Picture showing the Team of Blue Bombers gathered for a redemption against Agronauts.
After a rough three-game losing streak, the Winnipeg Blue Bombers are hitting reset. Their clash with the Toronto Argonauts could mark a turning point. The team has made sweeping roster changes, both out of necessity and strategic planning.
Head coach Mike O’Shea isn’t sugarcoating it—improvements are overdue.
Streveler Replaces Collaros at Quarterback
Chris Streveler will start at quarterback, stepping in for Zach Collaros who’s been placed on the one-game injured list. Streveler’s last start saw a win against the B.C. Lions in Week 1. His energy and grit might be just what the Blue Bombers need right now.
He’s focused on keeping it simple.
“Whatever it takes to get it done,” Streveler said. “We’ve got to stay on the field and bring energy.”
His recent stats are promising—246 yards and three TDs against B.C., and a strong relief performance in last week's loss to Toronto.
New Faces in Key Offensive Positions
The offense will also see Joey Corcoran starting at wide receiver and Eric Lofton stepping in at left tackle. Corcoran, a rookie and fifth-round CFL draft pick, got the news via text from Streveler.
“I just want to help the team win,” Corcoran said. “I’m physical, I block, I catch. Whatever they need—I’ll do it.”
Gavin Cobb also joins the roster, valued for his flexibility and high football IQ.
Meanwhile, veteran receiver Marken Michel remains sidelined, moved from the injured list to the practice roster. O’Shea defended the move, stating that fit and form—not fanfare—drive game-day decisions.
Defensive Overhaul to Stop the Bleeding
The Bombers’ defense has been vulnerable, especially during long-yardage plays. They’ve allowed 56 points across their last three games—a troubling stat that hasn’t been seen since 2014.
To address this, Redha Kramdi moves to safety, Jamal Parker Jr. to cornerback, and Michael Griffin to the dime spot. Kramdi, known for his adaptability, embraced the shift.
“I just work here,” Kramdi said. “We believe in our DC’s (Jordan Younger) plan.”
Griffin, finally getting a starter’s role, is ready for the spotlight.
“We’ve got to tighten up and play better,” he said. “It’s a wake-up call.”
Arbuckle Continues to Haunt Bombers
Toronto QB Nick Arbuckle may not be a household name, but against Winnipeg, he plays like a legend. In his last three starts against the Bombers—including the 2024 Grey Cup—he’s completed 72 of 100 passes for 878 yards and five touchdowns.
“He’s not making big mistakes,” said defensive end Willie Jefferson. “He gets the ball to his playmakers and converts on second down.”
Winnipeg’s focus? Force punts and finish drives.
Sterns Emerging as a Key Offensive Weapon
Jerreth Sterns is quietly becoming a go-to guy in the Bombers’ offense. After limited early-season action, his last three games have featured 20 targets, 13 catches, and two touchdowns.
“It’s about trust,” Sterns said. “You start playing faster when you’re confident.”
Despite the individual success, Sterns keeps his eyes on the bigger picture: winning.
Back Against the Wall, Bombers Look to Bounce Back
With their record at 3-3, the Blue Bombers know time is running out to turn the tide. Facing a 2-5 Argonauts squad, this game is crucial.
It’s not just about lineup changes—it’s about heart, execution, and reclaiming the identity that made them contenders in the first place. Whether those changes spark a resurgence remains to be seen, but fans can expect a fired-up Winnipeg squad ready to fight for redemption.
