July 18, 2014: Toronto Argonauts vs. Ottawa RedBlacks

[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/ott.png

Week 4
Friday, July 18, 2014 at 7:00pm EDT.
TD Place Stadium. Ottawa, ON.

TV: TSN (http://www.tsn.ca/cfl/feature/?id=508)
Video Webcast: TSN Go (http://www.tsn.ca/go/) - ESPN3 (http://espn.go.com/watchespn/index/_/type/upcoming/sport/football/search/CFL/)
Radio: TOR: TSN 1050 (http://www.tsn.ca/toronto/feature/?id=43622) - OTT: TSN 1200 (http://www.tsn1200.ca/default.asp)
Audio Webcast: TOR: Here (http://www.tsn.ca/toronto/listen/) - OTT: Here (http://www.tsn1200.ca/live/music-player/index.html)
Satellite Radio: SiriusXM (http://www.siriusxm.ca/sports-schedules/cfl/)

Depth Charts: TOR: Here (http://www.argonauts.ca/depthchart/list/team/7/year/2014) - OTT: Here (http://www.ottawaredblacks.com/depth-charts-2014)

Pre-Game Preview: Here (http://www.argonauts.ca/video/index/id/99029)

Away Game Viewing: The Thirsty Fox 1028 Eglinton Ave W (https://www.facebook.com/events/418631771609122/)

Post-Game Update: Argos Fall in Final Minutes to RedBlacks in TD Place Opener (http://www.argonauts.ca/article/recap-argos-fall-in-final-minutes-to-redblacks-in-td-place-opener)

Final Score: 17-18

[1argoholic]

My prediction is that the Argos will play in front of people and not empty blue seats.

[ArgoZ]

My prediction is that the Argos will play in front of people and not empty blue seats.

What is interesting about that statement is more often then not, the Argonaut players get just as fired up playing in front of a good hostile crowd. I wouldn't be surprised to see them bounce back and incredibly, oddly enough, feed off Ottawa's crowd for the win.

[Will]

Driving up to Ottawa for this one. Looking forward to it.

[ArgoRavi]

What is interesting about that statement is more often then not, the Argonaut players get just as fired up playing in front of a good hostile crowd. I wouldn't be surprised to see them bounce back and incredibly, oddly enough, feed off Ottawa's crowd for the win.

The Argos have played better on the road and have had a better road record over the last six years or so. Other teams' fans would be worried about their team going on a three game road trip early in the season but I think that is a godsend for the Argos.

[Neely2005]

A good article on the concessions at TD Place Stadium:

http://www.ottawacitizen.com/Joanne+Chianello+OSEG+serves+promising+menu+proof+ will+artisan+pudding/9692221/story.html


Driving up to Ottawa for this one. Looking forward to it.

We'll be there too. We bought a 3 Pack of tickets in order to get this game.

[doubleblue]

A good article on the concessions at TD Place Stadium:

http://www.ottawacitizen.com/Joanne+Chianello+OSEG+serves+promising+menu+proof+ will+artisan+pudding/9692221/story.html



We'll be there too. We bought a 3 Pack of tickets in order to get this game.

Sounds like Ottawa is going to have some REAL food at TD Place. It will be a welcome relief after trying to choke down the overpriced "concessions" at the Sky Dome.
Doesn't sound like there is much parking close to the Stadium anymore. Not looking forward to that. I heard people were put on the wrong buses after the open house last week.

[argotom]

With Owens and Barnes out and if the O & D line plays the same we are in deep trouble against the RB's who will be fired up big time.

[ArgoRavi]

Sounds like Ottawa is going to have some REAL food at TD Place. It will be a welcome relief after trying to choke down the overpriced "concessions" at the Sky Dome.
Doesn't sound like there is much parking close to the Stadium anymore. Not looking forward to that. I heard people were put on the wrong buses after the open house last week.

I believe that you can just park at Carleton University and walk the 15 minutes to the stadium. There are probably buses going from there too. BTW, OC Transpo will be free for anyone with a ticket.


With Owens and Barnes out and if the O & D line plays the same we are in deep trouble against the RB's who will be fired up big time.

What if the offensive and defensive lines play like they did against Saskatchewan? Yes, the RedBlacks will be fired up but the Argos are a much better team. In watching the RedBlacks against Edmonton, I was thinking that Henry Burris is going to have trouble generating a lot of offence with the receiving corps that they have. Ottawa's receiving corps seems quite underwhelming to me though I have always liked Kierrie Johnson.

[Neely2005]

REDBLACKS home opener the hottest ticket in town



Read more: http://ottawa.ctvnews.ca/redblacks-home-opener-the-hottest-ticket-in-town-1.1913543#ixzz37YPnRhjd




Sounds like Ottawa is going to have some REAL food at TD Place. It will be a welcome relief after trying to choke down the overpriced "concessions" at the Sky Dome.
Doesn't sound like there is much parking close to the Stadium anymore. Not looking forward to that. I heard people were put on the wrong buses after the open house last week.

Good food and reasonably priced food and beer.

There's some good information on getting to the game in This Thread:

http://www.argofans.com/showthread.php?2579-Argonauts-game-in-Ottawa

Apparently you can use you Ticket to get on a Bus / Shuttle for free, back to a Parking Lot with free parking.

