July 31, 2016: Argonauts @ REDBLACKS game thread

[PullTogether73]

Henry Burris starts for Ottawa.
Logan Kilgore starts for Toronto.

Let the discussion begin!

[mchesher03]

any way you look at it - will be a tough game. Hopefully our kicker (not even going to attempt that spelling) picks up his game a little after Monday's mess.

[R.J]

^ I agree; we'll be in for a tough one. I still have faith in Lirim Hajrullahu; he's a very good kicker and for the most part has done well this season.

[Mightygoose]

Just to think, 5 days ago I was looking at this game thinking 'they're reeling'...oh how the tables have turned.

Hope the RedBlacks take us lightly and we can stay perfect for the road. We'll be up there in enemy territory!

[ArgoTD]

This will be a challenging game and while I want them to win, I also think they need to look at the big picture and not place Kilgore in a position where he is set up to fail which could destroy his confidence. Let him get his feet wet, develop a little confidence with some high % passes and work in a run game much like they did against Montreal. If (and it's a big if) the D can play strong and force Burris into one of his "Bad Hank" gamers and the special teams improve, they might have a shot.

[gilthethrill]

I imagine the Argos will continue with their possession/ball control offence like they did against Montreal. If Kilgore and the offence can stay away from turnovers, they should win. Burris could not beat the Argos last year despite putting up big numbers.

[ArgoZ]

The wife and I are making the road trip to the game. Perfect long weekend Sunday game time. Anyone else attending? Come see Logan Kilgore get his first win! It will be my first time at the new TD place and we will be sitting on the new side, behind the Argos. I'm thinking Clocktower Brew Pub before the game. Any tips or needed info on game day would be appreciated.

[ArgoGabe22]

I'll be in attendance as well. I've been to TD place before but as a neutral fan.

I actually walked to the stadium from my hotel. It didn't seem that far and the buses were packed.

[AngeloV]

The wife and I are making the road trip to the game. Perfect long weekend Sunday game time. Anyone else attending? Come see Logan Kilgore get his first win! It will be my first time at the new TD place and we will be sitting on the new side, behind the Argos. I'm thinking Clocktower Brew Pub before the game. Any tips or needed info on game day would be appreciated.


I'll be in attendance as well. I've been to TD place before but as a neutral fan.

I actually walked to the stadium from my hotel. It didn't seem that far and the buses were packed.

Nice. I thought about it as I am on vacation after the game, but decided with the bye week to take a trip instead.

[ArgoGabe22]

Nice. I thought about it as I am on vacation after the game, but decided with the bye week to take a trip instead.

I tried squeezing in the Als game but couldn't. The hotels must of been prepared for Rider Nation with a huge price increase over the weekend. Or its for Just For Laughs?

[1argoholic]

So close yet so far. Having to watch money blows. My wife is now talking about cancelling the internet. Hard to start my company over. I drive to Ottawa from here would be beautiful but I guess will have to wait until Grey Cup 2017. I hope it's there.

[Will]

I liked our chances better with having to face Jensen, but with Burris--not so much.

[Jayahre]

The wife and I are making the road trip to the game. Perfect long weekend Sunday game time. Anyone else attending? Come see Logan Kilgore get his first win! It will be my first time at the new TD place and we will be sitting on the new side, behind the Argos. I'm thinking Clocktower Brew Pub before the game. Any tips or needed info on game day would be appreciated.

Clocktower is a bit of a walk, you might want to try one of the new pubs or restaurants that are on the grounds at Lansdowne Jack Astors, Milestones, Craft Beer Market.

http://lansdownelive.ca/

[R.J]

I liked our chances better with having to face Jensen, but with Burris--not so much.
Hopefully we end up facing Bad Hank instead of Good Hank.

[Scooter McCray]

The Argo defence looks like it is starting to come along. It has had steady progression all season long. I expect them to play Ottawa's offence tough, playing a good road game. It will come down to how long they stay on the field. If the Argo offence is unable to put drives together then the defence will begin to wear down. Hopefully we get good special teams play as well. If we get good D and good ST, then all Logan has to do is manage the game and the team will have a chance.

[gilthethrill]

Originally I thought the game kicked off at 6:30 but now it appears to be a 7:30 start.

[mchesher03]

there are many paths to an Argonaut loss on Sunday, however there is a path to victory:
- Bad Hank - Burris under pressure, making shaky decisions and being out of sorts with his receivers. Remember they’ve had a few weeks of touch passing Harris and just a week of practice back with gun slinging hank. Maybe it shows?
- D-Line has to get pressure on hank, no question – help the DBs out, Ottawa’s receivers are good
- Offense – time of possession – argos dominated this against montreal and kept our D fresh, move the sticks by whatever means necessary and keep hank and co off the field
- Receivers – anything near last game would be fantastic – some great catches last week really helped out ricky and the offence
- Durie – definitely noticed his increased “usage” last week – a yac type guy like him is just what the doctor ordered for a backup qb like Kilgore
- Anything new on the injury front? Guess we’ll find out with the depth chart tomorrow

[ArgoZ]

Clocktower is a bit of a walk, you might want to try one of the new pubs or restaurants that are on the grounds at Lansdowne Jack Astors, Milestones, Craft Beer Market.

http://lansdownelive.ca/

Will definitely check out the shops around the stadium. Free city bus with a ticket, so Clocktower is on the way from our Hotel downtown. Their different craft beers also look great.

