October 4, 2014: Edmonton vs. Toronto Argonauts

[T-Bone]

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

Week 15
Saturday, October 4, 2014 at 4:00pm EDT.
Rogers Centre. Toronto, ON.

TV: TSN (http://www.tsn.ca/cfl-on-tsn-broadcast-schedule-1.78723)
Video Webcast: TSN Go (http://www.tsn.ca/tv#/) - ESPN3 (http://espn.go.com/watchespn/index/_/type/upcoming/sport/football/search/CFL/)
Radio: EDM: CHED 630 (http://www.630ched.com/eskimos/) - TOR: TSN 1050 (http://www.tsn.ca/argos-on-tsn-1050-broadcast-schedule-1.84907)
Audio Webcast: EDM: Here (http://player.630ched.com/) - TOR: Here (http://www.tsn.ca/radio/tsn-1050-live-stream-1.52945?ot=example.AjaxPageLayout.ot)
Satellite Radio: SiriusXM (http://www.cfl.ca/article/siriusxm-canada-and-cfl-renew-multi-year-broadcast-agreement)

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

Pre-Game Preview: Here (http://argonauts.ca/video/index/id/103853)

Post-Game: Shoeless Joe's (http://www.shoelessjoes.ca/) at 276 King St W (https://maps.google.ca/maps?q=276+King+St.+W.&hnear=276+King+St+W,+Toronto,+Toronto+Division,+On tario+M5V+3C6&gl=ca&t=m&z=16)

513

Tickets Available: Here (http://www.argonauts.ca/page/toronto-argonauts-tickets) or at Rogers Centre Gate 9 Box Office (http://www.rogerscentre.com/events/tickets.jsp)

Post-Game Update: Argos Hold on to Down Edmonton (http://argonauts.ca/article/recap-argos-vs-eskimos)

Final Score: 32-33

[gilthethrill]

I am finally going to an Argo game to see Edmonton. I always take the GO Train in from Clarkeson, but one of my buddies who is going is insisting on driving right to the stadium (I have suggested the GO Train). Are there any events/construction going on next weekend that we should know about? Everytime someone insists on driving to the stadium it seems we always miss the 1st quarter & I end up wishing I saw the entire game from home.

[AngeloV]

Nothing I'm aware of, except for the usual Gardner lane reductions.

[jerrym]

With Hamilton and Montreal winning on the weekend and leading the Argos by one game, it is vital that the Argos respond with an all-out effort. Building on the revitalized air attack created by the return of Owen and Durie is important. However, keeping up the ground game that Steele and Slaton established by gaining 73 and 52 yards respectively against BC is also key. Many of the close Argo losses occurred when the air attack stalled and the ground game was abandoned in the second half.

[gilthethrill]

With Hamilton and Montreal winning on the weekend and leading the Argos by one game, it is vital that the Argos respond with an all-out effort. Building on the revitalized air attack created by the return of Owen and Durie is important. However, keeping up the ground game that Steele and Slaton established by gaining 73 and 52 yards respectively against BC is also key. Many of the close Argo losses occurred when the air attack stalled and the ground game was abandoned in the second half.

Funny how the defence will improve now that Ray is able work with his weapons. Edmonton won't do so well since they don't face Chico Sunsuri on Saturday.....

[Wobbler]

I *think* I heard Milanovich say (during the last three seconds of today's post-practice interview) that Laing is injured and will be out for a couple of weeks. Presumably Harrell will stop being "injured" this week. We started nine nationals against BC, but Bradwell sure didn't seem to get many reps. Nevertheless, I'm guessing that he'll start again at WR.

[hugoagogo]

On the Eskimos side of things, Esks were expecting DE Marcus Howard back after a six-game IR stint with a broken thumb; he has re-injured thumb at practice this week and is back on the 6-game. Esks have had good depth with Ends, so they should be okay.
Esks have also signed former Lion/Redblack WR Paris Jackson to help fill a hole at Canadian receiver due to injuries to Shamawd Chambers & Devon Bailey.
Also plucked off Montreal's PR was 2012 draft pick DE Bo Adebayo. He will probably help on special teams and help out on the line when ratio is an issue.

[gilthethrill]

On the Eskimos side of things, Esks were expecting DE Marcus Howard back after a six-game IR stint with a broken thumb; he has re-injured thumb at practice this week and is back on the 6-game. Esks have had good depth with Ends, so they should be okay.
Esks have also signed former Lion/Redblack WR Paris Jackson to help fill a hole at Canadian receiver due to injuries to Shamawd Chambers & Devon Bailey.
Also plucked off Montreal's PR was 2012 draft pick DE Bo Adebayo. He will probably help on special teams and help out on the line when ratio is an issue.

Good info hugo. Hopefully the Argos can harass Riley even though Laing is out for a couple weeks. Will be interesting if the Argos employ an all International Dline...perhaps either mainstays on the IR Kyle Moore or Marcus Thomas fill in.

[Wobbler]

Ugh. I hope Durie's injury is minor, but if they had to cart him off the field (http://www.torontosun.com/2014/10/01/argos-andre-durie-injured-in-practice) there's a good chance he won't play this week.

