September 28, 2013: Toronto Argonauts vs. Edmonton

[T-Bone]

http://cfl.assets.mrx.ca/shared/sked_blocks_logos/2012_2/2012_schedule_default2/tor.png vs. http://cfl.assets.mrx.ca/shared/sked_blocks_logos/2012_2/2012_schedule_default2/edm.png

Week 14
Saturday, September 28, 2013 at 9:00pm EDT.
Commonwealth Stadium. Edmonton, AB.

TV: TSN (http://www.tsn.ca/cfl/feature/?id=508) - RDS2 HD (http://cfl.ca/schedule/year/2013/time_zone/0)
Video Webcast: Mobile TV (http://www.tsn.ca/mobiletv/) - ESPN3 (http://cfl.ca/page/us-broadcast-schedule)
Team Radio TOR: TSN1050.ca - EDM: CHED 630 (http://www.630ched.com/esks/)
Audio Webcast: TOR: Here (http://www.tsn.ca/toronto/) - EDM: Here (http://player.630ched.com/)
Satellite Radio: SiriusXM (http://www.siriusxm.ca/sports-schedules/cfl/)

Depth Charts: TOR: Here (http://www.argonauts.ca/depthchart/list/team/7/year/2013) - EDM: Here (http://www.esks.com/page/depth-charts)

Away Game Viewing:
http://www.argofans.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=334&d=1378729253
More Info Here (http://www.argofans.com/showthread.php?2278-Argo-Fans-Away-Game-Viewing-September-28-2013&p=37698#post37698)

Post Game: Comeback Kids: Argos Punch Playoff Ticket with 4th Straight Road Win (http://www.argonauts.ca/article/recap-argos-and-esks)

[mchesher03]

prior to the start of this nasty 4 game road swing I would have pegged this as the only winnable game (after the nasty home game against montreal, I didn’t see us winning at Molson stadium). 3 games later and 3 straight wins – I don’t know what to think. Hopefully we avoid the trap of playing Edmonton and take a W here to keep a nice margin on Hamilton, realizing we have to win at least 1 of those home and home games regardless.</SPAN>

[Argo57]

That's what I also worry about, heading into this Western road trip this was easily the most winnable game by far, but as we all have experienced the Argonauts don't always make things easy on themselves! We need to win this game (hopefully Hamilton loses) and give us as much cushion as possible, Hamilton still concerns me as they always play the Argos tough, so the home and home with the Ticats is definitely no gimme.

[ArgoRavi]

Hopefully spending the entire week in Alberta will help the Argos avoid having the Edmonton game be a "trap" game. More often than not, it seems, teams respond well to this kind of road trip as it brings the team closer together. IIRC, the Argos did something similar in '96 and/or '97 and we all know how those seasons turned out. BTW, it was mentioned on TSN the other night that the Argos thought of having the team spend two full weeks out west starting with the Rider game. They must have decided that that would be too long away from home.

[ArgoGabe22]

Hopefully spending the entire week in Alberta will help the Argos avoid having the Edmonton game be a "trap" game. More often than not, it seems, teams respond well to this kind of road trip as it brings the team closer together. IIRC, the Argos did something similar in '96 and/or '97 and we all know how those seasons turned out. BTW, it was mentioned on TSN the other night that the Argos thought of having the team spend two full weeks out west starting with the Rider game. They must have decided that that would be too long away from home.

Eskimos won the Grey Cup when they were stranded in Toronto during the blackout. There is actually a black diamond to represent that moment in their GC rings.

[jerrym]

As others have stated, I hope that the Argos do not take Edmonton lightly, as has often happened with the Argos against weaker teams in the past. Hopefully, the Argos continue to make consistent use of the Norwood-Durie combo in a running-short pass-YAC yardage attack. This has been highly successful in itself plus it takes some pressure off Collaros and if, the opposition defence tightens up to stop it, helps open up deeper pass routes as the game progresses.

[Will]

Thanks for mentioning Norwood and Durie, jerrym, they were crucial on that scoring drive that made it 18-15 in the second quarter. Norwood had a great catch-and-run and Durie had something like 9 catches the entire game. With Chad Owens out it is good to have a guy like Norwood who can step up while Chiles, Inman, Watt and Barnes are available deep.

[1argoholic]

Would be nice to see Edmonton lose again. They've played some ok ball and seem to snatch defeat from the jaws of victory on many occasions this year. I'd like to see us win all four on this stupid road trip. I thought we'd be lucky to win any after that last home game.

[bluto]

correct me if i'm wrong...

...but if/when we win this weekend, we would/will get a little "x" next to us in the standings, no?

[ArgoRavi]

correct me if i'm wrong...

...but if/when we win this weekend, we would/will get a little "x" next to us in the standings, no?

