The Waggle archive 2020

‘The Waggle’ is the official podcast of the Canadian Football League, hosted by Gemini Award winning broadcaster Donnovan Bennett.

Below is an archived library of episodes from 2020.

To subscribe and listen to recent episodes, please see below.

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Episode 242: ‘Chez returns home for the holidays

EPISODE OVERVIEW: Davis Sanchez returns to the pod just in time for our special holiday episode. Donnovan and Chez break down their dream guest list for a fantasy CFL holiday party. Who’s cooking in the kitchen? Who’s mixing the drinks? Why is Milt wearing a beard?? All that and more on the final episode of the year of the Waggle.

Episode 241: Stacey Dales’ Canadian connection, Campbell’s remote reunion

EPISODE OVERVIEW: Donnovan is joined by Stacey Dales, pro basketball player turned sports analyst currently for the NFL Network. Stacey reveals what it was like growing up with a CFL All-Star punter for a brother, and how her experience as a high level athlete has translated to her career as a reporter. Later on the show, Rick Campbell reflects on his recent Remote Reunion with players from the REDBLACKS inaugural roster.

Episode 240: Free Agency frenzy w/ Chris O’Leary

EPISODE OVERVIEW: Chris O’Leary joins Donnovan to highlight some of the more intriguing names found on the recently released free agent list, now available at CFL.ca. Later on the show, Travis Lulay reveals what it was like virtually gathering with his 2011 teammates to relive Grey Cup glory.

EPISODE RUNDOWN: Initial thoughts on free agent list (4:05); Argos banking on local signings (10:28); Will we see a wave of retirements? (12″06); Who are the most valuable assets to hit the market? (14:02); Travis Lulay on the 2011 BC Lions Grey Cup (27:35).

Episode 239: Creating a CFL schedule with Trevor Hardy

EPISODE OVERVIEW: Donnovan chats with the CFL’s AVP of Business Operations and Analytics, Trevor Hardy. Known as @CFLCapGuy on Twitter, Trevor is the spreadsheet wizard tasked with creating the CFL schedule each season.

EPISODE RUNDOWN: Trevor Hardy is welcomed to the show and talks about the multitude of schedules he made in 2020 and the many challenges of his job (2:25); planning a schedule in a pandemic (7:48); the science-art split in making a schedule (10:15); contingency plans and the challenges of booking games with venues that host other events (15:35); the impact that 2020 might have on future schedules (18:00); what an even number of teams would mean to a schedule maker (19:23).

Episode 238: Revisiting the 2005 Grey Cup 15 years later

EPISODE OVERVIEW: 15 years after capturing a heart-stopping Grey Cup victory for Edmonton, Ricky Ray, Jason Maas and Danny Maciocia look back but also talk about the CFL going forward into 2021. Later, Blue Bombers’ writer Ed Tait talks about a Matt Dunigan passing record that may be impossible to break.

EPISODE RUNDOWN: Initial thoughts on ’05 GC (3:30); Ricky Ray on cornerroute to Derrell Mitchell (6:30); How the CFL has evolved (9:00); Maciocia on trying to build a team now vs. 2005 (12:20); Unsung heroes of ’05 team (14:30); Jason Maas on backing up Ray (19:00); 2020 without football (22:50); Ed Tait on Remote Reunion Revisited (31:35).

Episode 237: Dissecting the All-Decade Team w/ Duane Forde

EPISODE OVERVIEW: With the unveiling of the 2010-2019 “All-Decade Team”, we’ve brought in the one and only Duane Forde to break down who stands out the most of all the talented names on the list. Later, we talk to the best coach of the 1980s, Hugh Campbell, about his Edmonton dynasty in Remote Reunion Revisited.

EPISODE RUNDOWN: The decade of the Canadian RB (3:30); No Canadian WRs (8:00); Grading offensive linemen (12:00); U Sports grad on special teams (14:30); Trying to pick the top QB (17:00); Student and teacher winning in CGY (20:45); Large wave of Canadian talent (24:00); Hugh Campbell on the Edmonton dynasty of the 80s (35:00).

Episode 236: The great Hugh Campbell and the biggest trade of all time

EPISODE OVERVIEW: We had the distinct privilege this week to talk to a CFL living legend – Hugh Campbell. The TEN-TIME Grey Cup champion and Hall-of-Famer talks about his life in the CFL, including a monumental 16-player trade he once pulled off with the Argonauts. Later, Rick Moffat talks about the 13th Man game and the 09 Alouettes championship.

EPISODE RUNDOWN: Welcoming in Hugh Campbell (2:04); Missing the CFL in 2020 (3:00); CFL as a trailblazer (4:15); The 16-player trade of 1993 (13:15); Influence on Rick Campbell’s coaching career (18:05); Rick Moffat on the 2009 Montreal Alouettes (25:00).

