Maier gets nod ahead of veteran Mitchell for Stampeders

WINNIPEG — A first for Jake Maier.

The second-year quarterback will be Calgary's starter Thursday night when the Stampeders (6-3) visit the Winnipeg Blue Bombers (9-1). The start will be Maier's fourth in the CFL but the first with veteran Bo Levi Mitchell also on the roster.

All three of Maier's previous starts came with Mitchell on the injured list.

Maier replaced Mitchell in the second half of Calgary's 22-19 road win over the Toronto Argonauts last week. Maier was 14-of-18 passing for 156 yards and an interception as the Stampeders rallied from a 16-10 halftime deficit.

Mitchell had completed nine-of-16 passes for 149 yards but was also intercepted twice. On Wednesday, the Stampeders star took to social media to address the coaches decision.

"I am obviously frustrated with the decision, any competitor would be," Mitchell posted on his Instagram account. "But.. I am a member of this team and I am not above coaching or criticism.

"I believe in Jake and believe he will play great, winning football. I'll take the time to look at what I can do to make myself better which will ultimately make us a better team. I will be back on the field."

Safety Elie Bouka anchored the Calgary comeback with a 62-yard interception return touchdown in the third quarter that cut Toronto's lead to 19-16. Rene Paredes booted two fourth-quarter field goals to secure the victory for the Stampeders.

Winnipeg has already clinched the season series with two previous victories. The Bombers are chasing their first 3-0 season series sweep of Calgary since 1987.

Running back Ka'Deem Carey will also return to Calgary's lineup after missing three games with a hamstring injury.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published Aug. 24, 2022