As we enter week 3 of the 2014 CFL season, and look back at what we have seen in the first two weeks of the year. We realize that what we have watched so far are games that have featured a lot of blow-outs, caused by teams committing numerous miscues and gaffes.
One should consider that the average margin of victory for each game in the first two weeks is 17 points, a very high number. It just goes to show that almost every team is not yet up to full speed, or game ready at this point in the year. I think that a major reason for this lack of cohesion and chemistry on the field has a lot to do with the lack of a true CFL preseason, as most teams have much shorter training camps than their American counterparts, and only play two CFL preseason exhibition games.
The old saying is that practice makes perfect, but the reality is that no amount of practice replicates game conditions, or the kind of on-field mindset that players need to focus at the highest level of competition in this league. A busy off-season with huge roster turnover every year is also a factor as players need to get used to new teammates, coaches and playbooks.
The amount of blow outs we have witnessed in just two weeks of action shows that a three or four week preseason is needed, as no one enjoys watching these sloppy games. Whether it be a big fan of one of the teams, or a neutral, its just not quality entertainment. Aside from the Ottawa at Winnipeg game, and the Hamilton at Edmonton games in week two, there hasn’t been much reason to stick around for the fourth quarter as six of the eight games were decided before it began. Even if you are a fan of the team displaying the blow out on the opposition, it’s fun at first but you can’t help by being distracted and not giving the game your full attention.
The CFL could benefit from a longer pre season in the sense that come week 1 of the regular season teams are ready to perform, ready to entertain and won’t put on a lackluster performance which causes the part-time fan or the neutral to change the channel.
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