[ArgoRavi]

Ugh. I hope Durie's injury is minor, but if they had to cart him off the field (http://www.torontosun.com/2014/10/01/argos-andre-durie-injured-in-practice) there's a good chance he won't play this week.

When will the injuries end? This is incredibly frustrating.

[Will]

Oh for ****'s sake.

[gilthethrill]

If an Argo gets injured, it is never minor....when will this end?????

[gilthethrill]

I find it odd that the Sun is the only media that has mentioned Durie getting injured at practice....

[Neely2005]

I find it odd that the Sun is the only media that has mentioned Durie getting injured at practice....

Well they're really the only ones who cover the team on a daily basis. I don't think any other media outlets even go to practice on a regular basis.

[AngeloV]

I find it odd that the Sun is the only media that has mentioned Durie getting injured at practice....


Well they're really the only ones who cover the team on a daily basis. I don't think any other media outlets even go to practice on a regular basis.

Also strange that there is no mention on either the Argos or the CFL website on it. Nothing on Sportscentre last night either.

[Argos23]

http://www.ctvnews.ca/sports/durie-in-civilian-clothes-for-start-of-argos-practice-1.2035738

[gilthethrill]

Well, no mention of Durie wearing a sling, but I doubt he will be in uniform again any time soon. Does Adjei potentially replace him to keep the ratio in check? If both Durie & Lang are out for any period of time, that is 2 starting Nationals (formerly Non-Imports) along with Matt Black that will be missed.

[Argos23]

Drurie ruled out for game this wekeend.


http://www.cfl.ca/article/argos-durie-sits-out-practice-due-to-shoulder-injury

[ArgoRavi]

Drurie ruled out for game this wekeend.


http://www.cfl.ca/article/argos-durie-sits-out-practice-due-to-shoulder-injury

Anthony Coombs is the ideal replacement IMO but, of course, he too is out for the season. If Robert Gill is healthy, I could see him in Durie's spot.

[AngeloV]

Anthony Coombs is the ideal replacement IMO but, of course, he too is out for the season. If Robert Gill is healthy, I could see him in Durie's spot.

If it's true that Anthony Woodson took his reps in practice yesterday, that too can be interesting. Likely not as explosive as Durie, but still as a running back, he may be able to break some tackles running the short routes that Durie does.

[jerrym]

In the BC game the Argos had Chad returning until he was injured in the first half. When he returned to play in the second half, he no longer was returning punts or kicks.
The Argos need to start using Owens only as a receiver if they hope to have him around long-term. He is simply too valuable as a pass catcher, as witnessed by what happens to the offence when he is not available, to risk him being injured returning, especially when he only rarely breaks the big one for a TD anymore on returns.

[MEEZY]

I thought that even before Durie was injured, the Argos would be hard pressed to win this game. Now with him confirmed as out for the game, I have difficulty believing that they have much of a chance. Not to be negative, but Jones knows Ray inside out and the Edmonton defense will be stingy.

I've been thinking about all of the receiver injuries this year, and even in the last few years, it seems Durie an Owens, as well as some of the others, were also sidelined for parts of the year in past seasons. Is it something in Millanovich's schemes that cause this? At this point, I have trouble believing that it's just bad luck...

[Wobbler]

Older players are more likely to be injured, and players that fight for extra yardage rather than running out of bounds are more likely to be injured.

[larz-7]

I thought that even before Durie was injured, the Argos would be hard pressed to win this game. Now with him confirmed as out for the game, I have difficulty believing that they have much of a chance. Not to be negative, but Jones knows Ray inside out and the Edmonton defense will be stingy.

I've been thinking about all of the receiver injuries this year, and even in the last few years, it seems Durie an Owens, as well as some of the others, were also sidelined for parts of the year in past seasons. Is it something in Millanovich's schemes that cause this? At this point, I have trouble believing that it's just bad luck...
as for schemes look at calgary ,how many times has cornish went down for example.Just these type of players give it that extra mile.

[ArgoRavi]

If it's true that Anthony Woodson took his reps in practice yesterday, that too can be interesting. Likely not as explosive as Durie, but still as a running back, he may be able to break some tackles running the short routes that Durie does.

It looks like Gill might be the guy although Woodson and Bradwell may play there as well: http://www.torontosun.com/2014/10/02/argonauts-robert-gill-set-to-fill-in-for-andre-durie-against-eskimos

[Wobbler]

Nice call, Ravi. I haven't been very impressed with Gill, but it sounds like he'll be active at the very least and I hope he can help us.

[gilthethrill]

If Gill does replace Durie, would that not mess up the ratio? I suspect an International will have to replace Cleyon Laing on the D-line unless you start our only other Canadian Ivan Brown, which won't happen.

[Neely2005]

It looks like Gill might be the guy although Woodson and Bradwell may play there as well: http://www.torontosun.com/2014/10/02/argonauts-robert-gill-set-to-fill-in-for-andre-durie-against-eskimos

"Durie injured his right shoulder during practice on Wednesday when he went up for pass and fell on to the hard turf."

Hard turf?