[argotom]

I believe that you can just park at Carleton University and walk the 15 minutes to the stadium. There are probably buses going from there too. BTW, OC Transpo will be free for anyone with a ticket.



What if the offensive and defensive lines play like they did against Saskatchewan? Yes, the RedBlacks will be fired up but the Argos are a much better team. In watching the RedBlacks against Edmonton, I was thinking that Henry Burris is going to have trouble generating a lot of offence with the receiving corps that they have. Ottawa's receiving corps seems quite underwhelming to me though I have always liked Kierrie Johnson.


Granted if the team that smoked the Riders shows up then we are looking good.
However with the key injuries, laying an egg two out of the three games and with a somewhat short practice week dare I say it does not look good.

[argolio]

Stamps are a very good team who were coming off a bye-week, so maybe they played well more than we didn't.

We've already bounced back from one loss. No reason we can't do it again. Ottawa will be fired up for their first home game, but we should be fine as long as we come out of the first quarter/half in decent shape.

[T-Bone]

There's some good information on getting to the game in This Thread:
More info here: The Game Plan to Get Down to Lansdowne (http://www.ottawaredblacks.com/the-game-plan-to-get-down-to-lansdowne)

[Wobbler]

Three noteworthy changes to the depth chart IMHO:

- Robinson gets his SAM LB spot back after returning from injury and Moulden is now "injured"
- Underwood comes off the IR and they gave him the boundary corner spot. I daresay we haven't been very happy with either Ware or Agnew at this spot so far
- Slaton comes off the IR and is now our backup RB. I assume that he'll get a few reps this week so we can finally get a good look at him

The other changes (e.g. Sinkfield replacing Owens) were already announced, I think. Oh, except that Jason Barnes is on the *6* game injured list. Drat.

[doubleblue]

More info here: The Game Plan to Get Down to Lansdowne (http://www.ottawaredblacks.com/the-game-plan-to-get-down-to-lansdowne)

The REDBLACKS are doing things right!

[jerrym]

Having lived in Ottawa for seven years, despite being a lifelong Argo fan, it's great to see the game is already a sellout. Ottawa edition IV seems to have a lot better and smarter ownership than previous editions.

[Argocister]

So on the CIS forum one of the Ottawa fans posted this ...... For those going to the game ( which I am ) keep the metabolism up, and plan some good exercise routines over the next week!

http://ottawacitizen.com/life/food/what-to-eat-at-the-home-opener-at-lansdowne-park

:D

[Stevoman]

Going to be a hostile environment with lots of adversity due to injuries but Ray/Milanovich are both cool under pressure. This makes for a good storyline and hopefully a happy ending for the Double Blue. I think it all comes down to the line of scrimmage.

[Argo]

Arrrr Argos Fans, aye ye can have yer Jolly Rogers Centre where the paying customers enjoy bottom-drawer food and drink for top-drawer prices.


So on the CIS forum one of the Ottawa fans posted this ...... For those going to the game ( which I am ) keep the metabolism up, and plan some good exercise routines over the next week!

http://ottawacitizen.com/life/food/what-to-eat-at-the-home-opener-at-lansdowne-park

[shayman]

Sounds like Ottawa is going to have some REAL food at TD Place. It will be a welcome relief after trying to choke down the overpriced "concessions" at the Sky Dome.

Interestingly, I think it's the same company providing food service at both TD Place and Rogers Centre - Compass Group.

Er, wait, I'm wrong. It used to be Compass Group at Skydome, now it's Aramark. Sorry. Hard to keep these huge multinationals straight.

[1argoholic]

I'm very excited for the football fans in Ottawa. I wouldn't be surprised if we crap this one.

I'm very envious and feel like we're heading down the path Ottawa just came out of.

[mchesher03]

Same here. Everything I’m reading out of Ottawa I’d love to have half of that in-place here. I guess it gives some hope that it’s possible it could happen here given Ottawa had similar dire straits once upon a time. Either way that Ottawa franchise is doing things right. </SPAN>

[Do or Die]

Looks like a potential ambush game for you guys....

[argolio]

Looks like a potential ambush game for you guys....Hard to be ambushed coming off last week's game.

[Deerkeeper]

I'm kind of divided about this game. I want the Argos to win, but I would also love to see Ottawa win their home opener. Can't decide who to root for.

[ArgoZ]

Interestingly, I think it's the same company providing food service at both TD Place and Rogers Centre - Compass Group.

Er, wait, I'm wrong. It used to be Compass Group at Skydome, now it's Aramark. Sorry. Hard to keep these huge multinationals straight.

Remember when it was all McDonalds at the dome? I still have my McDonalds Argonaut cups with pictures of Pinball, Flutie and even Andre Ware, LOL. Overpriced McDonalds, those were the days.

[jerrym]

Ray is going to Coombs a lot (4 times) early in the game with Owens, Durie and Barnes injured.

[jerrym]

Waters splits the uprights to give the Argos a 3-0 lead.

[jerrym]

Everything I’m reading out of Ottawa I’d love to have half of that in-place here. I guess it gives some hope that it’s possible it could happen here given Ottawa had similar dire straits once upon a time. Either way that Ottawa franchise is doing things right.

