DON’T MESS WITH SUCCESS
Glenn, Bridge give Riders a 1-2 punch
This cherished space is often used to defend Saskatchewan Roughriders quarterback Kevin Glenn. The problem is, other teams have been defending him too.
After a searing start to the 2017 CFL season, Glenn has cooled off in the fall — leading some Riders rooters to lobby for Brandon Bridge to become the No. 1 quarterback.
That day may come, given Bridge’s talents, but some patience is advisable.
The Roughriders have an 8-6 record and, if this weekend’s results are favourable, could soon be destined for the playoffs.
Glenn’s performance is a major reason for the Riders’ revival.
Admittedly, he has not been lighting up opposing defences in recent weeks, but he is only two weeks removed from piloting the Roughriders to an 18-17, comefrom-behind victory over the Ottawa Redblacks (who are to visit Mosaic Stadium on Friday).
Glenn struggled Saturday against the Toronto Argonauts and was pulled in the second quarter — whereupon Bridge electrified the Saskatchewan offence and led the team to a 27-24 victory.
Bridge had also been impressive after replacing Glenn on Sept. 24, when the Roughriders lost 15-9 to the Calgary Stampeders.
It is clear by now that Bridge can play. His emergence gives Saskatchewan a 1-2 punch at football’s most crucial position.
The current setup is working quite well, thank you.
The 21 touchdown passes thrown by Glenn this season demonstrate that, at 38, he can still play the game at a high level.
Bridge has shown that he can move the offence if Glenn should falter. Perfect.
Ideally, the Roughriders’ top two quarterbacks can be used in complementary fashion — as was the case in 1981.
Joe Barnes typically started, with John Hufnagel poised to enter the game if need be. Barnes was the nimbler of the two. Hufnagel was the superior passer and someone who could provide a spark off the bench. It worked out wonderfully.
Fast forward to the late 1980s. Tom Burgess could carve up a blitzing defence. Kent Austin was especially proficient at dissecting zone coverage. Both of them helped the Roughriders thrive in the playoffs during the championship season of 1989.
Glenn and Bridge could be used in a comparable manner.
In terms of size and style, they provide different dimensions.
The 8-6 record is also something different after back-toback losing seasons. So why mess with new-found success?
The Roughriders should continue to start Glenn and, if he falters, cross that bridge when they come to it.
Bridge has shown that he can move the offence if Glenn should falter.