Three Questions: Edmonton Eskimos

The end of the season always brings a host of questions, today we tackle three question facing the Edmonton Eskimos.

1. Will Jerome Messam repeat his 2011 season?
Messam had an interesting 2011. He started the season in BC, but was cut in training camp under odd circumstances. He was picked up by Edmonton and turned in the first 1,000-plus-yard season by a Canadian Running Back since Sean Millington. He capped the whole year off by being named the league's Most Outstanding Canadian. To say he has high expectations in 2012 is an understatement. A knee injury suffered in the playoffs could slow his start, but if Messam stays hungry and healthy in 2012, he could match or surpass his 2011 totals.

2. Will the Eskimos deal Ricky Ray?
In the last 24 hours rumours have begun to surface that Ricky Ray could be dealt by the Eskimos (the landing spots, as with all QB rumours this off-season, are thought to be either Hamilton or Toronto). These rumours have come up in the past and proven to be unfounded. It is possible that the Eskimos could part ways with Ray, but it would be an odd move. They don't have a QB on the roster right now that could take over for Ray, so they too would have to make a move at Quarterback. It makes more sense for the Eskies to keep Ray, but Tillman is not a shy guy when it comes to making bold moves, so anything is possible.

3. Will Edmonton continue to contend?
As good as Edmonton was in 2011, they were equally as terrible in 2010. Year Two of the Eric Tillman regime should see even more improvement. If there is one team in the West Division that could supplant BC as division champions, it's Edmonton. If the Eskimos stay healthy, especially at Receiver, Edmonton could find themselves in Toronto at year's end.