Episode 235: Reuniting the Riders’ ‘Canadian Air Force’

EPISODE OVERVIEW: We’re going green this week – specifically, Rider green. First, we’ve gathered the Riders’ “Canadian Air Force” receivers Jason Clermont, Andy Fantuz, Chris Getzlaf and Rob Bagg. Later, Jamie Nye stops by to talk the 2007 Riders Grey Cup team for our Remote Reunion Revisited.

EPISODE RUNDOWN: The origin of the Canadian Air Force nickname (2:30); Jason Clermont’s impact on young receivers (4:00); All receivers in U Sports at the same time (5:55); Changing the perception of Canadian receivers (8:45); Playing for Paul LaPolice (14:30); Favourite memories of playing with one another (23:00); Jamie Nye drops in to talk 2007 Riders GC (30:10).

Episode 234: Singleton in the Spotlight + Morreale on Ticats’ Beer Room

EPISODE OVERVIEW: Fresh off a pick-6 against the Niners and blowing up the Giants’ backfield, former Stampeder and current Eagles LB Alex Singleton catches up with Donnovan. Afterwards, Hamilton-born receiver Mike Morreale talks about winning the 1999 Grey Cup with the Ticats (and all the partying that ensued) in Remote Reunion Revisited.

EPISODE RUNDOWN: Remembering David Braley and Joey Moss (1:00); Alex Singleton drops in (4:30); Making the most of his opportunity (11:30); Playoff hunt in Philly (13:45); Tackle inclusion and raising money for Special Olympics Pennsylvania (15:00); Mike Morreale joins the program (20:45); 1999 Ticats reunion and leadership roles now (24:00); Connection to the Hamilton community (26:00); The story behind the Tiger-Cats ‘Beer Room’ (27:45); Differences between teams of the 90’s compared to now (30:45). Did Charles Barkley save the Grey Cup? (35:30).

Episode 233: Rick Campbell weighs in on state of Leos after Hervey departure

EPISODE OVERVIEW: BC Lions head coach Rick Campbell discusses GM Ed Hervey stepping down and how the team moves forward in an already difficult year. Later, Don Landry reminisces on the dominance of the 1996 Toronto Argonauts.

EPISODE RUNDOWN: Rick Campbell drops in (1:56); Campbell’s reaction to Hervey stepping down (2:35); Connecting to the modern athlete (10:20); Don Landry revisits the dominant 1996 Toronto Argonauts.

Episode 232: Flashiest receivers of the 2000s Pt. 2 w/ Nik Lewis & Ken-Yon Rambo

EPISODE OVERVIEW: Continuing the theme of last week’s interview with Bombers receivers Milt Stegall & Robert Gordon, this week Donnovan speaks with Nik Lewis and Ken-Yon Rambo – Stampeders receivers responsible for such TD celebrations as ‘The Bobsled’ and ‘The Bike’.

EPISODE RUNDOWN: Welcome back Nik Lewis and Ken-Yon Rambo (2:45); Balancing multiple receivers who demand the ball (5:20); Underrated teammates (7:00); Building the perfect receiver (7:55); Planning TD celebrations (9:00); Playing with Henry Burris (14:12); Lineage of talented WRs in Calgary (16:30); Interview with former Stamp & GC hero Mark McLoughlin

Episode 231: Flashiest receivers of the 2000s Pt. 1 w/ Milt Stegall & Robert Gordon

EPISODE OVERVIEW: We’re looking back on some of the flashiest receiving corps in the CFL, starting with Milt Stegall and Robert Gordon of the early-2000’s Bombers. To help us out, one of the flashiest receiver in recent memory, Emmanuel Arceneaux, steps in to help co-host!

EPISODE RUNDOWN: Manny Arceneaux drops in (2:30); Milt and Robert Gordon talk WPG WRs of the 2000s (4:00); Milt on ‘starting’ the TD dances (5:00); Manny on planning touchdown dances (6:30); Walking the walk and talking the talk (8:45); Receivers working together vs individuals (11:45); Timing and relationship with former QB Khari Jones (15:00); Talking Calgary celebrations (17:30); Receivers who didn’t get the credit deserved (18:20); Connection to Geroy Simon (24:40); Opinion of Arland Bruce lll (29:30); Games within the game for receivers (33:40); The next generation of receivers (36:00).

Episode 230: Brandon Bridge from QB to policing and the BLM Movement

EPISODE OVERVIEW: Donnovan Bennett is joined by former CFL quarterback Brandon Bridge to talk about his football career and his recent transition to policing and the impact of the Black Lives Matter movement.

