In a significant roster shuffle, the BC Lions will start seasoned quarterback Dane Evans in the upcoming Week 8 clash against the Edmonton Elks. The announcement made on Tuesday also confirmed that Dominique Davis will suit up as the Lions’ No. 2 quarterback for the game.
This quarterback shakeup follows an injury to Vernon Adams Jr., who was forced to exit the game in the first quarter against the Saskatchewan Roughriders last Saturday. In Adams Jr.’s absence, Evans stepped in and piloted the Lions to a 19-9 victory. During the game, he completed 16 of 26 passes for 219 yards, including a touchdown and an interception. He also contributed 12 yards to the running game.
Despite Adams Jr.’s notable absence, Lions head coach and co-general manager Rick Campbell expressed optimism about the pivot’s condition post-game. He indicated that the injury, while sidelining Adams Jr. for the upcoming game, isn’t expected to be season-ending. However, the exact timeframe for his return is uncertain.
Before his injury, Adams Jr. had been in formidable form this season, with 1,548 passing yards and nine touchdowns from 119 completions. Additionally, his ground game had been a noteworthy asset for the Lions, with 19 runs for 107 yards and a major score.
Evans, a seasoned campaigner with over five years of experience in the CFL, will now be tasked with maintaining the Lions’ winning momentum. Previously with the Hamilton Tiger-Cats, he has a career record of 8,807 passing yards, 45 touchdowns, and 34 interceptions. He’s also racked up 511 yards and 10 touchdowns as a rusher.
The Lions, currently standing atop the West Division with a 5-1 record, will head to Edmonton on Saturday. With Evans at the helm, the team is confident about extending their winning streak and solidifying their divisional lead.