[1argoholic]

Kilgore struggles and looks uncomfortable so finally Milo puts in Fajardo who looks calm and confident and runs like the wind. Ottawa doesn't know what to make of this big strong qb who can run, pass on the run or drop back and pass. The Argos win because of Fajardo and the rest of the league think Barker has developed into the qb guru. You heard it here first. Your welcome!!!!

[marcwagz]

i got a nice new hat for free from that Argos all access program, cost me 2000 points.

Hope Ray is back for the edmonton game on the 20th which is the next game I'll attend

hopefully kilgore is a pleasant surprise.

[Double Dare]

Kilgore struggles and looks uncomfortable so finally Milo puts in Fajardo who looks calm and confident and runs like the wind. Ottawa doesn't know what to make of this big strong qb who can run, pass on the run or drop back and pass. The Argos win because of Fajardo and the rest of the league think Barker has developed into the qb guru. You heard it here first. Your welcome!!!!And they erect statues of you and Fajardo outside of BMO.

[1argoholic]

hahahaha. See how everything works out. I'll be a statue for Gulls to crap on.

[Wobbler]

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">The <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Argos?src=hash">#Argos</a> depth chart for Week 6 at Ottawa.<br><br>On: McPherson (6G), Miles (PR)<br>Off: Bates (6G), Ray (6G)<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CFL?src=hash">#CFL</a> <a href="https://t.co/V2M52XJOXd">pic.twitter.com/V2M52XJOXd</a></p>&mdash; Toronto Argonauts PR (@Argonauts_PR) <a href="https://twitter.com/Argonauts_PR/status/759404358949896192">July 30, 2016</a></blockquote>
<script async src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

[Wobbler]

Only seven NAT starters listed - haven't seen that in a while.

[ArgoRavi]

I'll be in attendance as well. I've been to TD place before but as a neutral fan.

I actually walked to the stadium from my hotel. It didn't seem that far and the buses were packed.

I will be attending this one too. I have a good feeling that we will see an Argos victory on Sunday.

[Ron]

I have a good feeling that we will see an Argos victory on Sunday.

It would offer more comfort if you didn't always say that. ;)

[ArgoRavi]

It would offer more comfort if you didn't always say that. ;)

Good point! :D

[OV Argo]

Only seven NAT starters listed - haven't seen that in a while.

Yeah - but give a gob an excuse and they'll gladly defer to that thinking. Rather see Greenwood back at OLB with Miles at MLB; maybe they think Issac can do a job covering Ottawa receivers, but I don't like the potential outcome there, and Ottawa will bring the run game some when they think it can work - like against under-sized OLBs maybe; could also be giving Llevi Noel a shot at starting in the receiving corps over an average at best Miles. Gordon an upgrade at safety (better called IMO by it's old name rover)- a |Canadian football position that new imports often just don't get -, over a vastly more experienced Black ? - we shall see.

[Wobbler]

I think the lineup looks fine; we're OK with 7 NIs since we have several guys who can sub in if needed. The apparent plan to start Gordon is interesting; Black is a pretty mediocre safety IMO, and trying someone else there until Gabriel comes back seems like a reasonable idea.

[1argoholic]

If the D tackles we should be able to stand a chance. We let short passes turn into very long runs last time we played them. They made Ellingson look like a Hall of Famer.

[paulwoods13]

Depth charts have proven to be far from accurate this season. Unless he's nursing an injury (and he WAS nicked up last week missing a couple of series), I bet Black still starts at safety, and we still start at least eight NATs.

[Mightygoose]

Just ran into Copeland and his family at the Byward. Plus lots of players grabbing breakfast at Zak's (couldn't tell which ones from a distance).

The Argos have invaded

[ArgoZ]

Just ran into Copeland and his family at the Byward. Plus lots of players grabbing breakfast at Zak's (couldn't tell which ones from a distance).

The Argos have invaded

I saw some fans wearing their Argo gear around Parliament (Changing the Gaurd) this morning too! Beautiful day.

[Wobbler]

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Scratches: <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Argos?src=hash">#Argos</a> G.Van Roten, J. Campbell. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Redblacks?src=hash">#Redblacks</a> K. Paden, L. Cohen. Sean McEwen makes first <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CFL?src=hash">#CFL</a> start at center.</p>&mdash; Mike Hogan (@tsnmikehogan) <a href="https://twitter.com/tsnmikehogan/status/759882454475890688">July 31, 2016</a></blockquote>
<script async src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Not the worst time for McEwan get a start - we can evaluate our future QB/C combo!

[1argoholic]

Delays because of golf. TSN you are horrible.

[Wobbler]

Orridge is announcing that Ottawa (as expected) is getting the 2017 GC game. That's the delay as far I can see.

[1argoholic]

TSN was golf, 2 was TFC and 3 was golf. Finally the pregame came on. Ottawa baby, I Love It!!! Two very close Grey Cups in a row.

[Wobbler]

No issues with the snaps so far. Welcome to the CFL, Sean McEwan!

[1argoholic]

Not a good trend for Kilgore running backwards.

[Wobbler]

We really didn't need a line drive punt there, LH.

[Shipyard]

Argos unis look sharp tonite IMO. Small tweaks this season make them look really good.
I like the white helmets on the road permanently this season.


only remaining tweak, they should go with the bigger logo on the home helmets and oxford facemasks.

[Shipyard]

INT heath

[Wobbler]

I think it's official: TJ Heath is a ball-hawk.