That is correct. Neither Edmonton nor Winnipeg would be able to catch us.

[Mulder]

That is correct. Neither Edmonton nor Winnipeg would be able to catch us.

When was the last time an 8 win team didn't make the playoffs?

[AngeloV]

When was the last time an 8 win team didn't make the playoffs?

True enough...I guess it's just mathematically speaking.

[bluto]

When was the last time an 8 win team didn't make the playoffs?

i figured that much, but it just sorta dawned on me that we may clinch our spot after week 14 (if we win).

#nottooshabby

[ArgoRavi]

When was the last time an 8 win team didn't make the playoffs?

You are right as 8 wins is almost always enough. IIRC, B.C. finished 8-10 in both '09 and '10 and did need a team to lose on the final weekend (Winnipeg in '09 and Edmonton in '10) for them to make the playoffs though so that's as close as the league has come to having an 8-win team not make it.

[argolio]

It'll be a bit harder to make it with 8 wins starting next year (said Captain Obvious).

[Will]

http://www.tsn.ca/cfl/story/?id=432828

Owens out, Kackert game time decision.

[flafson]

For sure we are going to lose, Edmonton are too hungry and there is no way we are going to win 4 away games.

[shayman]

When was the last time an 8 win team didn't make the playoffs?

Well, I had to find out. The 1995 Memphis Mad Dogs were 9-9 and missed the south division playoffs.

[Wobbler]

As per the depth chart (http://cfl.uploads.mrx.ca/league/pdf/en/depth/2013/2013_RegSeasonGame13atEDMSept28090534.pdf), Tripp isn't healthy enough to play this week, so Laing will dress. Kackert is apparently healthy enough to start, but unfortunately Norwood is hurt so Steele has been activated to back him up.

[Will]

The Argos left Calgary on two buses. One broke down in Red Deer, was fixed and then rear ended or was rear ended. At least that's if I have the story straight.

[Wobbler]

Might need a new depth chart if half the team is stuck in Red Deer.

[gilthethrill]

The Argos left Calgary on two buses. One broke down in Red Deer, was fixed and then rear ended or was rear ended. At least that's if I have the story straight.

The team bus was involved in an accident with a pickup truck.....possibly being driven by Kavis Reed.....

[Argocister]

The Argos left Calgary on two buses. One broke down in Red Deer, was fixed and then rear ended or was rear ended. At least that's if I have the story straight.

Okay this sounds like a comedy show being filmed .... The last place team is trying everything... Including sabotage!

[1argoholic]

Hervey was driving the vehicle that hit the bus and he was caught wearing a Simeon Rottier mask.

[Argocister]

Hervey was driving the vehicle that hit the bus and he was caught wearing a Simeon Rottier mask.
ROFL. :D:D:D

I think this deserves a thread of its own.... Everyone can chip in some comments .... And include some plays of the game
We can title it after we know the results of the game.

[Argo-Les]

kackert can rest up id like too see more of Norwood! lets go boys!

[doubleblue]

kackert can rest up id like too see more of Norwood! lets go boys! The Argos in Norwood finally have a RB who can run through tackles and doesn't go down easy. He some acceleration for a big back which gets him through an opening before it closes. He is better than Boyd that way. Too bad they couldn't have an offense with Norwood and Kackert in the same backfield. Mr. Inside and Mr. Outside. But that would be to old school for these "modern" coaches.

[Argocister]

So I take it with Steele and Kackert in ..... Do they both run the same way? .... As opposed to Norwood?

[hugoagogo]

Key players for the Esks today:
John White in for Hugh Charles at RB. White only has 46 carries and despite promise has really not shown much this season. His blocking assignments have been so so.
Jamal Miles is only a few games in at kick returner. He's got great outside speed and good cuts, but has been known to drop a few balls. The Esks may have found their return guy.
Normally Fred Stamps is a given. It's CFL game 100 for him today and he's been on fire lately.
Mike Reilly is the biggest reason why so many people on staff in Edmonton still have jobs.
Watch the linebackers. If Rennie Curran is a gameday scratch (import #'s are tricky this week for Edm), there may be an opportunity for the Argos to exploit. JC Sherritt still not 100%.

Should be about 15 degrees for kickoff. Gusting winds could factor. Enjoy the game Argo fans.

[Wobbler]

I think that if Kackert is truly healthy, Steele will get very few reps; he'll be on the 42 as insurance.

IMHO, Steele is quicker than Kackert and changes direction more effectively, but Chad's top speed is a bit higher.

[Wobbler]

Thanks Hugo!

[ArgoGabe22]

Don't forget Adarius Bowman. One of the most consistent recievers before his injury and is picking up where he left of.

[hugoagogo]

Don't forget Adarius Bowman. One of the most consistent recievers before his injury and is picking up where he left of.

