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From the Couch – Lions 7 Redblacks 5

September 11, 2014 By Brian Wawryshyn

I’ve never felt gutted after a win before, but Friday night’s Lions’ 7-5 win over Ottawa sure felt like a loss. The BC Lions only manufactured two field goals and a single, but the bigger story was the loss of Travis Lulay. Here are my thoughts from the couch.

The Game

Lulay showed the predictable rust that one would expect in his first start since last season and a long recovery from off-season shoulder surgery. With two new faces on the offensive line and a running game that was shut down by the Redblacks, the offence struggled all game. The only weapon they had at their disposal was the feet of Lulay, who outrushed the rest of the offence…combined.

Andrew Harris and Stefan Logan each had six carries and produced just 14 yards between them. Poor first down production and untimely penalties resulted with the Lions facing too many second and long situations against a Redblacks defence that turned in a solid performance.

Lulay was 10-15 in the first half where the Lions were outplayed but still took a 6-5 lead to the dressing room, thanks to solid play from the defence and Solomon Elimimian. The linebacker combined with Dante Marsh to make a touchdown saving hit at the goal line to jar the ball loose from Chevon Walker who was also knocked out of the game on the play. The only scoring from either team in the second half was a punt single by Ricky Schmitt. Yes folks, it was hardly a classic.

Travis

The Lions caught a break in the fourth quarter when torrential rain came into a play. With the Redblacks moving the ball, they prepared to kick a field goal to take the lead with just over 4:00 to play. A botched hold on the attempt resulted in the Lions taking over on downs, just before the players were sent to the dressing room because of lightning in the area. The Lions had dodged a bullet, but that storm also proved to be an ominous sign of what was to come.

When the game resumed Lulay had the Lions moving downfield. After talking his coach into going for it on third and short, he completed a huge pass to Emmanuel Arceneaux to set the Lions up near field goal range, but there would be no field goal. As Lulay dropped back to pass, the ball slipped from his hands and in the ensuing scramble 6’7”, 324 pound left tackle Cory Brandon, playing in his first game as a Lion, came crashing down on topping of him, injuring the same shoulder that Lulay had worked so hard to recover.

Suddenly, the quality of the game really didn’t matter. Lulay is one of the most genuine and kind players a fan could meet and is extremely popular in the dressing room and around the league. He’s given the Lions everything he could, on and off the field.

All the excitement of Lulay returning healthy and helping the Lions get their offence on track vanished as Lulay walked directly to the Lions dressing room, his night done. The Lions hung on to win the game, but with the frustration of the game and the loss of Lulay, it sure felt like a loss.

Without knowing the exact diagnosis, its possible Lulay’s career may be in jeopardy and regardless how bad watching that game made you feel, that’s the worst part of all. It’s not a great feeling when bad things happen to good people.

What’s wrong?

Where do you start with the offence, who hasn’t produced a touchdown in the last two games? Clearly the revolving door on the offensive line isn’t helping, but that isn’t the only problem. Where are Harris and Logan in the attack? Why can’t Khari Jones find ways to get his star players more consistently involved? There are simply too many mistakes happening, whether it be missed assignments, dumb penalties or a lack of focus.

Is the team prepared to play? They had a week to prepare for a 1-8 football team and they escaped by the skin of their teeth. But this game just magnified what has been happening most of the year. There is talent on this team, and for whatever reason it is not producing on a consistent enough basis.

The offence under Mike Benevides and Jones simply isn’t good enough and that has to be questioned. Benevides has always been known as a coach that likes to play aggressively. Even though he’s a defensive guy, you would think he would want his offence to play the same way. Not only is Jones new, he’s been using a pocket passing QB who was thrust into a new offence and doesn’t have the luxury of the offensive line he enjoyed while playing in Calgary.

Regardless, it looks like this is Kevin Glenn’s team the rest of the way. The Lions should get some offensive lineman back from injury in the next couple weeks, when Jermarcus Hardrick and Andre Ramsey could return. But unless the Lions can figure out how to get their offence going, the playoffs won’t matter, even if they find a way to get into them.

