1. Calgary Stampeders
Stomped the Riders in Riderville. Sure they lost once to Montreal, but flukey things happen in the CFL.
2. Edmonton Eskimos
Still undefeated, but they were very close to losing to the Hamilton Tiger-Cats, albeit on the road.
3. BC Lions
Ginger Jesus aka Travis Lulay has taken over as quarterback and running wild. He's not that old by CFL quarterback terms and played sparingly last year. Quarterback controversy brewing?
4. Winnipeg Blue Bombers
Lost to the Lions on the road. But it was close! And the could have won. Cross-over spot in the Bombers future it looks like
5. Toronto Argonauts
After beating Ottawa at home, one can't argue that the Argos, with Ray, Trestman and Popp are the kings of the East. For whatever that is worth. Picking up almost over the hill players on the cheap like Bear Woods has worked out well.
6. Ottawa REDBLACKS
Their record doesn't indicate it, but they aren't a bad team despite losing to Toronto on the road. They'll probably make the playoffs by the end of the year.
7. Montreal Alouettes
They had a bye week so that's something.
8. Saskatchewan Roughriders
Trounced by Calgary and at home. At this rate the Riders won't be crossing over.
9. Hamilton Tiger-Cats
The team played well against Edmonton, then a player goes down late in the secondary and the Ticats can't stop the Eskimos for driving for a game winning score. Still winless. Sad.
Showing posts with label hamilton. Show all posts
Showing posts with label hamilton. Show all posts
Thursday, July 27, 2017
Wednesday, July 13, 2016
2016 Week 3 CFL Power Rankings
Things are getting more confusing.
1. Ottawa REDBLACKS
Tied a good team in Calgary. No losses yet and Trevor Harris is kicking ass.
2. Edmonton Eskimos
Admittedly it was tight against the Riders, but they still won in the end. A healthy Mike Reilly is a good thing.
3. Calgary Stampeders
A tie on the road isn't something to complain about, even if it is a weird event. The Stamps again look like a solid team.
4. BC Lions
Lost to Toronto, but the Lions are still a better team than I was expecting.
5. Toronto Argonauts
The Argos over the past few seasons have been a better road team than home team. Still seems to be the case in 2016.
6. Montreal Alouettes
Certainly not a good team. That's pretty much it.
7. Hamilton Tiger-Cats
Unlikely to stay here with Collaros returning to practice, but he isn't back yet. A lot of talent, but also a lot of turnovers from Masoli.
8. Winnipeg Blue Bombers
They did beat the Ticats led by Masoli on the road, but the Bombers in no way looked competent in that game. Unlikely for their future opponents to have that many turnovers.
9. Saskatchewan Roughriders
Still not good. Probably better in the second half. No playoffs for you!
1. Ottawa REDBLACKS
Tied a good team in Calgary. No losses yet and Trevor Harris is kicking ass.
2. Edmonton Eskimos
Admittedly it was tight against the Riders, but they still won in the end. A healthy Mike Reilly is a good thing.
3. Calgary Stampeders
A tie on the road isn't something to complain about, even if it is a weird event. The Stamps again look like a solid team.
4. BC Lions
Lost to Toronto, but the Lions are still a better team than I was expecting.
5. Toronto Argonauts
The Argos over the past few seasons have been a better road team than home team. Still seems to be the case in 2016.
6. Montreal Alouettes
Certainly not a good team. That's pretty much it.
7. Hamilton Tiger-Cats
Unlikely to stay here with Collaros returning to practice, but he isn't back yet. A lot of talent, but also a lot of turnovers from Masoli.
8. Winnipeg Blue Bombers
They did beat the Ticats led by Masoli on the road, but the Bombers in no way looked competent in that game. Unlikely for their future opponents to have that many turnovers.
9. Saskatchewan Roughriders
Still not good. Probably better in the second half. No playoffs for you!
Thursday, July 7, 2016
2016 CFL Week 2 Power Rankings
1. Ottawa REDBLACKS
I thought that the REDBLACKS made the best free agent signing in quarterback Trevor Harris. I thought that he was probably better than Henry Burris already, but with Burris' injury that is moot, Harris is the starter. Harris has put up some ridiculous stats, including some gaudy numbers from receiver Chris Williams plus a good showing from Canadian receiver Brad Sinopoli.
2. BC Lions
You can't argue with undefeated. The Lions winning on the road against a decent Hamilton team is impressive early on in 2016. I guess Wally Buono still has it with regards to coaching. I honestly didn't see that coming.