Good point - too much focus on Fred and Bowman becomes a deep threat.

[jerrym]

Although his FG kicking has not gotten back on track yet, Swayze provides the Argos with a truly dominant punting advantage. His 52.1 punting average season average is 6.6 yards above second place Ricky Schmitt's 45.5 average. Furthermore, with regards to this game, he has an 8.8 yard advantage over Grant Shaw's 43.3 average. Over the course of the Edmonton game, this could easily be more than an entire football field advantage.

[ArgoRavi]

I guess that hoping for Dunigan and Miller for the fourth week in a row was asking too much. I imagine we will be getting Forde and Black for this one instead as Miller and Dunigan are working the Calgary/Hamilton game.

[ArgoZ]

Although his FG kicking has not gotten back on track yet, Swayze provides the Argos with a truly dominant punting advantage. His 52.1 punting average season average is 6.6 yards above second place Ricky Schmitt's 45.5 average. Furthermore, with regards to this game, he has an 8.8 yard advantage over Grant Shaw's 43.3 average. Over the course of the Edmonton game, this could easily be more than an entire football field advantage.

Waters weakness used to be his punting. It looks like he has definitely worked on that! While his accuracy needs improvements, his range allows the Argos to go for long field goals. Misses that end up deep in the endzone are not as scary for the return as ones that fall short.

[jerrym]

John Chiles is starting to get recognition for his fine play around the league.


What a find John Chiles has been for Toronto. The CFL rookie is the Argos' third-leading receiver with 32 catches for 567 yards (17.7-yard average). But more impressive is his seven TD receptions, which leaves him tied for second among CFL receivers behind Edmonton's Fred Stamps (nine)

http://www.vancouversun.com/mobile/sports/cfl/Lions+veteran+Travis+Lulay+latest+starting+quarter back+hurt/8924623/story.html

He has managed to gain 629 yards in 9 games for 14th place in reception yards. On a prorated basis this would give him 839 yards if he had played all 12 games, which would have put him third in reception yards, only 7 yards out of second place (and ahead of Ellingson who many are touting for rookie of the year). Even with his 629 yards he is currently only 108 yards out of 5th in receptions. Quite a performance for a rookie!

[Argo]

Norwood > Kackert > Steele (the latter is not a bad back, but I'd be very surprised if any opposition D is particularly concerned playing against him)

Norwood and Chiles are two superb additions to the team.

[ArgoRavi]

With the Ticats getting trounced by Calgary in the fourth quarter, it looks like the Argos have an opportunity to take a stranglehold on first place with a win tonight heading into the home-and-home series with Hamilton.

[ArgoRavi]

According to Mike Hogan on Twitter, the scratches tonight are Washington, Andrew Jones, Bryant and English (the same as last week) while Jamie Robinson comes off the PR to start in place of Demetrice Morley who has the flu and has been placed on the one-game IR.

[Wobbler]

Having the same scratches three weeks in a row says something about the stability we've achieved, I think. Too bad about Morley, but keeping Robinson involved isn't a bad thing.

[jerrym]

Interception! Watkins for all-star!

[bluto]

Watkins!! (who else?!)

[jerrym]

After three punts, Waters is keeping Edmonton pinned deep despite no first downs by Argos.

[jerrym]

Waters has to straighten out his hook on FG, which he was also doing in his last game.

[jerrym]

Joseph replacing Reilly due to concussion.

[Wobbler]

I don't agree with the unnecessary roughness on Lawrence. It was helmet-helmet, but both players directed their helmets at each other.

But in general we are making an awful lot of mistakes so far.

[Argo57]

Lawrence penalty questionable at best, welcome to the TFL (Touch Football League)

[jerrym]

At least half the Argos seem to sleep-walking through this game, not taking their 3-9 opponent seriously. Result 15-1.

[gilthethrill]

Can't kick field goals or field punts....we can't..I repeat can't lose to a Kerry Joseph l do team.

[Argo57]

At least half the Argos seem to sleep-walking through this game, not taking their 3-9 opponent seriously. Result 15-1.

Mental lapses are killing us tonight!!!
Maybe took Edmonton lightly!!
Trent Guy looks clueless out there at times!!

[1argoholic]

Yah they look great after a week of relaxing in Calgary. All of a sudden the league decides to actually toss flags anytime a defenders helmet touches an offensive helmet. WTF did they not see when Kack was knocked flat out by Brakenridges head? Unreal.

This game is horrible!

[jerrym]

Now that the Argos have let the Eskimos off the mat, their team and their fans are pumped as the fans scream on Argo scrimmages and they get a blitz sack at the 3:00 minute mark.

[jerrym]

Williams takes another boneheaded penalty.

[1argoholic]

I can't even watch and listen to jackass Black. I do hate this TOOL!