Having lived in Ottawa where several incarnations of a team died and in Vancouver where the team was on life support several times, I am not as gloomy about the future of the Argos as some here although I recognize there are many problems. When you throw in the fact that Montreal came back from the dead, I think the Argos could build a greater fanbase under the right ownership ( even though I'm still thankful for Braley keeping the Argos and Lions alive) or even have a Lazarus rising if needed.

[jerrym]

After two penalties and a first and 25 for Ottawa, Anderson senselessly hits the Ottawa receiver after he drops the ball to give the Redblacks a new first down. Both Anderson and the Argos have to stop these idiotic penalties.

[Gill The Thrill]

Interesting comments about Ottawa football, but you know what they'll have other home games this year....I want the Argos to win this game.

Good event, but so far a dog a game...7-6 with 2 minutes before halftime. I'm watching this board more than the game. I hate to say this but there has been a few too many stinkers throughout the league this season, as I thought last season too. Yesterday's game between 2 unbeaten teams was another...Best game was last Saturday's BC win by a point vs Saskatchewan so far, but I digress.

Let's hope it's just the early season jitters for offences before they get on track and produce long drives and exciting competitive games. Both the Argos and Redblacks have missed on long bombs which would have been big plays. Kierre Johnson had a TD for the Redblacks as he was behind coverage.


After two penalties and a first and 25 for Ottawa, Anderson senselessly hits the Ottawa receiver after he drops the ball to give the Redblacks a new first down. Both Anderson and the Argos have to stop these idiotic penalties.This is the Dwight Anderson we've come to love and hate over the years. When you consider he was brought in for his experience, I don't think the coaches want the younger players to see those type of plays from a seasoned vet like him.

I wonder if he'll make it to Labour Day on the Argos roster?

[OV Argo]

Argos offence is so predicated on the short passes to Owens & Durie and hope they can make big YAC yards; great if they're in the line-up, but without them - stick to the same formula? = very limited and predictable offensive thinking. IMO - they need way more ground game - bang Steele, Slaton or Coombs with plenty of carriers, AND why can't Ray throw the ball well down field wayyyyy more? (worked on that big gainer to Adams)

This Ottawa team is brand new and still learning to play as a team, and they really don't have much talent ( that they are starting a couple of stiffs at receiver in Klueless Johnson & Dropsem Collins - rejects from other CFL teams where they already showed they are next to useless (good 40 times i bet though) - demonstrates some poor scouting and personnel decision making IMO) = this game should be a free spot on the bingo card sched. for the Argos IMO - don't blow this game or it will be an embarassment / great story for the new Ottawa team. Argo D should come up with a couple of take-aways in the 2nd half + the offence should be able to shred a very iffy Ottawa D for some big plays. A loss = big question marks for this Argo coaching staff.

[jerrym]

But for a couple of dropped passes Ottawa could have a big lead instead of a two point one. The Argos need to wake up if they are going to win.

[jerrym]

Argos offence is so predicated on the short passes to Owens & Durie and hope they can make big YAC yards; great if they're in the line-up, but without them - stick to the same formula? = very limited and predictable offensive thinking. IMO - they need way more ground game - bang Steele, Slaton or Coombs with plenty of carriers, AND why can't Ray throw the ball well down field wayyyyy more? (worked on that big gainer to Adams)

This Ottawa team is brand new and still learning to play as a team, and they really don't have much talent ( that they are starting a couple of stiffs at receiver in Klueless Johnson & Dropsem Collins - rejects from other CFL teams where they already showed they are next to useless (good 40 times i bet though) - demonstrates some poor scouting and personnel decision making IMO) = this game should be a free spot on the bingo card sched. for the Argos IMO - don't blow this game or it will be an embarassment / great story for the new Ottawa team. Argo D should come up with a couple of take-aways in the 2nd half + the offence should be able to shred a very iffy Ottawa D for some big plays. A loss = big question marks for this Argo coaching staff.

I agree. While ArgoRavi said the defence is the biggest Argo problem, they at least have the excuse of so many new players. The offence is pretty set although it is missiing Owens, Durie and Barnes tonight. But there are few adjustments being made, so it is the same old predictable short pass game, which makes it easier for an inexperienced Ottawa defence to halt.

[jerrym]

Finally a Touchdown!

[argos1873]

See that touchdown? IMHO an awesome display of how great Canadian football is. You have 4 guys running towards the line of scrimmage and cross the line exactly at the snap. Awesome display. You won't and can't see that in Murica.

[jerrym]

The Redblacks showed more emotion than the Argos on their FG drive resulting in their breaking tackles to gain first downs. The Argos need to show their emotion in the last five minutes.

[jerrym]

Boomer Waters does it!

[jerrym]

The injury to Smith not only gives Burris a new db to attack but stops the clock and allows him to call multiple plays. Tough break for Argos.

[jerrym]

Why was Jalil Carter up on the line with barely over a minute to play against a speedy receiver like Johnson rather than further back to break up the long pass?

[Argo57]

John Chiles......WTF

[argos1873]

Ugh.......