EPISODE RUNDOWN: When Brandon knew it was time for a career change (3:00); Transitioning from football (4:30); How would his CFL career been different (7:30); Why he wants to be a police officer (10:15); How did the Black community respond to his career choice? (12:40); How has Brandon perceived police brutality videos (15:20); What does ‘defund the police’ mean to you? (19:35); Playing at Southern US vs. Canada (23:06); What to say to kids who want to work in law enforcement? (29:06).

Episode 229: Checking in with Chris Streveler

EPISODE OVERVIEW: Former Winnipeg Blue Bomber and 2019 Grey Cup Champion quarterback Chris Streveler chats with Donnovan about the transition to the NFL after joining the Arizona Cardinals for the 2020 season.

EPISODE RUNDOWN: The transition to the NFL (1:35); When did the NFL opportunity materialize? (2:33); What part of his game translated best? (5:40); How many CFLers could play down south? (9:45); On Kliff Kingsbury (13:35); Team chemistry amid a pandemic (18:05); A message for CFL fans (23:45).

Episode 228: The first lady of the Grey Cup, Dayna Spiring

EPISODE OVERVIEW: Dayna Spiring is the Chair of the Winnipeg Football Club Board of Directors and in November at the 2019 Grey Cup she made history. Donnovan speaks with Dayna about representation, diversity and inclusion and her path to being the first woman to have her name inscribed on the Grey Cup.

EPISODE RUNDOWN: Dayna on being the first woman on the Cup and how she found out (4:05); On diversity and inclusion in the CFL (7:40); The power of diversity in business (9:55); Inspiring women around the CFL (12:25); Women in football (14:00); How to be inclusive in football at every level (15:50); How Spiring became the Chair of the Blue Bombers (17:10); Engaging casual fans (19:15).

Episode 227: Hopping in the booth with legends of Labour Day broadcasting

EPISODE OVERVIEW: Broadcast legends Bob Irving, Mark Stephen and Rick Zamperin join Donnovan Bennet to discuss what Mark’s Labour Day Weekend means to their respective markets and share stories from years past.

EPISODE RUNDOWN: Welcoming in Bob Irving (3:31); Mark Stephen on his best LD call (15:40); Stephen on favourite LD moments (16:20); Rick Zamperin on Ticats LD calls (26:21).

Episode 226: Debating the quarterback of the decade

EPISODE OVERVIEW: CFL.ca’s resident MMQB Pat Steinberg joins Donnovan Bennett to debate the best quarterback of the decade for the All Decade team presented by LeoVegas.

EPISODE RUNDOWN: How do you best evaluate the decade based on how the game has changed? (4:20); Do stats tell the whole story? (7:32); Pat’s QB vote and why (12:38); Hesitations on making the selection (15:30); Who is the best QB of the next decade? (18:40); Opt-out window and what it means (22:35); Which city will win the Grey Cup and Stanley Cup in the same year? (28:03); What is Pat binge watching? (30:50).

Episode 225: Jeremy O’Day outlines how GMs attack the next few months

EPISODE OVERVIEW: Jeremy O’Day, the VP of Football Operations and General Manager of the Saskatchewan Roughriders, joins Donnovan Bennett to talk about how football moves forward for CFL clubs with the news of a cancelled season.

EPISODE RUNDOWN: Learning of the CFL’s cancellation (5:40); How to prepare for all scenarios (7:56); How to evaluate players during a pandemic (10:22); Players opting out of contracts (14:40); Significance of no GC in Regina in 2020 (18:33); Rider fans and their passion towards organization (21:02); Unexpected more time with family (25:42); Introducing the Grey Cup Fan Base (28:45).

Episode 224: Wade Miller breaks down what comes next

EPISODE OVERVIEW: With Donnovan away this week, President and CEO of the Winnipeg Blue Bombers Wade Miller joins Brodie Lawson to discuss next steps for the CFL and what the last few months have been like trying to get a 2020 season in action.

EPISODE RUNDOWN: On how Wade is feeling about the decision (3:34); What went into planning the bubble? (4:57); What have conversations been like with players? (6:00); Fan reaction and feedback (7:25); On the process that took us to August (8:33); What does 2021 look like and what are next steps? (10:41).

Episode 223: The two-QB system debate w/ Matt Dunigan & Joe Barnes

EPISODE OVERVIEW:A lot has been made about teams who run a 2-QB system, especially after Zach Collaros and Chris Streveler helped bring a Grey Cup back to Winnipeg last season. Two of the best to ever do it, Matt Dunigan and Joe Barnes, reconnect to talk about their experience with it.

EPISODE RUNDOWN: Welcoming Matt Dunigan and Joe Barnes (2:30); Are they still throwing? (3:30); Viewpoints on the two-QB system (11:30); Trust with other QB competing for reps (18:00); How much does money matter with QBs (22:15); Handling the QB room (31:45); Former QBs coaching QBs (34:15); Build the perfect QB (39:20).

