Lulay back in the saddle for Lions vs. Blue Bombers

Veteran quarterback excited for start but content with backup role

VANCOUVER — A career performance by Travis Lulay doesn’t mean the B.C. Lions quarterback is about to start second-guessing his role with the team.

The 33-year-old backup came off the bench to throw for 436 yards and lead the CFL team to a 41-26 road win over the Hamilton TigerCats this past Saturday and will remain behind centre tonight when the Lions return home to face the Winnipeg Blue Bombers.

Lulay will remain in the lineup replacing starting pivot Jon Jennings, who was injured on B.C.’s first offensive play from scrimmage in Hamilton. Jennings has been diagnosed with a shoulder strain and Lions coach Wally Buono said the club won’t rush him back.

The performance validated the need to have two strong quarterbacks in the pass-happy CFL, but it did not change Lulay’s projected career path. He signed a contract extension prior to the 2016 season knowing Jennings would be groomed as the Lions’ starter and isn’t about to looking for another team to call his own on the strength of a single solid outing.

Lulay becomes a free agent at the end of the season, when Jennings also has an option-window in his contract in which he could explore NFL opportunities. That’s time enough to think about his options.

“I made peace with that decision (to stay) as I was making it. I’m in a good mental state of mind,” said Lulay, who has made nearby Blaine, Wash., his year-round home. “My family is happy here. It’s rewarding to know I’ve made the right decision.”

Winnipeg (2-1) returns to the site of a disappointing loss to B.C., which ended its 2016 season in the West Division semifinal. Kickoff is 7 p.m. PT at B.C. Place Stadium. Lulay