Mark Stephen
CFL.ca
Several questions remain unanswered for the Calgary Stampeders (0-1) as they head to Edmonton for their final pre-season game of 2011 on Friday night.
However, if all goes well, John Hufnafel and his staff will find themsleves a little more relaxed heading into the regular season.
Of the many questions that remain unresolved, the offensive line seems to be the biggest – both literally and figuratively. While the unit was already under major reconstruction, injuries have forced them to undergo some additional renovations.
Heading into their matchup with the Eskimos (0-1), it is unlikely that Jon Gott or Dimitri Tsoumpas will dress for the Stamps. Both have been plagued with injuries throughout camp, thus forcing Hufnagel to juggle his depth chart. Tsoumpas’ absence has been particularly noticeable.
The ranking member of the offensive line brought an immense amount of leadership to the group.
Fortunately, the Stampeders have been recruiting well at the offensive line position and appear to have talent to cover their holes. Rookie J’Micheal Deane has taken over Tsoumpas’ spot at right guard, for now, while Gerald Cadogan, who had a stint with the Stamps last year, is making a claim for the left tackle position.
The team also brought in offensive lineman Tony Washington. Though he is a week behind the other offensive line candidates, his physical gifts may allow him to jump right into the competition.
Incumbent linemen Tim O’Neill, Steve Myddleton and Stanley Bryant will make the trip to Edmonton.
Following their 24-0 defeat at the hands of the Lions last Wednesday, the cry of ‘execution’ has been voiced several times during practice at McMahon Stadium. When a team is shutout, even in a pre-season game, players are faced with harsh consequences.
The secondary remains a work in progress. However, last week saw Demitrice Morley play a long way towards securing himself the starting safety position. The rookie from Tennessee picked off two passes against B.C. and nearly had a third interception – all in the first half.
Meanwhile, the Stampeders are searching for personnel combinations. Geoff Tisdale (free agent from Hamilton), Johnnie Dixon and Milton Collins have all taken turns on the corner, while Brandon Smith and Keon Raymond have been working at the halfback positions.
Second year Canadian Taurean Allen is battling his way into contention as is sophomore safety Eric Fraser.
Inevitably a player or two will emerge and force the Stampeders’ hand in Edmonton. But for now, the most concerning spots remain on the offensive line and the secondary.
Hopefully tonight, they’ll all be filled.