Episode 222: What it takes to stay in football shape

EPISODE OVERVIEW: We take a bit of a different course this week as Donnovan speaks with elite athlete trainer Matt Nichol about how players have been staying in football shape during the pandemic.

EPISODE RUNDOWN: What players should be focused on to stay in peak condition (3:50); What does gearing up look like so players can avoid injuries (5:48); On working with Hamilton Tiger-Cats’ Orlondo Steinauer (8:50); Challenges on being a ‘specialist’ in your position (12:30); Why work with the Tiger-Cats? (20:00).

Episode 221: Hub City and Edmonton name change

EPISODE OVERVIEW: CFL.ca’s Chris O’Leary joins Donnovan to discuss the Edmonton Football Team name change and the latest developments related to the potential Hub City scenario in Winnipeg.

EPISODE RUNDOWN: Why Winnipeg as the Hub City? (4:04); The mental and physical challenges of a Hub City (7:50); Edmonton’s name change (12:33); Name changes in other leagues – more to come? (19:40); How did George Floyd’s death change perspective? (24:00); Amplifying black voices in the CFL (27:13); How do you vote for O-Linemen on ADT? (31:55).

Episode 220: Homecoming for GTA Argos

EPISODE OVERVIEW: Toronto Argonauts Natey Adjei and Juwan Brescacin both grew up in the GTA and after playing in the West Division they felt pulled to come back home. Juwan and Natey talk about what’s brought them home and what is keeping them busy outside of football.

EPISODE RUNDOWN: Elite athletes from Mississauga (2:03); On decisions to play with Argos (6:10); Which GTA player they think works the hardest? (10:35); Staying motivated in the gym while waiting for season (11:30); What would playing in a hub city be like? (13:25); Aftermath of George Floyd murder and the (15:08); What are you binge watching right now? (30:40).

Episode 219: Henry and the Hall Call

EPISODE OVERVIEW: Donnovan is joined by CFL legend Henry Burris to celebrate the news of his pending induction into the Canadian Football Hall of Fame.

EPISODE RUNDOWN: On the delayed HOF ceremony (6:30); How Henry got his call to the Hall (10:43); His wife’s vital role in HOF reveal (15:00); Who he called first (18:15); The team cap he would wear to represent his impact in the CFL (23:05); On being first ballot (27:55).

Episode 218: Hub cities? + Davis signs off

EPISODE OVERVIEW: DJ and ‘Chez talk about some of the challenges and triumphs over the years hosting the pod. The pair also talk about the concept of hub cities and speculate about their pitfalls and strengths.

EPISODE RUNDOWN: The jobs Davis has been fired from (3:30); On Hub Cities (9:35); On players and their identity during this time (20:30); On podcasting about the CFL (37:30); Former host Cybulski sends Davis a farewell message (43:53); Davis signs off (55:12).

Episode 217: Canadian Football lessons for Canada Day

EPISODE OVERVIEW: Happy Canada Day! Davis and Donnovan discuss the lessons Canadian Football has taught them and how applicable they are in the current climate. Davis also shares some of the toughest players he had to defend and informs Waggle fans that next week will be his final episode of the podcast.

EPISODE RUNDOWN: Fave Canada Day memories (2:30); Davis on the power of love and benefit of doubt during tense times (5:20); DJ on life lessons in sport (7:50); Teams level of fiscal obligation (14:10); ‘Chez on players payment (16:30); What jobs would you have if there were no football (21:10); Davis on the best players he had to cover in CFL/NFL (29:55); Davis announces his departure from The Waggle (35:10).

Episode 216: Debating the decade’s best

EPISODE OVERVIEW: Davis and Donnovan are joined by CFL.ca columnist Matt Cauz to dissect and debate a few of their picks for The All Decade team presented by LeoVegas.

EPISODE RUNDOWN: Introducing the All-Decade program (2:35); Process of selecting a team (5:00); The running back discussion (12:40); Pivotal decisions (18:30); DB debates (18:30); What about the ratio? (27:10); Kickers and punters (29:30); Netflix and wine (35:00).

Episode 215: Self love in sport w/ Ryan Russell

EPISODE OVERVIEW: Davis and Donnovan talk with former NFL defensive end Ryan Russell about coming out as bisexual, how self love and acceptance is critical in sports and what pride means to him this Pride Month.

EPISODE RUNDOWN: Hub Cities (2:35); Ryan Russell introduction (7:38); On being equal and the intersectionality between sexuality and race (11:20); Freeing up mental space to perform in sport (16:20); On coming out (24:40); What pride means (26:48); Catch Madness presented by TimberMart (31:40).

Episode 214: Nate Behar’s raw essay + Orlando Bowen from injustice to activism

EPISODE OVERVIEW: Nate Behar joins Donnvan Bennett and Brodie Lawson to discuss the powerful essay on race he wrote for Medium, a self described “stream-of-consciousness” turned to “paper”. Then, former CFL player turned activist Orlando Bowen joins the show to share his own personal story of injustice turned to activism.