[1argoholic]

I could see Heath closing and I yelled pick before he snatched that. Sweet, thanks Bad Hank.

[1argoholic]

My wife was talking about loving the dark pants. The uni does look great.

[Wobbler]

I'm kinda surprised we didn't go for it there. It was like... 1.2 yards. Maybe better to take the points and strategize with Kilgore on the sidelines though.

[Argo57]

We need a legit kick/punt returning threat.

[Wobbler]

That was a very poor punt "return" by Taylor. You can just start running upfield (my preference) or try cutting it outside (which works sometimes), but you absolutely can't JUST STAND THERE after catching the damned ball.

We can't risk an injury to Wylie right now, but... who else have we got?

[Argo57]

What kind of spot was that??

[1argoholic]

Greenwood hits like a 3/4 ton pickup.

[Argo57]

That was a very poor punt "return" by Taylor. You can just start running upfield (my preference) or try cutting it outside (which works sometimes), but you absolutely can't JUST STAND THERE after catching the damned ball.

We can't risk an injury to Wylie right now, but... who else have we got?

Unfortunately our options are limited at best.

[Wobbler]

Dammit - that's a TD.

Edit: I'm happy to be wrong!!

[Argo57]

The officials got it right, Rod Black and Forde failed to notice the ball clearly hitting the turf during their gushing over the "catch".

[Wobbler]

Whoa! Drama!

I love that the RBs tried that - the CFL needs more trick plays!

[Wobbler]

Rod Black and Forde failed to notice the ball clearly hitting the turf during their gushing over the "catch".
I'm with Black and Forde - that was an exciting play.

[Wobbler]

Nice break by AJ. Wouldn't have been an INT even if he had caught it, so no harm done. The D has been terrific today!

[Wobbler]

Kilgore and Hazelton are just not on the same page. More passes to Wylie, please.

[tennyis]

Wouldn't mind seeing a QB change at half time... Kilgore isn't getting it done

[Wobbler]

Oops. That's why you pressure the kicker.

[Wobbler]

Wouldn't mind seeing a QB change at half time... Kilgore isn't getting it done
Keep dreaming.

[Neely2005]

Well that certainly wasn't an Argonauts bounce.

[Argo57]

Pretty shit display of football by Toronto in the last minute or so.

[1argoholic]

You can't keep giving Hank chances.

Oh shit huge mistake Kilgore.

[Argo57]

I'm with Black and Forde - that was an exciting play.

That's great but not a catch.

[tennyis]

Keep dreaming.

Sorry I should have asked you first before posting

[Neely2005]

Stubler losing it.

[Neely2005]

Well where is everyone who always complains about Ray checking down?

[Argo57]

Stubler losing it.

He should, his defence has a habit of forgetting how to tackle at the most crucial times!

[Argo57]

Kilgore hasn't looked good throwing the deep ball tonight.

[Wobbler]

Sorry I should have asked you first before posting
Don't forget next time.

[1argoholic]

Why do we always get stuck with Black? He makes watching our games a terrible experience. He's got diarrhea of the mouth and just talks crap.

[Neely2005]

Kilgore hasn't looked good throwing the deep ball tonight.

Agreed, he keeps overthrowing it or is throwing into coverage. He's lucky that he's only thrown 1 interception. There's a reason that Ray checks down.

[Stevoman]

Bad break on the punt that led to the TD and Kilgore's pick at the end. Otherwise the D is playing well and if Jefferson and Raymond would've held on, the Argos could've been well out in front. Hazleton has also dropped too many. Gotta help Kilgore out more.

[tennyis]

Agreed, he keeps overthrowing it or is throwing into coverage. He's lucky that he's only thrown 1 interception. There's a reason that Ray checks down.

He's been awful.. VERY lucky it was only 1 INT.

Burris hasn't been good either but it seemed like towards the end of the half he was starting to get his game back.. we are going to need a much better 2nd half

[Will]

It's gonna be a long two weeks on here if this keeps up.

[tennyis]

Don't forget next time.

What a wonderful community we have here!

[Will]

Stubler losing it.

He knows his team can't afford to give up too many points :p

[Argo57]

Agreed, he keeps overthrowing it or is throwing into coverage. He's lucky that he's only thrown 1 interception. There's a reason that Ray checks down.

At least a couple of his throws have essentially been a jump ball between the receiver and DB.

[Argo57]

On a side note the old Ottawa Jerseys worn by the 76 team members look great!

[Will]

On a side note the old Ottawa Jerseys worn by the 76 team members look great!

I'm surprised Saskatchewan let them do that!

[1argoholic]

Time to put in Fajardo. haha.

[Shipyard]

great throw

[Argo57]

Like I said Kilgore throws a nice deep ball!!

[Will]

All righty then

[Neely2005]

That was a nice drive by both Kilgore and Fajardo.

[1argoholic]

Nice pass and catch and way to stand in there Kilgore. He got rocked.

[Wobbler]

Oh, man. That was such a great series. We went for it (creatively) on third and two, then made it count. I like this team.

[1argoholic]

This is our game for the taking.

[1argoholic]

Yacity Yac Yards.. really Black? CRAAAP!

Well that didn't last.

[Wobbler]

OK, yeah, that was a "panicky rookie" pass. Keep working, Kilgore!

[1argoholic]

I guess Kilgore doesn't feel comfortable with tucking and running. He keeps running backwards.

[Will]

I guess Kilgore doesn't feel comfortable with tucking and running. He keeps running backwards.

I don't think mobility is one of his attributes as a QB.