What are your thoughts? Are you mad or frustrated? Can you see this team turning things around? I’d love to hear your comments, and I’ll have plenty more on this week’s BCLionsDen.ca Pawdcast.

From the Couch – Lions 33 Argonauts 17

August 28, 2014 By Brian Wawryshyn

In a week that once again saw the east giving western teams very little in the way of help, the Lions 33-17 win over the Argos Sunday in Toronto was important to keep pace in a jam packed CFL West. Here’s how I saw the game, From the Couch.

Offence

When this season began Lions fans were excited about the prospect of having Stefan Logan and Andrew Harris together for a full season. With Harris carrying most of the load so far this year accounting for about a third of their offence, Logan had taken somewhat of a complimentary role. But without Harris on Sunday, the Logan reasserted his value to the Lions offence.

Logan racked up 145 yards on 19 carries for a 7.6 yards per carry average and gave the Lions several key runs when they needed them, while adding another 49 yards on receptions.

Kevin Glenn, who passed Doug Flutie on the all-time passing yards list, had a decent game. The Lions quarterback connected on just 14 of his 25 passes, but had enough good moments to lead the Lions. The dagger to the Argos came via 53 yard Glenn to Manny Arceneaux pass for touchdown in the fourth quarter.

I wasn’t a big fan of the way the Lions attempted to get Travis Lulay into the game as I felt it gave him little chance to succeed. Out of the blue in the first quarter, with Glenn having decent success, was a strange time to bring Lulay into the game and I thought it kind of killed some momentum the Lions were building.

With Glenn walking off the field with an ice bag on his left leg, Lulay could be declared the starter early this week. A full week of knowing he’s going to start and taking all the first team reps will hopefully put Lulay in a better position to have success. Surely the Lions would have liked to get out to a big lead to get Lulay some more time, but they would have been better off just sticking with Glenn than the way they handled it, in my opinion.

Defence

Alex Bazzie continued his strong play on the defensive line and should be entering the conversation for rookie of the year. Last week on the BCLionsDen.ca Pawdcast I questioned whether Bazzie was benefiting from being an unknown and having three other veterans along the line that were commanding more attention from opposing teams. After this game, I’m pretty confident in saying that Bazzie is simply a really good football player.

Coming into the game there was some concern about all the changes in a battered Lions secondary, but replacements Torri Williams and TJ Lee stepped in admirably for Josh Johnson and Dante Marsh whose short side corner spot was occupied by Ronnie Yell. Yell’s pick six late in the fourth salted away the win for the Lions.

Anytime you can hold Ricky Ray to 181 yards, you’ve had a good day, no matter who his receivers are. The Lions also shutdown Argos running back Curtis Steele who had 49 yards on 10 carries.

Special Teams

Is there a guy on this team that makes you feel good for him more than Tim Brown? Brown is the consummate team player and no matter what his situation is, when he is number is called, he delivers. Brown’s 70 yard punt return led to the Lions first touchdown and he was a definite spark plug on special teams. How nice would it be for the Lions to get Brown on the roster along with Logan and Harris? It would relieve Logan from having to do kick returns, keeping him fresh, along with giving a really good guy the spot he deserves.

Miscellaneous

Playing their second game in five days was a challenge for Toronto, and you have to give them props for a solid effort. On this night Ricky Ray alone wasn’t enough, thanks in large part to the solid play of the Lions defence.

I don’t know what the command centre was looking at on an apparent no brainer pass interference penalty on Marco Iannuzzi in the third quarter. Branden Smith had a hold of Iannuzzi’s jersey for a good 10 yards but somehow the league saw things differently. Not only that, they penalized Kirby Fabien for a chop block he didn’t do.

The Lions spoke about modifications to their gun metal uniforms to make the numbers more visible, but to be honest I didn’t notice much difference and I don’t think complaints about that issue are going to for some. But that’s fine, they’re the best damn uniforms in football.

