FIVE THINGS TOWATCH
THE SCOREBOARD
It doesn’t over-dramatize the point to call this the Lions’ most important regular-season game in five years. A win here and they clinch the crossover playoff spot. It would also give them a realistic shot at hosting the West semifinal. They’ve won five of their past six and have momentum on their side. The Eskimos, alas, have Mike Reilly on theirs.
THE REILLY FACTOR
It’s been an up-and-down season for the reigning MOP but the Esks’ QB served notice last week against Ottawa, throwing for 369 yards and running for another
72. He has a big-game pedigree and he’s tougher than a night in jail. He’ll get his. The only question is how much will he get.
PRESSURE DROP
In their Aug. 9 win over the Esks at BC Place, the Lions spotted the visitors a 14-3 lead but came back to win in the second half on the strength of an opportunistic defence and a relentless pass rush. The Lions limited Reilly and Co., to three points in the second half while recording four turnovers. The Lions’ pass rush has been a key to their resurgence. It has to make the life of Reilly uncomfortable.
LIONS’ DISCIPLINE
One of the most underrated aspects of the Lions’ win in Calgary last weekend was their team discipline. At times it’s been an issue this season but against the Stampeders the Lions took four penalties for 61 yards; the Stamps nine for 101. “We told our guys if you get into it, you’re going to sit,” said Lions head coach Wally Buono.
VERTIGO
Back in Week 3, Reilly torched the Lions’ secondary for 326 yards, including 129 to Duke Williams. It was one of the reasons the Lions moved Winston Rose to the field corner over Marcel Young. Containing Williams and the vertical passing game remains Job No. 1 for the Lions but Bryant Mitchell also caught 13 balls for 190 yards against Ottawa last week. Reilly has some weapons.