Grey Cup Thursday: A peek behind the weird and wonderful

Thursdays during Grey Cup week can be a little weird and wonderful and this one didn't disappoint.

From the CFL shutting down a pizza promotion in Hamilton serving up Grey Cup tickets at a cut-rate price, to the league trying a new approach to media day, this one had it all.

• Stampeders confident but taking nothing for granted with Grey Cup days away
• Slain Stampeder's mom will bring his spirit to Grey Cup game
• On your way to Hamilton Pizza Pizza for Grey Cup tickets? Turn around!

For years, reporters used to have breakfast with one team, and lunch with the other one.

It could be awkward asking a player a question while they tried to squeeze in bites, or had spinach stuck in their teeth. Today we ate separately, and met in a ballroom to conduct interviews.

One thing that hasn't changed is the superstition surrounding the Grey Cup.

Some players like Calgary Stampeders offensive lineman Derek Dennis love posing with it.

Others like Ottawa's Jon Gott refuse to get near it before the game because they're afraid to jinx their chances.

One thing both teams had in common today was a sense of humour.

When asked why his team was so sharp after a long layoff, Stampeders coach Dave Dickerson smiled at me and said "coaching" without missing a beat.

When I asked Ottawa quarterback Henry Burris why he was still playing so well at the ripe old age of 41, he replied, "Because I'm still light on my toes like Doug Dirks."

Smilin' Hank always was one of my favourites.

Now excuse me while I go take a nap. Never know when I may have to chase down another interview or two.

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