[Argo57]

I can't even watch and listen to jackass Black. I do hate this TOOL!

Totally agree, useless babble comes out of his pie hole most of the time.
What's with the Duck Dynasty reject kicking field goals for Edmonton!

[Wobbler]

Collaros needs to take off with the ball at least once and get the D's attention. I think that has been an important element in his success in recent games.

[Argo57]

Kackert doesn't look right, seems in pain every time he gets up from a tackle.

[jerrym]

The Joseph TD is symbolic of the entire game. Joseph, who was hit at the line, scored because he wanted it more than the Argos wanted to stop him.

[1argoholic]

The Argos all look in pain. Too much party not enough preparation while in Calgary.

[gilthethrill]

At this point in the game the Argos look like a team that has been the road for a month.

[Argo57]

The Joseph TD is symbolic of the entire game. Joseph, who was hit at the line, scored because he wanted it more than the Argos wanted to stop him.

Argonauts have done the impossible, making Kerry Joseph look competent at quarterback.
Hitting the switch on this one.
Peace out to my fellow Argofans!!!!

[gilthethrill]

Yes..Kackert does not seem right....

[jerrym]

Chad's back!

[ArgoZ]

Yes..Kackert does not seem right....

Kack Attack with one of his signature TD runs showing why he is the best RB on this team.

[ArgoZ]

Game far from over. 1 turnover, or bonehead play and we are back. I have faith that Joseph will make a mistake.

[jerrym]

Watkins is one of the few Argos whose heads have been in the game all the way as he knocks down another pass after two interceptions and several other knockdowns.

[argos1873]

ZC seems to be at his best in the 4th quarter.

[jerrym]

The 14 hits, 18 hurries and 4 sacks on Collaros after 3 quarters shows the offensive line has not had its head in the game, even taking into account that Collaros sometimes held onto the ball too long. However, the Kackert TD seems to have energized the Argos.

[jerrym]

Inman TD and 2 pointer means we are only three points behind!

[gilthethrill]

Justin Palardy could be added to PR.....

[bluto]

Patrick Watkins.

Legend.

End of.

[argos1873]

Patrick Watkins.

Legend.

End of.

QFT...crazy awesome.

[ArgoZ]

This team has horseshoes up their ass..

[argos1873]

Obviously its not just ZC that steps it up in the 4th quarter.

[jerrym]

BIG ARGO BOUNCE! TD! Watkins has to be defensive player of the week and Kackert almost certainly offensive player even though one game remain to be played.

[bluto]

4-0 road trip.

History!

[Will]

Oh wow! Marcus clinches it with a pick-six!

[jerrym]

Ball intercepts! Unbelievable victory!

[argos1873]

Wow, Ball seals it. 4-0 straight on the road, that's got to be a CFL record.

[jerrym]

Wow, Ball seals it. 4-0 straight on the road, that's got to be a CFL record.
It is. Only 4 teams have played 4 away games in a row and before this the best that any of them did was 2-2.

[paulwoods13]

A win Friday night clinches first place with four weeks to go -- who'da thunk it?

[gilthethrill]

Since I became a fan in 1980, I don't recall a month of football being played like this ever.....

[ArgoRavi]

Argonauts have done the impossible, making Kerry Joseph look competent at quarterback.
Hitting the switch on this one.
Peace out to my fellow Argofans!!!!

Please tell me that you did not give up on this one.

[1argoholic]

What the hell just happened? I've been watching this crazy assed league since I was about seven. In a month I'll be 51. This has to be one of the craziest games I've ever seen and the Argos have used up at least three Argo Bounces in one game. Watkins losing the handle right into Balls hands on his first pick. Then Watkins fumbles after causing and recovering a fumble. Then Collaros coughs it up only to have Kack fall on it for six.

It's obvious that Rogers wants the Argonauts to look bad and does everything in it's power to have that happen. Karma has it's way to bite bigtime in the arse. Now the Argos have a new record for the books. Four wins in a row all on the road. Rogers has the Jays and excuses as long as Yonge St. hahaha.

Edmonton I remember when those games went your way year in and year out. Sucks to be on the other end eh?

[Will]

To quote Chuck Swirsky: "Onions, baby! Onions!"

[jerrym]

Game comments:
Watkins and Kackert get my vote for defensive and offensive players of the week.
As great as Waters punting is, the Argos need to find someone who can kick the close field goals consistently.
While the Argos are a gritty team that doesn't get rattled when behind, they do not play with the professional consistency that Calgary displayed in Hamilton and throughout nearly all of its games. The Argos cannot always count on coming back against the better teams even though they have done that in the last two weeks against Calgary and Saskatchewan.
Collaros has a great future in the league if the CFL doesn't lose him to the NFL, but he is still green as this game showed despite the victory and his moxie in the comeback. The team needs Ray over the next few years to give its best shot at winning more Grey Cups, especially during this period when the future of the team is at stake. I will hate to lose Collaros but we simply have to keep Ray.

