when he left.
PEDERSEN: Will that have any bearing on your decision?LLOYD: To be honest, I can't say. I don't know. His defense 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.
HADESBECK: Fellow linebackers Sean Lucas and Anton McKenzie could sign elsewhere too. Would that affect your decision?LLOYD: 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. 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.
LYNCH: Do you think we can get back to the Grey Cup in 2009?LLOYD: Yah we can get back to the Grey Cup in 2009. We shouldn't been back in the Grey Cup in 2008 but I'm going to leave that situation alone. We have a very strong chance of making it there again, it just depends on who's leading us and if people want to follow.
PEDERSEN: Were you happy Darian Durant's agreed to come back?LLOYD: That's a very exciting thing. He called me and told me he's going back to Saskatchewan and he asked me if I'm coming back. I told him what I tell everybody else; it's not in my hands. I'm one of the best middle linebackers in the league and it doesn't come down to money. It comes down to respect.
PEDERSEN: Do you have a message for Rider fans listening tonight??LLOYD: My message to Rider fans is that I truly respect your support behind me and if anything else comes about, y'all will find about it through me or through Rod. This is a business, it's not personal. There will be no finger-pointing. I respect y'all as fans and y'all have been the number-one fans in the CFL and I respect you for that. Much love from Mo Lloyd #47 and hopefully I can be back in Mo-Town.
(Maurice Lloyd photo courtesy CTV.ca)
(Maurice Lloyd photo courtesy CTV.ca)
Monday, December 29, 2008
SUPER BOWL COMMERCIALS 2009
This is the site for Super Bowl commercials. Click herehttp://www.myspace.com/thebiggame
Sunday, December 28, 2008
DRESSLER WINS ANOTHER AWARD
Sportsman of the Year
Dec 28, 2008 - 04:05:17 CST
By STEVETHOMAS BismarckTribune
The tumble was roller coaster-like:From big man on campus to unheralded rookie.Weston Dressler's much-celebrated feats at the University of North Dakota didn't earn him much respect last spring as a rookie in the Canadian Football League."Nobody knew me on day one," Dressler recalled. "... I went into training camp just hoping to make the team. They dress 42 guys for a game and there were about 90 guys there at the start of camp."So, just as he has done before, Dressler clenched his teeth and went to work and began his climb up the depth chart. He succeeded so well as a slotback and kick returner for the Saskatchewan Roughriders that he was named the CFL's Most Outstanding Rookie.
Thirty-seven of 46 voters put Dressler No. 1 on their ballots.That phenomenal first year of pro football earned Dressler The Tribune's Sportsman of the Year honors. He has now won four times in six years.Other finalists considered were JoashOsoro, Greg Amundson, Justin Schlecht, EvanGross and Brent Qvale.
Dressler grabbed 56 passes for 1,128 yards and six touchdowns for the Roughriders in 15 regular-season games. He also returned 39 punts for 411 yards and 29 kickoffs for 603 yards.In addition, Dressler had five catches for 93 yards in the Roughriders' 33-12 first round playoff loss to British Columbia.The lion's share of Dressler's production - 49 catches for 1,000 yards -was packed into the final dozen games of the season. He missed Saskatchewan's fourth, fifth and sixth games due to a hamstring pull and lost most of the ninth game due to a concussion.Fan favoriteWhile he may have reported to rookie camp in May as a mere number, Dressler quickly caught on with the Saskatchewan fans, who he deems the CFL's best."By day three of training camp the fans and staff on the team saw what I could do on the field. That's when the buzz started," Dressler said. "Ithought Ihad a really legitimate shot at that point, not just at making the team but being a big part of the team."Due in part to injuries in Saskatchewan's receiver corps, Dressler became a viable part of the offense in the third game. He caught six passes for 122 yards and a touchdown before pulling his right hamstring.After returning from the leg injury he racked up five 100-yard games in the Roughriders' final 12 regular-season outings.His season highs were eight catches in a loss to Calgary, 145 yards in a loss to British Columbia and two touchdowns in a win over Winnipeg.
Making adjustmentsWhen he crossed the border in May,Dressler said he expected the jump to professional football to be difficult. Still, he was ill-prepared for what he experienced."You hear stories about how college and professional football are different, but until you experience it you can't grasp how different it can be," he said."In college, unless you screw up big time, you pretty much assume you're going to be somewhere for four or five years," he continued. "I'm signed for two years (with an added option year), but I really have to go up there and make the team again next year.
"The 2009 training camp should be easier in one respect, though."Iwon't have to study the playbook and the rulebook. It won't be as intense mentally for me,"he said.As it turned out, the rules and playbook were just the tip of the iceberg. Where Dressler really went to school was learning to take advantage of the CFLrules that worked to his advantage."A lot of the game is geared toward offensive success," Dressler said.
"The field is bigger so even with 12 players there's more space to operate. And there's the motion aspect. ... All the receivers can be moving. We can have six guys moving at the snap of the football with four of them going toward the line of scrimmage.""When you have the ability to run full speed toward the line of scrimmage at the snap of the ball you can create an advantage for yourself," he saidd.Learning to make the most of that advantage was a season-long process. In fact, Dressler said he's still learning to fully exploit the CFLrulebook."The main part of my success was to keep on learning everything I could every day -to continue to improve and adapt," he said.Dressler said having 24 men of the field presented special difficulty."Recognizing the (12-man)defense was completely different," he recalled. "... That was the hardest adjustment for me.""It's fun when you start to learn it and understand what you can do," he added. "You can create a lot of confusion for the defense. ... "As a receiver you feel you should win every time with all the rules in your favor."During his days at UND, Dressler said there were games were he simply overpowered opposing defenders with speed, estimated at 4.48 seconds at 40 yards last spring.
Those days, he said, are long gone."It's not a situation where Ican beat (a defender) on a post route because I'm faster.You have to understand your opponent to be able to beat him,"Dressler said.
"The athleticism of the players is very good. You have to exploit a lack of discipline or other things to beat them.""Most of the defensive backs I faced up there were as fast as me or faster in a straight-away race," he continued. "But once you're able to dictate what he can and can't do it appears you're running by him.
"Next levelWhen Dressler finished his four-year run at UND, his preference was a shot at the NFL. He wasn't chosen in the NFLdraft nor was he signed as a free agent, so he looked north of the border to discover the CFLhad been looking at him.Dressler has a two-year contract with Saskatchewan with an option year. If an NFLteam chose to make an overture to Dressler it couldn't happen until his option year, but he's not holding his breath."My biggest goal was to play in the NFL and that's still my goal," he said.
"But because of the experience Ihad in the CFLlast year Icould see myself playing (inCanada) as long as Iplay football and being completely happy with it."The Roughriders seem happy that it took a chance on Dressler.
"He is a football player. There is so much more to that statement because there are other guys out there who are good players, but Weston was born to be a football player," Joe Womack, the Roughrider director of player personnel said.That's music to Dressler's ears."It's kind of interesting. It's cool to hear someone say that about you," he said.
"Football is something I love to do and as long as I can do it I'm going to play."The Roughriders list Dressler at 5-foot-8 and 164 pounds, which puts him on the bottom end of the CFLsize spectrum.
Early on Dressler learned that hard work goes a long way toward transferring the focus from his size to his ability. "I'm one of the smallest players in the league but it's always been that way," he said.Dressler said Mike Skytland, now the BismarckGovernors Legion baseball coach, gave him some advice almost a decade ago that's never left him."One thing that's always stuck in my mind was something my (Babe Ruth) baseball coach, Mike Skytland, said one year," Dressler recalled.
"He talked to us all individually at the end of the season. He said 'if you always work as hard as you do now, you'll make any team you try out for.' "So far, Skytland is 100 percent right.
Dec 28, 2008 - 04:05:17 CST
By STEVETHOMAS BismarckTribune
The tumble was roller coaster-like:From big man on campus to unheralded rookie.Weston Dressler's much-celebrated feats at the University of North Dakota didn't earn him much respect last spring as a rookie in the Canadian Football League."Nobody knew me on day one," Dressler recalled. "... I went into training camp just hoping to make the team. They dress 42 guys for a game and there were about 90 guys there at the start of camp."So, just as he has done before, Dressler clenched his teeth and went to work and began his climb up the depth chart. He succeeded so well as a slotback and kick returner for the Saskatchewan Roughriders that he was named the CFL's Most Outstanding Rookie.
Thirty-seven of 46 voters put Dressler No. 1 on their ballots.That phenomenal first year of pro football earned Dressler The Tribune's Sportsman of the Year honors. He has now won four times in six years.Other finalists considered were JoashOsoro, Greg Amundson, Justin Schlecht, EvanGross and Brent Qvale.
Dressler grabbed 56 passes for 1,128 yards and six touchdowns for the Roughriders in 15 regular-season games. He also returned 39 punts for 411 yards and 29 kickoffs for 603 yards.In addition, Dressler had five catches for 93 yards in the Roughriders' 33-12 first round playoff loss to British Columbia.The lion's share of Dressler's production - 49 catches for 1,000 yards -was packed into the final dozen games of the season. He missed Saskatchewan's fourth, fifth and sixth games due to a hamstring pull and lost most of the ninth game due to a concussion.Fan favoriteWhile he may have reported to rookie camp in May as a mere number, Dressler quickly caught on with the Saskatchewan fans, who he deems the CFL's best."By day three of training camp the fans and staff on the team saw what I could do on the field. That's when the buzz started," Dressler said. "Ithought Ihad a really legitimate shot at that point, not just at making the team but being a big part of the team."Due in part to injuries in Saskatchewan's receiver corps, Dressler became a viable part of the offense in the third game. He caught six passes for 122 yards and a touchdown before pulling his right hamstring.After returning from the leg injury he racked up five 100-yard games in the Roughriders' final 12 regular-season outings.His season highs were eight catches in a loss to Calgary, 145 yards in a loss to British Columbia and two touchdowns in a win over Winnipeg.
Making adjustmentsWhen he crossed the border in May,Dressler said he expected the jump to professional football to be difficult. Still, he was ill-prepared for what he experienced."You hear stories about how college and professional football are different, but until you experience it you can't grasp how different it can be," he said."In college, unless you screw up big time, you pretty much assume you're going to be somewhere for four or five years," he continued. "I'm signed for two years (with an added option year), but I really have to go up there and make the team again next year.
"The 2009 training camp should be easier in one respect, though."Iwon't have to study the playbook and the rulebook. It won't be as intense mentally for me,"he said.As it turned out, the rules and playbook were just the tip of the iceberg. Where Dressler really went to school was learning to take advantage of the CFLrules that worked to his advantage."A lot of the game is geared toward offensive success," Dressler said.
