After being absent on practice on Wednesday, Winnipeg Blue Bombers quarterback Zach Collaros was front and center on Thursday as he took the podium as a part of the Grey Cup’s media day.
The majority of chatter in Regina this week leading up to the game on Sunday is the status of the Bombers QB, following injuring his ankle against the BC Lions in the Western Final.
When asked about his status for the Grey Cup, the Western Division nominee didn’t hesitate.
“I’m ready to go, ready to play. ”
Even though he hasn’t stepped on the practice field for the Bombers this week, Collaros says he’s doing everything he can in order to suit for the blue and gold on Sunday as he feels that it’s difficult missing practice especially since he didn’t miss any during the regular season.
“Every rep is important to get whether it’s a game rep, a practice rep, from the way I see the game, the way I see the position, I think you should be practicing, so it’s tough. ”
Along with Collaros, Dru Brown and Dakota Prukop are the other two quarterbacks for Winnipeg, offensive coordinator Buck Pierce feels there is a strong rapport within the Bombers quarterbacks room.
“Zach would be the first one to tell you he wouldn’t have the success the had without those two. The other two guys would say the same about Zach.”
Brown would likely assume the starting quarterback duties if Collaros is out for the Grey Cup.
In his most extensive action this season, Brown was 29/35 for 325 yards with three touchdowns and a pair of interceptions.
Even if the Blue Bombers are unable to capture their third straight Grey Cup on Sunday, there is a chance that Collaros will not leave Regina without some hardware as he is the West Division nominee for the Most Outstanding Plyer Award for the second straight season after winning the award last year.
With the Grey Cup only a couple of days, the 34 year old’s focus will probably be elsewhere tonight at the awards ceremony.
“I’m sure the entire time I’m there sitting next to my wife, I’ll be thinking about watching tape.”
After a closed practice on Thursday, the Blue Bombers will practice once again at Leibel Field on Friday afternoon.
Where once again all eyes are going to be on Collaros and the status of his ankle.
