The Stamps believe that winning starts with the offensive line

Content of the article

Dave Dickenson is in the camp of those who believe that winning in football starts with kicking the ball.

That said…an offense is only as good as your streak.

Content of the article

“Always … that's right,” said the Calgary Stampeders GM/head coach.

“The quarterback can't make plays if he's on his back, so your offensive line has to keep him upright,” Dickenson continued. “So keep the quarterback upright, cut out mental mistakes and move the line of scrimmage. Three things, if we do, we'll have a good team.”

Content of the article

This is a group that hasn't looked too good for large parts of the last CFL season, mostly due to injuries.

But a new calendar brings new hope and new goals.

“Just to play consistently,” Stamps veteran center and offensive line leader Sean McEwen said. “Last year, that was something we didn't do. We had some inconsistencies – some games we were very good in the run game and some games we weren't so good in the pass game and vice versa. So I think putting together consistent performances week in and week out is a big goal.”

“Obviously, it's been frustrating,” agreed teammate Bryce Bell, now in his fourth season with the Red and White. “But at the same time, you have to look in the mirror and really think about what you're doing to your game.”

Bell himself could be the regular season lynchpin for the Stamps o-line.

Ont. The 26-year-old from Waterloo State is looking to become a full-time starter at guard after bouncing around to play all five positions in the service, but playing a lifeline role for the unit.

He sticks on the left side, while regular Zach Williams — a full-timer last year, also a Canadian — shifts from left to right. They will, of course, sandwich fellow Canuck McEwen in the middle.

Content of the article

Content of the article

“It's nice not to have to move around different positions every week, and then you can build that chemistry,” Bell said. “I think chemistry on the O-line is a very important aspect of it. And I love to play with everyone. We have a great team and I want to play my part and do my best. Get in touch and make sure we're on the same page and playing fast.

“I think one of the best things about Bryce is his versatility, but it will be nice for him to have a home and play the same consistent position week in and week out,” McEwen continued. “I'm a big fan of his because I know Bryce plays fast and physical and he's very smart. So I'm looking forward to playing next to a guy like that.”

Stamps training camp should determine who gets the most chances at two positions — the outside linebackers.

They may be won by the Americans or turned over by them.

Running backs Joshua Coker – who made 11 starts at right tackle last year – Brandon Weldon – who made three starts in his first year with the Stamps in 2023 – and D'Antne Demery – also a 2023 starter.

Content of the article

New All-Americans to the team – Hunter Tedford – formerly with the Pittsburgh Maulers of the USFL – Chris Toth – All-American with the NCAA Division III Aurora Spartans – Eric Smith – played in four NFL games – and Trevon Tate – 2023 Toronto Argonauts started 10 games for the , and when he wasn't injured, was part of an offensive line that allowed a league-low total of 19 sacks.

Other Canadians in camp are Rodim Brown — who started once at center for the Stamps last year — 2023 fourth-round pick Alexandre Markou — and 2024 first-rounder Christy Nkanu.

“We're not very deep,” Dickenson said. “I want Cam to be at the beginning of rookie camp because I think he has a lot of skill.

“We're all happy with our rookie (eighth overall pick Nkanu), but he's going through growing pains,” Dickenson continued. “And then the guys out there, I'm not sure I've settled into any rotation. I think every day one guy is really the leader and the next day another guy is the leader. Therefore, difficult decisions await us. But I like our group.”

Content of the article

Here's what it could look like when the regular season opens for the Stampeders on June 7 against the Hamilton Tiger Cats at McMahon (7 p.m.).

“Yeah, we're excited as a group,” Bell said. “We think we have a really good room – everyone supports each other. We just want to set the tone and really make a difference on offense and be physical — make teams play us and not other teams.”

“We have to find time to play together,” McEwen added. “It takes a while to gel and play quickly together.”

[email protected]

www.x.com/ToddSaelhofPM

Content of the article