[argos1873]

Please tell me that you did not give up on this one.

I would have agreed with him, if I hadn't watched Argonaut football for the past month.

[argosrule2415]

Someone still has to explain to me how we won that one lol, it looked over. Great win by us. Only thing more gratifying would have been if we had capped the game off with a Waters FG and him giving the "thumbs up" right back to Willis when he missed a potential game tying FG earlier. Call it luck, call it an Argo bounce in tonight's game but we're officially going to the playoffs baby! Hope the Esks can earn a crossover spot however, they're an exciting team to watch.

[gilthethrill]

Well, any thoughts on Cleyon Langes hit on Mike Reilly?

[Will]

I was at a wedding so I missed the vast majority of the game. I returned to the hotel and turned on the TV just at the moment that Chad Kackert fell on the ball for the go ahead touchdown. By looking at my phone while I was out I got the sense that the o-line play was pretty bad in the first half. Accurate assessment?

[argotom]

Wow! The cardiac kids!

[ArgoRavi]

Well, any thoughts on Cleyon Langes hit on Mike Reilly?

It was a bad decision and a bad hit on Laing's part. I like him a lot but discipline is an area that he needs to work on. He is still young so I am hopeful that he will improve in that area.

[Will]

Do we need to have a discussion on Swayze Waters?

[1argoholic]

To me as Laing went in for a shot to Reilly's back as he continued to struggle forward another Argo hit him from the front. That hit forced Reilly down thus having Cleyon hitting the back of his head rather than back. This by no means was as bad as the Brackenridge hit on Kackert.

[ArgoRavi]

Regarding Waters' FG kicking, he had a similar slump about a year ago but then turned it around just at the right time. I am confident he can do the same this year. What I like about him is his ability to kick the 50 yard field goals which most teams in this league are now afraid to try. He just needs to get his stroke back and I will be surprised if he doesn't.

[argos1873]

Game comments:
Watkins and Kackert get my vote for defensive and offensive players of the week.
As great as Waters punting is, the Argos need to find someone who can kick the close field goals consistently.
While the Argos are a gritty team that doesn't get rattled when behind, they do not play with the professional consistency that Calgary displayed in Hamilton and throughout nearly all of its games. The Argos cannot always count on coming back against the better teams even though they have done that in the last two weeks against Calgary and Saskatchewan.
Collaros has a great future in the league if the CFL doesn't lose him to the NFL, but he is still green as this game showed despite the victory and his moxie in the comeback. The team needs Ray over the next few years to give its best shot at winning more Grey Cups, especially during this period when the future of the team is at stake. I will hate to lose Collaros but we simply have to keep Ray.

Collaros isn't going to the NFL. And Ray will be back next year. But I think Collaros has made his mark, and is up for the bidding in the CFL for 2014. Which CFL team will have ZC will be the story of the off season in the CFL. It probably won't be the Argos.

[argotom]

Do we need to have a discussion on Swayze Waters? I don't think so, he is a great punter, his kick offs have good distance. Just has to work on the field goals especially since he was decent last year.

[argotom]

Collaros isn't going to the NFL. And Ray will be back next year. But I think Collaros has made his mark, and is up for the bidding in the CFL for 2014. Which CFL team will have ZC will be the story of the off season in the CFL. It probably won't be the Argos. Need I say again there is no way we can let Zach go and yes if that means at the expense of trading Ricky. I am willing to do so.

[argotom]

It was a bad decision and a bad hit on Laing's part. I like him a lot but discipline is an area that he needs to work on. He is still young so I am hopeful that he will improve in that area. That was an ugly hit. He should be suspended, but likely will get a fine only.

[Nob]

Another great comeback. Wow.....can never leave the game early, even though this was the 4th straight week I wanted to turn the game off at halftime.

A little perspective, friends:

- Watkins had a great game, but Adam Bighill of the Lions will be Defensive Player of the Week. He had a monster game last night. Watkins should be Defensive Player of the Month for September.
- Collaros has done well, but I don't see him in an Argo uniform next season. I can see him in Ottawa, or in Winnipeg. I wouldn't be surprised, or too upset, if he was traded for an asset instead of being lost in the dispersal draft. I would be thrilled if he's an Argo next year, but I don't see it.

The only thing that concerns me is how often can the team pull a game out in the second half? Good that they have the confidence, and know that they can do it, but you can't always count on it. A full 60 would be great.

4-0 on the road trip. Amazing. Nobody saw that.

