West Semi Preview: Stamps v. Riders

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We’ll breakdown each and every playoff game with a special RFTW preview.

How to beat the Riders:

This is actually very cut and dry for the Stampeders – take out the crowd. If Henry Burris can get an early lead it will greatly increase his nteams chances of negating a blood thirsty Rider crowd. The Stamps have to attack the Riders with Joffrey and Henry along the ground to open up the pass against a weak Rider secondary. On D, the Stamps need to contain Kerry Joseph’s legs and take away Andy Fantuz.

How to beat the Stamps:

The Riders need to get in Henry’s head. He’s had two straight playoff meltdowns so he’ll be worried about faltering again. The Riders need to eat up the clock to keep the Stamps off the field. Using every weapon at KJ’s disposal will also help the Riders get a win.

Who has the edge?

Offence

Stamps – The Riders boast the odds on league MOP (sorry Hank) but KJ is without two major weapons in matt Dominguez and Wes Cates. Henry Burris has Joffrey Reynolds and a four dangerous receivers.

Defence

Riders – The Stamps d has been one of the league’s sloppiest crews and the Riders are near the bottom against the pass. The Riders get the nod based on experience and their linebackers. Calgary also changed its scheme to 4-3 only a few weeks ago.

Specialty Teams

Riders – Sandro DeAngelis gets the nod over Luca Congi and the punting is a saw off. The Riders hold the advantage in the return game with fan fav Corey Holmes.

Coaching

Riders – The Saskies have a rookie head coach but one of the most experienced staffs in the league. The Stamps fired their OC a few weeks ago. Tom Higgins has won a Cup but the Riders get the slight edge.

Intangibles

Riders – The best fans in the league have been waiting 19 years for this day. Nuff said.

Edge: Riders

Score prediction: Saskatchewan 20, Calgary 18

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