Rider quarterback Brett Smith's bye week mixed work with relaxation

The bye week came at a right time for Riders rookie quarterback Brett Smith. 

The time off allowed to Smith to take a look at his game after his first two starts in the CFL.

“It’s huge. I think it’s big in that sense but also just to kind of reflect and see what’s going on throughout the season,” he said.

“Little bit of self-evaluation, that’s definitely something I took away from it.”

During his week away from the team, Smith actually went home to Salem, Oregon where was able to spend some time with his family, his girlfriend and his friends. 

Smith didn’t get too much advice from his mother.

“No, mom doesn’t know what’s going on. She tries to. No, we didn’t break down any film,” joked Smith. 

That doesn’t mean that former Wyoming quarterback slacked off the whole week. Smith actually was only able to unplug from the game a little bit.

“For myself, I can relax a little bit. But, I always a have one foot towards my job,” he said.

“I’m always trying to do what I can to stay on top of things because you can’t take a step back at all in this league and in pro-sports in general. So, I definitely tried to relax but I also wanted to stay sharp.”

Smith stayed sharp by using the team’s online film system looking at his own game and looking ahead to the Calgary Stampeders. Smith also spent some time in the gym. 

Now that Smith is back he’s looking forward to make his third start. 

“I feel great, I’m excited. I’m feeling more comfortable than I ever felt before. I think it showed out there, just the chemistry out there, with all of the guys,” said Smith. 

Smith is even more excited to finally get to start a game in front of the home crowd at Mosaic Stadium.

“A little bit. I think I’d be lying if I said it wouldn’t be any different,” he said. 

“I think it will be cool to get in front of these fans. We have such great fans and the support I got, even after the Edmonton game but especially after the Toronto, was a little overwhelming.”

JGasson@rawlco.com
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