[ArgoFan1]

Argo57... one of those people that leaves a CFL game with 10 minutes to go. Never watched much??? Have you watched the previous three come from behind wins by the Argos?? Never ceases to amaze me when people lose out on such a miraculous finish to a game.

[Argo57]

Argo57... one of those people that leaves a CFL game with 10 minutes to go. Never watched much??? Have you watched the previous three come from behind wins by the Argos?? Never ceases to amaze me when people lose out on such a miraculous finish to a game.

Yes Argofan1 I was out like a light and missed the 4th, the shame I feel!!!
On the contrary I have experienced several Argonaut meltdowns over my 40+ years as a fan and am emotionally scarred!!!
Honestly thought the winning streak was done, but would be nice to see the team dominate start to finish and make it easier on us!!
Hopefully ArgoRavi forgives me as well!!!

[paulwoods13]

I don't think so, he is a great punter, his kick offs have good distance. Just has to work on the field goals especially since he was decent last year.

His kickoffs certainly did not have good distance last night. I am sure SM still has confidence in him, but he is trying our patience.

[paulwoods13]

Need I say again there is no way we can let Zach go and yes if that means at the expense of trading Ricky. I am willing to do so.

Yes, there is a way we can (and will, IMO) let Zach go. There is no way RR should (or will, IMO) be traded. Collaros is a fine young QB who can definitely play in this league, but he showed last night that he has a long way to go to get to RR's level. He put together one decent drive all night. Obviously he was not helped by a terrible performance from the o-line, but he made a lot of questionable decisions.

[Argo]

Collaros will certainly not stay with the Argos to be a backup. If he wants to play instead of (at best) holding a clipboard in the NFL, he'd be wise to stay in the CFL for the next several seasons and be relatively well-paid to develop his craft.
Wherever Collaros decides to go, chances are that he'll be operating in, and have to succeed in, a lesser environment than that offered by the current Argos regime.

[Deerkeeper]

Yes Argofan1 I was out like a light and missed the 4th, the shame I feel!!!
On the contrary I have experienced several Argonaut meltdowns over my 40+ years as a fan and am emotionally scarred!!!
Honestly thought the winning streak was done, but would be nice to see the team dominate start to finish and make it easier on us!!
Hopefully ArgoRavi forgives me as well!!!I'm the type that will stay to the bitter end, but last night, I did missed the second half. Actually I was down in Guelph watching the Ticat debacle and listened to the game on Sirius radio on the way home (1050TSN has all the broadcast power of a two watt light bulb). I was tired and didn't think the rest of the game was worth listening to. I reluctantly turned on the TV when I got home in time to catch the final score. Quite the suprise. Way to go Argos. Lets get 30k in Rogers playpen Friday night.

[BATKINSON001]

I was following on twitter off and on while I was at work. I got home in time to start the 4th quarter and it was awesome!

[Will]

6 sacks? I think many of them were in the first half, but it's still a bit disconcerting.

[Argo57]

I'm the type that will stay to the bitter end, but last night, I did missed the second half. Actually I was down in Guelph watching the Ticat debacle and listened to the game on Sirius radio on the way home (1050TSN has all the broadcast power of a two watt light bulb). I was tired and didn't think the rest of the game was worth listening to. I reluctantly turned on the TV when I got home in time to catch the final score. Quite the suprise. Way to go Argos. Lets get 30k in Rogers playpen Friday night.

I normally watch to the bitter end as well but last nights performance through the first 3 quarters was too much to take, as I posted earlier love the fact that our team is winning but we can't continuously bank on big 4th quarter comebacks to bail us out, eventually it will cost us!!

[AngeloV]

To me as Laing went in for a shot to Reilly's back as he continued to struggle forward another Argo hit him from the front. That hit forced Reilly down thus having Cleyon hitting the back of his head rather than back. This by no means was as bad as the Brackenridge hit on Kackert.

I agree with this 100%. I can't believe nobody on the broadcast mentioned this. I have no problem with the penalty being called (I understand the optics of the hit), but I truly believe that Laing didn't target Reilly's head. It was an unfortunate circumstance and Black and Forde IMO should have seen what you and I saw. Laing had already committed to the hit when another hit changed the positioning of Reilly's body. At that time, it was impossible for Laing to change his target, which was IMO, the back of Reilly.

[argotom]

Yes, there is a way we can (and will, IMO) let Zach go. There is no way RR should (or will, IMO) be traded. Collaros is a fine young QB who can definitely play in this league, but he showed last night that he has a long way to go to get to RR's level. He put together one decent drive all night. Obviously he was not helped by a terrible performance from the o-line, but he made a lot of questionable decisions. So are you telling me how Ricky had no bad games? I recall the first half of the season he was terrible averaging between bad to brutal, poor reading of coverages and equally bad throws all the underneath stuff the dinks and dunks.