[ArgoGabe22]

"Durie injured his right shoulder during practice on Wednesday when he went up for pass and fell on to the hard turf."

Hard turf?

Turf isn't as soft as natural grass, so it's a a lot harder to fall on. I think that's what they mean.

[ArgoRavi]

If Gill does replace Durie, would that not mess up the ratio? I suspect an International will have to replace Cleyon Laing on the D-line unless you start our only other Canadian Ivan Brown, which won't happen.

If they started 9 non-imports in B.C., they could be without both Laing and Durie and still be okay with the minimum of 7. It isn't ideal but it is possible.

[Wobbler]

The depth chart (http://cfl.uploads.mrx.ca/league/pdf/en/depth/2014/2014_RegSeasonGame13vsEskimosOct4100939.pdf) shows that we have indeed gone with the bare minimum seven nationals.

Instead of pretending that Bradwell is the starting WR, we have Smith listed as the starter at RG. I'm curious to see how much King plays.

I am shaking my head at the fact that we came out of the bye week with more injuries than before it! We didn't even get Chiles back, as had been expected.

[Wobbler]

Oh, and Durie is on the six game injured list. Sigh.

[AngeloV]

Oh, and Durie is on the six game injured list. Sigh.

As is Laing.

[gilthethrill]

The depth chart (http://cfl.uploads.mrx.ca/league/pdf/en/depth/2014/2014_RegSeasonGame13vsEskimosOct4100939.pdf) shows that we have indeed gone with the bare minimum seven nationals.

Instead of pretending that Bradwell is the starting WR, we have Smith listed as the starter at RG. I'm curious to see how much King plays.

I am shaking my head at the fact that we came out of the bye week with more injuries than before it! We didn't even get Chiles back, as had been expected.

Was Chiles not a game time decision....2 months ago????

[argolio]

Was Chiles not a game time decision....2 months ago????LOL, you're right.

Stuff happens I guess.

[Argocister]

Oh, and Durie is on the six game injured list. Sigh.

Broken clavicle again ..... Wonder if it's the same one..... Get Durie some calcium and vitamin D!


http://www.cfl.ca/article/sidelined-again-durie-breaks-clavicle-placed-on-6-game :(

[gilthethrill]

I am surprised Delano Johnson is starting, yet Logan Harrell, who was getting better & is now off the IR, but not on the depth chart. Last game Okapalugo was playing inside on certain downs, basically taking away our best & only dangerous DE....

[Wobbler]

Harrell is starting at DT.

[gilthethrill]

Harrell is starting at DT.

My eyes deceived me....

[Stouffvillain]

The depth chart (http://cfl.uploads.mrx.ca/league/pdf/en/depth/2014/2014_RegSeasonGame13vsEskimosOct4100939.pdf) shows that we have indeed gone with the bare minimum seven nationals.

Instead of pretending that Bradwell is the starting WR, we have Smith listed as the starter at RG. I'm curious to see how much King plays.

I am shaking my head at the fact that we came out of the bye week with more injuries than before it! We didn't even get Chiles back, as had been expected.


All the injuries this year have me wondering if the coaching staff is doing something new or if this is all just bad luck.

[ArgoRavi]

All the injuries this year have me wondering if the coaching staff is doing something new or if this is all just bad luck.

I don't think that the Argos have been practising differently than they have the last couple of years. I think that the injuries are just bad luck. It just happens sometime and is part of the game. Unfortunately, this is the year that the Argos get the injury bug and it doesn't look like it will leave willingly.

[paulwoods13]

The depth chart (http://cfl.uploads.mrx.ca/league/pdf/en/depth/2014/2014_RegSeasonGame13vsEskimosOct4100939.pdf) shows that we have indeed gone with the bare minimum seven nationals.

Instead of pretending that Bradwell is the starting WR, we have Smith listed as the starter at RG. I'm curious to see how much King plays.


I can't see King even dressing. An import elsewhere in the offence would have to come out and be replaced by a NAT -- only options are Bradwell or Woodson. The Sun speculates we'll see Woodson in some packages but I really doubt we will rotate starters on the o-line.

[gilthethrill]

Glad to see Rosamonda back in the lineup...I wonder if he will spy Reilly on certain plays to keep him from using his legs to make plays. Expect Mike Jones to really shore up the run defense to neutralize John White. If we force Reilly to use his arm, we should win today.

[ArgoRavi]

I can't see King even dressing. An import elsewhere in the offence would have to come out and be replaced by a NAT -- only options are Bradwell or Woodson. The Sun speculates we'll see Woodson in some packages but I really doubt we will rotate starters on the o-line.

I agree, Paul. I can't see any scenario in which King even dresses and they have two National backups along the o-line in Mitchell and Sewell. I am starting to think, btw, that we won't be seeing Cory Greenwood in Toronto this season although he would help with ratio flexibility at this point.

[Wobbler]

I can't see King even dressing.
I would not be a big fan of that decision. Smith is really just a backup at this point in his career, and has been injured a few times despite limited use this year. I would sacrifice a bit on offense (e.g. listing Bradwell as the starter again) before doing anything to compromise the OL. We have enough good receivers back that Ray just needs time to find them.