EPISODE RUNDOWN: Nate Behar’s inspiration to write an essay (6:45); On active caring (11:20); Racist incidents from the past (23:30); Reaction to the article (29:50); Orlando Bowen joins the program (33:35); Bowen on his own incident with police (37:48); Bowen’s organization One Voice, One Team (44:50).

Episode 213: Henoc Muamba on growing tensions and how to action change

EPISODE OVERVIEW: Alouettes LB Henoc Muamba joins Donnovan and Davis as they discuss the ongoing tensions and protests and how sports is reacting. They also discuss the Henoc’s newest venture, ‘Muamba Moments’.

EPISODE RUNDOWN: The story behind the ‘Muamba Moments’ podcast (1:20); How sports is reacting to tensions and protests (5:30); Keeping the conversation going (8:45); Realizing issues are not exclusive to America (10:45); Silence speaks volumes (12:30); Tangible actions (14:30).

Episode 212: Chris Cuthbert and his greatest calls

EPISODE OVERVIEW:CFL on TSN play-by-play man Chris Cuthbert chats with Donnovan & Davis about his time covering the CFL, as well as his personal favourite play calls.

EPISODE RUNDOWN: 3:50 – Tee up Cuthbert (the Michael Jordan of play-by-play); 5:30 – Welcome Chris Cuthbert ;8:15 – Game preparation; 11:20 – Favourite Cuthbert calls; 17:00 – Keeping your energy up during slow games; 19:30 – Tony Romo contract & ‘predicting’ the plays; 24:30 – The key to cohesion with a broadcast group; 27:00 – Cuthbert’s time as the ‘voice of the Montreal Concordes’ in 1981; 29:45 – Excitement for great players; 30:30 – A career highlight for CC & Davis; 32:00 – Increased reach of play-by-play voice on highlights; 33:00 – Keith Urban in the booth during Grey Cup; 38:20 – 13th Man call; 41:30 – Letting the moment breath; 43:30 – A call he’d like to have back (Mike Pringle 2000+ yards); 45:30 – Different approach to calling big hits; 47:00 – Calling football vs. hockey; 48:00 – Potentially calling games with no fans in the near future; 52:00 – Wrap up

Episode 211: Status update with CFL executive Greg Dick

EPISODE OVERVIEW: Greg Dick, the CFL’s chief financial officer and head of football operations, speaks with Donnovan and Davis about the current status of the CFL as the league continues to navigate the COVID-19 pandemic.

EPISODE RUNDOWN: Welcome to The Waggle presented by Sport Clips (0:00); Greg Dick intro (2:20); Decisions to postpone to September and cancel Touchdown Atlantic (4:30); ‘Win-and-host’ Grey Cup model vs. ‘hub city’ option (8:30); Look at planning out all options (10:00); Why would it be a big financial loss if we just ‘shut down’ and come back next year? (12:00); Would a season be financially viable without fans? (16:55); What is the ‘drop dead date’ for a September season vs. cancelling 2020? (20:00); Grey Cup in December? (20:30); Opportunity to slowly start bringing players back to train? (21:30); What’s the shortest season the league would consider playing? (26:00); How critical is government support to getting back to play? (26:50); Impact on minor football and USports football (28:30); How does the league use this as an opportunity to reassess business? (35:30); Closing thoughts (37:20).

Episode 210: ‘Sauga Siblings: The Brissett brothers land pro contracts in the same city

EPISODE OVERVIEW: Donnovan and Davis are joined by Dejon Brissett, the second overall pick for the Toronto Argonauts in the 2020 CFL draft, and his brother, Oshae Brissett of the Toronto Raptors.

EPISODE RUNDOWN: Welcome to the Waggle presented by Sport Clips (0:00); How much did playing at home factor into career choices? (3:00); Sibling rivalry throughout childhood (5:37); Where Dejon fits on the Argos (7:00); Training during COVID-19 (10:41); Running routes with mom (14:52); Reflecting on each other’s success (19:43); The Mt. Rushmore of Mississauga Athletics (23:49); What are you watching right now? (25:07).

Episode 209: Post-draft breakdown with Duane Forde

EPISODE OVERVIEW: The guys are joined by TSN analyst and Canadian draft guru Duane Forde to discuss and dissect the 2020 CFL draft. Davis and Duane share some behind the scenes insight on the TSN broadcast coverage while Donnovan gets an unexpected answer when he asks what Duane is binge-watching these days.