[Tau Ceti]

Yes, there is a way we can (and will, IMO) let Zach go. There is no way RR should (or will, IMO) be traded. Collaros is a fine young QB who can definitely play in this league, but he showed last night that he has a long way to go to get to RR's level. He put together one decent drive all night. Obviously he was not helped by a terrible performance from the o-line, but he made a lot of questionable decisions.

I agree, at least in terms of this game. ZC had just 152 yards passing, which is his worst performance to date. He was saved by the stupendous running game from Kackert in the second half and some favourable bounces. Still a great game to watch. Very impressed with the Argos resilience this month -- most successful road trip in CFL history!

I hope all is well with Reilly. Totally irresponsible trying to get him back in the game.

[flafson]

We clearly had more gas left at the tank than Eskimos and thankfully that is all we needed.

[hugoagogo]

Collaros will certainly not stay with the Argos to be a backup.
Definitely not. If I was Barker, I'd leverage a trade with Winnipeg before the expansion draft. Get a first round pick for him (maybe more). Winnipeg needs some hope for next year and right now they have ziltch! Bombers would sign him to a big deal & protect him against Ottawa in a heartbeat.

By the way, congrats on the win Argo fans. It was a frustrating one as an Esks fan. Excellent adjustments (especially in getting Kackert the ball) by the Argo coaches. Make sure you're all out there on Friday night showing your team some love as they kick the Tiger-Cat's asses!

[bluto]

thanks Hugo. hopefully Reilly is back soon so you don't have to deal with KJ at the helm while you're trying to get ahead of the Larks. i suppose that Hervey has to keep Kavis for at least as long as there's hope of the Esks making the playoffs...

[ArgoRavi]

A win Friday night clinches first place with four weeks to go -- who'da thunk it?

That isn't quite true yet, Paul, but close. The Argos can clinch a home playoff game with a win on Friday night but after Montreal's win over the Riders today, the Als would still have the faintest of hope of catching the Argos. The Als would have to win all of their remaining games, the Argos would have to lose all of theirs and this includes a Montreal win by more than 21 over Toronto on the final weekend of the season.

[1argoholic]

Collaros might turn out to be a star in this league but he's no Ricky Ray at this point. Ray is your qb going forward and you hope that you can somehow keep Collaros but it's worth trading him rather than losing him to Ottawa. Some people seem to only see his good side. He was oh so very close to tossing a third pick in the endzone if not for one Esk knocking from another ones hands. I like the guy but due to this unusual case of the Ottawa draft you can't just let him get grabbed for squat.

[Will]

That isn't quite true yet, Paul, but close. The Argos can clinch a home playoff game with a win on Friday night but after Montreal's win over the Riders today, the Als would still have the faintest of hope of catching the Argos. The Als would have to win all of their remaining games, the Argos would have to lose all of theirs and this includes a Montreal win by more than 21 over Toronto on the final weekend of the season.

I was wondering this myself. Thanks for clarifying this.

[paulwoods13]

So are you telling me how Ricky had no bad games? I recall the first half of the season he was terrible averaging between bad to brutal, poor reading of coverages and equally bad throws all the underneath stuff the dinks and dunks.

I'm sorry -- Ricky Ray was "bad to brutal" THIS SEASON? The guy who has thrown 15 TD passes, no INTs, completed 78% of his passes for an average of close to 10 yards per pass -- per pass, not per completion -- and has a QB rating of 134? You have completely lost me. Do we even watch the same league?

[paulwoods13]

That isn't quite true yet, Paul, but close. The Argos can clinch a home playoff game with a win on Friday night but after Montreal's win over the Riders today, the Als would still have the faintest of hope of catching the Argos. The Als would have to win all of their remaining games, the Argos would have to lose all of theirs and this includes a Montreal win by more than 21 over Toronto on the final weekend of the season.

Thanks, Ravi -- I had erroneously written the Als off but you are correct. It's extremely unlikely but indeed possible.

[argolio]

Even down 22-1, I didn't think we were out of it. After Joseph's initial success, we were starting to force the Esks into second and long. They were hanging on, so I thought we could make a game of it if we started making a few more plays. Which we did.

I give a lot of credit to their defense for shutting us down on the first half, and to our coaches for emphasizing Kackert in the second half. Shows why coaching is so important.

The league really has to revisit the roughing the passer rule. I didn't like one against us, or the one on the Als at the end of today's game, but nothing was worse than the call against the Eskimos at the beginning of the 4th quarter. Kept a drive alive for us, but it was an absolutely horrible call.


Well, any thoughts on Cleyon Langes hit on Mike Reilly?Deserved a penalty. He might get fined but that should be it.