[jerrym]

With Durie injured, the Argos need to use Owens only as a receiver, unlike in BC. They have to minimize the risk of also losing him. Durie's injury could also result in Brazill getting more throws his way as he has shown some promise as a receiver (and returner), although he must hang onto to the ball - something that he failed to do twice in Calgary.

[ArgoRavi]

Glad to see Rosamonda back in the lineup...I wonder if he will spy Reilly on certain plays to keep him from using his legs to make plays.

Rosamonda is one of the two scratches along with King. Luca Congi and Brian Ramsay are scratched for Edmonton.

[jerrym]

Swayze Waters starts his kicking game with another great punt to the Eskimos goal line leaving them at the five after a short return.

[jerrym]

Owens TD! However, the Argos are still using him on punt returns. If he goes down with injury from direct injury on a return or increased wear and tear from all the extra work, the Argo offence could be a repeat of what happened when both Durie and Owens were out of the lineup earlier.

[jerrym]

The Ogopogo Monster (Okanagan Lake's mythical sea dragon) strikes again with another sack.

[jerrym]

Owens scores again! Lets keep playing Groundhog Day all over again. Brazill has already had one catch and had a defensive interference call that set up the Argos on the 15.

[jerrym]

With a 14-0 lead, the Argos refuse to do anything the easy way, giving up a TD on the return, although it sure looked like Lawrence stepped out of bounds.

[jerrym]

Swayze does it again as the Argo ground game shows up.

[jerrym]

Argo fumble followed by an opposition TD. Where have I seen this movie before? Oh yes, the Argos lead the league in fumbles.

[jerrym]

Interception, fumble, kick return for a TD. Mistakes. Mistakes. Mistakes. The story of the Argo season. They should be easily ahead but their errors bite them again and again.

[ArgoRavi]

Owens TD! However, the Argos are still using him on punt returns. If he goes down with injury from direct injury on a return or increased wear and tear from all the extra work, the Argo offence could be a repeat of what happened when both Durie and Owens were out of the lineup earlier.

You can't play this game scared though, Jerry. Owens is an enormous weapon on returns and you just have to use him there. They are no longer using him on kickoff returns.

Turnovers have been the difference between Edmonton and Toronto all season and are the difference so far in this game. Fumbles, in particular, have been an enormous issue for the Argos this season. Anyway, turnovers have accounted for a 10 to 14 point swing in this game in Edmonton's favour. Argos need to win the turnover battle in second half in order to win this game.

[jerrym]

You can't play this game scared though, Jerry. Owens is an enormous weapon on returns and you just have to use him there. They are no longer using him on kickoff returns.

Turnovers have been the difference between Edmonton and Toronto all season and are the difference so far in this game. Fumbles, in particular, have been an enormous issue for the Argos this season. Anyway, turnovers have accounted for a 10 to 14 point swing in this game in Edmonton's favour. Argos need to win the turnover battle in second half in order to win this game.

I don't see quite the acceleration that used to make Owens so dangerous as a kick or punt returner. That's why I think it's better to have him play only at receiver.

[jerrym]

Reilly kept throwing off-balance because of the Argo rush, resulting in the Argo interception on Reilly's third consecutive attempt to do so. You simply can't keep doing that and not expect to be intercepted.

[Wobbler]

I always love it when we throw to a TE (usually Z Robinson). I wish he would learn to just run upfield with the ball and challenge tacklers instead of trying to make them miss, though. He's not going to make anyone miss.

[jerrym]

Ugh! Waters has been great but that missed FG hurt.

[Wobbler]

Um... why did we call a time out before the clock ran all the way down?

[jerrym]

Waters redeems himself with career high 6th FG. Two score game for Edmonton. Edmonton now doing the old Argo dumb and dumber penalty thing.

[jerrym]

The Argos now do the dumb and dumber penalty thing thereby contributing to an Edmonton TD.

[Wobbler]

I'm really impressed with Devon Bailey. Coombs will need to develop rather well in order to justify our draft selection.

[ArgoRavi]

Big win by the Argos. To finish in first I believe that Toronto will need to go at least 5-1 over their last six and at least 4-2 to make the playoffs. This is a good start. This was a funny game in the sense that the Argos seemed to dominate for most of it but let Edmonton hang around until the end. I thought that the Argo coaching staff did a good job getting the team ready to play and made solid adjustments as the game progressed.

Interesting statistical package for today's game: http://www.cfl.ca/statistics/statsGame/id/12779

Only one punt for the Argos which happened on their first possession and zero two and outs. Obviously, they had a very balanced attack and protected Ricky Ray extremely well. The Argos also got three sacks and good pressure on Reilly themselves. Waters was six for seven in FG attempts.

[jerrym]

Emry seemed more involved in the play than in some other games and led the team with 5 tackles.
However, the crowd looked pretty small on TV. Does anybody have the attendance?

[ArgoRavi]

Emry seemed more involved in the play than in some other games and led the team with 5 tackles.
However, the crowd looked pretty small on TV. Does anybody have the attendance?

Attendance was 16,276.