EPISODE RUNDOWN: Welcome to the Waggle presented by Sport Clips (0:00); Quick look ahead to prospects coming down the pipeline (4:23); Effect of cancelled combine on the draft (9:48); Roster fluidity and player retention (13:45); Recruiting homegrown talent (19:04); Davis and Duane discuss the TSN panel coverage (24:01); Duane’s sleeper pick of the draft (33:20); Who was Duane surprised to see go undrafted? (37:33); Canadian quarterbacks (45:26); Comparing Nathan Rourke and Michael O’Connor (50:09); What is Duane binge-watching currently? (57:13)

Episode 208: Draft strategy with Kyle Walters

EPISODE OVERVIEW: As we get set for the CFL Draft on Thursday night (8 p.m. ET) we talk to the man in charge of the Grey Cup champions draft: Winnipeg Blue Bombers GM Kyle Walters.

EPISODE RUNDOWN: Kyle Walters joins Davis and Donnovan (2:30); How the draft has changed over the years (3:30); Conducting interviews not in-person; Mechanics of draft day amidst COVID-19 measures (13:00); Drinks & snacks during Draft day (15:00); How to weigh prospects with NFL opportunities (17:00); Position needs by round, by team or by year (19:00); Process of scouting a player from start to finish (21:00); Late-round selection value (24:00); Pick timing (26:30).

Extra: Nathan Rourke 1-on-1

EPISODE OVERVIEW: Donnovan chats with Oakville, Ontario native Nathan Rourke, a three-year starting quarterback for the Ohio Bobcats and an intriguing prospect in the 2020 CFL draft.

EPISODE RUNDOWN: Bracing for the Draft during COVID-19 (3:07); Playing QB in the States vs. Canada (6:22); Adjusting to different responsibilities in college system (11:02); Potential for a Tayson Hill role in the NFL (12:41); Role models (13:24); On not being invited to NFL Combine (16:48); Training and fitness during C-19 (18:17); Message to Canadian Fans (19:54).

Episode 207: The wild year in the life of Armanti Edwards

EPISODE OVERVIEW: In this edition of the Waggle, Donnovan catches up with Armanti Edwards who was signed by the Edmonton Eskimos this month after a stint in the XFL. Hear what led to the move down south and why Edmonton was an easy choice upon returning to the Canadian game.

EPISODE RUNDOWN: Deciding on Edmonton (2:25); Handling a strange off-season (3:54); Free agency and leaving of the XFL (6:57); Joining the Eskimos receiving corps (11:05).

Episode 206: Patiently waiting with Alex Singleton

EPISODE OVERVIEW:The boys are joined by former Calgary Stampeder linebacker Alex Singleton, who waited patiently for his shot in the NFL and was finally rewarded when he was promoted to the active roster of the Philadelphia Eagles during the 2019 season. Alex reflects back fondly on his time in Canada and gives his thoughts on his former quarterback’s status among the CFL’s all-time greatest gunslingers.

EPISODE RUNDOWN: Armanti Edwards signs with Edmonton (1:41); Potential effects of the XFL folding (4:07); Lirim Hajrullahu headed to the NFL (8:45); Checking in with Alex Singleton (12:17); Which former teammates of yours belong in the NFL? (21:50); First hand observations on talent difference between NFL and CFL (24:18); Getting waived after pre-season, almost coming back to Calgary for Labour Day (28:39); Thoughts on Bo Levi Mitchell (37:51); Virtual workouts with Special Olympics Calgary (46:19); Alex’s latest binge-watch picks (47:29).

Episode 205: Trusting the Tape w/ Marshall Ferguson

EPISODE OVERVIEW: Davis returns with news of his happy and healthy second child while Marshall Ferguson joins us to explain his toughest assignment to date: formulating a mock draft without a combine. Later, Donnovan stirs up the classic top 5 QBs of all-time debate. Does Bo belong in that conversation? Listen to find out.

EPISODE RUNDOWN: Marshall Ferguson on formulating a Mock Draft (5:29); How will no Combine alter players w/ injury histories (16:16); Mechanics of social distancing on Draft night (20:00); Territorial picks and Ottawa’s options (25:17); Debating the Top 5 QBs of all-time (33:00); Will Bo Levi MItchell enter the Top 5 while playing (47:44); Binge-watching suggestions (53:10).

Extra: Steinauer and the offseason like no other

EPISODE OVERVIEW: Donnovan chats with Hamilton Tiger-Cats head coach Orlondo Steinauer as he and his staff navigate a unique off-season.

EPISODE RUNDOWN: On adjusting to the COVID-19 situation; Effects on off-season workflow (2:55); How this alters the draft and roster planning (4:37); Evaluating the 2019 season (6:26); Silver linings and more family time at home (8:04); Guidance for players in current situation (9:57).

Episode 204: Checking in with ‘Big Play VA’

EPISODE OVERVIEW: Donnovan checks in at home with Montreal Alouettes quarterback Vernon Adams Jr. as he juggles a complicated situation with off-season preparations.