[Wobbler]

It was hard to cheer against the REDBLACKS in their franchise home opener. I'm kinda glad they won.

[tennyis]

wow... WTF Chiles!

also... WTF MILANOVICH! why not go for the single, tie it up and go to OT!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! !!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Major Duck Up! You could tell Waters wanted to go for the single as well, he was holding his arms out like... WTF MILANOVICH

[Stevoman]

Chiles needs to make that catch. Too many drops by other receivers tonight as well.

[argotom]

It was hard to cheer against the REDBLACKS in their franchise home opener. I'm kinda glad they won.


Hard to admit it, but true in a small sense.
Still though, our offense is offensive.
Chiles had two crucial easy drops.

[tennyis]

nevermind the freakin drops... GO FOR THE SINGLE POINT AND TIE THE GAME!!!!!

[jerrym]

Football is a game of emotion more than most sports because of the heavy hitting. The Redblacks, with the help of their fans, showed they were way more emotionally involved in the last ten minutes as they continually gave the extra effort to break a tackle to gain a first down or stop an Argo play.

[Argo]

wow... WTF Chiles!

also... WTF MILANOVICH! why not go for the single, tie it up and go to OT!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! !!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Major Duck Up! You could tell Waters wanted to go for the single as well, he was holding his arms out like... WTF MILANOVICH

Is it too late to offer O'Shea the job?

[jerrym]

I think the Argos need to get their RB much more involved in the game, whoever he is. Slaton showed promise both running and receiving. Especially with Owens, Durie and Barnes hurt the Argos should be featuring their running game more. However, they also need to do it to show other teams they can feature the run sometimes in order to keep teams from completely rushing Ray all out on every play. The current offence is simply too predictable.

[1argoholic]

The horrible non call when Ray gets smacked in the head would have been 15 yards and fieldgoal range. They ALWAYS call shots to a qb's head. Oh wait not tonight. Salt in the wounds.

Good for Ottawa but it's hard to watch all the excitement in the league with new stadiums or overhauled stadiums and we are in the middle of a shitstorm. Cohon keeps going on about BMO but I thought that was dead at this point. BMO a stadium that will be worse then Rogers for looking like the Argos building. All red seats and TFC all over the joint. I'm mentally done with all of this shite. Pissed off HUGE.

[tennyis]

Is it too late to offer O'Shea the job?

LOL, well he's not far removed from a grey cup... but I can't help but wonder if the grey cup year was a result of the people around him, more so then him...

The coaching this year has been well below average, and not what I expect from Millanovich.

[argotom]

The horrible non call when Ray gets smacked in the head would have been 15 yards and fieldgoal range. They ALWAYS call shots to a qb's head. Oh wait not tonight. Salt in the wounds.

Good for Ottawa but it's hard to watch all the excitement in the league with new stadiums or overhauled stadiums and we are in the middle of a shitstorm. Cohon keeps going on about BMO but I thought that was dead at this point. BMO a stadium that will be worse then Rogers for looking like the Argos building. All red seats and TFC all over the joint. I'm mentally done with all of this shite. Pissed off HUGE.



I agree with you, BMO is a dump, just as much of a bad atmosphere as the crap dome.
However realty is there is nothing else left for this team?

[Tau Ceti]

A great game in terms of suspense. Keep thinking the sum of Ray's performances aren't adding to the parts. His stats are good but few TDs. Thought Burris looked totally over-matched all game and then he shocked me with that last throw. All things considered, this was a nice ending for the new Ottawa faithful.

[argos1873]

I think the Argos need to get their RB much more involved in the game, whoever he is. Slaton showed promise both running and receiving. Especially with Owens, Durie and Barnes hurt the Argos should be featuring their running game more. However, they also need to do it to show other teams they can feature the run sometimes in order to keep teams from completely rushing Ray all out on every play. The current offence is simply too predictable.

The Argos have a RB? I didn't know...

[OV Argo]

Decent D by Ottawa, one great pass by a vet QB, and a FG kicker who goes 6 for 6 = can win you some games against mediocre competition.

Maybe a bad game for the Argos to get out of their system? - the O-Line was poor; Chiles blew it a couple of times; Emry was very weak at MLB.

Changes coming ?

[Argo57]

Sorry, don't give a shite about a feel good Ottawa win!
Performances like this should help inspire fans to go check out a game.

[matthew]

Sitting at a bar post game and pleased to report that cfl football is back in Ottawa and the glebe is doing good business

[Stevoman]

Yes, there was a roughing the passer that should've been called on that final drive but in spite of that, Chiles should have caught the ball, and Milanovich should've gone for a punt into the endzone. I also agree that we need to use our running backs more. Staton has some promise. Well, we're 1-3 which is one game below where I thought we'd be at week 4. Obviously the injuries are a major factor but this was a winnable game that you could argue they needed to have considering they are at Mosaic next week.