[1argoholic]

We want this!! Nice kick Liam!

[1argoholic]

Courtice Ontario is halfway between TO and Ottawa according to Rod Black the geography major. WHAT A TOOL! Courtice is basically GTA. All game long my wife says shut up Rod.

[1argoholic]

Ball looked tipped before it got to Elligson. No pass interference in my books.

[1argoholic]

I'm starting to like this Kilgore. The kid has a rifle for an arm but can drop in the deep ball.

[Ron]

All game long my wife says shut up Rod.

You're nickname is Rod? ;)

[Ron]

Can't blame Kilgore on that INT. That was a hell of a tip

[Will]

Gonna be a cardiac finish

[Ron]

Whoo whoo!

[Stevoman]

Kilgore did well but Whitaker is the player of this game. Great road win!

[1argoholic]

Hell yah!!!! Kilgore was solid. Barker keeps finding talent. We've found our solid second down receiver in Wylie who kept getting open. D played GREAT all in all. Good fun game. How about Hajrullahu (not sure that's right) who was great.

[Wobbler]

Sean McEwan had a very nice first CFL game. I only saw one missed block, and the snaps (to a new QB!) were almost perfect.

[Will]

Henry Burris might have been back in the lineup a little early, but nice job by the Argos defence tonight.

Plus Hajrullahu was $$$ tonight.

[paulwoods13]

We had some terrible breaks go against us tonight, including a couple very late in the game, and still gutted out a win. Really proud of the team. An all-around team effort, solid in all three phases. If we had a better kick return game, we could become a dominant team.

Nothing really to criticize Kilgore for tonight. He started a bit slow and lacked mustard on some early deep passes, but he played better and better as the game went on, and looked supremely confident out there. A fabulous start to his career.

Don't look now but we may have the best defence in the CFL. Certainly top three. Our DBs and LBs are really playing well, even though we dropped two picks. Absolutely love Greenwood in the middle, but we are also playing a lot of 3-4 with either Ellsworth or a down lineman dropping into the middle.

[paulwoods13]

Sean McEwan had a very nice first CFL game. I only saw one missed block, and the snaps (to a new QB!) were almost perfect.

Yeah, he was very, very good. Showed a lot of confidence with his signal-calling coming out of the huddle.

[Neely2005]

First place!
:-)

[Wobbler]

Well said, Paul. This was a great win!

[ArgoZ]

Celebrating the win at Craft Beer Market in Ottawa: ARRRRGOOOOS!
The tackling was awesome tonight. Kilgore would have looked better had Hazelton pulled some more catches in. I'd like to thank Ravi and myself for predicting the win. :D

[Stevoman]

Interestingly we won with almost our "B" offence. There is some great depth at receiver. I look forward to having Gurley, Elliot, and Spencer back but Wylie and Shaw have been very solid.

[ArgoGabe22]

1) Why the change at centre? Nothing against McEwan, I just thought we would've heard something is this was planned ahead of time. But of course, everything is a big secret these days.

2) How bad is Gurley's injury if he was placed on the 6 game injured list? Another big secret...

3) How was that a PI call against Berry? That to me is football and is the job of the DB. I hate that it can be challenged and broken down into freeze frame in order for it to be called a PI. Yes, there may have been contact before the ball but if its not obvious to the human eye, then it shouldn't really be called. Ottawa fans were going crazy like it was so funny obvious but I was watching the reply on the video board and still couldn't see it. Maybe I'm just bias?

Ottawa is a great city for football. The development around Landsdowne is really looking to take shape. And I guess the Glebe isn't too bad either. Better than Liberty Village IMO.

[Shipyard]

although hank was brutal tonite

[Will]

although hank was brutal tonite

Yeah, but since the 42 points surrendered vs Hamilton the Argos D have given up 17, 14, 23 (there was a punt return), 17 and 20 points respectively. Not too shabby!

[Will]

Milanovich really needs to start taking allergy medication.

[ArgoRavi]

Wouldn't mind seeing a QB change at half time... Kilgore isn't getting it done

Even at the half, I thought that Kilgore had been playing okay even though the Argos only had 4 points on the board. The only play I didn't like tonight that he made was the INT at the end of the first half with the Argos in FG position. Otherwise, I thought he played well and got better as the night progressed. The offence ran 77 plays, put up 400 yards in total offence and had an 8 minute advantage IIRC in time of possession.

Anyway, a QB change at the half certainly didn't cross my mind.

[ArgoRavi]

3) How was that a PI call against Berry? That to me is football and is the job of the DB. I hate that it can be challenged and broken down into freeze frame in order for it to be called a PI. Yes, there may have been contact before the ball but if its not obvious to the human eye, then it shouldn't really be called. Ottawa fans were going crazy like it was so funny obvious but I was watching the reply on the video board and still couldn't see it. Maybe I'm just bias?

Ottawa is a great city for football. The development around Landsdowne is really looking to take shape. And I guess the Glebe isn't too bad either. Better than Liberty Village IMO.

I had the same perception of the situation around that supposed PI as you did. Duane Forde said something a couple of weeks back that if you have to go frame by frame to see whether a play is PI or not, it shouldn't be called and I tend to agree. That PI on Berry didn't look like PI to me either and I too was bemused by the reaction of the Ottawa fans who seemed to think it was an obvious call.

Things have really built up around Lansdowne just in the past two years. It is amazing what that area has become after all of the years spent arguing about it in Ottawa.