Kudos to the BC Lions who held their first viewing party of the season at The Pint in downtown Vancouver. There was a great turnout of Lions fans and prizes included, hats, footballs, game tickets and a Lions jersey. The club his planning to hold another one later in the year at the soon to be reopened Shark Club. If you weren’t able to check it out this week, try and make it out to the next one. It’s always great to watch the Lions with fellow fans.

As always, I would love to hear your thoughts on the game. Post a comment, or hit me up on Twitter @BCLionsDen. Make sure to check out BCLionsDen.ca for all of our Lions coverage and Pawdcasts as well.

From the Couch: Lions 26 Riders 13

July 13, 2014 By Brian Wawryshyn

Originally published on the TheProvince.com where we write for The Fifth Quarter blog following all BC Lions games.

There was no denying the importance of Saturday’s game with the Saskatchewan Roughriders for the BC Lions. The team made a huge statement about their character coming out on top of a defensive football game in a hostile environment. Here’s how I saw the game, From the Couch.

The Andrew Harris Show

Andrew Harris stated before the season that he wanted to assume a bigger leadership role on the team, and he led by example against the Riders. With just 18 touches in his first two games, Harris carried that many times in his third, racking up 138 yards on the ground including a tough and determined 58 yard run for a touchdown. Harris also racked up 65 yards through the air.

It’s been a long time since Harris had a game like this and it was encouraging to see. The Lions need more games like this from Harris and they did a great job game planning with him in mind.

The offensive line, who saw the return of Kirby Fabien to the starting five, was much better against a good Riders offensive line. They were aided by some solid help from FB Rolly Lumbala much of the night, whose work helped new left tackle Ryan Cave, who still had some moments, but provided some nice run blocking as well. They got great push most of the game as Harris and the Lions often picked up five or more yards on first down.

Locking it Down

It was the second game in a row that the Lions only allowed one touchdown, and this time it was enough for a win, as it should be with the offence doing their part. The Lions had Durant on the run for much of the night, but only managed to sack him twice. The crafty Rider QB escaped a couple of times to produce big plays.

Solomon Elimimian and Adam Bighill had seven tackles each, with the latter negating a Riders touchdown when he knocked the ball from Hugh Charles’ hands in the end zone. Both of them were excellent with their pursuit of the ball all night, and that’s something the Lions are banking on for success.

Overcoming Adversity

Kevin Glenn looked more like the player of the last two years, managing the game well, even though the Lions had a lot of problems with the noise at Mosaic, especially in the second half. Glenn was only sacked twice, and was left relatively untouched most of the night. More importantly, Glenn didn’t turn the ball over.

The usually sure-handed Courtney Taylor had two drops that should have been first downs, the second leading to what basically amounted to a turnover as the Riders used the ensuing drive to score. But Taylor had a big touchdown to seal the game in the fourth, fighting off a tackler to get to the end zone.

Logan Special on Teams

Stefan Logan had his best game of the year returning the football averaging 22.8 yards on kick-offs and 12.8 on punts on the way to 168 yard night. The Lions coverage on teams was good but they’ll want to clean up some of the penalties they took.

Urgency was Evident

Mike Benevides was the most animated I think I’ve ever seen him. You could tell he knew how important this game was and he was fired up on the sidelines. On the post-game show his voice cracked from the strain he had exposed it to. He and his coaching staff did an outstanding job with the game plan and getting Andrew Harris involved. His coordinators, Marks Washington and Khari Jones were each given the game balls for their first victory in their new roles. The challenge now will be to maintain this progress and get on a roll.

Hope You Were Watching

Some people probably think I go on about this too much, but you could clearly see the impact that a loud crowd on defence has on a football game. The Lions struggled with the noise in the second half, and hopefully the casual fan that comes to BC Place takes notice. Our house can be just as loud if everyone buys in, and the defence certainly would appreciate your participation.

And with that public service announcement, I’d love to hear your thoughts on the game, here or on twitter, @BCLionsden.

