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Blue Bombers Field Streveler and Newcomers in Opener as Pierce’s Lions Arrive

Winnipeg will test its depth chart with rookies in key roles against the Lions led by ex-Bombers coordinator Buck Pierce

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Winnipeg Blue Bombers' Dalton Schoen (83) catches a touchdown pass during the first half of CFL football action against the Saskatchewan Roughriders in Winnipeg Saturday, September 9, 2023.

Overview

  • Chris Streveler will make his first start at quarterback in place of Zach Collaros, who is sidelined by a one-game suspension for missing off-season drug-test compliance calls.
  • Guard Pat Neufeld is a game-time decision after sustaining a knee injury in practice, which could usher rookie draft pick Gabe Wallace into the starting lineup and trigger other shifts along the offensive front.
  • Rookie Trey Vaval has been named Winnipeg’s kick returner for the opener, marking his professional debut after impressing during training camp.
  • Veteran James Vaughters will team with Willie Jefferson on the defensive edge in his Bombers debut, bringing NFL experience to bolster Winnipeg’s pass rush.
  • Former Bombers coordinator Buck Pierce returns as head coach of the Lions while quarterback Nathan Rourke, fresh off a 324-yard, three-touchdown performance, seeks to overturn his past struggles in this rivalry.