Veteran going with flow

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This article was published 02/08/2013 (4499 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

The proclamation Thursday that Justin Goltz will now be known as the new starting quarterback for the Winnipeg Blue Bombers, changes nothing in several departments.

Veteran receiver Terrence Edwards, now in his ninth CFL season, does not expect to see a different Goltz this week just because of the new label.

“His preparation is, I don’t think, going to be any different, because as a backup, you always prepare like the starter because you’re only one play away,” Edwards said after Thursday’s practice at Investors Group Field. The Bombers are preparing to meet the B.C. Lions Monday in Vancouver.

“He’s the leader of the team,” Edwards continued. “He’s the quarterback, so everybody has to pay attention to him and he’s going to lead us.

“Being more vocal, that’s something he was today just because he’s the guy now and it’s his job to win games. If not, they’re going to find somebody else. So I think he understands being the leader of this team and leading us to victory.”

Edwards said he believes Goltz has done and is doing the right things as he moves into the leadership role.

“I think he’s done a wonderful job these few years just learning the game,” Edwards said. “I think he played well last game. He always wants to get better. I know he broke down the film and saw some of the things he wanted to improve on. That’s how you know he wants to win.

“He didn’t just take the game and say, ‘That’s my first start, I”m satisfied.’ As a matter of fact, me and him had dinner a couple of days after that game to talk about the game.

“He’s ready to go, ready to take the next step to be an elite quarterback. Even though it’s going to take time and work, he’s willing to do that.”

Edwards declined to wade into the pros and cons of Goltz replacing Buck PIerce, the team’s starting quarterback since 2010.

“Like I said earlier, my job here is to go out and catch passes and makes plays for this team when my number is called,” Edwards said. “I catch it from whoever they decide they want to play quarterback. I roll with whoever’s playing quarterback.

“Justin is in right now. You can’t do anything but accept their decision and move on.”

The 34-year-old receiver from Tennville, Ga., said that amid all the chatter about the depth-chart adjustment, focus is still a priority for him and the team.

“You can understand (the decision) from a business standpoint,” Edwards said. “I had some great years with Buck and I’m sad that he’s not going to be in there, but at the same time, you’ve got to go and roll with Justin.

“We’re here just to play. Whatever decisions they make, they feel it’s best for the team and we can only support that.

“I know Buck is going to support the decision they make and he’s probably not going to be pleased with their decision. But he’s a great teammate and he’s going to help Justin out any way he can.”

tim.campbell@freepress.mb.ca