BC Lions Thread

[jerrym]

Bighill and Elimimian comment on the Lions TC.

"I feel like we are going to dominate some teams."

Team 💯 jacked following first day in pads. 🏈 🦁 #CFLTChttps://t.co/bLM2auBPNi

— BC Lions (@BCLions) May 31, 2016

[jerrym]

Lulay and Jennings discuss there relationship in this interview:

http://bc.ctvnews.ca/video?clipId=88...r&_gsc=Q4kW5AY

[jerrym]

This article discusses how a Dutch soccer player ended up as a WR for the BC Lions:

So how does Geraldo Boldewijn, a soccer-crazed athlete from the Netherlands, become a pro football player less than a decade after his family moved from across the pond? You’d be surprised how many youngsters overseas watch, and love, the American version of football.
“NFL Europe,” stated Boldewijn. “We had the Amsterdam Admirals to cheer for. I started playing flag football, and then didn’t play tackle until I was 15. It was eight- man football so I didn’t experience the 11-man game until I moved to the States.”
Boldejiwn’s journey has been rather impressive for a guy entering only his third pro football season. Despite not playing the American game until age 17, Boldewijn would spend four seasons at Boise State – where he helped the Broncos defeat Andy Dalton and Texas Christian in the 2010 Fiesta Bowl – and is now turning heads in the early days of BC Lions training camp.
Signed by the club during practice roster expansion last October, the Dutch wide receiver has made the most of every opportunity and now looks to become a fixture in the Leos already impressive receiving core. His potential first came to light when he got the start for last year’s regular season finale, a 28-7 loss to the Calgary Stampeders.
“Every time you strap on the pads and get on the field you want to show your best,” said Boldewijn. “It was special when I first found out I would make my pro debut that night, nice to get my feet wet and expand my knowledge of the CFL. Now I am looking forward to getting better.” He turned heads by hauling in a 50-yard pass from Travis Lulay, the Lions third-longest completion of the season.

What is one of his most impressive traits so far? Speed. Playing flag and eight-man football no doubt helped develop his quickness and in turn cause trouble for defensive schemes. With one regular season start, two months on the practice roster and a couple of mini-camps this year under his belt, Boldewijn is starting to feel even more comfortable in the CFL environment. Of course it must help to have an experienced coach in Marcel Bellefeuille guiding the Lions receiving corps as they look to learn and improve
“Camp has been great so far,” said Boldewijn. “Coach Bellefeuille has done a really good job. He is really detailed in his work and it benefits all of us in the room. It will definitely show on the field.”

http://www.bclions.com/2016/05/31/bo...aldo-can-play/

[jerrym]

Day 3 of TC recap

WHO STOOD OUT:
Offensively, Wally Buono praised Jonathon Jennings and Travis Lulay for not being phased by the speed on day one of full contact. The offensive line did their part in protecting the QB’s from various defensive schemes thrown at them by Mark Washington. Lavelle Hawkins hauled in the longest touchdown pass of the day on a bomb from Jennings. The catch of the day, maybe even the best play of camp so far, came in the afternoon when Geraldo Boldewijn hauled in a diving, one-handed grab during two-on-two drills. The noise and reaction all over the field was wild. Devonn Brown later made an acrobatic diving grab in the end zone. On both of those occasions, defensive backs were forced to do push ups.
On defence, the ‘team 100’ duo of Solomon Elimimian and Adam Bighill were reunited and it looked like they haven’t missed a beat. The duo was flying around all morning and you could tell they were happy to be focussing on football. Newcomer Brandon Stewart was a force in the secondary and had the defensive play of the day in team scrimmage when he broke up a long pass toward the end zone. Loucheiz Purifoy was playing tight coverage throughout and managed to cause difficulty for the receivers he was covering. Linebacker Darius Lane had the only turnover of the day, an interception on what looked to be an errant throw.

http://www.bclions.com/2016/05/30/tr...eport-day-2-2/

[R.J]

3 Down Radio: May 31
http://www.tsn.ca/radio/vancouver-10...ay-31-1.499284

[jerrym]

Buono has imported four University of Washington Huskies for TC.