"The field is bigger so even with 12 players there's more space to operate. And there's the motion aspect. ... All the receivers can be moving. We can have six guys moving at the snap of the football with four of them going toward the line of scrimmage.""When you have the ability to run full speed toward the line of scrimmage at the snap of the ball you can create an advantage for yourself," he saidd.Learning to make the most of that advantage was a season-long process. In fact, Dressler said he's still learning to fully exploit the CFLrulebook."The main part of my success was to keep on learning everything I could every day -to continue to improve and adapt," he said.Dressler said having 24 men of the field presented special difficulty."Recognizing the (12-man)defense was completely different," he recalled. "... That was the hardest adjustment for me.""It's fun when you start to learn it and understand what you can do," he added. "You can create a lot of confusion for the defense. ... "As a receiver you feel you should win every time with all the rules in your favor."During his days at UND, Dressler said there were games were he simply overpowered opposing defenders with speed, estimated at 4.48 seconds at 40 yards last spring.
Those days, he said, are long gone."It's not a situation where Ican beat (a defender) on a post route because I'm faster.You have to understand your opponent to be able to beat him,"Dressler said.
"The athleticism of the players is very good. You have to exploit a lack of discipline or other things to beat them.""Most of the defensive backs I faced up there were as fast as me or faster in a straight-away race," he continued. "But once you're able to dictate what he can and can't do it appears you're running by him.
"Next levelWhen Dressler finished his four-year run at UND, his preference was a shot at the NFL. He wasn't chosen in the NFLdraft nor was he signed as a free agent, so he looked north of the border to discover the CFLhad been looking at him.Dressler has a two-year contract with Saskatchewan with an option year. If an NFLteam chose to make an overture to Dressler it couldn't happen until his option year, but he's not holding his breath."My biggest goal was to play in the NFL and that's still my goal," he said.
"But because of the experience Ihad in the CFLlast year Icould see myself playing (inCanada) as long as Iplay football and being completely happy with it."The Roughriders seem happy that it took a chance on Dressler.
"He is a football player. There is so much more to that statement because there are other guys out there who are good players, but Weston was born to be a football player," Joe Womack, the Roughrider director of player personnel said.That's music to Dressler's ears."It's kind of interesting. It's cool to hear someone say that about you," he said.
"Football is something I love to do and as long as I can do it I'm going to play."The Roughriders list Dressler at 5-foot-8 and 164 pounds, which puts him on the bottom end of the CFLsize spectrum.
Early on Dressler learned that hard work goes a long way toward transferring the focus from his size to his ability. "I'm one of the smallest players in the league but it's always been that way," he said.Dressler said Mike Skytland, now the BismarckGovernors Legion baseball coach, gave him some advice almost a decade ago that's never left him."One thing that's always stuck in my mind was something my (Babe Ruth) baseball coach, Mike Skytland, said one year," Dressler recalled.
"He talked to us all individually at the end of the season. He said 'if you always work as hard as you do now, you'll make any team you try out for.' "So far, Skytland is 100 percent right.
Saturday, December 27, 2008
RIDERS HAVE UNCERTAINTY HEADING INTO 2009
REGINA -- 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 on to become the offensive co-ordinator for the Hamilton Tiger-Cats.
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 on to become the offensive co-ordinator for 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 second consecutive home playoff game.
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.
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 was won 33-12 by 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 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.’’
“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.
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.
Friday, December 26, 2008
Thursday, December 25, 2008
GEORGE REED RETURNING TO REGINA
Reed's return is Regina's reward
By Rob VanstoneDecember 22, 2008
Regina has missed George Reed for almost a quarter-century. Reed missed Regina as well.
In 1963, for example, Reed bypassed the Queen City en route to his first CFL training camp with the Saskatchewan Roughriders.
"Regina wasn't really clearly marked,'' Reed recalled. "Where the overpass (is) on Albert Street now, it used to be a four-way stop. I came to the four-way stop. I guess I had missed the sign saying 'Regina' and if there was a sign, it was a very small sign.
"Of course, I went around and I was in Balgonie when I stopped for gas and I asked the guy how much farther I had to go to get to Regina. He said, 'Well, you've got about 11 miles to go back that way and you'll run into it.' ''
Reed ran into would-be tacklers for the next 13 seasons, amassing 16,116 rushing yards and scoring 137 touchdowns (including 134 along the ground).
Reed ran into would-be tacklers for the next 13 seasons, amassing 16,116 rushing yards and scoring 137 touchdowns (including 134 along the ground).
His myriad contributions off the field were also legendary. At one point, he was associated with 47 community or charitable groups.
"You just try to help and keep going on,'' Reed said earlier this year during an interview for my soon-to-be-released book on the 1966 Roughriders. "As they say sometimes, if you want somebody to do something, find a person that's busy.''
Somehow, Reed found time for everyone, and every cause. He founded the George Reed Foundation for the Handicapped, and was also the honourary chairman of the Muscular Dystrophy Association and Easter Seals, along with being an honorary head coach with Special Olympics.
"You just try to help and keep going on,'' Reed said earlier this year during an interview for my soon-to-be-released book on the 1966 Roughriders. "As they say sometimes, if you want somebody to do something, find a person that's busy.''
Somehow, Reed found time for everyone, and every cause. He founded the George Reed Foundation for the Handicapped, and was also the honourary chairman of the Muscular Dystrophy Association and Easter Seals, along with being an honorary head coach with Special Olympics.
As well, Reed was the president of the CFL Players' Association -- playing a vital role in the strengthening of that group -- and the Saskatchewan Sports Hall of Fame and Museum. He also found time to serve as president of Massey School's Home and School Association.
Fittingly, Reed was honoured in 1976 when he became the first recipient of the Tom Pate Memorial Award, which recognizes exemplary sportsmanship and community involvement. His great teammate, Ron Lancaster, won the award the following year.
Reed was also recognized in 1978 when he became a member of the Order of Canada -- the country's highest civilian honour. The decoration was especially noteworthy considering that Reed was born in the United States.
He was the superstar who lived next door until March of 1984, when Molson Breweries transferred him to Calgary.
Early in 1992, Reed was among 125 employees cut by Molson, ending an association with the brewery that dated back to 1966. In the mid-1990s, he was hired by McKay Pontiac Buick (now Shaganappi Pontiac Buick GMC) in Calgary and has remained with the dealership into his 69th year.
But that is about to change. Premier Brad Wall announced Friday that George and Angie Reed are returning to Saskatchewan. Beginning in February, the Roughriders icon will be a corporate event host for the Saskatchewan Gaming Corporation. He will be especially conspicuous at Casino Regina and Casino Moose Jaw.
Don't be surprised if Reed also makes his way to Mosaic Stadium -- on which his picture is prominently displayed -- with some frequency.
By George, what wonderful news.
By George, what wonderful news.
Tuesday, December 23, 2008
MORE HOLIDAY BLOGGING
- I can say with certainty that Richie Hall joining the Edmonton Eskimos hasn't sunk in yet. Seeing our own "Smiling One" in Green & Gold with a "EE" hat on was a painful picture. But, we're happy for him.
- The festive season has been a blur of Christmas parties for rodpedersen.com. The other night I was at a function loaded full of football types, and many members of the "Old Boys Club". It was there I learned the CFL assistant coach carousel is about to be given a gigantic heave.
When it stops, Rick Campell will land in Winnipeg as the Bomber defensive coordinator and Greg Marshall will end up back in Edmonton. That's IF "Marsh" doesn't get the Argo top job. And I'll be surprised if he does. It could happen though, as Danny Barrett took his name out of the running on the weekend.
When it stops, Rick Campell will land in Winnipeg as the Bomber defensive coordinator and Greg Marshall will end up back in Edmonton. That's IF "Marsh" doesn't get the Argo top job. And I'll be surprised if he does. It could happen though, as Danny Barrett took his name out of the running on the weekend.
- Over my shoulder, Chapters is open extended hours and the doors are open as I sit here at 9:15am. They've got 'Green Magic' for sale in the BEST OF SPORTS section, which is cool.
We are less than 1,000 book sales away from being a BEST SELLER!! Thanks to everybody who came out to Northgate yesterday for the book-signing.
And it's also available at all Saskatchewan Safeways.
We are less than 1,000 book sales away from being a BEST SELLER!! Thanks to everybody who came out to Northgate yesterday for the book-signing.
And it's also available at all Saskatchewan Safeways.
- But that Brett Favre biography with the CD inside looks VERY tempting. Hey family, if you're reading this, please put it under the tree.
- When it's this cold, I start feeling sorry for people. And things. I feel sorry for the pets that get locked outside and forgotten and freeze to death. I feel sorry for the late-teens and 20-somethings who drive a rust-bucket that won't start in the cold and their day is ruined (like what happened to me hundreds of times when I was that age). Like I said, it's time to warm up. I don't miss those days. Thanks again Saturn of Regina.
- When it's this cold, I start feeling sorry for people. And things. I feel sorry for the pets that get locked outside and forgotten and freeze to death. I feel sorry for the late-teens and 20-somethings who drive a rust-bucket that won't start in the cold and their day is ruined (like what happened to me hundreds of times when I was that age). Like I said, it's time to warm up. I don't miss those days. Thanks again Saturn of Regina.
- My grand plan to broadcast Rider games in the summer and live in Phoenix in the winter is really starting to look good.
-Yah, I'll be around to broadcast Rider games in the new stadium/entertainment facility. It's been quite a week and somehow or another I've managed to rub elbows with some significant government officials over the past few days.
I'm sure they would string me up if I divulged the details (and they told me they read the blog), but suffice it to say that by sound financial planning and management over the next few years, this new stadium/entertainment complex will be paid for.And there's enough money for a hospital in Moose Jaw and a childrens' wing at Royal University Hospital in Saskatoon so don't get your panties in a bunch.
I'm sure they would string me up if I divulged the details (and they told me they read the blog), but suffice it to say that by sound financial planning and management over the next few years, this new stadium/entertainment complex will be paid for.And there's enough money for a hospital in Moose Jaw and a childrens' wing at Royal University Hospital in Saskatoon so don't get your panties in a bunch.
We MIGHT be able to host the 2012 Grey Cup in the new facility, but it'll be tight time-wise.I laugh at how people think Jim Hopson, Pat Fiacco and Brad Wall just "casually" threw out this new stadium talk like it had just come into their heads. THEY'VE BEEN TALKING ABOUT THIS FOR MONTHS!And I think it's cool we refer to the Premier as "Brad". And it's cooler that he wants it that way.
- For those complaining about not being able to watch Rider games outside, get over it. We should sacrifice a state-of-the-art facility that's the envy of the country because of MAYBE half-a-dozen days at the most? C'mon!
Yah, they're imploding Domes in the states. Big deal. You can't compare Regina to Seattle. Think about it.
Yah, they're imploding Domes in the states. Big deal. You can't compare Regina to Seattle. Think about it.
- Sobering thought though: This was brought up at another Christmas party -- a new stadium means we'll never watch another game in Mosaic Stadium/Taylor Field ever again.
Wow. Yikes. But we'll get over it.
Wow. Yikes. But we'll get over it.
- In my opinion, say your good-byes to Maurice Lloyd. For one, he told Carm he'd like to try the NFL as a special teams player and for two, he's going to the highest-bidder which is likely Edmonton or B.C.
- Who's the Riders' next defensive coordinator? I don't know. If I had a bet, I'd say Gary Etcheverry but that's based on nothing whatsoever. I haven't spoken to E.T. in weeks so I have no idea in which direction they're leaning.