From the Couch: Lions 9 Alouettes 24

July 5, 2014 By Brian Wawryshyn

740x300game2 — Kevin Glenn had another rough outing and the Lions dropped to 0-2 to start the season. Photo: o.canada.com

When the BC Lions started the 2014 there was some optimism among the masses after a fairly strong preseason. After their first two games of 2014 optimism has been replaced by a whole boat load of concern.

There may be lots of football to play, but there is even more work to be done. Here’s how I saw the game, From the Couch.

Offensive Offence

The Lions have failed to find answers for their offensive line for the last few seasons and this year is no exception. OT Ryan Cave was thrown into the fire and looked lost out there most of the night and the interior of the line was no better.

All of that means no running game, a hurried and inefficient passing game and of course a loss. There’s no one on the roster that is going to make a difference in the short term, and the Lions better be scouring the continent for imports that can in the meantime.

Kevin Glenn, who vowed he would be better in game two, wasn’t. Whether it’s the unfamiliarity of a new offence, or the fact the line in front of him resembles Swiss cheese, there is no doubting bad decisions by the veteran are also contributing to the problems. Even when Glenn did have time, he was missing receivers, overthrowing them, or throwing at their knees, probably a product of being hit constantly all night long.

Andrew Harris was a non-factor, as was Stefan Logan and once again the Lions are struggling with the running game. When your pass offence is struggling you at least have to be able to keep teams honest with the run. That’s simply not happening.

I recall a question was posed by Lowell Ullrich of The Province during the off-season; was it the offence of Jacques Chapdelaine, or is it the personnel? The jury appears to still be out early in 2014.

Coaching Mistakes

While the players on the field were making mental errors, so to were the coaches. A late 2^nd quarter to pass to SJ Green was clearly incomplete, yet Mike Benevides was too slow to throw a challenge flag and the Alouettes went on to add a late field goal, sending the Lions down by 20 points at the half.

In the 3^rd quarter on 3^rd and two the Lions call a deep hand off on a sweep to Korey Williams which goes nowhere.

Defence

For as badly as they played, the Lions still found themselves in the game. The defence was on the field a lot and tried to give the offence a chance only surrendering just one touchdown as a unit. Solomon Elimimian had a strong game and Dante Marsh was a hair away from a couple of pick sixes, but in the end they can’t be responsible for an unproductive offence.

Still though, there is room for improvement. I was hoping for more pressure from the defensive line in this game, and there were breakdowns that led to big plays, mainly in stopping the run as the Alouettes as a group ran the ball for 203 yards.

Back to the Drawing Board

The good news is that season is young and really doesn’t start to get going until Labour Day. But with another road game next week against the Riders in Regina, and all their Western opponents coming out of the gate strong, the Lions need answers quickly.

Dropping two games in the West early would not be an ideal situation. 2011 was a special year, but it’s doubtful that the Lions want to take that route to try and get to the Grey Cup at BC Place in November again.

If things don’t change quickly, that’s exactly the scenario they could be facing.

Our Christmas Wish List for the BC Lions (And you)

December 20, 2013 By Brian Wawryshyn

It’s the time of year that all CFL fans dread; the long off-season has begun, and for BC Lions fans 2014 is going to be an exciting year with the franchise set to host the 102^ND Grey Cup Championship at BC Place stadium next November.

Before then there is plenty of work to be done and with the expansion draft behind them and all the presents opened in Ottawa, it’s time to roll out our Christmas wish list for the BC Lions. So sit back by the fire with your eggnog and rum and checkout our list. We would love for you to add to it by commenting on Twitter or leaving your ideas down below!

A Strong Shoulder for Travis Lulay

Travis Lulay has been a good boy this year. He has become a fixture in the community and he’s just all around great guy. For Travis we send the gift of health for his problematic shoulder and the hope that he can return to the consistent form he found in 2011 when he led the Lions to their 6^th Grey Cup championship. Off-season surgery will hopefully help and here’s to no setbacks and a stronger, dominant Travis Lulay in 2014.