[jerrym]

The Argo ground game was an important part of this victory with both Slaton and Steele breaking runs of over 20 yards and gaining 54 and 56 yards respectively. Anthony Woodson also impressed me (unlike in his sole Argo appearance which was admittedly very limited last year) gaining 18 yards on 3 carries and 23 yards on 3 receptions. His greater bulk also seemed to add an ability to plough through defenders, something the smaller Slaton and Steele have not always displayed.
That's two games in a row where the Argo ground game has gained more than 135 yards. If the Argos can keep up a ground game along with Ray's passing, they could be hard to beat.

[Wobbler]

The most pleasant surprise of the game for me was the play of Anthony Woodson. He looked good! I like his ability to quickly change direction and he his hands were very good for a guy who has caught very few passes in his career. I'd be comfortable giving him Durie's job going forward.

[Will]

Happy with the 2nd half. The Argos could have easily folded their chairs after squandering the 20-7 lead and the Ricky's redzone INT, but the defense stiffened and the Eskimos shot themselves in the foot with enough penalties.

[Argo57]

With a 14-0 lead, the Argos refuse to do anything the easy way, giving up a TD on the return, although it sure looked like Lawrence stepped out of bounds.

The video replay system is a joke!!
Was plain as day that Lawrence's foot was out of bounds but the video replay crew apparently couldn't figure that out.
Might as well scrap it!

[paulwoods13]

Great game to be at once I remembered how to get there (after 48 days away I got lost downtown). Plenty of excitement and crazy happenings, lots of scoring and a tense, down-to-the-wire finish. Despite another small crowd, it was loud in there much of the time.

Ricky was solid except for the INT into double coverage. The o-line was mostly very good and did not miss King. The RBs were excellent, including Woodson who got a game ball. The lack of red-zone production was annoying -- we should have beaten them by at least 10-15 points -- but with Waters we can almost always count on three points from the 40 and in.

We put in a lot of different offensive and defensive packages -- the only guys who saw no action on O or D were Sewell, Herbert, Brown, Adjei and Gillanders. Lots of work for backup NATs: Yurichuk and Hood on D, Woodson, Robinson and Dupuis on O, and a bit for Mitchell. Bradwell and Watt rotated but neither saw a ball and I am starting to think we won't see Watt back next season. We missed Laing but our d-line got stronger as the game went on (as did the entire D). Carter did not play in the second half and did not appear to be on the bench so that is concerning.

Four more wins will pretty well guarantee first place, three more will pretty well guarantee a playoff spot and three might be enough to finish first. It would really help (obviously) if B.C. can hold on to get past the Ticats tonight but that is starting to look unlikely. Regardless, our fate is completely in our own hands.

[ArgoGabe22]

1. How Alex Suber couldn't tackle or push Lawrence out of bounds was a mystery to me. I'm not impressed Suber myself, would rather have Evan McCollough in the lineup.
2. I really wanted to see what the Argos were going to do on that FG audible. I called it as a fake before to my brother as I noticed an unusual hand signal from Daley & Waters.
3. Glad to see Woodson rush the ball a few times except all 3 times was the same play, a draw play. Would love to see him got more carries in the backfield. Slaton had a few good runs.

[paulwoods13]

1. How Alex Suber couldn't tackle or push Lawrence out of bounds was a mystery to me. I'm not impressed Suber myself, would rather have Evan McCollough in the lineup.

Suber has been mostly unimpressive, but I'm not sure McCullough has much left. That's a position we still need to sort out IMO.

[gilthethrill]

The Argos now do the dumb and dumber penalty thing thereby contributing to an Edmonton TD.

If you are referring to the roughing the passer call on Whiteside, there was nothing he could do when Reilly lowered his helmet, thus creating the helmet to helmet contact. Who was the PR player on the Argo sideline that drew the objectionable conduct penalty?

[Argo57]

If you are referring to the roughing the passer call on Whiteside, there was nothing he could do when Reilly lowered his helmet, thus creating the helmet to helmet contact. Who was the PR player on the Argo sideline that drew the objectionable conduct penalty?

Another curious call, I predict we will be watching 2 hand touch or flag football within 5 years if this keeps up.

[ArgoRavi]

The o-line was mostly very good and did not miss King.

Maybe it's just me, Paul, but does the o-line not seem better with Smith in at right guard instead of King? It seems as though the o-line's best games this season have been with Smith at right guard.

[Argo57]

Great game to be at once I remembered how to get there (after 48 days away I got lost downtown). Plenty of excitement and crazy happenings, lots of scoring and a tense, down-to-the-wire finish. Despite another small crowd, it was loud in there much of the time.

Ricky was solid except for the INT into double coverage. The o-line was mostly very good and did not miss King. The RBs were excellent, including Woodson who got a game ball. The lack of red-zone production was annoying -- we should have beaten them by at least 10-15 points -- but with Waters we can almost always count on three points from the 40 and in.

We put in a lot of different offensive and defensive packages -- the only guys who saw no action on O or D were Sewell, Herbert, Brown, Adjei and Gillanders. Lots of work for backup NATs: Yurichuk and Hood on D, Woodson, Robinson and Dupuis on O, and a bit for Mitchell. Bradwell and Watt rotated but neither saw a ball and I am starting to think we won't see Watt back next season. We missed Laing but our d-line got stronger as the game went on (as did the entire D). Carter did not play in the second half and did not appear to be on the bench so that is concerning.

