Matt Smith/CFL.ca
TORONTO — It appears Brandon Bridge has some company.
Once the last remaining hope for Canadian quarterbacks in the CFL after Andrew Buckley retired, Bridge is joined by the Argos’ Noah Picton and the Alouettes’ Hugo Richard as pivots with a Canadian passport.
While Picton and Richard are the ‘next ones’, Bridge is the ‘now’. Which begs the question, what now for Brandon Bridge?
In one sense, 2018 was a step forward for the Mississauga, Ont. native., when he made four of his six career starts. That doesn’t count the post-season, when Bridge became the first Canadian to start a playoff game since Gerry Dattilio with the Montreal Concordes in 1984.
Thirty-four years, it took, but Bridge continues to break barriers for Canadian quarterbacks, a fact that shouldn’t be lost.
On the other side, despite more opportunities, Bridge’s play didn’t seem to improve. Statistically it was a step back. He threw one touchdown and three interceptions, averaging a paltry 6.1 yards per attempt — the worst of his career. He was swapped out often, and sometimes early, for David Watford.
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In the Western Semi-Final, Bridge made just enough plays to keep things close. But the Riders’ offence was limited to just 205 net yards and 18 points. Bridge threw for 100 yards on 12-of-22 passing with a pick.
In theory, for Brandon Bridge, this is the time to take the next step and become a CFL starting quarterback. Or at least compete for a job.
Ricky Ray could retire, while Bo Levi Mitchell might be about to head south. Jonathon Jennings has struggled. Travis Lulay and Kevin Glenn aren’t getting any younger. As free agency approaches, a handful of teams in the league — virtually anyone outside of Winnipeg and Hamilton — have questions at the position.
As a quarterback prospect, Bridge, a product of South Alabama, may not be polished. But at 6-foot-5, 235-pounds, with a strong arm and the ability to make plays with his legs, he checks off some boxes. Enough for him to warrant a legitimate look as a CFL quarterback, something that hasn’t happened in three decades.
After four seasons of development, and six career regular season starts, has the time come for someone to give Bridge the reins? What’s next for one of the CFL’s most intriguing players?
Weight in on the debate in the comments and vote below!