So are you telling me how Ricky had no bad games? I recall the first half of the season he was terrible averaging between bad to brutal, poor reading of coverages and equally bad throws all the underneath stuff the dinks and dunks.And how did that turn out in the end?

The Eskimos shutting down everything we tried deep shows why dinking and dunking isn't always a bad thing.


I'm sorry -- Ricky Ray was "bad to brutal" THIS SEASON? The guy who has thrown 15 TD passes, no INTs, completed 78% of his passes for an average of close to 10 yards per pass -- per pass, not per completion -- and has a QB rating of 134? You have completely lost me. Do we even watch the same league?I'm guessing he means last year.....I think.

[argotom]

I'm sorry -- Ricky Ray was "bad to brutal" THIS SEASON? The guy who has thrown 15 TD passes, no INTs, completed 78% of his passes for an average of close to 10 yards per pass -- per pass, not per completion -- and has a QB rating of 134? You have completely lost me. Do we even watch the same league? You know better then this, it was last year out of the gate.

[paulwoods13]

You know better then this, it was last year out of the gate.

That was not clear, so I apologize. I also, however, disagree that he was even remotely close to "bad to brutal" at any point last season.

[Midnight Blue]

Watched the game earlier today, and agree the Claing hit was not intentionally brutal. Both players turned into each other, IMO. Also, Swayze deserves a few games to get the rust out, regarding FGs. No need to panic.

Great come-from-behind game !

Didn't the Raiders have that same fearsome reputation, a couple of decades ago?

Also, enough of this Argofans nodding out, or switching channels, just because the Team is behind.

You all better watch the game again on TSN VOD (Video on demand), and I suggest you make up for your lost drinking-time, exponentially!

[jerrym]

Also, enough of this Argofans nodding out, or switching channels, just because the Team is behind.

You all better watch the game again on TSN VOD (Video on demand), and I suggest you make up for your lost drinking-time, exponentially!

Its their drinking thats making them nod out.

[flafson]

Reilly has concussion, i guess no surprise there.
I still have no idea what he was thinking when he hit him like that, Reilly had someone holding his legs, someone tackling him in the chest and then a 3rd guy had to rush in from the back helmet first? Can't he just lead with his arms and touch him?

[ArgoRavi]

Reilly has concussion, i guess no surprise there.
I still have no idea what he was thinking when he hit him like that, Reilly had someone holding his legs, someone tackling him in the chest and then a 3rd guy had to rush in from the back helmet first? Can't he just lead with his arms and touch him?

I know that there has been a suggestion that Laing meant to hit Reilly in the back instead but he should not have been leading with his helmet regardless.

[Will]

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p><a href="https://twitter.com/search?q=%23Argos&amp;src=hash">#Argos</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/search?q=%23Eskimos&amp;src=hash">#Eskimos</a> was the top rated <a href="https://twitter.com/search?q=%23CFL&amp;src=hash">#CFL</a> (English) ratings this week with 821k, edging <a href="https://twitter.com/search?q=%23Riders&amp;src=hash">#Riders</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/search?q=%23Als&amp;src=hash">#Als</a> 818k</p>&mdash; Chris Cuthbert (@CCtsn) <a href="https://twitter.com/CCtsn/statuses/384800799886295040">September 30, 2013</a></blockquote>
<script async src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<script async="" src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

I'm actually a little surprised by this because you'd expect the Saskatchewan game to have the highest ratings every week, although combined with RDS numbers it will surpass. <iframe id="rufous-sandbox" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowtransparency="true" style="display: none;"></iframe>

[ArgoGabe22]

Only if we had Sat night home games. Sigh.

[hugoagogo]

​"ouch!!!"

http://wpmedia.blogs.edmontonjournal.com/2013/09/rsz_edm103132759_3-1.jpg

[AngeloV]

I know that there has been a suggestion that Laing meant to hit Reilly in the back instead but he should not have been leading with his helmet regardless.

Actually, it is the crown of your helmet that you are not supposed to lead with. If he led with the facemask area of the helmet it would be legal. There is no way of telling what would have made first contact with Reilly had the Brown hit not changed the body position of Reilly.

I also need to take issue with those that are saying that Laing didn't need to hit Reilly because he was already in the grasp of 2 other Argos. In football, you are told to play to the whistle, period. Last week Kevin Glenn a couple of times escaped what looked like sure tackles to make plays. I'm pretty sure the Argos got an earful for giving up on those plays feeling the play was dead.

[flafson]

It obviously happened really fast and i don't think it was intentional but the first few times i saw it i thought it was the ugliest hit i've seen in a very long time. It really made me sick.

[Midnight Blue]

Its their drinking thats making them nod out.


Well, there's only one thing for it --- drinking practice, once or twice a week.

Gets you ready for more serious drinking, later in the week.


Works for me (usually).


Ka' Pla !