[Will]

Even at the half, I thought that Kilgore had been playing okay even though the Argos only had 4 points on the board. The only play I didn't like tonight that he made was the INT at the end of the first half with the Argos in FG position. Otherwise, I thought he played well and got better as the night progressed. The offence ran 77 plays, put up 400 yards in total offence and had an 8 minute advantage IIRC in time of possession.

Anyway, a QB change at the half certainly didn't cross my mind.

I never entertained the possibility of a QB change either. The game was 7-4 at that stage and while Kilgore did throw an ill-advised interception late in that half I also knew that (i) McPherson is not an option at this point and (ii) Fajardo is even more raw than Kilgore.

I was, to be honest, skeptical of the Argos' chances in this game, but the defence played well and Ravi raises a good point. The Argos (perhaps quietly) put up 400 yards of offence with Kilgore being the first Argo QB to throw for 300+ yards this season.

[Ron]

Interestingly we won with almost our "B" offence. There is some great depth at receiver. I look forward to having Gurley, Elliot, and Spencer back but Wylie and Shaw have been very solid.

Gurley and Elliot getting hurt is the best thing to happen to this offense. Always felt the Argos "Big 3" were too many of the same type. Wylie and Shaw are faster and quicker types that get open a lot more than G&E and are a big reason we got more than 400 yards.

[Argo57]

Gurley and Elliot getting hurt is the best thing to happen to this offense. Always felt the Argos "Big 3" were too many of the same type. Wylie and Shaw are faster and quicker types that get open a lot more than G&E and are a big reason we got more than 400 yards.

That's how I see it as well Ron, both guys have some speed and elusiveness which is lacking when the "Big 3" are in there.
There is also seems to be less hot dogging and BS after the catch with this current lineup, particularly Wylie who seems happy to be playing.

[gilthethrill]

Our front 7 is very very good. Ken Bishop is having a nice season. Our receiving core is very deep, even Wallace Miles did some nice things last night. Kilgore did a good job with the ball control offense as it had the ball over 34 minutes. Always nice to go into a bye week with a win...being in 1st is an added bonus. GVR rolled an ankle against Montreal, it flared up Monday so McEwen was announced starter about an hour prior to the game. He should remain the starting C.

[Double Dare]

Good game, but still not a GREAT game, a win is a win!

[Argo57]

We had some terrible breaks go against us tonight, including a couple very late in the game, and still gutted out a win. Really proud of the team. An all-around team effort, solid in all three phases. If we had a better kick return game, we could become a dominant team.

Nothing really to criticize Kilgore for tonight. He started a bit slow and lacked mustard on some early deep passes, but he played better and better as the game went on, and looked supremely confident out there. A fabulous start to his career.

Don't look now but we may have the best defence in the CFL. Certainly top three. Our DBs and LBs are really playing well, even though we dropped two picks. Absolutely love Greenwood in the middle, but we are also playing a lot of 3-4 with either Ellsworth or a down lineman dropping into the middle.

Great way to go into a bye week, Greenwood does look great in the middle, he has great size, speed and tremendous pursuit.
Hits like a Mack truck as well which doesn't hurt as well, I hope they leave him there.

[ArgoZ]

Game Balls!
https://www.facebook.com/ArgosFootball/videos/1263277100371562/

[Wobbler]

1) Why the change at centre? Nothing against McEwan, I just thought we would've heard something is this was planned ahead of time. But of course, everything is a big secret these days.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Van Roten has a minor injury, should be back next game. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Argos?src=hash">#Argos</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CFL?src=hash">#CFL</a></p>&mdash; Mike Hogan (@tsnmikehogan) <a href="https://twitter.com/tsnmikehogan/status/759883223337955328">July 31, 2016</a></blockquote>
<script async src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

[doubleblue]

Good tough drag em out win. Maybe a little bit of help from Burris having a "bad Hank" night, but they all count.

My 2 cents. McEwen played well and they may have a tough time taking him out. Van Roten may become Willy Pep, but he can slide over to Right Guard which might be an upgrade. However, Van Zeyl and Watman have played better lately IMO. Van Roten has an ankle injury according to Milanovich. Any major injury to one of the starting Canadian Linemen would be tough. Got to keep those guys healthy.

Kilgore threw well especially on the short passes. He doesn't have Ricky's touch on the deep ball yet, but then who does. I think Gurley would help in the long ball completions as he has a knack for going up and making the tough catches. Doesn't hurt that he is 6' 4". Apparently he has a foot injury so he may not be ready for awhile. I would like to see Milanovich take the reins off Noel once in a while soon, and see what he can do. Probably the problem is Milanovich's precise route running philosophy. But, I predict that Noel will have great adlibing game breaking ability once he matures.
Wylie has got to stay on the game day roster IMO even as a PR and back up WR. Greenwood looks great at MLB and with Miles as back up that may become a Canadian position. (great call OV) lol
I was looking forward to Waud having a break out season and he already missed the first third. With the play of Bishop and Hall it will be tough getting him back in there. It might take an injury to open up a spot. Lemon over Hickman is a no brainer.

Hajrullahu looks great as the kicker/punter. Good call by Barker picking him up off the scrap heap. I think Waters is going to win a punting job down South, but he isn't being missed on the field here if he does come free again.

Does anybody else not think Kackert could do a better job returning kicks plus being a good back up/change of pace at RB.

[1argoholic]

LOVE those game ball vids. One thing I'll say about Barker and Milanovich teams is that they sure gel and really seem to like and care about each other.

