Training Camp Day 16: June 13
Kamloops – 48 hours after opening the pre-season with a victory in Saskatchewan, BC Lions players hit the field at Hillside Stadium for the annual training camp evening practice. The mood and intensity was amped up a few notches thanks to the Saturday victory and the race for a few key roster spots still up for grabs this week. There was lots of speed on both sides of the ball during team play and two-on-twos. Wally Buono and the staff now have some tough choices to make as they must trim the roster down to 65 players on Tuesday.
WHO STOOD OUT:
The best catch of the night went to Stephen Adekolu who hauled in a pass in tight coverage during two-on-two drills. Jeremiah Johnson was once again a force in the backfield while Anthony Allen returned to action after sitting out the last few days with a knee injury. The left side of the offensive line led by Jovan Olafioye and Hunter Steward did a nice job creating running room for the backs.
On defence, Solomon Elimimian had plenty of jump after resting Friday and Saturday. Adam Bighill was speedy on his blitzes as well. TJ Lee made a couple of nice plays, including an interception during team drills and a knockdown in the end zone. He continues to be one of the more consistent defenders in camp. Alex Bazzie and David Menard were both forces on the defensive line.
QUOTES OF NOTE:
“When you start camp you set the depth chart and roster. Now it’s changed. It’s getting closer to reality. For a veteran or first-year who gets elevated or demoted, we want to see how he reacts to it. It’s all part of the mental gymnastics you have to play with the players.”- Buono on what he looks for in players who survived Sunday’s cuts.
TOMORROW’S SCHEDULE:
Training Camp Day 17:
Practice: 3:30PM-5:30PM ( no pads, helmets only)
WATCHING:
Receivers Nick Moore (hip) and Geraldo Boldewijn (hamstring) both sat out.
TRANSACTIONS:
None on day 16. All CFL clubs must trim their roster down to 65 players on Tuesday.