The B.C. Lions are set to make a significant change at quarterback, with rookie Kaidon Salter slated to make his first career start. This decision comes as the team seeks a crucial win in Week 9 against the Winnipeg Blue Bombers. Salter took the majority of first-team practice repetitions this week in preparation for Thursday’s game in Winnipeg.
This will mark the third different quarterback to start for the Lions this season. The team’s previous starter, Nathan Rourke, who was the 2025 CFL MOP, was placed on the six-game injured list last week due to a shoulder injury to his non-throwing arm. Last week, Chase Brice started against the Toronto Argonauts but was replaced by Salter late in a 26-12 loss. During that game, Salter, who played his final college season for Colorado, completed nine of 15 passes for 121 yards.
In addition to the quarterback change, starting running back James Butler has been ruled out of the upcoming game due to a foot injury. This injury limited his participation in practice throughout the week. Emani Bailey will step in to replace Butler at running back. On the defensive side, Colby Taylor and Josh Hagerty are expected to join the starting lineup. Furthermore, Anu Una and Tyran Walker-Hunt are slated to start on the offensive line.
Lions’ Quest for a Win and Bombers’ Response
The Lions, currently holding a 1-5 record, are in need of a victory to improve their standing in the West Division. The upcoming game against the Blue Bombers marks the first time these two teams will meet this season. The Lions are also aiming for their first road victory of the campaign.
For the Blue Bombers, the game offers an opportunity to rebound after a recent 52-30 loss to the Calgary Stampeders. Winnipeg’s defence, led by veteran defensive lineman Willie Jefferson, is not underestimating Salter despite his rookie status. Jefferson emphasized that taking an opponent lightly, especially a rookie quarterback, can lead to unexpected outcomes. Lions head coach Buck Pierce noted Salter’s “moxie” and confidence, which he believes allows his teammates to play effectively.
Salter replaced Brice with six minutes remaining in the loss to the Argonauts, where he also ran four times for 12 yards. Brice, who made his first CFL start against Toronto, will now serve as Salter’s backup. Salter’s collegiate career included four seasons at Liberty University from 2021-24, where he became the starter in 2023. He led Liberty to a 13-1 record, throwing for 2,876 yards with 32 touchdowns and rushing 163 times for 1,089 yards and 12 touchdowns, earning him the Hero Sports G5 national player of the year award.
Following his time at Liberty, Salter transferred to Colorado to play under head coach Deion Sanders. He appeared in nine games, accumulating 1,414 passing yards with 10 touchdowns and 356 rushing yards. Despite his college performance, he was not selected in the NFL draft. The Lions signed Salter in May, and he participated in a pre-season game in Winnipeg, completing 11 of 12 passes for 123 yards and a touchdown in a 30-19 victory for the Lions.
Winnipeg’s Defensive Strategy and Offensive Adjustments
Winnipeg’s defence is known for its strong front, leading the league with 15 sacks and 32 pass knock-downs, and ranking second with 14 tackles for losses. Salter will need to be prepared for this formidable challenge. The Bombers’ secondary, featuring veteran defensive backs Evan Holm and Deatrick Nichols, prides itself on limiting passing yardage and will be looking for a strong performance after giving up three passing touchdowns in their last game.
The Blue Bombers are also dealing with their own quarterback situation. Dru Brown will continue to start as Zach Collaros recovers from an injury. Brown is coming off a game where he threw four interceptions against the Stampeders. Bombers head coach Mike O’Shea emphasized the importance of a sharper offensive start and better ball security. Running back Brady Oliveira, who rushed for a season-high 128 yards and two touchdowns against Calgary, is expected to be a key part of Winnipeg’s offensive strategy to alleviate pressure on Brown, despite the Lions’ strong run defence, which holds opposing rushers to 54.8 yards per game.
The Lions’ receiving corps, including Keon Hatcher Sr. and Justin McInnis, will be crucial in supporting Salter. These top wideouts have combined for 858 yards and possess considerable experience against the Bombers’ secondary. With Butler sidelined, the pressure on these players to perform is heightened. The Lions’ defence will also need to tighten up downfield, having allowed 17 passing touchdowns in six games while only securing three interceptions. Defensive backs C.J. Coldon, Josh Hagerty, and Ronald Kent Jr. will need a collective effort to contain Winnipeg’s receivers, including Ontaria Wilson and Nic Demski.
Winnipeg has made two changes this week, with second-year offensive lineman Micah Vanterpool stepping in for injured right tackle Jarell Broxton, who is out with a knee injury. The Lions have made six changes, including Bailey replacing Butler. The game is scheduled for Thursday at 8:30 p.m. ET.
Source: sportsnet.ca
