The Calgary Stampeders had their collective fate in their hands on Saturday but failed to get the job done against the Winnipeg Blue Bombers. The Stamps dropped a 33-28 decision. Heading into a battle against the B.C. Lions this weekend, Calgary could still make the playoffs, although it’s now much more complicated. If the Stamps win and the Saskatchewan Roughriders lose to the Montreal Alouettes this weekend, they’re in. They could also clinch if they lose and the Riders finish the season with two straight losses. The other scenario to get in is if they beat the Lions and the Bombers finish the season with losses against the Edmonton Elks and the Lions. It’s not exactly what Calgary wanted, but at least there’s still a chance. Receiver Jalen Philpot says they have to believe they can get in. “It’s one of those things where we may not be able to control everything we have to control, but what we can control is our effort and how we execute out there on Saturday against B.C.,” Philpot said. “They’re a great team, and they’re coming in hot, but just how we like it. “We know the playoffs are going to be a challenge if we can get in, so why not start early?” Giving up big plays Against the Bombers, the defence was guilty of giving up way too many big plays. Defensive lineman Folarin Orimolade says that can’t happen this weekend against Nathan Rourke and the Lions. “If we play like we’re capable of and we believe we can play at—the level we believe we can play at—we’ll put ourselves in a good position not only to win that game but to win a playoff game as well,” Orimolade said. “We have to focus on doing the little things right and just being on the same page.” Have to play their best game Head coach and general manager Dave Dickenson says it’s been a struggle getting all three phases of the game playing at their best at the same time the whole season. He’s hoping that will change against the Lions on Saturday. “You’ve got to try and be better this game,” Dickenson said. “I think the guys all year have given a lot, but we’re just a little bit off in certain things or certain games. “Let’s put it all together and have our best game.” Another favour The Stamps already got one favour from the Montreal Alouettes, as they beat the Riders on the weekend. Philpot says he’ll hit his twin brother Tyson, who is a receiver with the Als, one more time this weekend. “You know me and my brother are checking in every weekend, but I just gave him a little bit of extra motivation, I like to say,” Philpot said. Kickoff for the Stamps and Lions is at 5 p.m. on Saturday at McMahon Stadium.
