Stamps QB Mitchell on loss to Blue Bombers: 'They’re a better football team than we are'

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Billed as the Game of the Season by many CFL fans, Saturday night’s Winnipeg Blue Bombers-Calgary Stampeders tilt at McMahon Stadium did not disappoint, with the visitors eking out a 35-28 victory in front of a season-high crowd of over 25,00 fans in a tilt that featured eight lead changes and a fourth quarter comeback.

Throughout the week, the Stampeders - who lost 26-19 to the undefeated Blue Bombers two weeks ago - talked about how Saturday was a statement opportunity and chance to show the league that the two teams were in the league’s upper echelon. Instead, it was Winnipeg who made the statement.

“They’re a better football team than we are,” said Stampeders quarterback Bo Levi Mitchell.

“If you lose to a team two times in a row, they’re better than you.”

Stampeders head coach Dave Dickenson was pleased with his team’s effort, but echoed his pivot.

“We didn’t get any stops, we didn’t make the plays,” he said.

“We couldn’t really get into the position I feel like, two-possession lead or something like that where we could really take over the game, and they didn’t either. It was back and forth. Frustrated to lose, proud of our guys. I’m not down on our players at all.”

Much of Saturday’s loss can be attributed to the exceptional play of Blue Bombers quarterback Zach Collaros. The league’s reigning Most Outstanding Player constantly evaded Calgary’s defensive line and was masterful at throwing on the run. He finished with 270 yards and four touchdowns, despite receiver Greg Ellinsgon remaining out of the lineup due to injury. Stampeders veteran linebacker Jameer Thurman took ownership of the loss. Calgary’s defence gave up 430 yards – 72 more than Winnipeg’s. 

“We lost us the game,” he said.

“We