- That's all I wanted to say. Thanks for reading, Happy Holidays
Rod P.
- That's all I wanted to say. Thanks for reading, Happy Holidays
Rod P.
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HAPPY HOLIDAYS RIDER FANS!Posted by Riders on Monday, December 22, 2008 at 10:54:00 AM. -->
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HAPPY HOLIDAYS RIDER FANS!Posted by Riders on Monday, December 22, 2008 at 10:54:00 AM. -->
It's been awhile since we last wrote in this space. In fact, it was the week after Calgary's Grey Cup win, and it's taken that long to get over the bitter way the 2008 Saskatchewan Roughriders' season ended.
As a matter of fact, I asked Rider head coach Ken Miller on the postgame show of the western semifinal loss when he'll be over the hard feelings and be able to appreciate the team's 12-6 season. He said in his American drawl, "It'll take awhile."
And I'm not sure he's even there yet.
It has definitely been a head-shaking month and a half since the season ended. I always wonder what it would be like to talk to someone who's been away from all communication for a month, and then tell them all that's gone in in Riderville since they were away.
"Richie Hall's gone? Jason Clermont's a Roughrider? We might be getting a new stadium? What?" I'm sure they'd say.
The Hall and Clermont moves may only be two simple transactions but they promise to affect the very foundation of Canada's Team. Richie Hall spent two decades with the Green & White, but he's fled to the Green & Gold to become the Edmonton Eskimos head coach.
I laughed, and then I cried when I read that Richie and Eskimos' boss Danny Macoccia hit it off so well in the interview that his hiring became a slam dunk. No surprise there -- you could put Richie in a room with the Grinch and they'd both come out smiling. He's that infectious.
We'll miss him terribly, but there's not one member of the Rider Nation that's not elated for him to finally get the chance he's coveted for so long.
The search is on for a replacement, but GM Eric Tillman may not have to look to far as insiders feel Rider defensive assistant Gary Etcheverry will take over the DC role.
As for Jason Clermont, well, I could barely contain my excitement as I watched that scenario unfold. Cut by the BC Lions on a Wednesday, J.C. was wearing a Rider jersey just eight days later. No one's more excited than Jason.
Rider offensive coordinator Paul Lapolice is licking his chops at the thought of the damage Clermont and Andy Fantuz can do as the Riders' Slot Machines. Paul is spending the holiday season devising a new type of offense that will best deploy #'s 82 and 83, and the talents of returning quarterback Darian Durant.
As for the new stadium, Rider President Jim Hopson got the province buzzing on a CKRM radio appearance three weeks ago in which he stated political leaders are "moving in the direction of a new stadium".
Regina Mayor Pat Fiacco and Saskatchewan Premier Brad Wall have jumped on board, but are getting all their ducks in a row first. That includes doling out funds to other priorities, but also making plans to erect the greatest entertainment facility in western Canada, if not the whole country.
A City of Regina feasibility study is ongoing, but it's being funded by the provincial government.
We sit and wait for the results.
As for Rider fans, they're doing what they do; trying to sort out where the team is going for the upcoming season. They're wondering who the quarterback depth chart will consist of, what free agents we'll lose, who the starting receivers will be, etc, etc.
But to me, that's not a real worthwhile exercise. At this point last year on the calendar, we still had Kent Austin as head coach and players Kerry Joseph, Reggie Hunt, Corey Holmes and Fred Perry on the roster.
That didn't last long! While I don't expect radical changes like that this off-season, no one really knows where the franchise is going except Eric Tillman himself.
I'm spending the holidays reflecting on all that's right with the Saskatchewan Roughriders. Back-to-back 12-6 seasons, a year where every ticket to every game was soldout, and the fact the Riders are still organizationally on top of the CFL mountain.
Let's count our blessings!
(Rod Pedersen is Voice of the Riders on CKRM Radio)
As a matter of fact, I asked Rider head coach Ken Miller on the postgame show of the western semifinal loss when he'll be over the hard feelings and be able to appreciate the team's 12-6 season. He said in his American drawl, "It'll take awhile."
And I'm not sure he's even there yet.
It has definitely been a head-shaking month and a half since the season ended. I always wonder what it would be like to talk to someone who's been away from all communication for a month, and then tell them all that's gone in in Riderville since they were away.
"Richie Hall's gone? Jason Clermont's a Roughrider? We might be getting a new stadium? What?" I'm sure they'd say.
The Hall and Clermont moves may only be two simple transactions but they promise to affect the very foundation of Canada's Team. Richie Hall spent two decades with the Green & White, but he's fled to the Green & Gold to become the Edmonton Eskimos head coach.
I laughed, and then I cried when I read that Richie and Eskimos' boss Danny Macoccia hit it off so well in the interview that his hiring became a slam dunk. No surprise there -- you could put Richie in a room with the Grinch and they'd both come out smiling. He's that infectious.
We'll miss him terribly, but there's not one member of the Rider Nation that's not elated for him to finally get the chance he's coveted for so long.
The search is on for a replacement, but GM Eric Tillman may not have to look to far as insiders feel Rider defensive assistant Gary Etcheverry will take over the DC role.
As for Jason Clermont, well, I could barely contain my excitement as I watched that scenario unfold. Cut by the BC Lions on a Wednesday, J.C. was wearing a Rider jersey just eight days later. No one's more excited than Jason.
Rider offensive coordinator Paul Lapolice is licking his chops at the thought of the damage Clermont and Andy Fantuz can do as the Riders' Slot Machines. Paul is spending the holiday season devising a new type of offense that will best deploy #'s 82 and 83, and the talents of returning quarterback Darian Durant.
As for the new stadium, Rider President Jim Hopson got the province buzzing on a CKRM radio appearance three weeks ago in which he stated political leaders are "moving in the direction of a new stadium".
Regina Mayor Pat Fiacco and Saskatchewan Premier Brad Wall have jumped on board, but are getting all their ducks in a row first. That includes doling out funds to other priorities, but also making plans to erect the greatest entertainment facility in western Canada, if not the whole country.
A City of Regina feasibility study is ongoing, but it's being funded by the provincial government.
We sit and wait for the results.
As for Rider fans, they're doing what they do; trying to sort out where the team is going for the upcoming season. They're wondering who the quarterback depth chart will consist of, what free agents we'll lose, who the starting receivers will be, etc, etc.
But to me, that's not a real worthwhile exercise. At this point last year on the calendar, we still had Kent Austin as head coach and players Kerry Joseph, Reggie Hunt, Corey Holmes and Fred Perry on the roster.
That didn't last long! While I don't expect radical changes like that this off-season, no one really knows where the franchise is going except Eric Tillman himself.
I'm spending the holidays reflecting on all that's right with the Saskatchewan Roughriders. Back-to-back 12-6 seasons, a year where every ticket to every game was soldout, and the fact the Riders are still organizationally on top of the CFL mountain.
Let's count our blessings!
(Rod Pedersen is Voice of the Riders on CKRM Radio)
US BOWL GAMES AND CONNECTIONS TO RIDER PROSPECTS
Football maven John Lynch provides this holiday NCAA Bowl game primer for connections to the Riders:
"Valero Alamo Bowl ---Tuesday December 30th at 7 pm ----Missouri {9-4}versusNorthwestern {9-3}{ESPN }----Missouri QB is Chase Daniels who was a secondrunnner up for the Heisman Trophy in 2007. 37TD passes last year and 33 morethis year can make all the throws but is only 5 -'10"so probably will be a late NFL draft choice at best. We should see him by October 1st.
Tillman is very high on him.Brian Johnson Quarterback Utah {12-0} ---can make all the throws --good scrambler play Alabama {11-1} 7.20 Fox January 3rd in the Allstate Sugar Bowl --Superdome New Orleans .Should be drafted.
University of Ole Miss Runnin Rebels 8-4 against The Red Raiders of Texas Tech 11-1in the Cotton Bowl in Dallas on Friday January 2nd at two on Fox.Austin is the Offensive Co- ordinator of Ole MissThese are the only two Daniels and Johnson that I am aware of but will seeif I can get some more info and will get back to you if I find anything else out.JL"
"Valero Alamo Bowl ---Tuesday December 30th at 7 pm ----Missouri {9-4}versusNorthwestern {9-3}{ESPN }----Missouri QB is Chase Daniels who was a secondrunnner up for the Heisman Trophy in 2007. 37TD passes last year and 33 morethis year can make all the throws but is only 5 -'10"so probably will be a late NFL draft choice at best. We should see him by October 1st.
Tillman is very high on him.Brian Johnson Quarterback Utah {12-0} ---can make all the throws --good scrambler play Alabama {11-1} 7.20 Fox January 3rd in the Allstate Sugar Bowl --Superdome New Orleans .Should be drafted.
University of Ole Miss Runnin Rebels 8-4 against The Red Raiders of Texas Tech 11-1in the Cotton Bowl in Dallas on Friday January 2nd at two on Fox.Austin is the Offensive Co- ordinator of Ole MissThese are the only two Daniels and Johnson that I am aware of but will seeif I can get some more info and will get back to you if I find anything else out.JL"
RIDERS IN FIGHT FOR LLOYD
Riders in for a fight for Lloyd
By Rob VanstoneDecember 22, 2008
Maurice Lloyd.
Photograph by: Canwest
Robservations ...
Robservations ...
- Bob Wylie is believed to be atop the Saskatchewan Roughriders' wish list as they pursue a new offensive line coach. The position was vacated when Mike Gibson left to become the Hamilton Tiger-Cats' offensive co-ordinator. Wylie spent the past two seasons as the Winnipeg Blue Bombers' offensive line coach, but recently left that organization after Mike Kelly became the head coach. With Wylie coaching the offensive linemen, Winnipeg permitted the fewest sacks in the CFL (27) in 2007.
- CFL warhorse Dave Ritchie could also become part of the Roughriders' coaching staff. Ritchie, a highly reputable defensive co-ordinator, could assume that role if Gary Etcheverry does not get the nod. The defensive co-ordinator's position opened up Wednesday when Richie Hall was named the Edmonton Eskimos' head coach. Even if Etcheverry is chosen, Ritchie may resurface in Saskatchewan as the assistant head coach. Ritchie received his first CFL head-coaching job in 1993 when he was hired by then-B.C. Lions general manager Eric Tillman, who is now the GM in Saskatchewan. Tillman seriously considered hiring Ritchie as the Riders' head coach in December of 2006, only to opt for Kent Austin. The rest is history.
- Roughriders middle linebacker Maurice Lloyd should attract plenty of interest from CFL teams once he becomes an unrestricted free agent in mid-February. Look for the Lions and Edmonton Eskimos to make spirited pitches for Lloyd. He was brought into the league by then-Riders GM Roy Shivers, who is now in charge of player personnel for B.C. Hall's presence in Edmonton also makes the Alberta capital an inviting destination for Lloyd. The Roughriders would love to have him back, but the most-lucrative deals are likely to emanate from elsewhere.
