Smith’s first start a ‘ very special moment’
Quinn Smith appeared and contributed in a number of CFL games for the Calgary Stampeders in 2014, but there is no doubt Friday night will hold a particular significance.
“Yeah, it’s a very special moment in my career to get my first start,’’ said the 23- year- old, who will suit up at defensive tackle on Friday night in the season opener against the Hamilton Tiger- Cats. “We have a lot of depth on this Dline and to get a start is a big opportunity for me.
“It’s a huge boost. Obviously, if I wasn’t starting, I’d be a rotational guy and it would be a different situation. For the team to have the confidence in me to start, in my second year, I’m going to be flying out there for sure.’’
With the injury to Corey Mace, Smith assumes one of the tackle spots, while Junior Turner will start beside him. Charleston Hughes and Freddie Bishop III will man the ends.
Head coach/ general manager John Hufnagel has nothing but the utmost faith in the sophomore out of Concordia, who had a memorable three- sack regular- season finale.
“He had an excellent camp,’’ said Hufnagel. “He progressed very well last year, made plays especially at the end of the season for us last year. Second year in the system, he’s very dependable, very reliable on his responsibility. He’s a strong, explosive young man that did an excellent job throughout training camp.’’
SWITCHING SIDES
One individual making his first appearance in Stamps’ colours is defensive back Joe Burnett, who joined the squad after three years in Edmonton.
“It’s a blessing in disguise,’’ said the 28- year- old. “I feel blessed to have another opportunity to continue my career being with the Stamps. It’s a great feeling just to be a part of this organization, this tradition.’’
Burnett’s versatility is what the coaching staff loves most about him.
“I learned early in my career the more you can do and that’s what this game’s about,’’ he added. “Playing against these guys, this is one you get up for but now, being a part of it, playing with these guys, running around and having fun with them, it’s a great learning experience. They know how to win, they know how to be a champion and be professional athletes and I’m just glad to be a part of it.’’
BROWN GETS CHANCE
In an interesting roster move, Tim Brown slots in as third running back and prime returner in place of Sederrik Cunningham, who had a terrific pre- season outing in Regina last weekend.
“Number one, Tim is also a backup running back,’’ said Hufnagel, as he explained his reasoning. “Matt ( Walter) didn’t play the game last week because he did have a little bit of a knee problem and I didn’t want to go into this game with not really being 100 per cent sure how long Matt would last. So I wanted more depth at the running back position.’’
EX- DINOS EVERYWHERE
As the 2015 CFL season gets underway, there is a record number of CIS grads in the lineups of the nine teams, with the University of Calgary leading the way with 21 players.
The Stampeders also top all teams with 28 former CIS players, including 17 on their active roster.