I thought that Kilgore looks like yet another great find for Barker. I've always liked a more mobile qb and I think Kilgore has it in him but seems to lack that confidence. It's not like he's slow. He placed some balls real well but others he just tossed up even in blanket coverage. All in all although it was a low scoring game it was a good game. Nothing like the Calgary at BC game but just a fun game to watch.

I think we have the best overall receiving core in the league. We've found that solid guy who gets open and catches the hard catch to keep drives alive in Wylie. He was having fun out there as he smiles all game long.

How good is Raymond as you don't hear his name much, he just is a solid player. Greenwood doesn't tackle he wraps up and DRIVES guys into the turf. The D were ball hawks last night and are really coming together. That pass interference on Berry was a pack of crap. As Ford mentioned at full speed that isn't a penalty but slowed down in a review it looks like a tiny fraction early. As Ford said they now expect db's to cover absolutely perfect on every play. Plus I swear that ball was tipped before it even got to Ellignson.

Just read that post Ron. hahaha. Rod Black had a few stupid gems again. Yacity Yac Yards! Really? Courtice home of Foley is mid way between Toronto and Ottawa. I guess I never knew that Peterborough is a suburb of Ottawa then. Black has to Go!!!!! His poor kids!!!!

McEwan looked solid other then one hit he didn't need to do while blocking downfield and the play had past him and was all but over. He didn't look out of place.

Lemon has some wheels even though that play was an incomplete pass. By the was I love that play and I'm not sure why it isn't used more often. No harm no foul when the ball is dropped and yet it's six inches away from being a handoff.

It's great to see the turn around in Ottawa especially after all the holdups caused by those Glebers. The area around the stadium looks great and i'm sure those who have seen it could elaborate more. Is that a condo building that looks right down on the field? How cool would it be to live there?

[R.J]

It was Kilgore's first game, so while I saw some good things and some bad things; I'm not going to put much stock in it.

Offensive line played pretty well overall, and McEwen looked pretty good in his first game. Wylie and Shaw need to be kept on the gameday roster - I've been really impressed by both. We do however need an every down running back; while I'm still in Whitaker's corner, he's not as consistent as he once was, and IMO has lost a step from last season.

Defensive, I suppose it was a good thing that Bad Hank showed up, but our D did play rather well. I know I wasn't big on Heath during the pre season, but he's played very well the last couple of games IMO and is clearly a ball hawk. I'd like to see the team keep Gordon around when Gabriel gets healthy; he's (Gordon) looked pretty good so far. Greenwood at MLB is a beast; he along with Raymond have been our defensive players of the year so far. Another plus from the Lemon deal (aside from Lemon playing well) is that Hickman IMO has looked better as well since the trade.

Lirim Hajrullahu had a bounce back game and played extremely well. Lastly, we need a kick returner IMO.

[Wobbler]

I was quite impressed by Gordon at Safety. He is a hard hitter, and made a bunch of tackles last night. I didn't notice his positioning, but at least he seemed to be around the ball. I'd keep him at that position until Gabriel is healthy.

Edit: I got ninja'd by SnowRogue while checking some stats. Seems like we agree.

[Reggiemac]

Really good game, our defence is coming together with lots of promise for future domination. Kilgore was excellent in his management of the game. We had some bad breaks that would have demoralized many teams. Notice what Kilgore said on the sidelines at a critical point. "We are gonna win this game" loved our D tonite starting with the hit that Gordon delivered in the first quarter. Set the tone. A good team win to go into the bye week. Guys are gonna come back fired up. We are on our way to a great season.

[ArgoRavi]

It's great to see the turn around in Ottawa especially after all the holdups caused by those Glebers. The area around the stadium looks great and i'm sure those who have seen it could elaborate more. Is that a condo building that looks right down on the field? How cool would it be to live there?

That is a condo building overlooking the field. I believe that Jeff Hunt lives there.

[Wobbler]

The bye is really coming at an opportune time. We've got a lot of banged up guys, now including a few that are hard to replace, such as Bourke. I hope his was a minor injury.

[ArgoRavi]

The bye is really coming at an opportune time. We've got a lot of banged up guys, now including a few that are hard to replace, such as Bourke. I hope his was a minor injury.

I read in one of the papers that it was a dislocated finger that they put back into place. He was able to return to the game after that.

[OV Argo]

Another solid, grind it out / nothing spectacular win.

Kilgore was pretty decent for his 1st start; McEwen was very solid at C seems to me, as his resume suggested - keep him starting, and if a healthy Van Roten is an upgrade over Watman at guard, then play him there, if not - go all NI on the O-line; glad to see at least some run game and it helped with a few good carries by Whitaker; Shaw is better than I thought at receiver, but overall the receiving corps is pretty average IMO - be interesting to see who the starters would be IF everyone were healthy? - need more size IMO - like Gurley, and give Noel a shot; Hazelton is average at best IMO and he could lose his job; same with Wallace Miles; if Wylie is so fast, throw him some deep balls - need a deep threat; like to see Spencer in there

D = looking good and maybe getting Stulber's system with more time; not very impressed by the DTs though (Hall looked way better with the Ticats, so maybe system?) and like to see both Waud & Bulcke get in the line-up; Greenwood is a beast at LB and could be a force at either MLB or where he played W-OLB last year; secondary starting to get better - Jefferson & Heath in particular and hopefully Gabriel comes back strong; some 3-4 look (Elsworth in but didn't see him do much), and was there some 6 DB packages ? - that should make more sense now in a more and more pass happy CFL - load the back end of your D with natural D-backfielders and play a mix of man & zone AND have extra pass rush - I'd like to see what a 5-1-6 or even a 4-1-7 look D could do - you don't need linebackers hanging around the line if there is little to no threat of a run game, and OLBs turning their backs to chase slotbacks is stupid/dumb IMO

Kicking game so important in the CFL - gets you some close call wins; Harjallau (maybe i;ll learn to remember to spell this guy's name one day) was very good - both FG kicking and strong punting average; Taylor is just ok as a returner; wish they had kept draft pick Neuuwesteg around and tried him some, but wrong passport for that job.