- So what happens if Lloyd leaves? Renauld Williams plays middle linebacker in 2009. He could be flanked by Anton McKenzie, a 2008 all-star, and perhaps Sean Lucas (who are to become free agents in February). One player to watch could be linebacker Sam Olajubutu -- a 5-foot-9, 230-pounder from the University of Arkansas. Olajubutu amassed 372 defensive tackles as a three-year starter at Arkansas, twice earning first-team all-star honours in the Southeast Conference
- Chase Daniel, a quarterback with the University of Missouri Tigers, is one of the jewels of the Riders' negotiation list. Daniel, a Heisman Trophy finallist in 2007, has followed up by throwing 37 touchdown passes (four more than last year). At 6-foot-0, Daniel is undersized by NFL standards. Do not be surprised if he lands in Regina some time in 2009.
Monday, December 22, 2008
POTENTIAL FREE AGENTS IN 2009
2009 Potential Free Agent ListThe free agent period begins at 12:01am et on February 16-->
Quarterbacks
Player
N/I
2008 Team
NOTES
Marcus Brady
Alouettes
Anthony Calvillo
Alouettes
Marcus Crandell
Roughriders
Darian Durant
Roughriders
Running backs
Player
N/I
2008 Team
NOTES
Mike Imoh
Alouettes
Jesse Lumsden
Tiger Cats
Fred Reid
Blue Bombers
Charles Roberts
Blue Bombers/Lions
Fullbacks
Player
2008 Team
NOTES
Graeme Bell
Blue Bombers
Neal Hughes
Roughriders
Jeff Piercey
Tiger Cats
Slotbacks
Player
2008 Team
NOTES
Ben Cahoon
Alouettes
* Re-signed with Alouettes
D.J. Flick
Roughriders
Wide Receivers
Player
2008 Team
NOTES
Brian Bratton
Alouettes
Arland Bruce
Argonauts
Andrew Nowacki
Eskimos
Dave Stala
Alouettes
Ryan Thelwell
Stampeders
Offensive Linemen
Player
2008 Team
NOTES
Mike Abou-Mechrek
Roughriders
Bryan Chiu
Alouettes
* Re-signed with Alouettes
John Comiskey
Eskimos
* Re-signed with Eskimos
Chris Cvetkovic
Blue Bombers
Scott Flory
Alouettes
* Re-signed with Alouettes
Luke Fritz
Alouettes
Alexandre Gauthier
Blue Bombers
Jason Jimenez
Lions
Gene Makowsky
Roughriders
Joe McGrath
Eskimos
Steve Morley
Roughriders
Dave Mudge
Alouettes
Rob Murphy
Lions
Matt O'Meara
Blue Bombers
Dominic Picard
Blue Bombers
Defensive Backs
Player
2008 Team
NOTES
Etienne Boulay
Alouettes
* Re-signed with Alouettes
Jonte Buhl
Eskimos
Mark Estelle
Alouettes
Scott Gordon
Roughriders
Kelly Malveaux
Blue Bombers
Davis Sanchez
Alouettes
* Re-signed with Alouettes
Kenny Wheaton
Argonauts
Jordan Younger
Eskimos
Linebackers
Player
2008 Team
NOTES
Marc Calixte
Stampeders
Ike Charlton
Blue Bombers
Kevin Eiben
Argonauts
Otis Floyd
Lions
Shawn Gallant
Alouettes
Cam Hall
Blue Bombers
Jamall Johnson
Lions
Maurice Lloyd
Roughriders
Sean Lucas
Roughriders
Anton McKenzie
Roughriders
Kenny Onatolu
Eskimos
Willie Pile
Argonauts
Walter Spencer
Alouettes
Defensive Linemen
Player
2008 Team
NOTES
Devone Claybrooks
Alouettes
Brandon Guillory
Eskimos
Jerome Haywood
Blue Bombers
Matt Kirk
Lions
Mike Labinjo
Stampeders
* Re-signed with Stampeders
Jon Oosterhuis
Blue Bombers
Anwar Stewart
Alouettes
* Re-signed with Alouettes
Gavin Walls
Blue Bombers
Kickers/Punters
Player
2008 Team
NOTES
Burke Dales
Stampeders
Paul McCallum
Lions
* Re-signed with Lions
Noel Prefontaine
Eskimos
* Re-signed with Eskimos
Nick Setta
Tiger Cats
* Re signed with original team before deadline
Quarterbacks
Player
N/I
2008 Team
NOTES
Marcus Brady
Alouettes
Anthony Calvillo
Alouettes
Marcus Crandell
Roughriders
Darian Durant
Roughriders
Running backs
Player
N/I
2008 Team
NOTES
Mike Imoh
Alouettes
Jesse Lumsden
Tiger Cats
Fred Reid
Blue Bombers
Charles Roberts
Blue Bombers/Lions
Fullbacks
Player
2008 Team
NOTES
Graeme Bell
Blue Bombers
Neal Hughes
Roughriders
Jeff Piercey
Tiger Cats
Slotbacks
Player
2008 Team
NOTES
Ben Cahoon
Alouettes
* Re-signed with Alouettes
D.J. Flick
Roughriders
Wide Receivers
Player
2008 Team
NOTES
Brian Bratton
Alouettes
Arland Bruce
Argonauts
Andrew Nowacki
Eskimos
Dave Stala
Alouettes
Ryan Thelwell
Stampeders
Offensive Linemen
Player
2008 Team
NOTES
Mike Abou-Mechrek
Roughriders
Bryan Chiu
Alouettes
* Re-signed with Alouettes
John Comiskey
Eskimos
* Re-signed with Eskimos
Chris Cvetkovic
Blue Bombers
Scott Flory
Alouettes
* Re-signed with Alouettes
Luke Fritz
Alouettes
Alexandre Gauthier
Blue Bombers
Jason Jimenez
Lions
Gene Makowsky
Roughriders
Joe McGrath
Eskimos
Steve Morley
Roughriders
Dave Mudge
Alouettes
Rob Murphy
Lions
Matt O'Meara
Blue Bombers
Dominic Picard
Blue Bombers
Defensive Backs
Player
2008 Team
NOTES
Etienne Boulay
Alouettes
* Re-signed with Alouettes
Jonte Buhl
Eskimos
Mark Estelle
Alouettes
Scott Gordon
Roughriders
Kelly Malveaux
Blue Bombers
Davis Sanchez
Alouettes
* Re-signed with Alouettes
Kenny Wheaton
Argonauts
Jordan Younger
Eskimos
Linebackers
Player
2008 Team
NOTES
Marc Calixte
Stampeders
Ike Charlton
Blue Bombers
Kevin Eiben
Argonauts
Otis Floyd
Lions
Shawn Gallant
Alouettes
Cam Hall
Blue Bombers
Jamall Johnson
Lions
Maurice Lloyd
Roughriders
Sean Lucas
Roughriders
Anton McKenzie
Roughriders
Kenny Onatolu
Eskimos
Willie Pile
Argonauts
Walter Spencer
Alouettes
Defensive Linemen
Player
2008 Team
NOTES
Devone Claybrooks
Alouettes
Brandon Guillory
Eskimos
Jerome Haywood
Blue Bombers
Matt Kirk
Lions
Mike Labinjo
Stampeders
* Re-signed with Stampeders
Jon Oosterhuis
Blue Bombers
Anwar Stewart
Alouettes
* Re-signed with Alouettes
Gavin Walls
Blue Bombers
Kickers/Punters
Player
2008 Team
NOTES
Burke Dales
Stampeders
Paul McCallum
Lions
* Re-signed with Lions
Noel Prefontaine
Eskimos
* Re-signed with Eskimos
Nick Setta
Tiger Cats
* Re signed with original team before deadline
Saturday, December 20, 2008
DARIAN DURANT
For more info on Darian Durant click herehttp://www.tsn.ca/cfl/story/?id=260223&lid=headline&lpos=secStory_cfl
SATURDAY MORNING MUSINGS
A few nocturnal thoughts on the Saskatchewan Roughriders . . .
• Watch for Bob Wylie to replace Mike Gibson as the Roughriders' offensive line coach. Gibson was recently hired as the Hamilton Tiger-Cats' offensive co-ordinator. Wylie, who has a wealth of coaching experience (especially in the NFL), spent the past two seasons as the Winnipeg Blue Bombers' offensive line coach.
• The Roughriders are also looking for a defensive co-ordinator now that Richie Hall has become head coach of the Edmonton Eskimos. The early betting is that Gary Etcheverry will be named defensive co-ordinator. Failing that, how about Dave Ritchie? He could also resurface on the Roughriders' staff as the assistant head coach.
• Great news: George Reed and his wife, Angie, are to return to Regina in February. Reed has been hired as a corporate event host for the Saskatchewan Gaming Corporation. Reed has resided in Calgary since 1984. Welcome back, No. 34.
• Watch for Bob Wylie to replace Mike Gibson as the Roughriders' offensive line coach. Gibson was recently hired as the Hamilton Tiger-Cats' offensive co-ordinator. Wylie, who has a wealth of coaching experience (especially in the NFL), spent the past two seasons as the Winnipeg Blue Bombers' offensive line coach.
• The Roughriders are also looking for a defensive co-ordinator now that Richie Hall has become head coach of the Edmonton Eskimos. The early betting is that Gary Etcheverry will be named defensive co-ordinator. Failing that, how about Dave Ritchie? He could also resurface on the Roughriders' staff as the assistant head coach.
• Great news: George Reed and his wife, Angie, are to return to Regina in February. Reed has been hired as a corporate event host for the Saskatchewan Gaming Corporation. Reed has resided in Calgary since 1984. Welcome back, No. 34.
Friday, December 19, 2008
Q & A WITH JASON CLERMONT
SASKATOON -- As a regular feature, StarPhoenix reporter Cory Wolfe gets personal with a sports figure. Today, Saskatchewan Roughriders slotback Jason Clermont gets cornered.
Wolfe: You were all over newspapers in Saskatchewan when you signed with the Roughriders last week. Pick a magazine cover you’d like to grace.
Clermont: To build my real-estate business and end up on the cover of Forbes would be pretty cool.
Wolfe: As a Regina Ram, you played against junior football’s Saskatoon Hilltops and later the University of Saskatchewan Huskies. Which former rival will never get a Christmas card from Jason Clermont?
Clermont: It’s funny you ask that because a couple of them have. Tyler Baier was a (real-estate) client of mine and he got a Christmas card this year. And (Lions offensive lineman) Kelly Bates is a friend of mine, so he got a Christmas card. I actually get along pretty well with most of those guys, but if you would have asked me that when we were playing, I would have said they wouldn’t be worth the stamp.
Wolfe: (Laughs) OK, harken back to childhood. What’s your most memorable gift from Santa?
Clermont: We didn’t have a ton of loot growing up. Just before my grandpa passed away, he gave each family — he’s got two daughters and a son — an Amiga computer. That was the first computer we had. That was pretty ridiculous for us. We were able to play some racing game that made us late for school every day. It was supposed to be a tool to help us get through school and really, it kept us away from school.