EPISODE RUNDOWN: Vernon Adams Jr. drops in (4:06); Staying in football shape at home (5:31); Staying connected with CFL fans (7:40); Reflecting on how the Als rallied around Adams last season (10:14); Working on composure (18:15); Optimism around new ownership (21:14); Vernon’s Music Playlist (22:27).

Episode 203: Navigating the unknown w/ Bill Manning

EPISODE OVERVIEW:This week on the Waggle, we’re joined by Bill Manning, president of the Toronto Argonauts and Toronto Football Club to discuss the uncertain times ahead for MLSE and the rest of the sports world, and his optimism that sport will be there to reunite us when the time is right.

EPISODE RUNDOWN: Giving back in a time of need (5:51); Interview with Bill Manning (9:19); Final thoughts on this week (31:46).

Episode 202: Adapting to the new normal ft. Chris O’Leary

EPISODE OVERVIEW: Davis and Donnovan check up with their pal Chris O’Leary to share how they’re coping at home and discuss how the CFL is adapting to new realities ahead of the Draft.

EPISODE RUNDOWN: Working and adjusting to life at home (0:50); How will the gambling industry be impacted? (11:54); Varsity atheletes and the Combine (13:44); How does this affect veteran players still on the market? (23:19); Teams step up to support their part-time staff (26:40).

Episode 201: Busting CFL myths with Randy Ambrosie

EPISODE OVERVIEW: It’s a rapid fire rundown of the hottest topics from the message boards and comment sections. Donnovan is joined by CFL Commissioner Randy Ambrosie this week to address some of the most common misconceptions, criticisms and questions from fans across the country.

EPISODE RUNDOWN: The commish’s least favourite CFL misconception (3:19); should the CFL playoffs be moved to Saturday to avoid competing with the NFL? (6:20); why isn’t the Vanier Cup paired with the Grey Cup each year? (8:20); start the season on Canada Day! (9:29); a Quebec City expansion team (10:08); too much roster fluidity in the league (11:46); a CFL All-Star game (13:24); new playoff format idea (14:59); picking playoff opponents (17:09); CFL 2.0 potentially affecting Canadian players negatively (19:10); merging with other leagues (22:53); relationship with the NFL and advice from Roger Goodell (25:40); CFL games on international soil (27:32); the football ops salary cap (28:20); the No. 1 thing fans can do to support football in Canada (32:34); greater harmony between U SPORTS and CFL schedules (35:03); combine interview questions and advice for attendees (38:57).

Episode 200: Mama we made it! ft. James Cybulski

EPISODE OVERVIEW:The Waggle officially hits the 200th episode mark this week and O.G. host James Cybulski is back to celebrate the milestone and reflect on the young history of the official CFL podcast. The guys take a walk down memory lane from recording the first episode, to their favourite interviews, the first time they ticked off a fan base, and much more.

EPISODE RUNDOWN: We made it to 200! Welcome back Cybulski (2:08); James recalls the origin of the pod (3:45); Players who DM to complain about the show (7:30); Cybulski on the wrath of Riderville (9:33); Favourite Waggle interview … so far (23:10); Donnovan and James connect on their love of history (27:45); Cybulski on the best storyline of 2019 (32:46); Fave football movies (48:52).

Extra: Black History Month – a discussion with ‘Pinball’ Clemons

EPISODE OVERVIEW: As Black History Month draws to a close, Donnovan Bennett speaks with CFL icon and Argonauts general manager Michael “Pinball” Clemons about the challenges and successes he’s found at the crossroads of football and race.

Episode 199: New playoff format, who dis?

EPISODE OVERVIEW: Davis and Donnovan round up the latest off-season news, including a discussion around Commissioner Ambrosie’s “pick your opponent” playoff idea that he’s pitched to fans for feedback.

EPISODE RUNDOWN: 40-Yard dash story time (1:49); Free Agency still in play; BC makes moves at WR (7:45); Where is Derel Walker? (16:00); NFL CBA and how it impacts CFL (19:43); Benefits for U Sports players (22:47); Reading into CFLers in XFL (24:41); New Playoff Format – Yay or Nay? (32:24); Objectionable Conduct – Homemade signs for kids (45:10).

Extra: Willie Jefferson on his decision to stay in WPG

EPISODE OVERVIEW: 2019 Defensive Player of the Year, 2019 Grey Cup champion and 2020’s most sought-after free agent Willie Jefferson re-signed with the Bombers for two more seasons. Davis caught up with the superstar defensive end to talk about his decision to stay in Winnipeg.

Episode 198: Come on back to Winnipeg! (Post-FA Special)

EPISODE OVERVIEW: Willie Jefferson has gone back to the ‘Peg, while Derel Walker keep everyone waiting. Davis Sanchez and Donnovan Bennett wrap up the week that was in a special post-free agency episode.

