As a result of the Carleton Ravens coming back to CIS football, the OUA started a week earlier. The Conference had a full slate of games on August 25th. That meant, while on my NFL scouting
trip, I could sneak back up into Canada to continue my 2014 CFL Draft research. It gave me an opportunity to see four teams on one day. I visited Alumni Stadium (Hamilton Tiger-Cats home in 2013) in Guelph to witness the Guelph Gryphons host the Wilfrid Laurier Golden Hawks. Then I took the short trip down Highway 6 to Hamilton to scout the McMaster Maurauders at home vs. the Ottawa Gee Gees.
People do NOT realize the quality of play that the CIS has to offer. These kids are highly trained athletes playing a game that they love. Every year I am amazed at some of the games I see. I suggest taking in a game in your area. You will not be disappointed. See the future stars of the CFL and possibly the NFL. In our League it is extremely important to have top quality Non- Import talent. The quality of football player that the CIS produces keeps getting better. Love CIS football! Check it out!
Alumni Stadium-Guelph, ON
Laurier in white, Guelph in red
While heading to the game walking through the David Braley Centre I glanced at the wall holding numerous pictures of members of the McMaster Hall of Fame. One that I noticed was a man that I became friends with while with the Tiger-Cats. His name is Bernie Custis.
Bernie was a Quarterback who played at Syracuse under Ben Schwartzwalder in the late 40s and was the team’s MVP in 1948. He roomed with Al Davis while at Syracuse. Bernie played in the CFL from 1951 to 1956 with his name inscribed on the Grey Cup in 1953. You would never know how good he was by talking to him.
Bernie is one of the nicest men I have met. Bernie, Ron Lancaster and myself would meet for coffee/breakfast/lunch at a local establishment regularly when I was with the Cats. We would talk about everything. The state of our club, the NFL, NCAA football, baseball, basketball, hockey we covered it all. I also heard some outstanding stories from two Legends. I cherish those times covered it all. I also heard some outstanding stories from two Legends. I cherish those times greatly.
Back on a plane to the Twin Cities to see the Vikings and the Titans in the final pre-season game of 2013. When I was younger I made many road trips to see the Vikings, the Twins, and the Minnesota North Stars. It is very nice to get back to this area. It is a beautiful city.
All 32 NFL clubs are playing on August 29th. Last year the NFL spread these games over 2 days which allowed me to see 2 games, 4 teams and approximately 80 or so players on the bubble.
Unfortunately this year I will only be able to scout 2 teams in the fourth pre-season encounter.
Usually the starters take a seat in Week 4 of the pre-season. That allows the CFL scouts an opportunity to get to see many players that are fighting for a roster spot. Week four is a good one for us.
My last time in the Dome. My first time was 1982 to watch the Twins with my Dad.
A.P. didn’t play tonight
Finally August 30th has arrived. It is my Dad’s 85th birthday today and it is a day Brendan Taman allows me to come home. It has been 38 days on the road. I have many more memories. I have gathered a great deal of information that I will relay to the boss, our GM Brendan Taman. I just want to help the team win. That is my goal I appreciate the opportunity that Brendan has given me. It is very special to work for a great boss and a wonderful organization, the Saskatchewan Roughriders.
It certainly is a grind but I love it. I wouldn’t have it any other way. I will be home for 24 days then its back on the road to scout the CIS.
Looking forward to the back to back with the Bombers, the Labour Day classic and the Banjo Bowl. Doesn’tgetbetter.
Green is the colour. GO RIDERS!!!
Craig T. Smith
Director of Player Personnel
Saskatchewan Roughriders