Wolfe: Eric Tillman was Ottawa’s GM in 2002 when the Renegades owned the first two picks in the Canadian college draft. You went fourth overall to B.C. and years later, Tillman described himself as “not the idiot who passed on Jason Clermont (but rather) the idiot who passed on him twice.” Did you use that as a bargaining chip in contract negotiations?
Clermont: (Laughs) No, not even close. I do appreciate that he did pass over me twice and I do appreciate that Toronto did the same thing. The opportunities that I was granted in B.C. allowed me to become the player I am. That’s the thing about sports — you’re only as good as the opportunities you’re granted and what you do with them. I thought that Jason Sulz from the U of S would long be a CFL star before I ever put on a jersey. The same with a (Rams) teammate of mine, Chris Warnecke. They just weren’t given the same opportunities as me and I was blessed that the chips fell where they did.
Wolfe: Before last week, when was the last time you wore a Roughrider jersey?
Clermont: Uh, 1999 in a pre-season game against Calgary I wore No. 79. If you want to call it “playing” . . . I think I got in for two series in the fourth quarter.
Wolfe: You alluded to the fact that you’re a realtor during the off-season. Statistically speaking, did you have a better year as a football player or as a realtor?
Clermont: I think I worked as a realtor for four months and I put together about 40 deals. And I think I had 50 catches, so I had a few more catches in football but now that I’m going to be here year-round, that might even out.
Wolfe: What is the ratio of suits to sweats in your closet?
Clermont: Well, I was sponsored by Reebok so we’ve got a ton of Reebok sweats and hoodies and stuff like that. I’ve got probably three suits in my closet here and I think I have one or two in my condo in B.C.
Wolfe: That’s reasonable. It covers things off without being excessive. What would your glamour licence plate say?
Clermont: I’m not really into that.
Wolfe: You know what Milt Stegall said . . . 7-11 ’cause he’s always open.
Clermont: I think I’m more like Wal-Mart. I’m open most of the time, but when the season comes around and you really need me, I’m open 24 hours.
Wolfe: (Laughs) Very good. Who’s your favourite athlete to watch, any sport?
Clermont: We got pretty into the whole Michael Phelps thing during the Olympics. It was pretty special what he did.
Wolfe: If you were writing a tell-all book, which former teammate would make the juiciest subject?
Clermont: I might need to throw a “no comment” on the juiciest, but the most interesting would definitely be (former B.C. Lions linebacker) Carl Kidd. I’d like to give you his phone number and you wouldn’t have to ask me why. He was a cliché-a-minute and he had a saying for everything. He was from the deep south and he had a story for everything. And he had side businesses going on that were incredible and hilarious at times. He is by far one of the biggest personalities I’ve ever met. We put (quarterback) Spergon Wynn in against Toronto in 2003 when we did the East crossover. We lost the game and the quote from Carl Kidd was: “That’s what happens when you take a knife to a gunfight.”
Wolfe: You were all over newspapers in Saskatchewan when you signed with the Roughriders last week. Pick a magazine cover you’d like to grace.
Clermont: To build my real-estate business and end up on the cover of Forbes would be pretty cool.
Wolfe: As a Regina Ram, you played against junior football’s Saskatoon Hilltops and later the University of Saskatchewan Huskies. Which former rival will never get a Christmas card from Jason Clermont?
Clermont: It’s funny you ask that because a couple of them have. Tyler Baier was a (real-estate) client of mine and he got a Christmas card this year. And (Lions offensive lineman) Kelly Bates is a friend of mine, so he got a Christmas card. I actually get along pretty well with most of those guys, but if you would have asked me that when we were playing, I would have said they wouldn’t be worth the stamp.
Wolfe: (Laughs) OK, harken back to childhood. What’s your most memorable gift from Santa?
Clermont: We didn’t have a ton of loot growing up. Just before my grandpa passed away, he gave each family — he’s got two daughters and a son — an Amiga computer. That was the first computer we had. That was pretty ridiculous for us. We were able to play some racing game that made us late for school every day. It was supposed to be a tool to help us get through school and really, it kept us away from school.
Wolfe: Eric Tillman was Ottawa’s GM in 2002 when the Renegades owned the first two picks in the Canadian college draft. You went fourth overall to B.C. and years later, Tillman described himself as “not the idiot who passed on Jason Clermont (but rather) the idiot who passed on him twice.” Did you use that as a bargaining chip in contract negotiations?
Clermont: (Laughs) No, not even close. I do appreciate that he did pass over me twice and I do appreciate that Toronto did the same thing. The opportunities that I was granted in B.C. allowed me to become the player I am. That’s the thing about sports — you’re only as good as the opportunities you’re granted and what you do with them. I thought that Jason Sulz from the U of S would long be a CFL star before I ever put on a jersey. The same with a (Rams) teammate of mine, Chris Warnecke. They just weren’t given the same opportunities as me and I was blessed that the chips fell where they did.
Wolfe: Before last week, when was the last time you wore a Roughrider jersey?
Clermont: Uh, 1999 in a pre-season game against Calgary I wore No. 79. If you want to call it “playing” . . . I think I got in for two series in the fourth quarter.
Wolfe: You alluded to the fact that you’re a realtor during the off-season. Statistically speaking, did you have a better year as a football player or as a realtor?
Clermont: I think I worked as a realtor for four months and I put together about 40 deals. And I think I had 50 catches, so I had a few more catches in football but now that I’m going to be here year-round, that might even out.
Wolfe: What is the ratio of suits to sweats in your closet?
Clermont: Well, I was sponsored by Reebok so we’ve got a ton of Reebok sweats and hoodies and stuff like that. I’ve got probably three suits in my closet here and I think I have one or two in my condo in B.C.
Wolfe: That’s reasonable. It covers things off without being excessive. What would your glamour licence plate say?
Clermont: I’m not really into that.
Wolfe: You know what Milt Stegall said . . . 7-11 ’cause he’s always open.
Clermont: I think I’m more like Wal-Mart. I’m open most of the time, but when the season comes around and you really need me, I’m open 24 hours.
Wolfe: (Laughs) Very good. Who’s your favourite athlete to watch, any sport?
Clermont: We got pretty into the whole Michael Phelps thing during the Olympics. It was pretty special what he did.
Wolfe: If you were writing a tell-all book, which former teammate would make the juiciest subject?
Clermont: I might need to throw a “no comment” on the juiciest, but the most interesting would definitely be (former B.C. Lions linebacker) Carl Kidd. I’d like to give you his phone number and you wouldn’t have to ask me why. He was a cliché-a-minute and he had a saying for everything. He was from the deep south and he had a story for everything. And he had side businesses going on that were incredible and hilarious at times. He is by far one of the biggest personalities I’ve ever met. We put (quarterback) Spergon Wynn in against Toronto in 2003 when we did the East crossover. We lost the game and the quote from Carl Kidd was: “That’s what happens when you take a knife to a gunfight.”
DARIAN DURANT CLOSE TO SIGNING
By Rob Vanstone, Leader-PostDecember 18, 2008Be the first to post a comment
REGINA -- Darian Durant will soon be celebrating a noteworthy completion.
Durant and the Saskatchewan Roughriders are applying the finishing touches to a new contract. Expect the signing to be announced early in 2009.
REGINA -- Darian Durant will soon be celebrating a noteworthy completion.
Durant and the Saskatchewan Roughriders are applying the finishing touches to a new contract. Expect the signing to be announced early in 2009.
Confirmation of the deal will provide immense relief to Roughriders fans who feared that the 26-year-old quarterback would test unrestricted free-agency upon the expiration of his current pact in mid-February.
Durant provides the best hope for stability at football’s most crucial position, given his performance during the 2008 CFL season.
Durant provides the best hope for stability at football’s most crucial position, given his performance during the 2008 CFL season.
The former University of North Carolina star was part of a quarterbacking carousel with the most-recent edition of the Roughriders. Durant, Marcus Crandell, Steven Jyles and Michael Bishop all received significant playing time with a team that somehow won 12 games despite playing musical quarterbacks.
Durant was the most impressive of the four signal-callers, albeit while seeing limited duty. In July, Durant threw for five touchdowns and nearly 700 yards over two games while piloting the Roughriders to victories over the Hamilton Tiger-Cats and Montreal Alouettes.
He looked very much like the Roughriders’ quarterback of the present and future until suffering a rib injury early in a July 27 home game against the Toronto Argonauts.
He looked very much like the Roughriders’ quarterback of the present and future until suffering a rib injury early in a July 27 home game against the Toronto Argonauts.
By the time Durant was ready to return to active duty, Bishop had been installed as the Roughriders’ quarterback. Durant’s late-season appearances were not comparable to his showings against Hamilton and Montreal, but he was impeded by a lack of continuity and the coaches’ lack of patience.
By season’s end, the quarterback situation was muddied. Crandell, who had been released in late August after Bishop was acquired from Toronto, was long gone. Head coach Ken Miller gave Bishop a tepid endorsement as the starter heading into a home playoff game against the B.C. Lions, who won 33-12. Bishop was promptly dumped.
The departure of Bishop transmitted an emphatic message to Durant. The starter’s job is wide-open, with Durant being the leading candidate in a group of import passers that also includes Jyles, Dalton Bell and Drew Tate.
It should be noted that Durant will not be the starter by acclamation. He has to earn the position, and is more than happy to compete. But, really, is there a better choice?
Durant possesses many of the requisite attributes for a starter. He is intelligent and adept at distributing the football, which is essential in light of the Riders’ manage-the-game philosophy. He is also a stand-up guy -- a leader -- and the respect he engenders in the locker-room will also serve him well.
Durant possesses many of the requisite attributes for a starter. He is intelligent and adept at distributing the football, which is essential in light of the Riders’ manage-the-game philosophy. He is also a stand-up guy -- a leader -- and the respect he engenders in the locker-room will also serve him well.
The only criticism pertains to Durant’s arm strength, or lack thereof. Can he make all the throws that are required on the expansive CFL field?
Keep in mind that neither Ron Lancaster nor Kent Austin was blessed with a rocket-powered throwing arm. A quarterback can thrive in Saskatchewan without being able to fire the football as far as, say, Michael Bishop.
Keep in mind that neither Ron Lancaster nor Kent Austin was blessed with a rocket-powered throwing arm. A quarterback can thrive in Saskatchewan without being able to fire the football as far as, say, Michael Bishop.
Is Durant the answer? At this point, nobody can say that with any certainty. But it is clear that Durant deserves an opportunity and, given the success of the contract negotiations, it will be forthcoming in 2009.
So will a press release regarding the re-signing of Durant. Stay tuned.
rvanstone@leaderpost.canwest.com
rvanstone@leaderpost.canwest.com
Thursday, December 18, 2008
ERIC TILLMAN TAKE ON THE RECENT COACHING CHANGES
Here is what Roughriders GM Eric TIllman said Wednesday afternoon at Mosaic Stadium when he met the media to discuss the appointment of Richie Hall as the Edmonton Eskimos' head coach:
What’s the organization’s thoughts on Richie Hall leaving? “Obviously, it’s a day of mixed emotions. Richie is somebody we care about deeply and we’re happy for him on a personal basis. At the same time, there’s a real sense of sadness for us because we’re losing a member of the family — someone who has been part of the fabric of Saskatchewan Roughriders football for so long. He’s meant so much to this province in so many ways, on and off the field. As I said to someone earlier, you hear the term ‘good man’ thrown around a lot in today’s society, but Richie Hall is the epitome of a good man. He’s as fine a person as you’ll meet. I know that Edmonton has hired a quality football coach and a good person and he will lead the organization with class and dignity.’’Was it a matter of time that somebody was going to make this call to Richie?