EPISODE RUNDOWN: Initial free agent thoughts (1:43); tactics from the negotiation window (4:37); Davis recalls his recruitment visit to Oregon (8:40); Willie Jefferson’s impact on the market (11:52); scheme capital and the value of positions (16:31); who won free agency? (20:08); who lost free agency? (36:05); Derel Walker on reality TV? (39:18); S.J. to the XFL? (41:56); James Franklin comments on his time in Toronto (47:46).

Episode 197: Previewing Free Agency

EPISODE OVERVIEW:With just one week left before the chaos of Free Agency begins, Dave Naylor joins Donnovan and Davis with predictions and analysis of all the biggest signings. CFL.ca’s Chris O’Leary also stops by to explain the new free agency window and what it means for fans of the league. Later, Donnovan wants to dig into Davis’ childhood memories for this week’s edition of “Objectionable Conduct”.

EPISODE RUNDOWN: Chris O’Leary drops in (1:45); Superbowl 54: How did it stack up to GC107? (3:11); Post-Game Super Bowl Comments from Frank Clark (6:25); Understanding the New Free Agency Negotiation Window (7:46); Dave Naylor talks all things Free Agency (12:50); Remembering Willie Wood (40:10); Objectionable Conduct (41:09)

Episode 196: We’re big in Japan + Ranking the FAs

EPISODE OVERVIEW: The boys are joined by a very special guest all the way from Tokyo. But before that, Davis and Donnovan debate the recently released Top 30 Free Agent list on CFL.ca. Later, in this week’s Objectionable Conduct, Davis weighs in on people “doing it for the ‘gram” in public.

EPISODE RUNDOWN: Welcome to The Waggle (0:00); Passing of Kobe Bryant (2:34); Collaros signs in Winnipeg (9:06); Donnovan’s Top 5 FAs (11:20); Davis’ Top 5 FAs (19:10); Toronto and Ottawa QB options (21:40); Should Nichols feel slighted by the Bombers? (28:48); Objectionable Conduct: Influencers in the wild (37:37); Interview with Scotty from Tokyo’s CFL Podcast ‘Two Guys, One Grey Cup’ (43:29).

Extra: Eugene Lewis share his story #BellLetsTalk

EPISODE OVERVIEW: For #BellLetsTalk day, Alouettes receiver Eugene Lewis shares his story of watching his father deal with and overcome depression and how it has motivated him to be a better athlete, but also to help others.

Episode 195: Going Global + Who are the Top 30 FAs?

EPISODE OVERVIEW: Brodie is back from her honeymoon and joins Donnovan to chat about the latest on CFL 2.0, the top 30 free agents about to hit the market, and the appropriateness of sweatpants in the office.

EPISODE RUNDOWN: How late is too late to say “Happy New Year”? (0:00); Global Combines continue (6:30); DJ on Global optimism (9:15); Debating the Top 30 Free Agents (16:45); CFL Power Couples (31:45); Montreal assembles front office (40:33); Which CFL team will Meghan and Harry cheer for? (43:20); Objectionable conduct (45:50).

Extra: The Manny Show must go on

EPISODE OVERVIEW: Donnovan catches up with Manny Arceneaux during Grey Cup week in November 2019 to discuss his future, his motivations, and what legacy he wants to leave on the CFL.

Episode 194: Exploring the QB landscape w/ Marshall Ferguson

EPISODE OVERVIEW: Marshall Ferguson joins Davis Sanchez for another off-season edition of The Waggle. We’re talking the latest leadership news in Montreal, where the QBs will last this time around, and what to expect from the CFL global combines.

EPISODE RUNDOWN: Montreal locks in Macocia, new President (1:00); Analyzing the QB landscape in 2020 (14:10); Who is better right now: Masoli or Evans? (19:00); Toronto’s QB situation (20:10); Where does Zach Collaros fit? (22:40); Davis’ NFL roster story (29:20); Global combines underway across the world (33:38).

Episode 193: Can Ottawa lock up Arbuckle + The best GM nobody is talking about

EPISODE OVERVIEW: Davis and Donnovan analyze the latest moves and news in the CFL, including Nick Arbuckle’s potential signing in Ottawa and Hamilton’s stacked quarterback room.

EPISODE RUNDOWN: The fallout from Nick Arbuckle trade (1:00); Hamilton locks up Masoli (13:00); Who should start for the Tiger-Cats? (17:10); Montreal Alouettes new owners (22:40); The most qualified GM nobody is talking about (29:30); Nick Marshall and Shaq Cooper off the FA board (33:30); Objectional Conduct (35:30).

Episode 192: New Year, new resolutions for CFL teams

EPISODE OVERVIEW: We’re quickly dropping in to wish you a happy new year, and give you a new years resolution for every team in the CFL.