3. Caglary Stampeders
The Stamps lost their first game but bounced back in week 2. Quarterback Bo Levi Mitchell was good, but most impressive was the Stampeder running game led by Canadian Jerome Messam who looked unstoppable at times.
4. Edmonton Eskimos
I don't think that Jason Maas is as good a coach as their former coach Chris Jones. However they still have quarterback Mike Reilly, who while healthy is one of the better pivots in the league.
5. Hamilton Tiger-Cats
Whenever Zach Collaros returns from injury, the Cats will move up these charts, however that could be Labour Day. Right now the Cats would probably just be happy to go 500 without Collaros. Jeremiah Masoli looked good in the first game against the Argos and then medicore against the Lions at home last week. Masoli is in no danger of beating out Collaros for the Ticats starting job, but he is OK as a backup. Plus the Ticats also have Jeff Matthews. An issue for the Cats in 2016 is their secondary, especially the corners. The Cats released vet Geoff Tisdale, but don't expect that to have magical effects. The Cats need Maher to have a better game kicking than last week. The Cats had a lot of field goals last year from the now departed Justin Medlock.
6. Toronto Argonauts
Ricky Ray is a good quarterback by the standard of every down played in the CFL (which would include all the downs played by backup quarterbacks in the league this year due to injury). That doesn't seem to be enough for the Argos to occupy the top of these rankings. Picking up linebacker Shawn Lemon this week should help the Toronto defence.
7. Montreal Alouettes
Having Duron Carter being suspended obviously doesn't help the Alouettes, however at least he scored an impressive TD on the play. Kevin Glenn seems at this juncture to be a better option than the other Alouette quarterbacks, so the team isn't terrible. Jim Popp has been a great GM (although having quarterback Anthony Calvillo to rely on for years didn't hurt), and a medicore at best CFL coach.
8. Winnipeg Blue Bombers
Looks like another losing season for the Bombers. I liked the signings of Harris, Dressler and Medlock, but they haven't panned out yet. Not really a lot to say until they start making an impact.
9. Saskatchewan Roughriders
The Riders lost their home opener to Toronto even with a healthy Darian Durant. Not expecting much this year, although they will probably be better in the second half.
I thought that the REDBLACKS made the best free agent signing in quarterback Trevor Harris. I thought that he was probably better than Henry Burris already, but with Burris' injury that is moot, Harris is the starter. Harris has put up some ridiculous stats, including some gaudy numbers from receiver Chris Williams plus a good showing from Canadian receiver Brad Sinopoli.
2. BC Lions
You can't argue with undefeated. The Lions winning on the road against a decent Hamilton team is impressive early on in 2016. I guess Wally Buono still has it with regards to coaching. I honestly didn't see that coming.
3. Caglary Stampeders
The Stamps lost their first game but bounced back in week 2. Quarterback Bo Levi Mitchell was good, but most impressive was the Stampeder running game led by Canadian Jerome Messam who looked unstoppable at times.
4. Edmonton Eskimos
I don't think that Jason Maas is as good a coach as their former coach Chris Jones. However they still have quarterback Mike Reilly, who while healthy is one of the better pivots in the league.
5. Hamilton Tiger-Cats
Whenever Zach Collaros returns from injury, the Cats will move up these charts, however that could be Labour Day. Right now the Cats would probably just be happy to go 500 without Collaros. Jeremiah Masoli looked good in the first game against the Argos and then medicore against the Lions at home last week. Masoli is in no danger of beating out Collaros for the Ticats starting job, but he is OK as a backup. Plus the Ticats also have Jeff Matthews. An issue for the Cats in 2016 is their secondary, especially the corners. The Cats released vet Geoff Tisdale, but don't expect that to have magical effects. The Cats need Maher to have a better game kicking than last week. The Cats had a lot of field goals last year from the now departed Justin Medlock.
6. Toronto Argonauts
Ricky Ray is a good quarterback by the standard of every down played in the CFL (which would include all the downs played by backup quarterbacks in the league this year due to injury). That doesn't seem to be enough for the Argos to occupy the top of these rankings. Picking up linebacker Shawn Lemon this week should help the Toronto defence.
7. Montreal Alouettes
Having Duron Carter being suspended obviously doesn't help the Alouettes, however at least he scored an impressive TD on the play. Kevin Glenn seems at this juncture to be a better option than the other Alouette quarterbacks, so the team isn't terrible. Jim Popp has been a great GM (although having quarterback Anthony Calvillo to rely on for years didn't hurt), and a medicore at best CFL coach.
8. Winnipeg Blue Bombers
Looks like another losing season for the Bombers. I liked the signings of Harris, Dressler and Medlock, but they haven't panned out yet. Not really a lot to say until they start making an impact.