Passport issues delayed the arrival of former Huskies linebacker Victor Aiyewa, who took part in his first full day of training camp Tuesday, five days after the start of Lions rookie camp. He was joined by yet another ex-Husky, offensive tackle Micah Hatchie, in the belief that a football team can never have enough offensive linemen. The Lions now have 13 in camp. ...
A three-year starter with the Huskies, Hatchie, a native Hawaiian, admitted that Kamloops is his first stop in Canada. It’s the same with Aiyewa, who has NFL experience. When quarterback Keith Price, who had a notable career at Washington, joined the Saskatchewan Roughriders in 2014, it also marked his first experience in Canada. Defensive lineman George Hudson is yet another Husky in Lions’ camp. ...
Aiyewa is especially important to the Lions, since they’ve been following his NFL career for some time. No fresh face, he is 27, although some bios list his age at 29. Aiyewa believes that misinformation may have soured some NFL teams on signing him.
“I’ve gotta get that fixed,” he said. “It started in the NFL, and it just starting trickling down. If I’m 29, and I’m competing against a younger guy, they always take the younger guy.”
“His passport got all screwed up,” explained Lions head coach Wally Buono. “If you’re 28-plus, the NFL won’t take a look at you. They won’t waste time — unless your name is Doug Flutie.”
Aiyewa is an important signing. The Lions look at him, or Dyshawn Davis, a four-year starter at Syracuse, to fill the void left by the departure of Alex Hoffman-Ellis in free agency to the Hamilton Tiger-Cats. The Lions are mindful that 2014 MOP Solomon Elimimian could have a slow or problematic return after Achilles surgery.
The Lions’ director of U.S. scouting, Ryan Rigmaiden, said there is no grand plan to sign prospects from the Pac-12 Conference, specifically Washington, since all four Huskies played college football in Seattle, never had a great interest in the CFL before their NFL prospects dried up, and had little opportunity — or interest — in checking out Vancouver as underclassmen, after the No Fun City label was ditched.

http://www.canada.com/sports/bc+lion...467/story.html

[jerrym]

Former Argo Jeremiah Johnson and former Rider Anthony Allen discuss the competition for RB now that Andrew Harris is gone in this video.

"It's always tough to replace an all-star, but we have the talent."@AdamBlasetti on running back battle in camp. 👊https://t.co/uM4wcc1MoO

— BC Lions (@BCLions) June 2, 2016

[jerrym]

An analysis of QB in Lions TC is below.

Whether it’s been Dave Dickenson/ Casey Printers or Buck Pierce/Jarious Jackson, the CFL’s most decorated head coach has been forced to answer the weekly question “Who starts at QB?” on more than one occasion. This time around, he insists it will not become a distraction. While naming Jonathon Jennings his starter out of the gate was the right call in many peoples’ eyes, having Lulay around to serve as a mentor and very capable backup, can only be a great thing for the club as they look to return to the West Division penthouse. “They don’t have to win games by themselves,” said Buono after training camp opened on Sunday. “I think sometimes we put too much pressure on a quarterback, making him believe he has to win every game for us. He just has to do his job.”
Jennings showed enough during his six-game audition last season to earn both a re-structured contract and his first-string status to open camp. 15 touchdown passes, 42 completions and 2,004 yards to go along with his mobility and athleticism will certainly lead to the recognition any QB deserves. “This camp for sure feels different, “said Jennings. “At the same time, whenever you step on the field you have to lead the troops no matter where you stand on the depth chart.” Jennings knows as much as anyone that winning will determine how people grade his sophomore campaign.Lulay, who said this is by far the best he’s felt to open camp since 2013, is fully embracing the new role, and his solid off-field relationship with Jennings has made the transition even more comfortable for the club. The veteran is also still capable of putting up big numbers. His most productive outing in 2015 came against Saskatchewan in week two when Lulay passed for 404 yards and 105 on the ground in the following week’s rematch in Regina. After an offseason of rigorous training, the 33-year old reported to Kamloops in excellent shape.
Where the QB outlook gets even more interesting is after Lulay and Jennings. Incumbent Greg McGhee, who split time between the practice roster and number three spot last season, is battling with Keith Price for the right to dress this season. Both pivots performed well in the Lions three-day mini-camp, and it’s evident those extra reps are proving beneficial. This will be a battle until camp breaks June 18^th, but what may give Price the upper hand is experience. He appeared in 17 games with Saskatchewan over the last two seasons and also attended camp with the Seattle Seahawks in 2014. That being said, McGhee no doubt learned plenty in his first season in the den and his familiarity with personnel and various schemes could benefit the Howard University product when the opening week roster decisions are made. Rounding out the QB contingent in Kamloops is UBC pivot Michael O’Connor. He now as a Vanier Cup win under his belt since attending Lions camp last year, and for him it’s about learning from four solid pros, while getting some extra work in prior to the T-Birds season.

