Look! To the right! I'm using pictures now!
It's that time of year already - the one weekend where a few million Canadians actually pay attention to the CFL. Grey Cup weekend. To make it easier for you to appear as if you actually know what you're talking about, here's a quick four-point rundown of the key stories leading into the 95th Grey Cup.
THE GAME: Winnipeg and Saskatchewan are meeting in the Grey Cup for the first time ever. While this sounds impressive at first, keep in mind that historically, both teams have primarily been part of the West division - Winnipeg jumping back and forth from time to time - and thus it is often impossible for them to face off in the Grey Cup. Also, some people are referring to this game as the 'Banjo Bowl' - in 2003, Winnipeg kicker Troy Westwood called Saskatchwan fans "a bunch of banjo-pickin' in-breds".
WINNIPEG: The big story for Winnipeg is a fellow by the name of Ryan Dinwiddie. During last week's semi-finals, Kevin Glenn (Winnipeg's regular quarterback) broke his arm, forcing Dinwiddie into action. This is similar to Tom Brady replacing Drew Bledsoe a few years ago, although if Dinwiddie leads Winnipeg to victory, it could arguably surpass Brady's achievements (as he had a few games to get ready). Winnipeg also has slotback Milt Stegall, who recently became the CFL's all-time leader in touchdowns. This is likely Stegall's last game before retirement. Winnipeg's roster also includes Ian Logan, a Laurier alumnus, at cornerback.
SASKATCHEWAN: Unlike Winnipeg, the Roughriders have their starting quarterback ready for action tomorrow - and Kerry Joseph is certainly a dangerous player, having just won the CFL's Most Outstanding Player award. Saskatchewan's offence also includes Corey Holmes. Laurier is represented by linebacker Yannick Carter, and wide receiver Corey Grant.
HALFTIME SHOW: 'Cuz let's face it, this is what everyone watches for, right? Gone are the days when the Grey Cup halftime show would feature a strictly Canadian act such as the Tragically Hip, Shania Twain, or Trooper, the last two halftime shows have featured the Black Eyed Peas and Nelly Furtado, and this year we get to see Lenny Kravitz. Of course, this year's game is taking place inside the
There you have it. Everything you need to know about the Grey Cup (except TV coverage - 5:30 PM Sunday on CBC, there you go). As for my prediction? I've got to go with the fairy tale ending here - Dinwiddie leads the Bombers to a Grey Cup despite being heavy underdogs.
--Ryan
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