9. Saskatchewan Roughriders
The Riders lost their home opener to Toronto even with a healthy Darian Durant. Not expecting much this year, although they will probably be better in the second half.
Sunday, February 21, 2016
Defensive Tackle Bryan Hall Signs With Argos, What Will Ticats Do?
Stalwart import defensive tackle Bryan Hall has signed with the Argos. Last year Hall had 38 tackles and 3 sacks in 15 games for the Cats and was a powerful presence for the recently resigned non-import Ted Laurent in the middle of the Ticats defensive line. The Cats will miss Hall, as the combo with Laurent really limited runs up the middle last year.
Besides Laurent, the Cats also resigned non-import Linden Gaydosh, who spent all of 2015 on the injury list. Potentially the Cats could play both Laurent and Gaydosh in the middle and have two Canadian starters on the defensive line. The Cats look like they will continue to play a Canadian at safety and Courtney Stephen at corner, for a total of four Canadian defensive starters, only requiring three more to play on offense. Alternatively the Cats could find an American defensive tackle to play beside Laurent and have Gaydosh back him up and have the opportunity to have Gaydosh start in case of an injury to another Canadian starter.
On offense the Cats look like they will start three Canadians at both guard positions plus center and then Andy Fantuz whenever he is healthy at slotback. The Cats are looking fairly good again in terms of Canadian talent for 2016, although injuries could quickly change that.
Besides Laurent, the Cats also resigned non-import Linden Gaydosh, who spent all of 2015 on the injury list. Potentially the Cats could play both Laurent and Gaydosh in the middle and have two Canadian starters on the defensive line. The Cats look like they will continue to play a Canadian at safety and Courtney Stephen at corner, for a total of four Canadian defensive starters, only requiring three more to play on offense. Alternatively the Cats could find an American defensive tackle to play beside Laurent and have Gaydosh back him up and have the opportunity to have Gaydosh start in case of an injury to another Canadian starter.
On offense the Cats look like they will start three Canadians at both guard positions plus center and then Andy Fantuz whenever he is healthy at slotback. The Cats are looking fairly good again in terms of Canadian talent for 2016, although injuries could quickly change that.
Friday, November 6, 2015
2015 CFL Predictions Week 20
Last week of the regular season. Three meaningless games.
Winnipeg at Toronto
Last regular season Argos game at the dome. I suppose somewhere along the line it could be used for a Grey Cup again, but don't bet on it. Won't really be sad to see it go. I predict that Toronto manages to pull it out.
Argonauts 31 Blue Bombers 27
Hamilton at Ottawa
The one meaningful game. Hamilton is down to their third string quarterback. Hamilton could win, but that's not the way to bet.
REDBLACKS 23 Tiger-Cats 12
Calgary at BC
Meaningless game although it is a preview of the West semi-final. Messam and Harris will compete for the rushing title. Take BC because it is at home.
Lions 29 Stampeders 28
Saskatchewan at Montreal
A sad game, two teams not in the playoffs. Maybe the Riders have enough pride to get to three wins.
Roughriders 35 Alouettes 26
Winnipeg at Toronto
Last regular season Argos game at the dome. I suppose somewhere along the line it could be used for a Grey Cup again, but don't bet on it. Won't really be sad to see it go. I predict that Toronto manages to pull it out.
Argonauts 31 Blue Bombers 27
Hamilton at Ottawa
The one meaningful game. Hamilton is down to their third string quarterback. Hamilton could win, but that's not the way to bet.
REDBLACKS 23 Tiger-Cats 12
Calgary at BC
Meaningless game although it is a preview of the West semi-final. Messam and Harris will compete for the rushing title. Take BC because it is at home.
Lions 29 Stampeders 28
Saskatchewan at Montreal
A sad game, two teams not in the playoffs. Maybe the Riders have enough pride to get to three wins.
Roughriders 35 Alouettes 26
Wednesday, November 4, 2015
2015 CFL Power Rankings Week 20
1. Edmonton Eskimos
You can't really argue with tops in the division. Plus a strong victory over Montreal.
2. Calgary Stampeders
Wiped a weak Saskatchewan team and they now have Jerome Messam as well. Top two teams are quite close.
3. Ottawa REDBLACKS
Are the REDLBLACKS better than the Ticats led by Jeff Matthews? After last week's away game it would seem so, even though they didn't score any TDs.
4. Toronto Argonauts
Toronto hasn't looked great of late although they were close to beating a motivated BC team. The Argos are deep at quarterback now.
5. Hamilton Tiger-Cats
Now Jeff Mathews is injured. And he didn't look that great against Ottawa. Still a really good defence though. Offensive line injuries are also a problem.