[OV Argo]

That is a condo building overlooking the field. I believe that Jeff Hunt lives there.


Yes - condos between the West end zone & Bank St. Hunt held a big party there during a game earlier this year. Some residents there could watch games from their balconies. It's RIGHT behind the concourse that runs around the stadium now - which gets pretty crowded with people going for food/beer or to the wash-rooms or just spectators; really nice big replay screen in that West end zone

The difference between Lansdowne Park now and the Lansdowne of old is amazing (and was so long over-due) - nice park with different options for doing things - some tradition & nature but lots of new & modern; still preserved the heritage Cattle Castle building (pre game parties in there some); - refurbished stadium with a brand new South Side is nice, but - too bad they didn't build a 40 K range stadium though - small thinking & myopic in my books

[Argo]

Good tough drag em out win. Maybe a little bit of help from Burris having a "bad Hank" night, but they all count.

Spot on. The Argos D did assist in conjuring Bad Hank; still, I don't think we saw Good Hank, and we certainly did not see anything resembling Trevor Harris.

[argolio]

Oops. That's why you pressure the kicker.We did on most of their other punts. They just got really lucky.

Aside from a couple of throws, Kilgore did just fine. Great job not letting the bad pick at the end of the half affect his confidence.

McEwen looked solid in his debut. If they don't plan to start him, he'll be an excellent reserve for the rest of the season. On the other hand, Van Zeyl whiffed on a couple of cut blocks, one of which led to an interception. He needs to clean that up.

Too many good performances on D to single out guys. So great job by Stubler getting them ready.


wish they had kept draft pick Neuuwesteg around and tried him some, but wrong passport for that job.He was cut because of his camp, not his passport.

[Argo]

Hazelton is average at best IMO and he could lose his job

Completely disagree, and over a season's worth of evidence shows that young Hazelton is already a high-quality, indeed superior, receiver. The Argos are fortunate that Barker acquired him.

[Argo]

A satisfying win, followed by the bye : ))

Very nice.

[Argo]

I look forward to Elliot's return. Some seem to have forgotten his penchant for producing very helpful results.

[R.J]

I look forward to Elliot's return. Some seem to have forgotten his penchant for producing very helpful results.
+1

[Wobbler]

I read in one of the papers that it was a dislocated finger that they put back into place. He was able to return to the game after that.
Excellent. Thanks, Ravi.

[Will]

I think Bourke dislocated his finger at training camp as well.

[doubleblue]

Completely disagree, and over a season's worth of evidence shows that young Hazelton is already a high-quality, indeed superior, receiver. The Argos are fortunate that Barker acquired him.

IMO Hazelton looks better when Gurley and Elliott are in the lineup. Gurley's presence as a deep threat opens up space for guys like Hazelton. When everybody is healthy can they get all five of Gurley, Elliott, Hazelton, Shaw and Wylie in the line up?

[argotom]

Here is my summary on the very good game and somewhat surprising victory by the team.
Based on yesterday's game only, I stand corrected the cupboard is not bare.
Very good performance by Kilgore.
The kid has moxie, does not rattle and stood in the pocket quite well.
Despite a slow start, he got progressively better in the second half and made some clutch throws in the fourth quarter.
He throws a tight spiral, a good arm.
For me he was the best player on the team, with a close second to Wylie who is a keeper and Whittaker had a strong game as well.
Kudos to the O line for keeping Kilgore clean.
Milanovich does deserve credit for his teaching ability on the young QB's that we have turned out so far.

[Wobbler]

When everybody is healthy can they get all five of Gurley, Elliott, Hazelton, Shaw and Wylie in the line up?
I don't think so. Or at least, not without sitting Elsworth - which I wouldn't do. He brings more to the team than a fifth INT receiver would.

"Fortunately" it probably doesn't matter... someone's always going to be injured.

[paulwoods13]

I don't think so. Or at least, not without sitting Elsworth - which I wouldn't do. He brings more to the team than a fifth INT receiver would.

"Fortunately" it probably doesn't matter... someone's always going to be injured.

We have dressed five INT receivers, plus Taylor, in most games this season. We are currently dressing six INT DBs, which we don't need to do if Gabriel and Black are healthy. I could easily see us dressing five again; take out a DB or Taylor or Van Roten. The question is, if healthy which five? The obvious answer is Hazelton-Gurley-Elliott-Shaw-Wylie, but that leaves out Spencer. I think Shaw and Hazelton are pretty well set in the lineup but beyond that it's a tossup if all are healthy.

[OV Argo]

Completely disagree, and over a season's worth of evidence shows that young Hazelton is already a high-quality, indeed superior, receiver. The Argos are fortunate that Barker acquired him.


You are free to disagree - like to hear the varied opinions.

