Blue Bombers Shuffle Lineup Ahead of Alouettes Clash
It’s game day in Winnipeg, and the atmosphere at Princess Auto Stadium is electric as the Blue Bombers face off against the Montreal Alouettes. But this isn’t just any regular-season matchup — it’s a game that feels like a mix of preseason experimentation and playoff anticipation. With the CFL postseason just around the corner, both teams are approaching this one with intensity but also a clear focus on what’s next.
The Blue Bombers have made a whopping nine lineup changes for this clash, resting several key starters. Quarterback Zach Collaros, running back Brady Oliveira, left tackle Stanley Bryant, receiver Pokey Wilson, and defensive ends Willie Jefferson and James Vaughters are all sitting out. Even return specialist Trey Vaval gets the day off. It’s a strategic decision — one that signals Winnipeg’s intent to keep its core fresh for the playoff battles ahead.
Still, the Bombers don’t yet know where they’ll be headed next week. Depending on how other games play out, they could end up in either the Western or Eastern Semi-Final. Most signs point toward a likely rematch with these same Montreal Alouettes as a crossover team.
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Meanwhile, Montreal enters this matchup with less uncertainty. Thanks to Hamilton’s win over Ottawa, the Alouettes are locked into second place in the East Division. That gives them a chance to test a few things today while keeping their rhythm intact before playoff time.
One storyline that stands out for Winnipeg fans is the quarterback rotation. Chris Streveler gets the start, but Terry Wilson will see time on the field as well. Wilson, who hasn’t thrown a single pass this season, is eager to make the most of his opportunity. He describes himself as a “game manager,” ready to extend plays when needed and stay calm under pressure. For him, today is about patience paying off — trusting the process and being ready when his number is called.
And then there are the fresh faces. Five players will make their Blue Bomber regular-season debuts, including defensive ends Matthew Jaworski, Kydran Jenkins, and Kemari Munier-Bailey, along with guard Ethan Vibert and receiver Cam Echols. Echols, a former Calgary Stampeder, brings some CFL experience and plenty of enthusiasm. “It’s a packed house, so they’re going to get a show,” he said, smiling before kickoff.
One of the most exciting stories is that of Kydran Jenkins, who joined Winnipeg just a few weeks ago. The Purdue graduate is eager to prove himself, saying he wants to “flash his pass-rush skills” and show that he belongs at this level. His family back home in Georgia will be watching closely as he makes his CFL debut.
On the Alouettes’ side, quarterback Davis Alexander carries an incredible streak — 11-0 as a starter and 120 passes without an interception. If he keeps that up, it could make for an intriguing duel against Winnipeg’s new-look defense.
So yes, while this may not be a playoff game just yet, it has that unmistakable edge. For some, it’s a final tune-up. For others, it’s the first big step of their CFL journey. Either way, fans at Princess Auto Stadium are in for a spirited battle as the Bombers and Alouettes close out the regular season with plenty on the line.
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