6. BC Lions
Getting somewhat hot late in the season with a rookie QB.
7. Montreal Alouettes
So the Als end up missing the playoffs. It was a good run.
8. Winnipeg Blue Bombers
After a bye week I suppose they are healthier. Still no Drew Willy.
9. Saskatchewan Roughriders
Lost big rather than by a small margin. There's always next year, but I'm not sure I trust Durant to not get injured.
You can't really argue with tops in the division. Plus a strong victory over Montreal.
2. Calgary Stampeders
Wiped a weak Saskatchewan team and they now have Jerome Messam as well. Top two teams are quite close.
3. Ottawa REDBLACKS
Are the REDLBLACKS better than the Ticats led by Jeff Matthews? After last week's away game it would seem so, even though they didn't score any TDs.
4. Toronto Argonauts
Toronto hasn't looked great of late although they were close to beating a motivated BC team. The Argos are deep at quarterback now.
5. Hamilton Tiger-Cats
Now Jeff Mathews is injured. And he didn't look that great against Ottawa. Still a really good defence though. Offensive line injuries are also a problem.
6. BC Lions
Getting somewhat hot late in the season with a rookie QB.
7. Montreal Alouettes
So the Als end up missing the playoffs. It was a good run.
8. Winnipeg Blue Bombers
After a bye week I suppose they are healthier. Still no Drew Willy.
9. Saskatchewan Roughriders
Lost big rather than by a small margin. There's always next year, but I'm not sure I trust Durant to not get injured.
Friday, October 30, 2015
2015 CFL Predictions 19
Crunch time.
BC at Toronto
Ricky Ray starts at home instead of Trevor Harris, which may or may not be a good idea. The Argos looked poor last week against Montreal but at least they are in their real home this week, Dead Ted's Dome. BC looked good against Hamilton last week. They are fighting for a playoff spot so I think they are more motivated.
Lions 30 Argonauts 23
Saskatchewan at Calgary
I can't really see the Riders winning this one. Best team versus worst team.
Stampeders 37 Roughriders 20
Ottawa at Hamilton
This one is interesting. If the Cats can win, they pretty much lock down a home playoff spot. I think the home crowd at the Timbit should be enough.
Tiger-Cats 28 REDBLACKS 22
Montreal at Edmonton
This game is interesting. The Alouettes really need to win if they have any hope of making the playoffs. Against my better judgement, I'll pick desperation.
Alouettes 26 Eskimos 24
BC at Toronto
Ricky Ray starts at home instead of Trevor Harris, which may or may not be a good idea. The Argos looked poor last week against Montreal but at least they are in their real home this week, Dead Ted's Dome. BC looked good against Hamilton last week. They are fighting for a playoff spot so I think they are more motivated.
Lions 30 Argonauts 23
Saskatchewan at Calgary
I can't really see the Riders winning this one. Best team versus worst team.
Stampeders 37 Roughriders 20
Ottawa at Hamilton
This one is interesting. If the Cats can win, they pretty much lock down a home playoff spot. I think the home crowd at the Timbit should be enough.
Tiger-Cats 28 REDBLACKS 22
Montreal at Edmonton
This game is interesting. The Alouettes really need to win if they have any hope of making the playoffs. Against my better judgement, I'll pick desperation.
Alouettes 26 Eskimos 24
Thursday, October 29, 2015
2015 CFL Power Rankings Week 19
1. Calgary Stampeders
Didn't play, but that doesn't change them being the best team in the CFL. They have Messam now too, and if anything, not playing probably made them healthier.
2. Edmonton Eskimos
Beat Saskatchewan on the road. Admittedly that's not super impressive, but it still is a victory and quarterback Mike Reilly is rounding into form after his injury.
3. Hamilton Tiger-Cats
The Ticats didn't look very good in BC, but it was on short rest and the game started at 10 pm EST. The defence actually held its own, however the offense couldn't seem to get it going after an initial drive for a TD, which is somewhat worrying.
4. Ottawa REDBLACKS
Beat Winnipeg and Matt Nichols on the road. Henry Burris is having one of the better years at quarterback than anyone other than Bo Levi Mitchell.
5. Toronto Argonauts
Got waxed at their pseudo-Hamilton home by Montreal, but they are going to start Ricky Ray next game so at least they are strong at quarterback.
6. Montreal Alouettes
Looked good beating the Argos and still have a shot at a cross-over playoff spot. GM and head coach Jim Popp must be happy.
