Training Camp Day 18: June 15
Kamloops – BC Lions veterans will be hitting the road for Greater Vancouver as Training Camp practice officially came to a close at Hillside Stadium in Kamloops. What was originally expected to be a short walk through became a two-hour practice with more focus on hurry up offence and short yardage situations. There was plenty of work done on special teams, an area that showed some good promise in the pre-season opening win at Saskatchewan on Saturday. Players held afternoon meetings at Hillside Stadium before departing. Thursday is a day off before the Calgary Stampeders invade BC Place to close out the exhibition season.
WHO STOOD OUT:
Terence Jeffers-Harris wrapped up his stellar camp with a nice touchdown catch between a pair of defenders. Bryan Burnham was noticeable once again and made a diving grab in short yardage drills, but was unable to stay in bounds. A for effort on the catch though. Anthony Allen continued to make the most of his additional reps as he tries to nail down a spot in the backfield. He will be a factor on Friday after sitting out the Saskatchewan game with a knee injury. The offensive line did a nice job creating running room for much of team play. Cody Husband continues to perform well as the first-team centre.
On defence, Alex Bazzie and Dyshawn Davis both had nice knockdowns at the line of scrimmage during team drills. Loucheiz Purifoy, one of the most consistent defensive players in Kamloops, had a pick-six returned from his own goal line during the short yardage portion of team play. Brandon Stewart was making plays in the secondary and had a nice breakup on a pass attempt to Nick Moore.
QUOTES OF NOTE:
“We had a very productive camp. We found some quality players and now its just about getting on the field and seeing what these guys can do one last time. I can’t wait to get them out there.”- offensive co-ordinator Khari Jones
“It’s always one of the best feelings of the year, outside of winning a championship. We started out here without everybody knowing everybody and going through two-a days. You’re starting to gain a brotherhood, rely on certain guys and hold them accountable.”- Allen on camp coming to a close.
WATCHING:
Receiver Geraldo Boldewijn (hamstring) continues to recover. Offensive lineman Levy Adcock and linebacker Solomon Elimimian both sat out to rest.
SCHEDULE:
Thursday is a team day off.
TRANSACTIONS:
None on day 18. The Lions will trim their roster down to 46 on Saturday.