[matchuk]

ugh, that was hard to watch...glad the argos finally scored a td after last weeks no show....also wondering what is up with chiles, dropped at least 2 easy catches...hoping they bring mann into the lineup soon to maybe spark the o....we are seriously missing durie, owns and barnes

[Gill The Thrill]

Wow...nevermind off the field, things are getting desperate on the field when we're praying for Maurice Mann to shore up our receiving. We need true receivers, not transplanted QB's from the NCAA to play receiver after surprising some defenders in his first season...I mean Chiles looked very much like a guy who was just playing receiver because nobody was left. He screwed up that corner route on the second last drive that would have put the Argos ahead by 5. It would have forced the Redblacks to score a Major, not a FG to win the game.

And for godsakes, Milanovich...run the friggin ball. The Argos are right now the worst team in the league and also one of the least entertaining to watch....

The Argos better look at the long term and find another QB to take over eventually, could be as soon as next season. I have a feeling where watching a one dimensional Ricky Ray starting to dwindle in performance. First it starts with still throwing for yardage but not for TDs...then it becomes less pass completions inside the 20. These are the symptoms we are seeing with Ricky Ray even when everyone was in the lineup.

Losing to Henry in Hamilton is one thing...losing to Henry Burris as a QB of an expansion team is another bad sign. This is why Milanovich and Ray better be smart and decide to mix in the run a bit more...if they do not, this team is toast, and will not even make the playoffs let alone contend.

[ArgoRavi]

Why is everyone talking about punting into the endzone at the end of the game? The Argos were at their own 51 yard line which means that Waters would have needed a 59 yard punt just to get it to the Ottawa goalline. That was simply not an option.

I just got back from the game and it was an excellent experience attending the home opener for the RedBlacks in what is an absolutely beautiful stadium IMO. The feel of TD Place Stadium is entirely different from what it was at old Frank Clair Stadium, especially sitting on the south side of the stadium.

However, it was a frustrating game, as an Argo fan, to watch. The big thing that was missing on offence tonight was chemistry between Ray and his receivers. He probably has not worked with any of these new receivers before as he did not play with them during the preseason and he just doesn't have the same chemistry with them as he has with the likes of Barnes, Durie and Owens. That sort of thing just doesn't happen overnight either so we will all have to be a little patient. I thought that the offence was better as the night progressed but unfortunately not good enough. John Chiles has gotten off to a sluggish start to the season and really should have caught that late ball from Ray as those are the kinds of catches that he has made before. I thought that Steve Slaton - or "Steve Sultan" as the Ottawa PA announcer repeatedly called him tonight - looked good in his debut. I am partial to him staying in the lineup at this point over Jeremiah Johnson.

Defensively, we didn't give up a TD but they still needed to be a bit better, especially in the fourth quarter when Ottawa finally put together some decent drives. The defence certainly got more pressure on the QB though which was a good sign.

I know that many on here will panic with the 1-3 start but nobody in the east will have more than two wins after this weekend so first place is very much up for grabs. I am still quite confident that the Argos will get it together but we will all have to have a bit of patience with all of the injuries in the receiving corps.

[jerrym]

Although Ray gained 298 yards passing and had a couple of runs for first downs, he was far from his best with a 56.7% completion rate (only second time he has been below 60% since joining the Argos) in an easy to complete short pass offence and two interceptions. However, the offence is now so predictable that it is not so much his fault as the Milanovich for the sameness of the offence from game to game.
They need to get the RBs, whether Slaton, who showed some promise running and receiving, Steele or Johnson to keep teams from pinning back their ears on every play to go after Ray.

[Nob]

I hate losing to Burris. I can't stand him. Don't ask me why.

Bad drops by Chiles. Bad non-call on Ray getting hit to the head. But they happened.

Disappointed that the pass rush, which was dominant in the first three quarters, disappeared in the 4th.

Also very disappointed in Robinson. I counted three plays where he came up very soft. He got to the ball but didn't want to make the tackle. Very weak efforts. I would expect that he should be putting forth a stronger effort knowing that Molden played very well, and should be on the field instead of Robinson.

Coombs HAS to get out of bounds in the last minute of play. Lots of blame on that - Coombs (obviously, and don't give me the "he's a rookie" line, it doesn't matter if you are a peewee or a pro - you have to know the game situation), AND blame the coaches - you have to remind your players of the situation before they go out on the field. You have to remind them to get out of bounds when you can.

A very disappointing loss. Couldn't care less that it was Ottawa's opening night.

[jerrym]

Horton delivered on defence with 8 tackles on defence and ST and ongoing pressure on Burris.
Okalaugo was also big on defence with 5 tackles and 3 sacks.
I thought Carter was playing well until he played the fleet-footed Kierrie Johnson on the line with just over a minute to go, making it easier for him to beat Carter on the long pass.
IMO Coombs is ahead of where Owens was as a receiver (but obviously not in the same ballpark as a returner) when Owens arrived at the Argos in his first season and dropped so many passes.
However, now that Owens is one of the top receivers in the league and has taken so much punishment as a returner, I think he is more valuable as a receiver. Therefore, the Argos need to give serious consideration to making him only a receiver, if they want to extend his career and have him available as a receiver on an regular basis rather than injured as he is now.
Adams is getting better from game to game as is reflected in his 4 catches for 83 yards and the Argos only TD, although he dropped a couple.
On the other hand, Chiles was far from the best that he showed last year, to state the obvious.