http://www.bclions.com/2016/06/01/po...-quarterbacks/

[jerrym]

Lions TC Day 4:

WHO STOOD OUT:
On offence, Manny Arceneaux was arguably the most productive receiver on day four, running smooth routes and making a couple leaping catches in team play and one-one ones. Shawn Gore had his best day of camp, making a couple of big grabs in double coverage during the afternoon padded practice.
Terence Jeffers-Harris made a couple of nice grabs in the morning session and looks to have reported to camp in excellent shape as he aims to make things interesting in the wide receiver battles. He followed up his morning session by making a nice over the shoulder grab on the far side of the field, staying in bounds in the process. Newcomers Devonn Brown and Kendrick Ings once again turned heads with their speed. Geroy Simon, doubling as a guest receivers coach at camp, has been impressed with the crop of rookies at the position.
On defence, Darius Lane is looking more impressive as he battles with Steven Clarke at the nickel position. Lane showed his speed and playmaking ability during team drills in the morning session. Mic’hael Brooks and Alex Bazzie both continue to impress on the defensive line. Solomon Elimiman had another solid day in pads and continues to show no signs of rust following his season ending Achillies injury in 2015. He was blitzing with authority. Newcomer Brandon Stewartstood out again with a pick-six during ‘skelly’ drills. He and Marco Iannuzzi had a couple of good battles during one-on ones.
With lots of emphasis on special teams drills, Richie Leone continues to punt with authority. His field goals have been accurate for the most part as well.

http://www.bclions.com/2016/06/01/tr...eport-day-4-2/

[jerrym]

Wearing #1 in this video is National development QB Michael O'Connor.

Own the line of scrimmage. 🏈💪#CFLTC pic.twitter.com/j0VhzFq9CR

— BC Lions (@BCLions) June 1, 2016

[jerrym]

RB coach Blasetti discusses the 4 RBs in competition at TC.

"We're pretty deep right now. They all bring a lot of energy."@AdamBlasetti is jacked about his running backs. 🏈 👊https://t.co/PKbZTAOtvd

— BC Lions (@BCLions) June 1, 2016

[jerrym]

Buono discusses Lions on Day 4 of TC.

"Physically, we are a very imposing group."@GM_Brillo on what impressed him to start day 4. 🏈 👊#CFLTChttps://t.co/kPgx2YOHum

— BC Lions (@BCLions) June 1, 2016

[jerrym]

BC Lions Director of Canadian Scouting, Geroy Simon, discusses the Lions on radio.

.@geroysimon: We’re going to re-establish the @BCLions as the top team in the @CFL https://t.co/CgIKAlUq8D

— TSN Radio Vancouver (@TSN1040) June 1, 2016

[jerrym]

Getting the kids involved.

ICYMI: FIVE DOLLAR FOOTBALL! 🏈#BCLions offer $5 kids ticket to kick off 2016 season! 👍🏽

👉🏾https://t.co/rEdxFJGCRP pic.twitter.com/3YcRPXkF2d

— BC Lions (@BCLions) June 1, 2016

[jerrym]

Lions coach discusses the critical qualities needed by a great LB.

http://www.montrealgazette.com/sport...303/story.html

[jerrym]

Arceneaux says Nick Moore has a Geroy-style of play.

http://www.bclions.com/2016/06/01/i-...on-nick-moore/

[jerrym]

A look at the BC Lions LBs including the leading suspects of assault. Newcomer National Auston Johnson has been switched to FB because of the depth at LB.

