The Winnipeg Blue Bombers are short favourites over the Saskatchewan Roughriders for this week’s Banjo Bowl despite the unclear status of franchise quarterback Zach Collaros.
The two-time CFL Most Outstanding Player threw for 218 yards, one touchdown, and one interception during the first half of Sunday’s 35-33 win in the Labour Day Classic but left the game after taking a headshot from defensive tackle Miles Brown, which drew the ire of team president and CEO Wade Miller.
Head coach Mike O’Shea indicated that the decision to hold Collaros out for the second half was “precautionary” and that the veteran passer didn’t go through concussion protocol. He watched the second half from the sideline in street clothes. Chris Streveler completed four-of-six pass attempts for 46 yards in a relief effort.
Winnipeg has won the past four Banjo Bowls by a combined score of 173-45 and holds an all-time lead of 12-7 in the annual rivalry game. The season series between the Blue Bombers and Roughriders is up for grabs this week, though it’s unlikely to come into play in the West Division standings as Saskatchewan has an odd number of points due to their tie against Ottawa from Week 10.
The Riders are winless in their last six games after getting out to a 5-1 start to the season, falling to third place in the West Division. Trevor Harris threw for 368 yards and three touchdowns in the loss, which included a successful onside kickoff recovery with 12 seconds remaining in regulation. Brett Lauther was unable to connect on a potential game-winning field goal from 60 yards out as he kicked into the wind.
The Winnipeg Blue Bombers (6-6) will host the Saskatchewan Roughriders (5-6-1) on Saturday, Sept. 7 with kickoff slated for 3:00 p.m. EDT.
