According to William Stanback, the upcoming CFL season is a year of atonement.
Before being cut loose last week, the 29-year-old American played with the Montreal Alouettes for the previous five seasons.
On Tuesday, the veteran running back was signed by the B.C. Lions to a one-year contract.
The recently signed Lion stated on Wednesday, “I want to go out there and do everything I have to do to be the best that I can be.” “I want to kick everyone’s butts and go out there with a vengeance.”
Last season, when Montreal won the Grey Cup, Stanback rushed for 800 yards on 147 runs (a 5.4-yard average) and two touchdowns.
During his 62 games as an Alouette, he ran for 3,716 yards on 625 runs (5.9 yards per carry) and 11 touchdowns.
In addition, he recorded four touchdowns and 1,058 yards from 107 receptions.
Stanback asserts that the front management never tried to work out a bargain, despite his willingness to take a lower pay in order to remain in Montreal.
General manager Danny Maciocia made it plain that one of his three tailbacks, Walter Fletcher, Stanback, or Canadian Jeshrun Antwi, would not be coming back after the Als won the Grey Cup in November of last year.
“It was obvious that I would have to accept a pay decrease. That was not at all problematic for me,” Stanback remarked.
“I didn’t want to be perceived as someone who is merely being tolerated; I wanted to be treated fairly, respected, and valued.” I wanted to make sure I was respected wherever I went, just like the vet I am.
Stanback claims that being reunited with former Alouette Vernon Adams Jr. will aid him in acclimating to the play schemes.
Adams lived in Montreal for two periods: from 2016–17 and from 2018–22.
Stanback remarked, “I think this is a great fit for me.” “Going back with someone who knows me personally, someone like that.”
bottom season, the Lions had trouble with their rushing game; they were bottom in the league in terms of rushes per game as well as yards.
Taquan Mizzell, the running back, finished with 773 rushing yards, followed by Adams (324).
Stanback is sure his arrival will improve the running game for the British Columbians.
“We need to ensure that we can maintain our focus, and recognise that in close games, we need to stay true to our strengths, which is a well-rounded offensive strategy,” he stated. “I think we can overcome that obstacle in the Western Finals. I genuinely think that.
Stanback claimed he hasn’t discussed football or the offense’s plans with Lions head coach Rick Campbell yet. Rather, their discussions have centred around personality and squad fit, and the veteran feels certain that his abilities will be effectively applied in Vancouver.
The Lions’ 2023 campaign came to an end in the Western Conference final, where they were defeated 24–13 by the Winnipeg Blue Bombers.
The 111th Grey Cup will be held in British Columbia in November; this will be Vancouver’s 17th hosting of the competition and its first since 2014.
The Canadian Press originally released this report on February 7, 2024.
Wells, Nick, The Canadian Press
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