Some may still find it strange that this game is called the “Labour Day Classic” as it is actually played on Sunday, but the LDC is a classic indeed!
In fact, the Bombers and the Riders are the biggest rivalry in CFL football, bar none! Edmonton vs. Calgary does not come close, nor does Toronto vs. Hamilton. No. Winnipeg vs. Saskatchewan is the biggest rivalry game. Maybe some old-timers will talk about history and about how in the past two other teams had a huge rivalry. At the risk of being rude, I do not care. No offence to the old-timers, but in the last 10 years (minimum) Winnipeg vs. Saskatchewan has taken top billing; and the younger fans do not care about what happened decades ago. I get it, the old-timers paved the way to make the league what it is today, but it is the younger fans that will make this league successful now and in the future.
Bombers Depth Chart
Saskatchewan Depth Chart
What To Watch For
The Noise
With regards to the LDC I have heard players say it every year; even if they are new to either club, “There is no regular season game like this one!” As such, crowd noise always has the chance to be a factor. While Bomber fans will quickly remind you that they are the CFL’s Loudest Fans (signage that goes around IG Field and a test proven years ago with a decibel meter) Saskatchewan’s fans know how to bring the noise. Saskatchewan also knows how to pump in stadium noise, something that the Bombers do not have to stoop to. How well the Bombers handle the crowd noise will go a long way in determining the outcome.
The Emotions
Even for players who have never played in a LDC game Winnipeg vs. Saskatchewan the emotion is palpable. This is sure to be a hard hitting game with a lot of trash talking! Guaranteed there will be penalties taken. But whichever team can stay away from taking the undisciplined penalties will help their campaign towards success.
The Weather
For those that like to get out to the lake for the Labour Day Weekend you know it can often be marked as a cold wet weekend. Not so this year. The temperature will be hot! This means that both teams will need to focus on hydrating in order to continue the game – which will be a physical war – and to make sure that cramping does not become an issue. Hydration starts well before game day and whichever team comes in better suited to handle the heat should be able to finish strong!
The Interviews
Listen to what Bomber’s Head Coach Mike O’Shea had to say on Thursday August 31.
Here is what Jeffcoat had to say, “No matter how Saskatchewan is doing, no matter how we’re doing, it’s always a big game to win.” Full video.