Why is everyone talking about punting into the endzone at the end of the game? The Argos were at their own 51 yard line which means that Waters would have needed a 59 yard punt just to get it to the Ottawa goalline. That was simply not an option.
I agree. Even if Waters had got off one of his best booming punts 10 yards into the end zone (a 69 yarder and highly unlikely) the odds on such a long punt are overwhelming that it would have been returned out of the end zone.

[Argo]

However, now that Owens is one of the top receivers in the league and has taken so much punishment as a returner, I think he is more valuable as a receiver. Therefore, the Argos need to give serious consideration to making him only a receiver, if they want to extend his career and have him available as a receiver on an regular basis rather than injured as he is now.

Everybody except the Argos' coaching staff seems to appreciate the logic of your contention... and this issue has been around for quite awhile by now.

[ArgoRavi]

Everybody except the Argos' coaching staff seems to appreciate the logic of your contention... and this issue has been around for quite awhile by now.

In all fairness to the Argos' coaching staff, they did remove Owens from the kickoff return team this year but still had him returning punts. Of course, he was injured returning a punt last week.

[Argocister]

Analysis from the peanut gallery ......
Loved the visit to TD Place .... Looking forward to our move wherever it is....
It was fun to get the rouge et noir fans going ;) especially on their offence

Milanovich is missing Jones , McAdoo,and OShea..... Didn't we get the kicker running on us in the Bomber game too? To me that doesn't look good on Daley. Thank goodness it is the beginning of the season and time for Milanovich to practice hard and have the coaches get this team together. We have the talent... Just need that extra work, details , focus and effort.

We are missing the YAC and the clutch catch that Barnes was famous for .....sigh..... So close but no score.
Isn't Watt a good receiver for these corner throws?

I do like Slaton .... I think the TD place announcer just has dyslexia ....Salton was called all nite.

Was our Defense that much better tonight, or was the rouge et noir Oline not together? I hope it's the former. For the most part they seemed much better than last week.

As I mentioned , thank goodness it is the beginning of the season .... But I agree time to get it going and possibly changes.

Work hard boys.... You can do it!

Hope others can visit the TD Place .... It was fun .... Maybe we can work on our fans......

[Mulder]

nevermind the freakin drops... GO FOR THE SINGLE POINT AND TIE THE GAME!!!!!

IMO that's what the last play looked like they were setting up for. Hook and ladder play, the second receiver was close and if that ball wasn't picked off they would have pulled it off

[ArgoRedneck]

I agree. Even if Waters had got off one of his best booming punts 10 yards into the end zone (a 69 yarder and highly unlikely) the odds on such a long punt are overwhelming that it would have been returned out of the end zone.

I don`t. Place kick for a extra point. A tricky long field goal type kick that is a bouncing rubber ball aimed towards the side of the end zone. Water`s had the tee out for that play and was pissed when not used. TV showed him throw the tee in front of coach M. I know it`s low % but better then a 15 yrd pass with 5 sec left.

[AngeloV]

wow... WTF Chiles!

also... WTF MILANOVICH! why not go for the single, tie it up and go to OT!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! !!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Major Duck Up! You could tell Waters wanted to go for the single as well, he was holding his arms out like... WTF MILANOVICH

Are you kidding me? They were 60 yards away from the goal line. How were they to go for a single point? You're looking needing a 65 yard punt and no return to get that single point. Having said that, as Mulder pointed out, they may have tried the hook and ladder on the last play with the ladder part resulting in a punt into the end zone to get that single.


My overall take on the game:

John Chiles really disappointed me. The last drop was huge, and he appeared to give up or lose the ball on a couple of corner routes which I thought were well thrown.
Nice first game for Steve Slaton.
I thought Jalil Carter looked very good on the corner. Yes, he was beaten late on the deep ball, but he had good coverage on the play. Perfect throw and nice over the shoulder catch. That's just good football.
Nice game for Tristan Okpalaugo. I thought he played great against Saskatchewan, and again last night. I honestly don't remember if he played last week, because I saw Aston Whiteside in his place most of the game. I think we have a keeper in Okpalaugo.
Waters is having a great start to the season.
Ovearall, this loss was tough to take, but considering all the injured bodies, and knowing how pumped Ottawa must have been in front of a full house for their first ever home game, not surprised with the result.
Hoping the Argos can somehow go 3-2 over the next 5. I think 4-5 in the first half puts them in pretty good shape to finish strong with a (hopefully) healthy line-up and heavy home schedule to finish the season.

[Argo-Les]

LOTS more steve SLATON please
Ricky and slaton seemed too be the only ones who cared!
been a big Chiles supporter but as stated here >>>>big disappointment
D looked real good may have been the opposition tho!
and at least Ham lost as well!
no panic yet>>>>>>>>>>>>>sum butts need too be kicked tho!

[1argoholic]

Something better be done soon or Toronto will be Argo-Les.

Milanovich doesn't seem to be able to stray from his original game plan as we've seen in the past. Slaton was doing well but obviously not part of the original plan so he stopped using him.

I don't know, the whole year is starting out in a very frustating way for me. I still can't get all of those empty seats at last game out of my mind. Wait until the Tuesday game against the Pig. Should be a solid 8 thou there.

