Insider Talk: saving cash, betting & 2021 CFL season timeline

It’s Wednesday, which means it’s time for another edition of Insider Talk.

This weekly feature on 3DownNation includes anonymous quotes from people around the CFL. It’s a unique combination of insight, analysis, rumours, and friendly gossip.

Enjoy this week’s quotes and come back next Wednesday for another edition of Insider Talk.

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Some teams are saving cash to see what happens with the season. If it starts on time, you can use that money to sign veterans who are already on the street. If it doesn’t, you might get lucky and sign an NFL cut or two. Who wouldn’t want to add a guy like Duke (Williams) or (Reggie) Begelton or (Brandon) Zylstra?

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Obviously I’m not allowed to bet (due to my job) but I’m excited by this betting talk that’s going on. Lord knows we need to inject some money and intrigue into this league. If gambling is what generates more interest, I hope we take full advantage of that.

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What are the chances the season starts on time? Almost zero. We’ll play for sure, but I’ll be shocked if it happens on time.

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Look at Ottawa’s roster and try to find a player who makes you go, ‘Oh man, I’d kill to have that guy.’ I can’t find one.

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(Former Winnipeg Blue Bombers’ receiver and return specialist) Lucky Whitehead signed with B.C. because Ryan Rigmaiden recruited him to the CFL. Rigmaiden rejoined the Lions and Whitehead followed him there.

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B.C.’s best Canadian offensive lineman (in 2019) was David Foucault. I’m not sure why they didn’t push harder to keep him.

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I would be surprised if every U Sports team played in 2021. Lots of teams could be out for another year, especially with university-aged kids being the lowest priority to vaccinate.

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I think (Canadian quarterback) Nathan Rourke could see the field a decent amount (in 2021). He should be the primary backup and if the Lions are smart they’ll use him on short yardage to limit the hits on (Mike) Reilly.

John Hodge
John Hodge is a Canadian football reporter based in Winnipeg.