realviking

Seconded.

Fantastic analysis! I would just add that you need to give your relatively inexperienced GM and head coach some leeway to make mistakes and correct them. In Walters' case, he needs to enhance/replace the scouting staff. In O'Shea's case, he needs to replace his OC and maybe more of his offensive staff. I think part of the problem with O'Shea has been his deference to his more experienced coordinators, but now that he himself has gained more experience, he should be more confident to pull the trigger on needed changes. I really do think that it's tweaks that we need, not wholesale changes. If you bring in a capable OC (and a left guard), the offense scores more points and stays on the field longer, which makes it easier to play defense, and all of a sudden, you have a playoff team. O'Shea has his flaws, for sure, but there's something to be said for the fact that his players seem very loyal to him, and has created a fair amount of loyalty to the club (see the long-term extensions signed by players this season). That said, I would only give this regime one more year. If they can't improve next year, then it's time to move on.

I see Kohlert has been listed as a starter, but he still might not dress, in which case Bastien will take his spot. Who slots into the roster if that happens?

Agreed. While this Hamilton game is important for this season, I don't think this season is worth the long-term risk. I really don't think this team has a shot at the Cup this year, so keep him good for next year and beyond.

Any relation to Michael Bolton? Maybe he can sing as part of the half time entertainment at IGF. /shudder

Sounds like a good short-yardage back. We could use one of those.

How many passes over 20 yards were attempted tonight by Winnipeg? Couldn't have been many. We need more balance there.

It also looks like the Riders will only get one practice in before the game, while we will have four (including today's). That might tip the scales.

So who do we want to win tonight, folks? I'm thinking Calgary.

I know it's early, but I'm starting to feel ok with losing the Collaros sweepstakes.

What is it with Ontario teams and taking penalties?

Did Walters make a mistake with Banks? It sure seems like it. That's ok. GM's (like managers in any organization) make mistakes, and they can learn from those mistakes. It only becomes a problem if the mistakes start piling up, or he keeps making the same mistakes over and over.

Ed Tait told me on Twitter that they don't actually have a done deal yet, but they're close enough to go ahead with games.

Does anyone know if Glenn is owed a roster bonus? That would sure expedite the process.