[Argo]

Something better be done soon or Toronto will be Argo-Les.

Milanovich doesn't seem to be able to stray from his original game plan as we've seen in the past. Slaton was doing well but obviously not part of the original plan so he stopped using him.

I don't know, the whole year is starting out in a very frustating way for me. I still can't get all of those empty seats at last game out of my mind. Wait until the Tuesday game against the Pig. Should be a solid 8 thou there.

The argument can be made that both of Milanovich's former subordinates are currently more effective head coaches than their old boss. We'll see how the rest of the season goes and whether or not Milanovich can adapt both his team and himself as may be required.

[Wobbler]

It's great to see the secondary start to come together. As many have noted, Carter looks like has found a home at boundary corner and I also really liked Dwight Anderson at boundary HB. Yes, he took a roughing penalty, but I kinda liked that penalty. It was an act of aggressiveness, not sloppiness or inattention, and that's a trait I like to see. I also think Anderson might be the best tackler on the team; I hope he gives Shea Emry some lessons.

[Argocister]

It's great to see the secondary start to come together. As many have noted, Carter looks like has found a home at boundary corner and I also really liked Dwight Anderson at boundary HB. Yes, he took a roughing penalty, but I kinda liked that penalty. It was an act of aggressiveness, not sloppiness or inattention, and that's a trait I like to see. I also think Anderson might be the best tackler on the team; I hope he gives Shea Emry some lessons.

There were a few that need lessons on tackling from Anderson. There were a couple of times the D looked like they were out in park playing touch football but the rouge et noir just kept running.

[argotom]

With RR I was glad he went vertical and thankfully more often.
Now if we can only get the the receivers to squeeze the ball, John Chiles being one.
I was getting tired of the hitch and swing passes.

[doubleblue]

My overall take on the game:

John Chiles really disappointed me. The last drop was huge, and he appeared to give up or lose the ball on a couple of corner routes which I thought were well thrown.
Nice first game for Steve Slaton.
I thought Jalil Carter looked very good on the corner. Yes, he was beaten late on the deep ball, but he had good coverage on the play. Perfect throw and nice over the shoulder catch. That's just good football.
Nice game for Tristan Okpalaugo. I thought he played great against Saskatchewan, and again last night. I honestly don't remember if he played last week, because I saw Aston Whiteside in his place most of the game. I think we have a keeper in Okpalaugo.
Waters is having a great start to the season.
Ovearall, this loss was tough to take, but considering all the injured bodies, and knowing how pumped Ottawa must have been in front of a full house for their first ever home game, not surprised with the result.
Hoping the Argos can somehow go 3-2 over the next 5. I think 4-5 in the first half puts them in pretty good shape to finish strong with a (hopefully) healthy line-up and heavy home schedule to finish the season.

That's pretty well sums the game up for the Argos. Missing Owens and Durie was huge I don't care what Milanovich saying the next guys have to step up. They're just not as good.
Don't know what's going on with the O-Line, but Ricky is not getting the same protection as last year. Same players different Coach, plus King and Van Zeyl have switched positions.
Great night, great stadium and long line ups. Been quite awhile since I have had a ride in a School Bus. Fairy tale ending for the REDBLACKS and their fans. Don't know how this School Bus shuttle is going to be accepted in the long haul, but it worked last night. 61 School Buses driving through what appeared or felt like obstacle courses plus pedestrians and bike riders. I have never seen so many bikes at a Football Game. The Glebers must have been nashing their teeth. lol

[ArgoZ]

This is the Dwight Anderson we've come to love and hate over the years. When you consider he was brought in for his experience, I don't think the coaches want the younger players to see those type of plays from a seasoned vet like him.

I wonder if he'll make it to Labour Day on the Argos roster?

It was a clean shoulder hit, problem was the receiver never touched the ball. If he does, it's a great hit. If the rest of the team learned to tackle like Anderson, they would get some more penalties for sure, but that would be one defense feared throughout the league.

[AngeloV]

It was a clean shoulder hit, problem was the receiver never touched the ball. If he does, it's a great hit. If the rest of the team learned to tackle like Anderson, they would get some more penalties for sure, but that would be one defense feared throughout the league.

He knew what he was doing. The ball was already well beyond the receiver when he made that hit. It was a terrible penalty to take. It would have been 2nd and 25 as Ottawa had taken 2 penalties to start the possession, and that penalty resulted in Ottawa extending a drive that led to a FG. When you lose by 1 point, a play like that stands out as a game changer. He's a loose cannon. If he keeps taking stupid penalties (he also had a horrible PI call last week--on a jump ball with 3 db's vs 1 receiver and he still interferes??) I would say bye bye.

[Argo]

He knew what he was doing. The ball was already well beyond the receiver when he made that hit. It was a terrible penalty to take. It would have been 2nd and 25 as Ottawa had taken 2 penalties to start the possession, and that penalty resulted in Ottawa extending a drive that led to a FG. When you lose by 1 point, a play like that stands out as a game changer. He's a loose cannon. If he keeps taking stupid penalties (he also had a horrible PI call last week--on a jump ball with 3 db's vs 1 receiver and he still interferes??) I would say bye bye.

