In a stunning display of ineptitude, poor preparation, and rookie mistakes, Calgary summed up their defensive abilities by taking a massive step backwards.
The new coaching staff was supposed to put their Stamp on the new team by making the right decisions. Right off the bat key vets Trey Young and Terrence Patrick were cut. The move was partly to do with being beat out at DE (Patrick now in Hamilton), and because the Stamps wanted a 'better' middle linebacker (Young now in Edmonton and Grootegoed who replaced him hasn't played a game yet.) Turns out after the three injuries in game one (2 DE's and 1 LB) and one today (1 DE), the moves will end up hurting Calgary in a big way at least in the short-term.
Calvin Bannister = Major Liability
Last seasons victims were kept, vets Clemons let go at DB and short but 'quick' Bannister kept. I counted at least 12 plays where Bannister was beat clean for huge gains and touchdowns. Questionable how the team is 'better'. New schemes, new coaches, somethings amiss, because Calgary was hammered tonight in Edmonton.
Not that the defense were completely to blame. The offense did manage to put up points, but suffered from turnovers. At the time of the game when you hand your MVP the ball Calgary decided to give Summers important touches which he responded by fumbling. Last week Jackson played instead of Thelwell, this week Summers played some time at slotback (Thelwell got some reps, had big catches and recovered a fumble.)
Henry Burris threw for two interceptions that gave Edmonton life when they didn't need momentum. He finished the night with 22/30 and 330 yards passing. Reynolds only had 11 touches but 79 yards. The Stamps came in with a completely new game plan tonight and had trouble a) not taking holding penalties, b) making plays in the first half.
Although Calgary looked like they'd play the upset late in the forth quarter, the same people connected and were victimized to give Edmonton the clutch touchdown for the win. Calvin Bannister was beat throughout the game and combined with Wes Lysack to come up with nonplays late in the game. They were beaten all game by Campbell who had 158 yards and two touchdowns.
MAJOR questions have erupted on a defense that escaped scrutiny last week--the only difference is this week the gaping holes have been blown wide open. The front four will need more help as they literally had zero pressure all game. Expect some changes to DBs Smith and Bannister (how long will they hold on to this guy?) and play calling.
A disappointing loss for a team with apparent potential. At the end of the day they are no better than last year and they look the same: great offence, inconsistent defence, untimely interceptions from the QB. We'll see what changes happen for prep before the suddenly strong Alouettes.
Notes: Julien Jenkins suffered a broken leg in the third quarter and will miss the rest of the season. (That's another DE down to the three lost already.)