Four more wins will pretty well guarantee first place, three more will pretty well guarantee a playoff spot and three might be enough to finish first. It would really help (obviously) if B.C. can hold on to get past the Ticats tonight but that is starting to look unlikely. Regardless, our fate is completely in our own hands.

Argonauts will need to raise their game this week, Hamilton's defence has looked formidable in the last 2-3 weeks.

[ArgoRavi]

Argonauts will need to raise their game this week, Hamilton's defence has looked formidable in the last 2-3 weeks.

They have but I also think that they haven't been tested as they will be on Friday night. They beat the Argos when the entire receiving corps, save for Barnes, was out, Saskatchewan without Durant and B.C. whose offence has gone AWOL with several injuries and ineffective play by Kevin Glenn. Their most impressive recent win was over Edmonton but let's see how they do against an Argo offence that should be much more formidable than anything that the Ticats have faced in the last few weeks.

[Wobbler]

The o-line was mostly very good and did not miss King.
Agreed - if Smith was a liability it certainly wasn't obvious on TV.

[Will]

I agree that the offensive line played quite well tonight. The Argos rushed for nearly 150 yards, and thus didn't have to win the game through the air. Owens was good once again, but no other receiver really stood out although Barnes and Brazill both drew PI.

Oh and how about Swayze Waters?

[Wobbler]

The video replay system is a joke!!
Was plain as day that Lawrence's foot was out of bounds but the video replay crew apparently couldn't figure that out.
Might as well scrap it!
You must have watched a different replay than I did. I agree with the refs - there was no video evidence to overturn the line judge's decision.

[ArgoRavi]

You must have watched a different replay than I did. I agree with the refs - there was no video evidence to overturn the line judge's decision.

They didn't have good enough camera angles on either that play or the controversial Watkins interference early in the game. I am fairly certain, btw, that Watkins did tug on Brazill's jersey on that play but we needed a reverse angle which TSN did not have. The Argos still got the call on that anyway and it wasn't like Watkins argued the call which I thought was telling.

[Argo57]

You must have watched a different replay than I did. I agree with the refs - there was no video evidence to overturn the line judge's decision.

Yeah I guess I did as well as a decent chunk of the crowd that watched the replay and loudly voiced their displeasure as well.

[Wobbler]

I was surprised that Watkins drew a PI call on the play at 8:23; it seemed like a gift to us (based on the TSN stream). Kendial Lawrence's kick return TD was the result of weak coverage on our part. *Maybe* he barely stepped out of bounds at one point, but the video evidence was amazingly weak.

[Argo57]

I was surprised that Watkins drew a PI call on the play at 8:23; it seemed like a gift to us (based on the TSN stream). Kendial Lawrence's kick return TD was the result of weak coverage on our part. *Maybe* he barely stepped out of bounds at one point, but the video evidence was amazingly weak.

That I do agree on Wobbler, I was surprised on the kick return that they only had the cross field shot. The Watkins call was weak at best for sure.

[paulwoods13]

Agreed - if Smith was a liability it certainly wasn't obvious on TV.

Yes, I agree as well. The o-line seems to work best with Smith at RG.

[ArgoFan1]

I wonder if the television crew gets the same shots that we see in the stadium, because it was very obvious that he stepped out of bounds on that kick return. I spoke with my son who was watching it at home and he said you could not tell on the television replay because there were people in the way. All the refs had to do was watch the replay on the Jumbotron at the game and there was no question.

[ArgoGabe22]

Even if he did go out of bounds on the kick return, it doesn't excuse the poor coverage/tackling on the kickoff.

I thought the two PI calls were very generous. I think some minimal contact like a hand on the player is alright as long as it didn't stop the player from making the play. In soccer, players are grabbing on corner kicks all the time, although technically a foul.

Whiteside's sack had to be called although what could have he done to avoid it when Reilly dropped his helmet? At least he didn't get tossed from the game like Kuale did.

[paulwoods13]

In my mind the replay shown on the scoreboard did not conclusively prove he stepped out of bounds. It sure appeared to be the case, but it was not what I would consider conclusive. We could not definitively tell that his shoe was on the stripe. The replays we saw in-game also showed Watkins did not appear to even touch Brazill, so both teams seemed to catch fairly even breaks on replay review.

I had a mild argument with someone after the game on whether the rulebook says a player who dips his head and subsequently gets hit in the head is fair game for a head shot. I find it hard to believe that is the case, but he claimed to know it is. Can anyone shed more light on this?

[argolio]

I had a mild argument with someone after the game on whether the rulebook says a player who dips his head and subsequently gets hit in the head is fair game for a head shot. I find it hard to believe that is the case, but he claimed to know it is. Can anyone shed more light on this?I think it's ambiguous, and in the case of a pass rusher they favour the quarterback.