Hazelton is IMO an example of a very average import CFL receiver who gets targeted tons but shows mostly nothing special; has dropped lots of passes in under 2 seasons (looked lost looking late for a pass last game that sailed right by him last ga,e); is not a big play deep threat or YAC yards guy, and shows nothing special in terms of dificult/circus catch ability. Catches a lot of simple throws right at him though. Just IMO again.

From what i have seem = pure receiver talent wise - over the past 2 seasons for Argo receivers - Hazelton would not make the line-up of the starting 4 (outside the Durie hybrid spot) - Gurley, Elliott, Spencer and now Shaw are much better receiver talents IMO; maybe Wylie too; I would also guess that Brian Jones probably is too, and maybe Noel.

[R.J]

Spencer over Hazelton ? Yeah, no thanks.

[doubleblue]

You are free to disagree - like to hear the varied opinions.

Hazelton is IMO an example of a very average import CFL receiver who gets targeted tons but shows mostly nothing special; has dropped lots of passes in under 2 seasons (looked lost looking late for a pass last game that sailed right by him last ga,e); is not a big play deep threat or YAC yards guy, and shows nothing special in terms of dificult/circus catch ability. Catches a lot of simple throws right at him though. Just IMO again.

From what i have seem = pure receiver talent wise - over the past 2 seasons for Argo receivers - Hazelton would not make the line-up of the starting 4 (outside the Durie hybrid spot) - Gurley, Elliott, Spencer and now Shaw are much better receiver talents IMO; maybe Wylie too; I would also guess that Brian Jones probably is too, and maybe Noel.

I forgot about Spencer, and I agree with about Hazelton. 3rd or 4th ranked receiver if everybody is healthy. Looking forward to seeing Brian Jones and Llevi Noel when they eventually get into the lineup.

[Wobbler]

We have dressed five INT receivers, plus Taylor, in most games this season.
Whoops - you're absolutely right.

One of Spencer or Wylie would probably be an upgrade over Taylor at KR. I hope/think we'll try that when it becomes necessary.

[marcwagz]

Nah hazletons still our best guy.more reliablw to be open than gurley or shaw.

Wylie is looking good, but he always stops to make his catches.never gets any yac yards.

[ArgoGabe22]

In theory, the Argos may have been one tackle (Tristan Jackson) away from being 5-1. Im still not sure what to make of this team. Are they a legitimate favourite, a sleeper pick or just lucky?

[mint83]

Shaw is our top receiver based on yards per game. It looks like he's the only guy to get open deep.
Hazelton is average based on his production.
Gurley never seems to be open but uses his size for contested catches.
Elliot is injury prone.
Wylie does get open and I think he will start catching long bombs soon.
Spencer is unproven.
We will all be happier when Miles is a back up again.

[KCargosfan]

In theory, the Argos may have been one tackle (Tristan Jackson) away from being 5-1. Im still not sure what to make of this team. Are they a legitimate favourite, a sleeper pick or just lucky?

There's so much parity in the CFL you never really know what's going to happen week to week.

I mean you can make decent guesses that Montreal and the Riders will lose, but there's no locks of anything.

[cfl-cis fan]

when will Milanovich fix the short yardage ...... why would you not include all the heavy skill players instead of 2 of your smallest players ........... and when will he give Whittaker a break ........... it is a long season.

[Argo]

You are free to disagree - like to hear the varied opinions.

Hazelton is IMO an example of a very average import CFL receiver who gets targeted tons but shows mostly nothing special; has dropped lots of passes in under 2 seasons (looked lost looking late for a pass last game that sailed right by him last ga,e); is not a big play deep threat or YAC yards guy, and shows nothing special in terms of dificult/circus catch ability. Catches a lot of simple throws right at him though. Just IMO again.

From what i have seem = pure receiver talent wise - over the past 2 seasons for Argo receivers - Hazelton would not make the line-up of the starting 4 (outside the Durie hybrid spot) - Gurley, Elliott, Spencer and now Shaw are much better receiver talents IMO; maybe Wylie too; I would also guess that Brian Jones probably is too, and maybe Noel.

How boring and unhealthy it would be if everybody had essentially the same opinions.

Hazelton did have an unusually uneven game vs Ottawa, flubbing a few that he should have caught. Happens to everyone.

Having just watched the game, I saw many good things from the Argos' players and coaches.

[Argo]

Shaw is our top receiver based on yards per game. It looks like he's the only guy to get open deep.
Hazelton is average based on his production.
Gurley never seems to be open but uses his size for contested catches.
Elliot is injury prone.
Wylie does get open and I think he will start catching long bombs soon.
Spencer is unproven.
We will all be happier when Miles is a back up again.

"Hazelton is average based on his production." ... Shaw (#1 2016 ): small sample size, from only 2016 in progress. Hazelton #1 (2015), #2 (2016), hardly "average, based on his production". Of course, I also like Shaw.
"Elliot is injury prone" ... how many injuries has Elliot had? I can recall two, and I doubt he's higher than the median. Neil Lumsden was "injury prone".
"Spencer is unproven" ... Spencer is in fact a proven commodity: this is why Owens was let go.

[PullTogether73]

Neil Lumsden was "injury prone".

Do you mean Jesse?
I know he was injury prone.
I can't remember definitely, but I believe his father Neil was more durable.

[Argo]

Do you mean Jesse?
I know he was injury prone.
I can't remember definitely, but I believe his father Neil was more durable.

Yes, I did mean, Jesse. Thanks for setting this straight.