“Richie’s an experienced coach, a good person, and he has knocked on the door for a long time. I can understand Edmonton’s attraction to him. It’s also a compliment to our organization. The hunter has become the hunted. The last time this organization won this many games in two years was 1969 and 1970. We are no longer the lovable losers. This is a pre-eminent organization that other people look to with respect. They look to our coaches, as we saw with the loss of Mike Gibson last week, and as we saw with Richie today. We intend to stay where we are
in terms of the respect that we’ve earned over the last couple of years. It’s just reality in the new world order. When you’re successful, people come after your people. We’re happy for Richie and we wish him the best — obviously, except when he plays us. Life goes on.’’What’s the process going to be to find his replacement?
“Kenny’s on vacation right now. We spoke last night a couple of times, anticipating the possibility of this. You always prepare for the worst-case scenario in this business, knowing that Richie could either get this job or the one in Toronto. We have a plan in place, but I think it’s best for Kenny to speak to that as opposed to me.
’’Do you have to look very far, in that Gary Etcheverry is already employed here and has been a defensive co-ordinator various times in the CFL? “Gary is an outstanding coach. Our players have a lot of confidence in him. They have expressed that multiple times. He and Richie are very close. I know Richie was thrilled when he came aboard. As to what final decision will be made, I think Kenny should speak to that.
’’You’re one of the people who has gone through the head-coaching interviewing process with Richie. Why has it taken him so long? “There’s no magical formula to it. A lot of times, everything’s situational. Sometimes it’s based on relationships. Sometimes it’s based on what people need. I think, historically, there has probably been more of a focus on the offensive side of the ball than defence in this league. I have not adhered to that. I hired Dave Ritchie and gave him his first head-coaching opportunity. I think maybe it’s because Richie is not a flashy guy. We’re in an era of style. Richie is probably more substance than style, so I don’t know how well he interviews, but I know what he’s like on a day-to-day basis and I think he’ll do an outstanding job. I know he’s excited. I’m sure it’s mixed emotions for him. He called me last night and we talked. He called me about 11:30 or 12 and apologized. We talked extensively. He has strong feelings for this place, but all coaches, in the right circumstance, aspire to be head coaches — not all, but most. I think this is something where he felt he was ready to make the next step. It’s going to be a challenge for him, and it will be a challenge for us. The West Division just got stronger, as if we needed it to.
’’With key free agents in the linebacking corps, is there concern with people following Richie? “I’m sure there will be some losses. I don’t think there’s any question about that. But I think if you look at our club two years ago, John Chick, Renauld Williams, Lance Frazier, Weston Dressler, Wes Cates and a whole bunch of guys weren’t here. I think if this regime has proved anything, it’s that we can find good football players, so we would like to retain as many guys as we can. In the real world, had Richie stayed, we still would have had attrition. But, sure, when you have a man of his character with the relationship he has with his players, it’s going to have an impact. Football’s no different than life. Sometimes you have to react to change, and we’ll go forward. We didn’t anticipate the injuries that we had last year and we reacted, so we’ll do the same thing in this circumstance.
’’Did you ever consider making a counter-offer or, because it was a head-coaching position, did you know it was something you couldn’t match? “At the end of the season, I sat down with Richie before Toronto and Edmonton called and offered him a two-year extension — and a very attractive extension. I think one thing should be pointed out. We say we don’t read the newspapers or listen, but we do. The only difference is whether we’re honest with you guys or not. Some people say they never listen to the media, and they’re absolute liars. We understand what’s being said. I heard a guy last night on the radio — I was in the car — saying that I hadn’t shown Richie respect if he went to Edmonton, and that’s just patently absurb. When I took this job, Richie was the lowest-paid defensive co-ordinator in the league. In fact, we had the lowest-paid group of assistant coaches in the league. One of the pre-conditions of me taking the job was that we alter that appreciably. Richie, in two seasons, had gone from being the lowest-paid defensive co-ordinator in the league to being in the top-three-paid assistant coaches on either side of the ball in the league, and we offered him a two-year extension with another raise. So he has been very well-compensated. He was very appreciative of that. It’s just an opportunity for him to be a head coach. He was unbelievably gracious in his phone call earlier today. He enjoys tremendous respect from this organization and this province.
’’He was considered twice here for the head-coaching job. Was there something that deterred you from promoting him here? “There’s no way to answer that question without it sounding negative. Sometimes there’s not a right or wrong choice. There are multiple good choices. I think if you look at the success of the last two years — 24 wins in two seasons — that there was a lot right with Ken Miller and Kent Austin, so I’d answer it that way. Do I think that Richie’s capable of being a head coach? Yes, I do. I’ve said that multiple times, and I’m happy for him. But I think if you look at our success over the last couple of years, it speaks for itself, given that it had only been since ’69 or ’70 since it had been paralleled. That’s quite a while. In fact, some people in this scrum weren’t born yet.’’Will Ron Estay be back? “Right now, our focus is on Ron and his health. Ron’s a guy who we care about deeply and we love. Football’s way, way, way down the list of priorities right now. We want to be supportive of Ron and this organization’s going to continue to take care of him and be good to him. Whether or not he coaches really is not of significance right now. We just ask that our fans keep him in their thoughts and prayers.
’’Do you have a particular timeline when you want a defensive co-ordinator and even someone to replace Mike Gibson as well? “We’re well along the way in both processes, but I think there’s a proper protocol, and Kenny would speak to that. We’re well down the road in both paths. We’ve anticipated both situations. Mike was under contract, but knew that there was a possibility that he could become an offensive co-ordinator. We gave him permission to go. It was something that he wanted to pursue. Obviously, I know Marcel (Bellefeuille) quite well. The day that we gave him permission, we started planning for the next (step). You’d have to be deaf, dumb, blind and stupid to not realize that the thing with Richie might happen, given the interest in Toronto and Edmonton. We’re well-prepared and we’ll make the announcements at whatever time frame is appropriate.
’’Given the rivalry and as much as people like Richie, are there people who might not forgive him for going to Edmonton? “I think people will always love Richie here. He’s earned that. If it’s possible, I think it will take a little edge off the rivalry. It will be strong, but I think it will be a little more respectful because of the respect that people have for Richie Hall. We’ll still bring the same intensity to the field. Friendships don’t change. Rivalries don’t, either . . . Richie’s always going to be a part of this family. Ron Lancaster went to Edmonton and went to Hamilton, yet he was always part of our family. There are a special few who connect at an elite level with this franchise, with these people, and Richie certainly has earned his place at that elite level. It’s not just because of what he has accomplished as a player and a coach, but because he really invested in the community and gave a lot back. I know part of his heart will always remain here. He’ll always be welcomed here. I think it will change the rivalry a little bit, just in terms of its tone. I don’t think the hate will be there, but the passion won’t change. Let’s be very clear. Over the last couple of years, I think we’ve gone a long way toward changing the way this organization is seen or perceived. Our goal is to win championships. Our goal is to get home playoff games. And that won’t change. We’ll line up and look forward to the challenges in 2009.
’’How goes the battle with free agents? Are you making progress in trying to re-sign any of them? “Yeah, we have. One of the things right now that is complicated — and maybe everyone’s not aware of this — is the league rule that any contracts that are signed during the calendar year of 2008 count against the 2008 cap. Obviously, because of our injury situation, we have no cap space remaining, so we can’t sign anybody — our Americans. One of the things is the distinction in the tax laws. For Canadian players, it doesn’t matter if you get an advance on your contract or signing bonus, so in the case of Jason Clermont, we signed him but he got an advance on his contract in January. For Americans, because the tax rate is much lower, if they get a signing bonus then it has to be based on the date the contract’s signed. With Jason, we were able to sign him in December but put the payment in January. With American players, we can’t sign them until January, so I think you’ll see several announcements in the New Year. Yet, there’s going to be some change. There will be some attrition with free-agency. It’s reality. When you have a good football team and you have as many good players as we do, other people take notice. In a salary-cap era, as we’ve seen already in B.C., there’s going to be change on an annual basis.’’
What’s the organization’s thoughts on Richie Hall leaving? “Obviously, it’s a day of mixed emotions. Richie is somebody we care about deeply and we’re happy for him on a personal basis. At the same time, there’s a real sense of sadness for us because we’re losing a member of the family — someone who has been part of the fabric of Saskatchewan Roughriders football for so long. He’s meant so much to this province in so many ways, on and off the field. As I said to someone earlier, you hear the term ‘good man’ thrown around a lot in today’s society, but Richie Hall is the epitome of a good man. He’s as fine a person as you’ll meet. I know that Edmonton has hired a quality football coach and a good person and he will lead the organization with class and dignity.’’Was it a matter of time that somebody was going to make this call to Richie?
“Richie’s an experienced coach, a good person, and he has knocked on the door for a long time. I can understand Edmonton’s attraction to him. It’s also a compliment to our organization. The hunter has become the hunted. The last time this organization won this many games in two years was 1969 and 1970. We are no longer the lovable losers. This is a pre-eminent organization that other people look to with respect. They look to our coaches, as we saw with the loss of Mike Gibson last week, and as we saw with Richie today. We intend to stay where we are
in terms of the respect that we’ve earned over the last couple of years. It’s just reality in the new world order. When you’re successful, people come after your people. We’re happy for Richie and we wish him the best — obviously, except when he plays us. Life goes on.’’What’s the process going to be to find his replacement?
“Kenny’s on vacation right now. We spoke last night a couple of times, anticipating the possibility of this. You always prepare for the worst-case scenario in this business, knowing that Richie could either get this job or the one in Toronto. We have a plan in place, but I think it’s best for Kenny to speak to that as opposed to me.
’’Do you have to look very far, in that Gary Etcheverry is already employed here and has been a defensive co-ordinator various times in the CFL? “Gary is an outstanding coach. Our players have a lot of confidence in him. They have expressed that multiple times. He and Richie are very close. I know Richie was thrilled when he came aboard. As to what final decision will be made, I think Kenny should speak to that.
’’You’re one of the people who has gone through the head-coaching interviewing process with Richie. Why has it taken him so long? “There’s no magical formula to it. A lot of times, everything’s situational. Sometimes it’s based on relationships. Sometimes it’s based on what people need. I think, historically, there has probably been more of a focus on the offensive side of the ball than defence in this league. I have not adhered to that. I hired Dave Ritchie and gave him his first head-coaching opportunity. I think maybe it’s because Richie is not a flashy guy. We’re in an era of style. Richie is probably more substance than style, so I don’t know how well he interviews, but I know what he’s like on a day-to-day basis and I think he’ll do an outstanding job. I know he’s excited. I’m sure it’s mixed emotions for him. He called me last night and we talked. He called me about 11:30 or 12 and apologized. We talked extensively. He has strong feelings for this place, but all coaches, in the right circumstance, aspire to be head coaches — not all, but most. I think this is something where he felt he was ready to make the next step. It’s going to be a challenge for him, and it will be a challenge for us. The West Division just got stronger, as if we needed it to.
