CFL kicks off season: games this week
The Canadian Football League kicks off its season tonight with the Blue Bombers trying to erase memories of a terrible 2013 season.
TORONTO ( 0- 0) AT WINNIPEG ( 0- 0)
Thursday, 8:30 p.m., TSN
Keys to the game: The Winnipeg Blue Bombers, coming off a 3-15 season, simply have to find a way to protect first-year starting quarterback Drew Willy if there is to be any hope. Winnipeg also needs to exert some pressure on Willy’s opposite number — future Hall of Famer Ricky Ray — to prevent its defence from being shredded. Players to watch: Linebacker Shea Emry, formerly of Montreal, makes his debut with the Argonauts. Another free-agent signee, Winnipeg receiver Nick Moore, is being counted on for a second straight 1,000-yard season.
MONTREAL ( 0- 0) AT CALGARY ( 0- 0)
Saturday, 3 p.m., TSN
Keys to the game: This could apply to anyone who faces Calgary, but Montreal has to find a way to control Stampeders running back Jon Cornish, who was named the league’s most outstanding player and top Canadian last season. The Stampeders must pay attention to talented Alouettes receivers such as S.J. Green and Duron Carter. Players to watch: Troy Smith has the considerable challenge of replacing legendary Alouettes pivot Anthony Calvillo, who has retired. Perennial 1,000-yard slotback Nik Lewis returns to the Stampeders’ lineup after missing most of the 2013 season due to injury.
EDMONTON ( 0- 0) AT B. C. ( 0- 0)
Saturday, 6 p.m., TSN
Keys to the game: Eskimos quarterback Mike Reilly enjoyed a fine 2013 season despite a lack of consistent protection. If the Eskimos can keep him upright, their season could be one of promise. Quarterbacking is also a key storyline with the Lions, with veteran Kevin Glenn getting the start while Travis Lulay recovers from off-season shoulder surgery. Players to watch: Running backs Andrew Harris and Stefan Logan give the Lions myriad options. They will be closely watched by Eskimos linebacker J.C. Sherritt.
HAMILTON ( 0- 0) AT SASKATCHEWAN ( 0- 0)
Sunday, 7 p.m., TSN
Keys to the game: The Roughriders need to establish a running attack after the departure of 2013 Grey Cup MVP Kory Sheets, now of the Oakland Raiders. Zach Collaros, making his first start as Hamilton’s quarterback, will try to dent a Saskatchewan defensive backfield that is among the league’s best. Players to watch: Tailback C.J. Gable is a multi-purpose threat for Hamilton. And how can eyeballs not be glued to Saskatchewan quarterback Darian Durant after his first championship season as a starter?