IMO, (only) a couple of idiot penalties a season are tolerable if the miscreant otherwise adds significant value to the team. At the rate of one per game --> adios.
In any case you don't really want to have to put up with more than one loose cannon on your team. (Although I'd let Johnny Rogers eat a hotdog on the sidelines every game.)

[AngeloV]

In any case you don't really want to have to put up with more than one loose cannon on your team. (Although I'd let Johnny Rogers eat a hotdog on the sidelines every game.)

You and me both. LOL!!

[ArgoRavi]

IMO, (only) a couple of idiot penalties a season are tolerable if the miscreant otherwise adds significant value to the team. At the rate of one per game --> adios.
In any case you don't really want to have to put up with more than one loose cannon on your team. (Although I'd let Johnny Rogers eat a hotdog on the sidelines every game.)

Speaking of eating a hot dog on the sidelines, I remember reading a story of Moe Elewonibi ordering a hot dog while the Lions were playing the Argos at SkyDome in 1999. Elewonibi was in uniform when he did this. Of course, we all later discovered that he spent that season doing all kinds of drugs with 3rd string QB Todd Marinovich.

As for Anderson, that did turn out to be a huge penalty, as AngeloV said. The Argos really could have kept the RedBlacks to less than 10 points that night if it weren't for a few costly errors. It is understandable why Milanovich was so angry with his team for letting a very winnable game slip away.

[gilthethrill]

My overall take on the game:

John Chiles really disappointed me. The last drop was huge, and he appeared to give up or lose the ball on a couple of corner routes which I thought were well thrown.
Nice first game for Steve Slaton.
I thought Jalil Carter looked very good on the corner. Yes, he was beaten late on the deep ball, but he had good coverage on the play. Perfect throw and nice over the shoulder catch. That's just good football.
Nice game for Tristan Okpalaugo. I thought he played great against Saskatchewan, and again last night. I honestly don't remember if he played last week, because I saw Aston Whiteside in his place most of the game. I think we have a keeper in Okpalaugo.
Waters is having a great start to the season.
Ovearall, this loss was tough to take, but considering all the injured bodies, and knowing how pumped Ottawa must have been in front of a full house for their first ever home game, not surprised with the result.
Hoping the Argos can somehow go 3-2 over the next 5. I think 4-5 in the first half puts them in pretty good shape to finish strong with a (hopefully) healthy line-up and heavy home schedule to finish the season.

Okpalaugo appeared to be playing with an injured shoulder during his great effort. I anticipate he will join Owens & Durie on IR. Not only did the Argos have to contend with that franchise home opener, I expect Tim Hortons Field will not be ready until Labour Day, so the Argos will most likely have to endure two stadium openings this season.

[Will]

At the end of the day, the RedBlacks winning their home opener was good for their franchise. However, the way the Argos lost that game does leave a sour taste in my mouth. You sit there and think that if Chad Owens, Andre Durie and Jason Barnes were healthy that the Argos likely would have won that game. But, the receivers who have been called upon to replace them haven't proven to be up to the task. The amount of throws that went right through one of our receivers' hands was frustrating. If Chiles catches that one pass there then the game is over. Instead, the Argos have to kick a FG. Then the defense which had played well the entire night makes one little mistake and all of a sudden the RedBlacks are in chip shot range to win the game.

The stadium itself is quite nice with a few kinks to iron out in terms of game day experience (concessions, PA announcer, etc.) but overall it seems that the return of CFL football to Ottawa is a success in the early going.

[tennyis]

You're looking needing a 65 yard punt and no return to get that single point.

You mean like the 65 yard punt for a single he made earlier in the game?????? I'll take my chances with waters on a 65 yarder then a WR on a 50 yard punt!

also as was mentioned Waters had the tee out

[ArgoRavi]

You mean like the 65 yard punt for a single he made earlier in the game?????? I'll take my chances with waters on a 65 yarder then a WR on a 50 yard punt!

also as was mentioned Waters had the tee out

What exactly did you want Waters to do? Did you want him to try a 66 yard field goal or try to somehow nail a 60 yard punt so that it would end up in the endzone and would not be returned? The chances of either of those things happening was close to 0.0, especially without any kind of wind behind him.

[AngeloV]

You mean like the 65 yard punt for a single he made earlier in the game?????? I'll take my chances with waters on a 65 yarder then a WR on a 50 yard punt!

also as was mentioned Waters had the tee out

Wow. Sorry to be so blunt, but you truly have no clue what you are talking about. His single earlier in the game, did not reach the endzone in flight. The retruner let it roll into the endzone to avoid starting in brutal field position. As for the FG option, would have been a 67 or 68 yard FG. Making one with no rush for a youtube video is one thing. But making it in a game situation with no wind, is nearly impossible. There has never been one that long made in pro football history.

[Mulder]

You mean like the 65 yard punt for a single he made earlier in the game?????? I'll take my chances with waters on a 65 yarder then a WR on a 50 yard punt!

also as was mentioned Waters had the tee out

Watt makes that catch (on the 45) & pitches it back to Coobs (on the 50). Coobs has at least 10 yards before he has to punt, he had ALOT of running room. It was the right call.

[Qman]

last friday's game is the replay game tuesday night on tsn2