’’With key free agents in the linebacking corps, is there concern with people following Richie? “I’m sure there will be some losses. I don’t think there’s any question about that. But I think if you look at our club two years ago, John Chick, Renauld Williams, Lance Frazier, Weston Dressler, Wes Cates and a whole bunch of guys weren’t here. I think if this regime has proved anything, it’s that we can find good football players, so we would like to retain as many guys as we can. In the real world, had Richie stayed, we still would have had attrition. But, sure, when you have a man of his character with the relationship he has with his players, it’s going to have an impact. Football’s no different than life. Sometimes you have to react to change, and we’ll go forward. We didn’t anticipate the injuries that we had last year and we reacted, so we’ll do the same thing in this circumstance.
’’Did you ever consider making a counter-offer or, because it was a head-coaching position, did you know it was something you couldn’t match? “At the end of the season, I sat down with Richie before Toronto and Edmonton called and offered him a two-year extension — and a very attractive extension. I think one thing should be pointed out. We say we don’t read the newspapers or listen, but we do. The only difference is whether we’re honest with you guys or not. Some people say they never listen to the media, and they’re absolute liars. We understand what’s being said. I heard a guy last night on the radio — I was in the car — saying that I hadn’t shown Richie respect if he went to Edmonton, and that’s just patently absurb. When I took this job, Richie was the lowest-paid defensive co-ordinator in the league. In fact, we had the lowest-paid group of assistant coaches in the league. One of the pre-conditions of me taking the job was that we alter that appreciably. Richie, in two seasons, had gone from being the lowest-paid defensive co-ordinator in the league to being in the top-three-paid assistant coaches on either side of the ball in the league, and we offered him a two-year extension with another raise. So he has been very well-compensated. He was very appreciative of that. It’s just an opportunity for him to be a head coach. He was unbelievably gracious in his phone call earlier today. He enjoys tremendous respect from this organization and this province.
’’He was considered twice here for the head-coaching job. Was there something that deterred you from promoting him here? “There’s no way to answer that question without it sounding negative. Sometimes there’s not a right or wrong choice. There are multiple good choices. I think if you look at the success of the last two years — 24 wins in two seasons — that there was a lot right with Ken Miller and Kent Austin, so I’d answer it that way. Do I think that Richie’s capable of being a head coach? Yes, I do. I’ve said that multiple times, and I’m happy for him. But I think if you look at our success over the last couple of years, it speaks for itself, given that it had only been since ’69 or ’70 since it had been paralleled. That’s quite a while. In fact, some people in this scrum weren’t born yet.’’Will Ron Estay be back? “Right now, our focus is on Ron and his health. Ron’s a guy who we care about deeply and we love. Football’s way, way, way down the list of priorities right now. We want to be supportive of Ron and this organization’s going to continue to take care of him and be good to him. Whether or not he coaches really is not of significance right now. We just ask that our fans keep him in their thoughts and prayers.
’’Do you have a particular timeline when you want a defensive co-ordinator and even someone to replace Mike Gibson as well? “We’re well along the way in both processes, but I think there’s a proper protocol, and Kenny would speak to that. We’re well down the road in both paths. We’ve anticipated both situations. Mike was under contract, but knew that there was a possibility that he could become an offensive co-ordinator. We gave him permission to go. It was something that he wanted to pursue. Obviously, I know Marcel (Bellefeuille) quite well. The day that we gave him permission, we started planning for the next (step). You’d have to be deaf, dumb, blind and stupid to not realize that the thing with Richie might happen, given the interest in Toronto and Edmonton. We’re well-prepared and we’ll make the announcements at whatever time frame is appropriate.
’’Given the rivalry and as much as people like Richie, are there people who might not forgive him for going to Edmonton? “I think people will always love Richie here. He’s earned that. If it’s possible, I think it will take a little edge off the rivalry. It will be strong, but I think it will be a little more respectful because of the respect that people have for Richie Hall. We’ll still bring the same intensity to the field. Friendships don’t change. Rivalries don’t, either . . . Richie’s always going to be a part of this family. Ron Lancaster went to Edmonton and went to Hamilton, yet he was always part of our family. There are a special few who connect at an elite level with this franchise, with these people, and Richie certainly has earned his place at that elite level. It’s not just because of what he has accomplished as a player and a coach, but because he really invested in the community and gave a lot back. I know part of his heart will always remain here. He’ll always be welcomed here. I think it will change the rivalry a little bit, just in terms of its tone. I don’t think the hate will be there, but the passion won’t change. Let’s be very clear. Over the last couple of years, I think we’ve gone a long way toward changing the way this organization is seen or perceived. Our goal is to win championships. Our goal is to get home playoff games. And that won’t change. We’ll line up and look forward to the challenges in 2009.
’’How goes the battle with free agents? Are you making progress in trying to re-sign any of them? “Yeah, we have. One of the things right now that is complicated — and maybe everyone’s not aware of this — is the league rule that any contracts that are signed during the calendar year of 2008 count against the 2008 cap. Obviously, because of our injury situation, we have no cap space remaining, so we can’t sign anybody — our Americans. One of the things is the distinction in the tax laws. For Canadian players, it doesn’t matter if you get an advance on your contract or signing bonus, so in the case of Jason Clermont, we signed him but he got an advance on his contract in January. For Americans, because the tax rate is much lower, if they get a signing bonus then it has to be based on the date the contract’s signed. With Jason, we were able to sign him in December but put the payment in January. With American players, we can’t sign them until January, so I think you’ll see several announcements in the New Year. Yet, there’s going to be some change. There will be some attrition with free-agency. It’s reality. When you have a good football team and you have as many good players as we do, other people take notice. In a salary-cap era, as we’ve seen already in B.C., there’s going to be change on an annual basis.’’
RICHIE HALL INTRODUCED AS ESKIMO COACH
REGINA -- Richie Hall called it a bittersweet day to be leaving the Saskatchewan Roughriders to become the new head coach of the Edmonton Eskimos.
But he will be taking a piece of his former team with him.
But he will be taking a piece of his former team with him.
“The reason why I feel I’m here is because of the play of the players over the last seven or eight years,” Hall said during a conference call from Edmonton on Wednesday. “What we want to do here is a carry-over of what we’ve done in Saskatchewan for the last number of years, whether it’s speed, whether it’s attitude or getting to the football. That’s an identity we had and that’s an identity we want to continue in Edmonton. Our defence will be very -- I don’t want to say blueprinted -- but very influenced by what we’ve done with the Green and White over the years. We’re going to make that part of the Green and Gold.”
Hall spent close to 20 years with the Roughriders as a player and coach. He joined the team as a defensive back in 1988 and over the next four seasons was twice named a West Division all-star and shared in the 1989 Grey Cup victory. He rejoined the team as a defensive assistant in 1994 before being promoted to defensive co-ordinator in 2001 and earning a second Grey Cup ring in 2007.
Through that time, Hall became a fixture in the Saskatchewan sporting community, appearing at numerous charity events over the years, including his annual golf tournament in Yorkton.
“It’s a place I’ve been for the last 20 years, but at the same time, all good things must end,” said Hall. “This was a great opportunity for myself. It’s a bittersweet day for me personally because I’m very elated to be the head coach of the Edmonton Eskimos but at the same time I’m very sad to be leaving. The Saskatchewan people have been very supportive of the organization as well as myself for many years. I’m going to miss those fans, but at the same time, this is a new chapter in my life and I’m looking forward to the challenge that presents itself.”
“It’s a place I’ve been for the last 20 years, but at the same time, all good things must end,” said Hall. “This was a great opportunity for myself. It’s a bittersweet day for me personally because I’m very elated to be the head coach of the Edmonton Eskimos but at the same time I’m very sad to be leaving. The Saskatchewan people have been very supportive of the organization as well as myself for many years. I’m going to miss those fans, but at the same time, this is a new chapter in my life and I’m looking forward to the challenge that presents itself.”
Hall was interviewed for the head coaching position last week -- his seventh such interview since 2004 -- before the announcement was made Wednesday. Hall was in a group of four finalists that included Eskimos assistant Noel Thorpe, Winnipeg Blue Bombers defensive co-ordinator Greg Marshall and B.C. Lions defensive co-ordinator Mike Benevides.
While Eskimos general manager and director of football operations Danny Maciocia -- who relinquished the coaching reigns Nov. 27 -- talked to a lot of people before coming to a decision, he’s didn’t have to go far for some advice.
“(I went to quarterbacks) Ricky Ray and Jason Maas and asked them, ‘Who is the toughest guy to go up against on the defensive side of the ball?’ It was unanimous and that was Richie’s name,” said Maciocia. “At the same time, we weren’t just looking for a football coach. You can make an argument that all of the people I interviewed are all qualified football coaches. We were also looking for an individual who possesses those skills as far as what he brings off the field:
What can he do in the community? How are his people skills? Can he rally people? One of his strengths that caught my attention is that people enjoyed playing for him.”
That fact could mean stiff competition for the Roughriders in the free-agent market. All three of Saskatchewan’s 2008 starting linebackers -- Maurice Lloyd, Anton McKenzie and Sean Lucas -- are set to become free agents in February.
That fact could mean stiff competition for the Roughriders in the free-agent market. All three of Saskatchewan’s 2008 starting linebackers -- Maurice Lloyd, Anton McKenzie and Sean Lucas -- are set to become free agents in February.
“I’m sure there will be some losses,” said Saskatchewan general manager Eric Tillman. “In the real world, had Richie stayed, we still would have had attrition. But, sure, when you have a man of his character with the relationship he has with his players, it’s going to have an impact.”
Hall had been interviewed -- and passed over -- for head coaching positions so many times before that he was beginning to think it might not happen for him.
Hall had been interviewed -- and passed over -- for head coaching positions so many times before that he was beginning to think it might not happen for him.
“I thought it intrigued (Maciocia) enough to at least want to talk to me again,” Hall said with a chuckle. “When he offered it to me, it was a no-brainer. It was something I never dreamed of.”
Now the challenge is to parlay his success as a co-ordinator into success as a head coach. Hall, who has not yet settled on a staff but plans to talk to those inside and outside the organization about jobs, does not plan to take on the role of defensive co-ordinator with the Eskimos.
Now the challenge is to parlay his success as a co-ordinator into success as a head coach. Hall, who has not yet settled on a staff but plans to talk to those inside and outside the organization about jobs, does not plan to take on the role of defensive co-ordinator with the Eskimos.
“I will be able to provide some guidance to the defensive coaches given that the foundation will be what we’ve done for the last number of years (in Saskatchewan),” said Hall. “I will have some influence over the defence, but my job is to be the head coach.”
