Scheer proved that 'bland' can't beat a cult of personality. Anyone who studies politics from the last few decades should know that's generally the case. Hate Trudeau and Obama but they both have a cult of personality, they have a brand and a loyal base. Even Trump won because he's not bland. You can't just throw in a generic face and hope the anger against Trudeau is strong enough, you actually have to inspire people to show up and vote. Bland can only work against someone else who's very bland.