It’s just like old times in Kamloops with “Team 100” is flying around and making plays. Adam Bighill and Solomon Elimimian, arguably the best linebacker duo the CFL will see for a long time, have some unfinished business in 2016. Elimimian reported to camp in excellent shape following his recovery from last season’s torn achillies tendon. Back in April, he told BCLions.com wasn’t using the word “rehab” in preparation for a seventh season in the den. Elimimian also made sure he told Bighill how excited he was when camp opened.
“I told him when we first put the pads on how much I appreciate him and what he did last year,” Elimimian said. “It’s going to be physical football and I feel we are going to dominate some teams.”
In the first few days of drills, you can tell Bighill has also benefited from having Solly alongside him. The further you go down the depth chart, the tougher choices there will be before trimming the roster down to 46 players on June 18^th.
Bo Lokombo had an increased workload in 2015, making 26 defensive tackles, and looks to be fitting in nicely after attending off-season OTA’s in Surrey and mini-camp in Kamloops. The Abbotsford native and 2013 third round draft pick has the feel of a future starter down the road. Lokombo’s upside and non-import status paved the way for Alex Hoffman-Ellis to sign in Hamilton.
Adrian Clarke is back for a second CFL season. Along with backing up Elimimian, the Bishop’s alum will be counted on for his workload on special teams, where he recorded eight tackles as a rookie.
Of course you can’t talk about linebackers who excel on special teams without mentioning the “wizard” Jason Aragki, who is eight special teams tackles away from tying former Winnipeg Blue Bomber Wade Miller for the CFL all-time record. Aragki has also been productive at camp when lining up at outside linebacker in defensive packages. In 2015, Aragki tied his career high with six defensive tackles, all of which came in the regular season finale.
Dyshawn Davis was one of the more impressive defensive players at last week’s mini-camp and linebackers coach Chris Tormey was impressed by his athleticism and ability to fit in. Victor Aiyewa was a late arrival due to passport issues and has had to pick things up on the fly, but having a good group of mentors to learn from has helped speed up the process.
One roster change early in camp saw former linebacker Auston Johnson switch to fullback.

http://www.bclions.com/2016/06/02/po...n-linebackers/

[jerrym]

"I understand what makes these guys tick."@geroysimon talks about coaching a couple ex-teammates. 🏈 👊#CFLTChttps://t.co/vilSSZoPGm

— BC Lions (@BCLions) June 2, 2016

[jerrym]

Signs from BC Lions TC that Buono is mellowing:

One indication the second Wally Buono era might be different from the first could be heard on the first day of B.C. Lions training camp.
Jump Around, by the hip hop band House of Pain, blared from on-field speakers as the Lions began their stretching exercises. It was not a stretch to think that Buono’s methodology of coaching had changed since he was last head coach in 2011.
“Wally is Wally,” said halfback Ryan Phillips, starting his 12th season with the Lions. “But I think the time he spent away from the coaching role has definitely changed his perspective on things. He’s had a chance to sit back and observe how the player culture has changed. You used to have two-a-days for two weeks in a row. From a discipline standpoint he’s still the same. But from a players’ perspective he’s more aware of the players’ needs.”
Buono called off a two-hour practice Thursday morning because he could sense his players were starting to fray at the edges a little. Receiver Geraldo Boldewijn has a pulled hamstring, offensive lineman Jovan Olafioye is slightly hobbled with a hip flexor and rookie linebacker Dyshawn Davis is experiencing bouts of dizziness. Yet, it’s a mild list of maladies compared to the butcher’s bill of previous camps.
Last year, offensive lineman Hunter Steward (broken foot) and wide receiver Lavelle Hawkins (broken arm) were headed to the infirmary after only two days of camp. In 2014, three offensive linemen went down on the first day with an MCL sprain, a bulging disc that led to career retirement and a knee injury that required surgery.
“Usually, the first day we went straight into pads, banging and grinding,” Olafioye explained. “Wally did a good job the first couple of days getting us to learn the playbook, and get acclimated to everything. You play fast but you play sharp. I think, as general manager, Wally has seen that it’s better to work your way into things. When you play fast and reckless, because you don’t know what to do, injuries happen.”
The cautionary approach to the first week of workouts benefits all, but especially those coming off a serious injury, such as linebacker Solomon Elimimian, who ruptured his Achilles last August.
“I think anyone would expect some hesitation from a player coming off an injury like that,” says running mate and co-conspirator Adam Bighill. “But Sol hasn’t been that way. He’s playing at full speed. In my opinion, he’s not playing like a guy who had Achilles surgery.”
Says Buono: “We’re hoping to delay the fatigue factor and try to minimize any big-type injuries. Have we had it, like years past, where guys break an arm or tear a ligament? To this point, it’s mostly been wear and tear.”
It could be because of an old coach who’s added a new dimension to his game.

http://www.theprovince.com/sports/wa...540/story.html

[jerrym]

The Lions have seven players in TC from the Seattle area, reflecting a CFL trend of recruiting locally and players choosing to move in free agency to the region closest to home which is often better economically for them, as well as in terms of maintaining family and friends.

http://www.theprovince.com/sports/wa...540/story.html