A Dynamic Offence

The Lions offence was a frustrating site for Santa and he’s hoping he can offer some excitement and dominance for the Leos in 2014. Long-time coordinator Jacques Chapdelaine won’t be back but the Lions have yet to land any of the coaches they had interest in so far this off-season. Here’s hoping that whoever ends up in the job, there is a fresh approach that inspires his players to greatness again with results that reflect the talent on the Lions.

Holes for Harris

Whoever gets the BC Lions offensive coordinator position, we hope that they can give the gift of a running attack that was missing for much of last season. The club certainly improved in that department after the arrival of Stefan Logan, but it was embarrassing at times last year how teams were able to contain Andrew Harris and the Lions running game. Harris had to be frustrated at times in that offence but was the consummate team player, and we’re hoping that Santa brings him a dominant year in 2014.

Home Field Advantage

The Lions attendance dropped in 2013, thanks to a picture perfect summer and a not so perfect schedule that featured weeknight games, holiday games and weird start times. The Lions are a tough team to beat at home and we wish for that trend to continue at beautiful BC Place stadium in the coming year. We are also asking Santa for more education for fans that do the wave on offence and sit on their hands on defence. Let’s all be part of a run to the Grey Cup in Vancouver in 2014, get your season tickets and be part of the Pride that is BC Lions football.

A Full Recovery for Kirby Fabien

Santa was disappointed to see a promising young offensive lineman incur such a terrible injury last season so we asked him to provide a full recovery and stability for Kirby Fabien. Fabien was having an outstanding rookie campaign before getting hurt last season and has faced a long recovery process that is still in progress. He is a vital piece of the Lions offensive line and we’re hoping the big fella in red and white is kind to the big fells in orange and black.

Success for Mark Washington

Anyone who has ever been around the BC Lions has probably had the chance to meet and talk to Mark Washington, the new defensive coordinator of your Leos. The appointment was well deserved and after years of learning from the likes of Wally Buono, Mike Benevides and Rich Stubler, Washington now gets his chance to put his stamp on the organization as a coach. They likely would have lost him to another club if the team didn’t release Stubler. He has the respect of his players, the experience and expertise to excel. We look forward to Santa bringing Mark an aggressive defence that will be feared by all in 2014.

The Hall of Fame Game

Wally Buono will be inducted into the Canadian Football Hall of Fame in 2014 and we are asking Santa to bring us the annual Hall of Fame game and the celebrations that come with that. I don’t believe the Lions have ever hosted that event in Vancouver that usually includes alumni and a dinner. It would be great to have it here as a build up to the 2014 Grey Cup and to allow Lions fans a chance to celebrate with Buono.

Peace for Angus Reid

Last year was supposed to be Angus Reid’s swansong. He would play one more season, then likely retire after what should be noted as a Hall of Fame career in the future. Herniated discs in his back prevented that from happening and the Lions centre didn’t take a snap in 2013. He was a great mentor to those that filled in and has high praise for Matt Norman. Angus had off-season surgery on his back and has begun his recovery. Whether he chooses to play in 2014 remains to be seen, but whatever his decision is, we wish him peace with it, and a pain free year.

A Great Grey Cup Festival

In 2005 the Lions set the new standard for Grey Cup Festivals with their street parties and in 2011 they upped the ante again. With the game back here in 2014 we hope that Santa brings Jamie Pitblado and the organizing committee the best Grey Cup Festival yet. Many fans were shut out of this year’s game in Regina, and those Grey Cup regulars will be chomping at the bit to be in Vancouver. As Lions fans we will welcome the CFL with pride to our city and put on the party of the year!

Most of all…

To all of you who read our blogs, listen to our pawdcasts, follow us on Twitter and Facebook, or share a meal with us in Tailgate Empire, we wish you the happiest of holidays, a Merry Christmas and a happy, prosperous New Year.

Roar you Lions roar!