Originally Posted by
Invader
There's too much parity in the league for any team to cruise to a 13-5 season. The Riders and Stamps maybe, but they'll have to fight tooth 'n nail to achieve that, not cruise. The eastern division, not so much.
It boils down to QB'ing. The Argos have it, perhaps Ottawa does if they can protect Burris. The Als and Ticats are question marks. Troy Smith is a 53% passer in the CFL (52% in the NFL). Unless you're another Russ Jackson with a nearly 20-yard completion average, completing less than 60% of your passes in the CFL means your going to be punting a lot (Smith did have a decent 14.7 yd. avg. last year.)
At least Collaros has a sparkling completion ratio (66% with a 12.1 yd. avg. in 2013) but it'll be more difficult for him as the starter, with opponent's knowing his tendencies and game-planning for him. I think Zack will do fine under Kent Austin's guidance. But who does Troy Smith have in Montreal?
Even if the Rouge et Noir have OL issues, they could design their offence to compensate, i.e. quick passes, swing and screen passes to take pressure off the OL, QB sprints and roll-outs, etc.