A lot of different changes (with Andrew Hoskins).
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The Third Down Gamble podcast dives into the excitement and chaos of CFL training camps, with special guest Andrew Hoskins of the Turf District podcast. Hosts Don Charbin and Heath Graham explore the intense roster battles across teams like the Edmonton Elks, Ottawa Red Blacks, and Winnipeg Blue Bombers, highlighting key positions in flux—especially on the defensive line and quarterback depth. The episode examines strategic shifts, including the Elks' leaner camp roster and the Bombers' aggressive moves to bolster their offensive line with veteran Gerald Broxton and rookie Dante Daniels. A major focus is the newly announced 2027 playoff format, which expands the postseason to eight teams, sparking debate over whether it devalues the regular season. The hosts weigh in on the implications of this change, the impact of rule tweaks like the 35-second clock, and the broader implications of league expansion. They also reflect on nostalgic moments, such as the Elks returning to Clark Stadium for a retro preseason game, and the emotional weight of player decisions, including veteran Christian Covington’s release. The conversation balances criticism with optimism, acknowledging the CFL’s bold moves while emphasizing the need for clarity and long-term vision.
The 2027 CFL playoff format expands to eight teams, turning the first weekend into 'play-in' games that don’t eliminate teams, sparking debate over whether the regular season now lacks stakes.
Teams are adopting more strategic camp rosters—like Edmonton’s 85-player limit—focusing on quality over quantity to reduce early cutdowns and build cohesion.
Rookie players now face a 'one-and-done' rule: if not on the final roster, they become free agents with no protection, increasing pressure to perform immediately.
Rule changes like the 35-second clock are being tested in camp and are expected to increase pace and playing time, though concerns about 'kneeing' in the final minutes were unfounded.
The return of the Edmonton Elks to Clark Stadium for a retro preseason game adds historical flavor and fan excitement, despite logistical and nostalgic challenges.
…and 3 more takeaways available in PodZeus
CFL Training Camps Are Back – The Season’s Pulse Begins
“It's CFL Christmas, isn't it? It's so exciting every time training camp runs around just because when training camp opens... Hope springs eternal for every team.”
Roster Battles and Strategic Camp Management
“The fact that the Elks have consistency, something that when I talked to Morley Scott, he said it was nice to end the previous season knowing who the coaching staff was going to be the following year.”
The 2026 Draft Class: One-and-Done Reality
“If they're released or cut, they're essentially a free agent. You used to have that accommodation where you could come back the next year, but not now.”
Veteran vs. Rookie: The Battle for Roster Spots
The hosts analyze key player movements, including Christian Covington’s release by the BC Lions, and speculate on the financial and strategic reasons behind such cuts. They discuss how teams are balancing veteran leadership with cost efficiency.
The Ottawa Red Blacks’ Quarterback Quandary
“I think it really depends on what they're doing with their O-line. Because although Drew Brown has had some issues there, he's also had two seasons where he's missed time due to being injured.”
“The regular season means nothing now is what you're saying. It's a stratification process. Sure. It's your seeding. But how many times in the past, I want to say even four years, has the seeding kind of been determined?”
“I just want to say one thing, this whole playoff revamp, everything comes down to Stuart Johnson's hatred of the fact that first place teams, one win and you get to go to the Grey Cup.”
“It's CFL Christmas, isn't it? It's so exciting every time training camp runs around just because when training camp opens... Hope springs eternal for every team.”
Hosts
Guest
Andrew Hoskins
person
Don Charbin
person
Heath Graham
person
Edmonton Elks
other
Ottawa Red Blacks
other
2027 playoff format
other
Winnipeg Blue Bombers
other
BC Lions
other
Clark Stadium
other
Ryan Dinwiddie
person
Very grumpy.
Third Down Gamble • 51m • 4/1/2026
Get a good start (with Morley Scott 880 CHED).
Third Down Gamble • 50m • 4/8/2026
The atmosphere.
Third Down Gamble • 49m • 4/15/2026
All of a sudden on a random Thursday.
Third Down Gamble • 36m • 4/17/2026
The next generation quarterback superstar (with Sean Campell, TSN 690 radio).
Third Down Gamble • 1h 1m • 4/23/2026
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