Excitement is growing for playoff football in Winnipeg

In a week, the over 30,000 seats at Princess Auto Stadium will be an ocean of blue and gold, as the Blue Bombers play host to the CFL Western Conference Final for a fourth consecutive year.

Typically the conversation heading into the playoffs in these parts would focus on the Bombers finally capturing that all-elusive Grey Cup. Thursday’s presser, however, centered around Taylor Swift.

On Wednesday, NFL star Travis Kelce traded in his red Kansas City Chiefs jersey, for the blue and gold of the Bombers, donning the number eight of long-time friend, and college teammate Zach Collaros during the latest episode of his podcast with brother Jason Kelce. 

READ MORE: NFL star Travis Kelce shows support for Winnipeg Blue Bombers

“We talk quite often, me, himself, and his brother, some other buddies of ours, so we figured it would be cool to send them some gear. Those guys are supportive of course, been friends for a long time. I can’t take care of him and put them in my box but they usually do that for us,” explained Collaros.

The blue and gold jersey quickly attracted attention far and wide. Even reaching question period at the Manitoba legislature.

“I noticed Travis Kelce wearing a Blue Bombers jersey today. Travis, you’re just like us. We are huge fans of Zach Collaros. Please consider this an open invitation to visit Manitoba at any time to cheer on the Bombers. And if you come, please bring Taylor,” said Kinew.

Shifting away from the Swifties, following another dominant season on the ground, Bombers running back Brady Oliveira has been named a finalist for both the CFL’s most outstanding player and the most outstanding Canadian after racking up over 1,800 yards from scrimmage to go along with four touchdowns.

READ MORE: Oliveira, Mitchell named as finalists for CFL outstanding player award

But after experiencing the bitter taste of defeat in the Grey Cup the past two years, you better believe there is only one piece of hardware on Oliveira’s mind.

“Like I’ve said I’m sick and tired of losing the Grey Cup, we need to go in there and get the job done. I need another ring man, need another ring,” said Oliveira.

The Bombers will learn Saturday who they will face in the West Final, as the BC Lions and Saskatchewan Roughriders will face off in the Western Semi-Finals.