ETCHEVERRY WANTS TO BE CIS HEAD COACH
REGINA -- Gary Etcheverry would appear to be the logical candidate to succeed Richie Hall as the Saskatchewan Roughriders’ defensive co-ordinator.
After all, Etcheverry is already an assistant coach on the Roughriders’ staff -- and he has also served as a CFL defensive co-ordinator with the Toronto Argonauts (in 1999), Saskatchewan (2000), B.C. Lions (2001) and Ottawa Renegades (2004).
So why shouldn’t Etcheverry be next in line now that Hall -- the Roughriders’ defensive co-ordinator for the past eight seasons -- is now the Edmonton Eskimos’ head coach?
That question was put to Etcheverry, who indicated that his primary objective is to become a head coach in Canadian university football.
“If I can’t become a CIS head coach, then I’ll talk to the people who want to have those conversations, provided they want to have those conversations,’’ Etcheverry said Wednesday, when Hall’s hiring was announced in Edmonton.
That question was put to Etcheverry, who indicated that his primary objective is to become a head coach in Canadian university football.
“If I can’t become a CIS head coach, then I’ll talk to the people who want to have those conversations, provided they want to have those conversations,’’ Etcheverry said Wednesday, when Hall’s hiring was announced in Edmonton.
Etcheverry’s possible candidacy was raised with Roughriders general manager Eric Tillman, in the absence of vacationing head coach Ken Miller.
“Gary is an outstanding coach,’’ Tillman said. “Our players have a lot of confidence in him. They have expressed that multiple times. He and Richie are very close. I know Richie was thrilled when he came aboard. As to what final decision will be made, I think Kenny should speak to that.’’
“Gary is an outstanding coach,’’ Tillman said. “Our players have a lot of confidence in him. They have expressed that multiple times. He and Richie are very close. I know Richie was thrilled when he came aboard. As to what final decision will be made, I think Kenny should speak to that.’’
The Roughriders are faced with replacing at least two assistant coaches. Last week, offensive line coach Mike Gibson left to become the offensive co-ordinator with the Hamilton Tiger-Cats.
“We’re well along the way in both processes, but I think there’s a proper protocol, and Kenny would speak to that,’’ Tillman said.
“We’re well along the way in both processes, but I think there’s a proper protocol, and Kenny would speak to that,’’ Tillman said.
The California-born Etcheverry, meanwhile, was more than happy to address his interest in coaching collegiately.
“I have failed in communicating to the football universe in Canada, which I realize is pretty small, that what I really want to be is a university head coach,’’ he said. “That’s really what I want to do. It’s independent of compensation. It’s independent of virtually anything else. I believe it’s my niche.
“I have failed in communicating to the football universe in Canada, which I realize is pretty small, that what I really want to be is a university head coach,’’ he said. “That’s really what I want to do. It’s independent of compensation. It’s independent of virtually anything else. I believe it’s my niche.
“I have simply failed over the better part of the last six-plus years to accomplish that goal. I will some day. I just don’t know when it is.’’
Etcheverry has been a finalist for a handful of CIS head-coaching jobs in recent years, but to no avail. He was the defensive co-ordinator with the UBC Thunderbirds in 2005.
Most recently, Etcheverry has applied for the vacant head-coaching position at St. Francis Xavier.
Etcheverry has been a finalist for a handful of CIS head-coaching jobs in recent years, but to no avail. He was the defensive co-ordinator with the UBC Thunderbirds in 2005.
Most recently, Etcheverry has applied for the vacant head-coaching position at St. Francis Xavier.
“As I submit my materials, I highlight a paragraph which basically says that my short-term and long-term goal is to be a CIS head coach where football can be seen as co-curricular and not extra-curricular in a Canadian university,’’ he said. “I’m very specific about that.
“I came here with the understanding that the club, and in particular Eric and Ken, would do everything they could to help me realize my goal. That’s where my interest lies.’’
Etcheverry rejoined the Roughriders in 2008 as a defensive assistant, helping out in various capacities. He turned more of his attention to coaching the defensive line while Ron Estay, who is responsible for that position, confronted cancer.
“It was also helpful that Ron was able to make guest appearances every so often,’’ said Etcheverry, 52. “That’s what I did this year, and then I did other duties, not only for the defence but for the club, and we’ll leave those without detail.’’
Estay’s involvement with the team was curtailed in late September due to his battle with non-Hodgkins lymphoma.
Estay’s involvement with the team was curtailed in late September due to his battle with non-Hodgkins lymphoma.
“Right now, our focus is on Ron and his health,’’ Tillman said. “Ron’s a guy who we care about deeply and we love. Football’s way, way, way down the list of priorities right now. We want to be supportive of Ron and this organization’s going to continue to take care of him and be good to him.
“Whether or not he coaches really is not of significance right now. We just ask that our fans keep him in their thoughts and prayers.’’
Wednesday, December 17, 2008
GOODBY RITCHIE
Eskimos to unveil Richie Hall as their new head football coach EDMONTON
- Richie Hall is going to finally get his shot to be a CFL head coach. Two league sources requesting anonymity told The Canadian Press that Hall has been hired as the new head coach of the Edmonton Eskimos. The CFL team will make it official at a news conference Tuesday afternoon.
Hall got the job after being placed on a short list along with B.C. Lions defensive co-ordinator Mike Benevides, Eskimos assistant coach Noel Thorpe and Greg Marshall, who was the Winnipeg Blue Bombers' defensive co-ordinator last season. Hall spent the last 15 seasons as a coach with the Saskatchewan Roughriders, the last eight as the club's defensive co-ordinator. A former CFL player, Hall is respected throughout the league for being a classy gentleman off the field and a bright defensive mind on it. He orchestrated a Riders defence that helped the team win a Grey Cup title in 2007 - its first since 1989 - and finish second in the West Division this past season despite a rash of injuries. Hall had interviewed for a number of head-coaching vacancies in the CFL, but had always been bypassed. (The Canadian Press)
at 12/17/2008 16 comments
ESKS CLOSE TO NAMING HEAD COACH
Is Richie Hall about to be named the Edmonton Eskimos' newhead coach?
There is growing speculation that suggests the SaskatchewanRoughriders defensive co-ordinator is in the driver's seatin the race to be the club's next bench boss.
In fact, two sources believe Hall will be hired rathersoon.
"Danny (Maciocia) and Richie have really hit it off," saidone source.
"Plus, (Maciocia) knows that it will cripple one of hisopponents (the Roughriders)."
"And Richie will have some pretty damn good players followhim over from Saskatchewan."
However, only Maciocia - the Esks new GM - knows who thefront-running candidate is.
Maciocia has kept relatively quiet during the search andthere is no way to sense which way he's leaning.
But an announcement could come as early as this afternoon.
Current Edmonton assistant coach Noel Thorpe is the otherprime candidate.
B.C. Lions defensive co-ordinator Mike Benevides is not inthe mix, according to a source.
"It won't be Benny," he remarked. "If Danny wants a younggun, it will be Noel."
Thorpe is clearly a head coach in waiting in the CFL.
An excellent communicator with respect in the locker room,Thorpe is a known commodity.
That is a big plus for the straight-shooting Canuck.
Given the respect Maciocia has for Thorpe, it wouldn't be asurprise to see the Esks stay in-house and give Thorpe thejob.
But multiple sources are favouring Hall in this race.
There is an outside shot Greg Marshall - Winnipeg'sdefensive co-ordinator - could be the longshot winner.
But a source within the Eskimos poured cold water on thatnotion last night.
If Hall is announced as head coach, there will be immediatespeculation on his assistant coaching staff.
There will also be speculation on how long Thorpe willremain with the Eskimos.
While nobody is suggesting Thorpe wouldn't return in 2009in an assistant coaching capacity - if unsuccessful in thehead coach derby - it's fair to suggest he will likely beon the radar of the next team searching for a head coachafter the start of next year.
If the Eskimos pass over Thorpe in this search, will theclub eventually lose him to another CFL team looking for arising star?
Is that a risk the Esks want to take?
(Courtesy, The Edmonton Sun)
- Richie Hall is going to finally get his shot to be a CFL head coach. Two league sources requesting anonymity told The Canadian Press that Hall has been hired as the new head coach of the Edmonton Eskimos. The CFL team will make it official at a news conference Tuesday afternoon.
Hall got the job after being placed on a short list along with B.C. Lions defensive co-ordinator Mike Benevides, Eskimos assistant coach Noel Thorpe and Greg Marshall, who was the Winnipeg Blue Bombers' defensive co-ordinator last season. Hall spent the last 15 seasons as a coach with the Saskatchewan Roughriders, the last eight as the club's defensive co-ordinator. A former CFL player, Hall is respected throughout the league for being a classy gentleman off the field and a bright defensive mind on it. He orchestrated a Riders defence that helped the team win a Grey Cup title in 2007 - its first since 1989 - and finish second in the West Division this past season despite a rash of injuries. Hall had interviewed for a number of head-coaching vacancies in the CFL, but had always been bypassed. (The Canadian Press)
at 12/17/2008 16 comments
ESKS CLOSE TO NAMING HEAD COACH
Is Richie Hall about to be named the Edmonton Eskimos' newhead coach?
There is growing speculation that suggests the SaskatchewanRoughriders defensive co-ordinator is in the driver's seatin the race to be the club's next bench boss.
In fact, two sources believe Hall will be hired rathersoon.
"Danny (Maciocia) and Richie have really hit it off," saidone source.
"Plus, (Maciocia) knows that it will cripple one of hisopponents (the Roughriders)."
"And Richie will have some pretty damn good players followhim over from Saskatchewan."
However, only Maciocia - the Esks new GM - knows who thefront-running candidate is.
Maciocia has kept relatively quiet during the search andthere is no way to sense which way he's leaning.
But an announcement could come as early as this afternoon.
Current Edmonton assistant coach Noel Thorpe is the otherprime candidate.
B.C. Lions defensive co-ordinator Mike Benevides is not inthe mix, according to a source.
"It won't be Benny," he remarked. "If Danny wants a younggun, it will be Noel."
Thorpe is clearly a head coach in waiting in the CFL.
An excellent communicator with respect in the locker room,Thorpe is a known commodity.
That is a big plus for the straight-shooting Canuck.
Given the respect Maciocia has for Thorpe, it wouldn't be asurprise to see the Esks stay in-house and give Thorpe thejob.
But multiple sources are favouring Hall in this race.
There is an outside shot Greg Marshall - Winnipeg'sdefensive co-ordinator - could be the longshot winner.
But a source within the Eskimos poured cold water on thatnotion last night.
If Hall is announced as head coach, there will be immediatespeculation on his assistant coaching staff.
There will also be speculation on how long Thorpe willremain with the Eskimos.
While nobody is suggesting Thorpe wouldn't return in 2009in an assistant coaching capacity - if unsuccessful in thehead coach derby - it's fair to suggest he will likely beon the radar of the next team searching for a head coachafter the start of next year.
If the Eskimos pass over Thorpe in this search, will theclub eventually lose him to another CFL team looking for arising star?
Is that a risk the Esks want to take?
(Courtesy, The Edmonton Sun)
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