2019 CFL Divisional Semifinal Playoff Winnipeg at Calgary: Preview and Prediction

The Blue Bombers were considered a Grey Cup favorite by many early in the season, that is until starting quarterback Matt Nichols went down for the season. Without Nichols, they have struggled on offense but this is a complete team that is good enough to beat anybody in the CFL. The Stampeders are the New England Patriots of the CFL, which means they are run well and they have an elite quarterback in Bo Levi Mitchell, and when players go down they just replace them and seem to not miss a beat. Let’s take a look at the keys to winning this game.

Keys to the Game

Zach Collaros

Winnipeg lost starter Matt Nichols, ground it out with backup Chris Streveler, and traded for Zach Collaros, who won his only start in week 20 against Calgary. Collaros is a veteran of pressure situations and signing him a few weeks ago gives the Bombers a chance to win this game.

Andrew Harris needs to have a good game

The Blue Bombers must find a way to break through a Stamps run defense that is very stingy. Stamps allowed the second fewest yards-per-carry. The Bombers must have success on the ground in order to avoid putting all the pressure on Collaros’ arm. The trouble for Winnipeg is that their stud RB Andrew Harris hasn’t scored a touchdown in three match-ups versus Calgary this season. Even if Harris struggles, maybe Winnipeg’s ace in the hole, especially near the goal line, is inserting the versatile Streveler.

Reggie Begelton

Reggie Begelton, who thrived in his trio of head-to-head battles against Winnipeg to the tune of three total TDs, 230 yards and 12 receptions, cannot be allowed to run free in the Bombers secondary.

Prediction

This should be a highly competitive game but my worry is whether Collaros can win the game without a big performance from running back Andrew Harris. The Stamps are the safe bet here behind Bo Levi Mitchell.

Stamps 31  Bombers 23