[Wobbler]

I had a mild argument with someone after the game on whether the rulebook says a player who dips his head and subsequently gets hit in the head is fair game for a head shot. I find it hard to believe that is the case, but he claimed to know it is. Can anyone shed more light on this?
According to the rule book (http://cfldb.ca/rulebook/fouls-and-penalties/major-fouls/) in Rule 7 section 2 article 4, "(b) Any blow above the passer's shoulder" and "(f) Contacting the passer if either the initial source of contact, or primary source of contact, is the defender's helmet" are causes for a roughing the passer penalty. There is no exception in the rules for any head movement on the part of the passer.

[doubleblue]

I didn't have any argument on the helmet to helmet hit on the QB. But way too many calls made. The owners have to get their heads together with Johnson and get this straightened out. People aren't paying money to see a official show every game. Too many grey areas being called IMO.

[jerrym]

Carter did not play in the second half and did not appear to be on the bench so that is concerning.


I agree as Jalil has improved tremendously since he first arrived in 2012 and will definitely be missed if his injury causes him to miss games.

[paulwoods13]

According to the rule book (http://cfldb.ca/rulebook/fouls-and-penalties/major-fouls/) in Rule 7 section 2 article 4, "(b) Any blow above the passer's shoulder" and "(f) Contacting the passer if either the initial source of contact, or primary source of contact, is the defender's helmet" are causes for a roughing the passer penalty. There is no exception in the rules for any head movement on the part of the passer.

Thanks. That is what I thought.

[Al&Kat]

thank you Argos for a terrific afternoon's entertainment, the game had everything you could ask for. Including dramatic ending.

as for attendance, as a fan who travels over 100km to attend faithfully, it's a matter of priority, sure the home theatre experience is awesome and there are many roadblocks to attending, but I just really really want to be there to yell my head off and cheer on our guys!!
I want them to know we appreciate their efforts (but not their blunders) and they have us backing them all the way.

[ArgoRavi]

I agree as Jalil has improved tremendously since he first arrived in 2012 and will definitely be missed if his injury causes him to miss games.

I wonder if his injury wasn't a head one considering that he did not return to the sidelines. Does anyone recall seeing him being helped off the field at any point. I agree that his loss would be a significant one as he has developed into a fine DB.

[Argocister]

thank you Argos for a terrific afternoon's entertainment, the game had everything you could ask for. Including dramatic ending.

as for attendance, as a fan who travels over 100km to attend faithfully, it's a matter of priority, sure the home theatre experience is awesome and there are many roadblocks to attending, but I just really really want to be there to yell my head off and cheer on our guys!!
I want them to know we appreciate their efforts (but not their blunders) and they have us backing them all the way.

Same ..... For for the travel
Same ...... For the yelling ! I'm sure we caused a couple of procedures!
Even though the crowd was 16 thousand whatever, it was a rowdy crowd! I liked it and that was for Edmonton!
I hope we can get a very loud crowd for Friday's game as the cat fans will be out in big numbers ..... And they're usually loud!

On this game ...... My 2 cents .....
I thought the Oline did a good job
Loved Brazills catches
Woodson was very good, I look forward to seeing him develop over the years
Thank you Chad!.... His play and enthusiasm is great to watch.
Thank you Swayze ..... With this game following his goat debut he could have quite the following

Thank you Ricky and the team for showing us an exciting game and most of all for keeping the western team down for the win!

One question ........ On the supposed fake field goal ..... That didn't happen ...... Was Harris and team just too slow in getting into formation or did Milanovich see something he didn't like in the Eskies formation?

[gilthethrill]

I think it's ambiguous, and in the case of a pass rusher they favour the quarterback.

In hockey players will turn their backs in order to draw a "Hitting from behind penalty". Reilly knew he was going to be sacked. Maybe he lowered his head in order to keep the drive alive. Players must learn how to tackle, but they also have to learn how to be tackled.

[ArgoRavi]

One question ........ On the supposed fake field goal ..... That didn't happen ...... Was Harris and team just too slow in getting into formation or did Milanovich see something he didn't like in the Eskies formation?

It was either the latter or the intent may have been to try to draw Edmonton offside. It looked like Harris set everything up in ample time.


In hockey players will turn their backs in order to draw a "Hitting from behind penalty". Reilly knew he was going to be sacked. Maybe he lowered his head in order to keep the drive alive. Players must learn how to tackle, but they also have to learn how to be tackled.

I am thinking that it is instinct to lower your head when you have someone or something barrelling down on you. I can't imagine that anyone would willingly take a helmet-to-helmet hit to keep a drive going.

[AngeloV]

I'm really impressed with Devon Bailey. Coombs will need to develop rather well in order to justify our draft selection.

Not a fair comparison. They play different positions and Coombs is obviously someone they look to one day replace the 33 year old Durie.

[AngeloV]

If you are referring to the roughing the passer call on Whiteside, there was nothing he could do when Reilly lowered his helmet, thus creating the helmet to helmet contact. Who was the PR player on the Argo sideline that drew the objectionable conduct penalty?

I honestly thought it was the right call. Reilly didn't duck that far. There would have been helmet to helmet contact there regardless of whether or not he was in the process of ducking.

