Zach Collaros: The Pillar of the Winnipeg Blue Bombers’ Success
Since joining the Winnipeg Blue Bombers in 2019, Zach Collaros has proven to be the most instrumental player in the team’s resurgence as one of the most successful franchises in the Canadian Football League (CFL). His experience, leadership, and ability to perform under pressure have made him a cornerstone of the Blue Bombers’ offense. Over the past few years, Collaros has not only been a key figure in the team’s back-to-back Grey Cup victories in 2019 and 2021, but his overall influence on the team’s success is undeniable. His journey in the CFL, characterized by overcoming adversity and embracing leadership, showcases why he has become synonymous with winning in Winnipeg.
The Early Years: From Backup to Starter
Zach Collaros’ journey to becoming one of the most respected quarterbacks in the CFL was not instantaneous. He started his professional career in 2012 with the Toronto Argonauts, where he initially served as a backup quarterback behind Ricky Ray. However, it didn’t take long for Collaros to demonstrate his potential. After Ray suffered an injury in 2013, Collaros stepped in and showed flashes of brilliance, earning recognition as a capable starter. This experience would be formative for him, as he learned to adapt to the rigors of professional football while playing behind a veteran leader like Ray.
In 2014, Collaros signed with the Hamilton Tiger-Cats, where his career truly began to take off. As the starting quarterback, he displayed excellent poise, strong decision-making, and an ability to make clutch throws under pressure. By 2015, Collaros had emerged as one of the top quarterbacks in the league, earning a nomination for Most Outstanding Player after leading the Tiger-Cats to the Grey Cup. His rapid development in Hamilton laid the foundation for his future success in the CFL and made him one of the most sought-after quarterbacks in the league.
The 2019 Transition to Winnipeg: A Fresh Start
After a series of injuries and setbacks in Hamilton, Collaros found himself traded to the Winnipeg Blue Bombers midway through the 2019 season. At the time of his arrival, the Bombers were in need of a steady leader at quarterback after struggles with Matt Nichols, their previous starter. Collaros, however, was coming off a rough period in his career, having been sidelined by a concussion, and was eager to prove himself once again.
It was a gamble for both Collaros and the Blue Bombers, but the move would prove to be transformative for both parties. In his first full season with Winnipeg, Collaros quickly became the offensive leader the team desperately needed. His veteran experience and cool demeanor in high-pressure situations immediately set him apart. Despite not being fully healthy for much of the 2019 regular season, he led the Blue Bombers to the Grey Cup in a thrilling game against the Hamilton Tiger-Cats.
2019 Grey Cup: The Moment Collaros Cemented His Legacy
The 2019 Grey Cup marked a turning point not only for the Winnipeg Blue Bombers but also for Zach Collaros. In his first full game as the starting quarterback for the Bombers in the Grey Cup, Collaros was both effective and composed. Despite a rocky start to the game, Collaros stayed calm and managed the offense with poise, ultimately leading his team to a 33-12 victory.
Though he didn’t have an eye-popping statistical performance in the final, Collaros’ ability to manage the game and make key plays when needed was critical. His leadership under pressure, particularly in the face of an experienced Hamilton defense, proved that he was more than just a game manager. He was a winner, and his experience was invaluable to the Blue Bombers’ success.
2021: Back to the Top
Collaros’ impact on the Blue Bombers was even more evident in the 2021 season. After a truncated 2020 season due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Winnipeg entered the year with high expectations, and Collaros was expected to lead the charge. This time, he did so in spectacular fashion. Collaros enjoyed one of the best seasons of his career, throwing for over 3,200 yards and 20 touchdowns while leading the Blue Bombers to a dominant 11-3 regular-season record.
The 2021 season was a statement year for Collaros, who was named the CFL’s Most Outstanding Player. His ability to manage the offense, control the tempo of games, and make timely, high-quality throws helped the Blue Bombers remain one of the most balanced and consistent teams in the league. Collaros’ deep connection with his receivers, including star receiver Kenny Lawler, and his trust in the team’s offensive line were critical to their success.
However, it was in the 2021 Grey Cup where Collaros truly solidified his place among the CFL’s elite quarterbacks. In a thrilling contest against the Saskatchewan Roughriders, Collaros was not only instrumental in Winnipeg’s 33-25 victory, but he was named the Grey Cup MVP. He threw for 240 yards and two touchdowns, showcasing his ability to elevate his game on the biggest stage. The 2021 Grey Cup victory gave the Blue Bombers their first back-to-back championships since 1990, and Collaros was undeniably the central figure in the team’s triumph.
2024 and Beyond: Collaros as the Team’s Cornerstone
As of the 2024 season, Zach Collaros continues to be the heart and soul of the Winnipeg Blue Bombers. His experience, leadership, and clutch performances remain invaluable assets to the team. Collaros’ ability to read defenses, manage the clock, and make smart decisions has ensured that the Blue Bombers remain one of the top teams in the CFL year after year. In a league that is often dominated by young, mobile quarterbacks, Collaros stands out for his ability to maintain a high level of performance with a style that prioritizes intelligence over athleticism.
In 2024, Collaros remains a key player in the Blue Bombers’ pursuit of a third consecutive Grey Cup. Though the team has seen a shift in personnel over the years, including departures of key players like Lawler, Collaros’ leadership ensures that the offense remains efficient and effective. His consistency, both in terms of physical performance and mental fortitude, has allowed the team to stay competitive and maintain its identity as a well-rounded and tough team.
The success of the Winnipeg Blue Bombers over the past several seasons has been built on a foundation of defense, special teams, and strong leadership at the quarterback position. Collaros, as the experienced signal-caller, has played a pivotal role in shaping that foundation. His experience in big-game situations, his ability to stay calm under pressure, and his mentorship of younger players have all been vital to the franchise’s recent success.
Conclusion: A Legacy of Leadership and Winning
Zach Collaros’ journey to becoming the Winnipeg Blue Bombers’ starting quarterback was anything but linear, but his resilience and dedication have made him one of the most respected quarterbacks in CFL history. From his early days as a backup to his starring role in the Blue Bombers’ back-to-back Grey Cup championships, Collaros has been a model of leadership, poise, and excellence. As the team continues to contend for championships in 2024 and beyond, Collaros will remain the cornerstone of Winnipeg’s success, providing both on-field production and off-field leadership that are vital to the team’s continued excellence.
