Bombers hope to beat Stamps at home

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This article was published 05/11/2011 (5321 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

CALGARY — The Winnipeg Blue Bombers would have the weight of history on their side in their quest for a Grey Cup championship this year if they can find a way to beat the Calgary Stampeders here at McMahon Stadium Saturday afternoon (TSN, 3 p.m.).

A Winnipeg victory over the Stampeders today — or, failing that, a Montreal Alouettes loss to the BC Lions in Vancouver tonight — would give the Bombers first place in the CFL’s East division and the big historical advantage that comes with hosting the division final.

Since 1972, the home team has won the division final in the CFL 47 of 76 times. Since 2000, the home team has won the division final 14 of 22 times, including the last time the Bombers won the East — way back in 2001.

That will be the backdrop here this afternoon as the Bombers attempt to beat the Stampeders in Calgary for the first time since 2002 — and do it with their backup quarterback, Alex Brink, at the controls in relief of an injured Buck Pierce.

After a blustery and snowy Friday, game time conditions in Calgary promise to be crisp and clear this afternoon, with a kickoff temperature of about 0 C and a 5 km/h wind out of the northeast.

There’s also much at stake this afternoon for the Stampeders, who need to beat the Bombers and then get a Lions win over the Alouettes to finish second in the West division and host next week’s semi-final.

The Bombers game time scratches are as expected: receiver Greg Carr, punter Mike Renaud, offensive lineman Kelly Butler and defensive lineman Dorian Smith.