[Wobbler]

Not a fair comparison. They play different positions and Coombs is obviously someone they look to one day replace the 33 year old Durie.
It's an entirely fair comparison: both are players we could have drafted in the first round. We may have had a specific job in mind for Coombs, but we would have found a place for Bailey too (i.e. Watt's spot).

[paulwoods13]

Coombs has played what, five or so games? I agree it will be fair to compare guys from the same draft eventually -- like three or four years down the road -- but at this moment I am satisfied we took Coombs instead of Bailey.

[AngeloV]

It's an entirely fair comparison: both are players we could have drafted in the first round. We may have had a specific job in mind for Coombs, but we would have found a place for Bailey too (i.e. Watt's spot).

No it's not, because in this case, I believe the Argos were looking for a specific position, and WR was not it. Furthermore, why would you draft a wide side receiver in the first round, when it is the least used offensive position on most, if not all CFL offences?

[AngeloV]

1. How Alex Suber couldn't tackle or push Lawrence out of bounds was a mystery to me. I'm not impressed Suber myself, would rather have Evan McCollough in the lineup.


I don't get the hate on some Argos fans have for Suber. I haven't seen him getting beat all over the field, the way I saw McCollough getting beat last year in Hamilton.

[ArgoGabe22]

I don't get the hate on some Argos fans have for Suber. I haven't seen him getting beat all over the field, the way I saw McCollough getting beat last year in Hamilton.

I have seen Suber get beat many times vs Calgary. I only watched the highlights but he was always the guy on the big plays. McCullough had a bad year in Hamilton but a very good one in Toronto before that so I think he still has something left in the tank. Suber was a healthy scratch in WPG all season I believe so that might say something with what Osh thinks.

I still cannot believe how he couldn't Lawrence. Now, that has nothing to do with pass coverage but I still don't know how he missed him.

[Wobbler]

No it's not, because in this case, I believe the Argos were looking for a specific position, and WR was not it. Furthermore, why would you draft a wide side receiver in the first round, when it is the least used offensive position on most, if not all CFL offences?
I get what you're saying, but I don't buy the idea that because we drafted the most Durie-like guy available that means we automatically made the right choice. If Bailey turns out to be a significantly more effective player, then the right move would have been to adapt our strategy. For the record I like Coombs - it's just that Bailey looks terrific for a rookie who hasn't played much.

[ArgoRavi]

I get what you're saying, but I don't buy the idea that because we drafted the most Durie-like guy available that means we automatically made the right choice. If Bailey turns out to be a significantly more effective player, then the right move would have been to adapt our strategy. For the record I like Coombs - it's just that Bailey looks terrific for a rookie who hasn't played much.

I wouldn't say that Bailey has been "terrific" but he hasn't looked out of place for a rookie. He has 11 catches for 145 yards with his longest catch being 32 yards. I don't think that Bailey has been any more effective than Coombs was when he played.

[Will]

I get what you're saying, but I don't buy the idea that because we drafted the most Durie-like guy available that means we automatically made the right choice. If Bailey turns out to be a significantly more effective player, then the right move would have been to adapt our strategy. For the record I like Coombs - it's just that Bailey looks terrific for a rookie who hasn't played much.

It's hard to compare the two when Coombs is on the IR. It wasn't as if Coombs hadn't shown promise before his injury either.

[Argocister]

I get what you're saying, but I don't buy the idea that because we drafted the most Durie-like guy available that means we automatically made the right choice. If Bailey turns out to be a significantly more effective player, then the right move would have been to adapt our strategy. For the record I like Coombs - it's just that Bailey looks terrific for a rookie who hasn't played much.

At the time of the draft, Coombs was the best player to be had.... Especially since we know that Milanovich wanted him .
Bailey , on the other hand, just started that position within the last year or so. He even mentioned on his interview that he had to learn how to run routes and get away from the coverage.
So knowledge wise, I say Coombs was the right choice. .... Especially now we know how difficult it is for receivers to learn the Argos offensive system.
Also, if Coombs was able to play all this season I would bet he is miles ahead of Bailey .... Nothing against Bailey... Maybe further down the draft he would have been good, but not to replace Coombs on the draft board.
My 2 cents

[Argo]

Drafting Coombs is hardly a problem!
It would have been great to have also had the opportunity / done something to also draft Bailey. IMHO, Bailey looks like an A+ non-import WR in the making.

[AngeloV]

Drafting Coombs is hardly a problem!
It would have been great to have also had the opportunity / done something to also draft Bailey. IMHO, Bailey looks like an A+ non-import WR in the making.

So did Akeem Foster in his rookie season.

[jerrym]

I am thinking that it is instinct to lower your head when you have someone or something barrelling down on you. I can't imagine that anyone would willingly take a helmet-to-helmet hit to keep a drive going.

Especially today when players know the potential career-ending and life-long brain damage effects of concussions.

[Argo]

Especially today when players know the potential career-ending and life-long brain damage effects of concussions.

Knowing what we know now, participation in sports like football, boxing, MMA, etc. is clearly hazardous.

http://www.motherjones.com/media/2014/10/80-percent-former-football-players-traumatic-brain-injury