Stampeders to start Maier over Mitchell vs. Bombers
The Calgary Stampeders will bench quarterback Bo Levi Mitchell in favor of Jake Maier for their Week 12 matchup against the Winnipeg Blue Bombers.
Mitchell, the franchise's all-time leading passer, was pulled from the team's 22-19 comeback win against the Toronto Argonauts after halftime last Saturday. He threw for 149 yards and two interceptions.
Maier completed 14 of 18 passes for 156 yards in relief of Mitchell.
Mitchell has struggled at different points this season. He's thrown for 2,010 yards with nine touchdowns to six interceptions. He was named the CFL's Most Outstanding Player twice and led the Stampeders to Grey Cup wins in 2014 and 2018.
He shared his disappointment in the decision and expressed his support of Maier in a statement posted to Instagram that was obtained by Danny Austin of the Calgary Sun.
"I am obviously frustrated with the decision, any competitor would be. But ... I am a member of this team and I am not above coaching or criticism," Mitchell wrote. "I believe in Jake and believe he will play great, winning football. I'll take the time to look at what I can do to make myself better, which will ultimately make us a better team. I will be back on the field."
Maier is in his second season with Calgary. The 25-year-old has passed for 1,450 yards, five touchdowns, and four interceptions through 20 games.