Zach Collaros’ injury update continues to complicate Winnipeg Blue Bombers’ quarterback room
The Winnipeg Blue Bombers are about to enter an interesting period of their season, and things could get wild.
It’s a fascinating situation right now with the Winnipeg Blue Bombers. Starting quarterback Zach Collaros left the Week 5 game against the Hamilton Tiger-Cats after the first play of the second quarter. He hasn’t returned to the field since, and won’t be playing this Sunday against the Ottawa Redblacks.
Collaros did suit up earlier in the week to practice, which was a good sign, but not participating in Thursday’s practice was a sign, and it creates an interesting dilemma for the Blue Bombers.
Dru Brown to start on Sunday vs. Ottawa Redblacks
With Collaros out, Dru Brown will be the starter and that’s arguably a good thing. He was excellent against the Toronto Argonauts last Friday night, completing 25-31 for 339 yards, a touchdown, and an interception.
It wasn’t just the stats that were good; Brown finally launched some life into the Blue Bombers offense. They still rank last in the CFL in points scored per game with 23.8 points per game, scoring just 22.0 points per game in games Collaros started.
It wasn’t just the overall numbers for the Blue Bombers that made Brown so appealing. He was operating the offense at a different level. This touchdown to Tim White highlights what Brown brings.
Brown was operating at a very high level in this offense under Tommy Condell, who also coached him for two years with the Redblacks. Being able to face his former team who traded him just three weeks ago will allow Brown to get some sweet revenge.
Collaros’ mind is still sharp, but his athleticism and arm strength are not in a great place right now, something that Brown still has. He was operating with quickness, had a nice zip on his throws in tight windows, and wasn’t putting the ball in harm’s way. Now, things weren’t perfect from Brown, but his performance reinvigorated the offense. With Collaros missing Sunday’s game, Brown will be extra motivated to play his former team, and that could prompt an official quarterback change.
If Brown plays as well as he did on Sunday as he did against the Argonauts, head coach Mike O’Shea should make the change.