7. BC Lions
The Lions won at home against an Eastern team and strengthened their chance of grabbing the last playoff spot in the West. New quarterback Jonathon Jennings is looking good.
8. Winnipeg Blue Bombers
Pretty much out of the race for the last remaining CFL playoff spot. There's a chance, but it is small.
9. Saskatchewan Roughriders
Still losing games. At least they have two wins now.
Didn't play, but that doesn't change them being the best team in the CFL. They have Messam now too, and if anything, not playing probably made them healthier.
2. Edmonton Eskimos
Beat Saskatchewan on the road. Admittedly that's not super impressive, but it still is a victory and quarterback Mike Reilly is rounding into form after his injury.
3. Hamilton Tiger-Cats
The Ticats didn't look very good in BC, but it was on short rest and the game started at 10 pm EST. The defence actually held its own, however the offense couldn't seem to get it going after an initial drive for a TD, which is somewhat worrying.
4. Ottawa REDBLACKS
Beat Winnipeg and Matt Nichols on the road. Henry Burris is having one of the better years at quarterback than anyone other than Bo Levi Mitchell.
5. Toronto Argonauts
Got waxed at their pseudo-Hamilton home by Montreal, but they are going to start Ricky Ray next game so at least they are strong at quarterback.
6. Montreal Alouettes
Looked good beating the Argos and still have a shot at a cross-over playoff spot. GM and head coach Jim Popp must be happy.
7. BC Lions
The Lions won at home against an Eastern team and strengthened their chance of grabbing the last playoff spot in the West. New quarterback Jonathon Jennings is looking good.
8. Winnipeg Blue Bombers
Pretty much out of the race for the last remaining CFL playoff spot. There's a chance, but it is small.
9. Saskatchewan Roughriders
Still losing games. At least they have two wins now.
Friday, October 23, 2015
2015 CFL Prediction Week 18
Montreal at Toronto
The Alouettes really need to win this game if they're going to make the playoffs. Kevin Glenn at least has had more practice. Toronto really needs to win this game if they want to win first in the CFL East. This is another pseudo-home game for Toronto in Hamilton. Harris is just better than Glenn at this point, even with a lot of practice.
Argonauts 30 Alouettes 22
Hamilton at BC
Rookie quarterbacks going against each other in BC. Hamilton has the better overall team, although winning a night game in Vancouver is always tough for Eastern teams. Still I think the Ticats take it.
Ticats 35 Lions 33
Ottawa at Winnipeg
Winnipeg really needs to win this game. Ottawa needs it if they want a home playoff game. Winnipeg is at home, although that hasn't seemed to help much this year. Ottawa's superior receivers win.
REDBLACKS 23 Blue Bombers 20
Edmonton at Saskatchewan
Only the Eskimos have something to play for. So there will be some unhappy Green Rider fans.
Eskimos 35 Roughriders 20
The Alouettes really need to win this game if they're going to make the playoffs. Kevin Glenn at least has had more practice. Toronto really needs to win this game if they want to win first in the CFL East. This is another pseudo-home game for Toronto in Hamilton. Harris is just better than Glenn at this point, even with a lot of practice.
Argonauts 30 Alouettes 22
Hamilton at BC
Rookie quarterbacks going against each other in BC. Hamilton has the better overall team, although winning a night game in Vancouver is always tough for Eastern teams. Still I think the Ticats take it.
Ticats 35 Lions 33
Ottawa at Winnipeg
Winnipeg really needs to win this game. Ottawa needs it if they want a home playoff game. Winnipeg is at home, although that hasn't seemed to help much this year. Ottawa's superior receivers win.
REDBLACKS 23 Blue Bombers 20
Edmonton at Saskatchewan
Only the Eskimos have something to play for. So there will be some unhappy Green Rider fans.
Eskimos 35 Roughriders 20
2015 CFL Power Rankings Week 18
1. Calgary Stampeders
The Stamps beat the Argos last week a bona fide good team in a pseudo away game in Hamilton. Calgary keeps winning. Can't argue against them.
2. Hamilton Tiger-Cats
The Ticats haven't collapsed with the injury to Zach Collaros. They have excellent special teams and defence, plus an above average set of receivers. Matthews has put up remarkable completion percentage numbers of late. That's hard to beat.
3. Edmonton Eskimos
The Eskimos have won a lot of games this year. They're a good team, although maybe not a great one.
4. Toronto Argonauts
The Argos have had some impressive wins and some losses. If they were at BMO field this year, they might have a better record, but being on the road seems to be their lot in 2015.
5. Ottawa REDBLACKS
Eked one out over the Bombers in the Peg. The REDBLACKS have been impressive, but mostly against bad teams.
6. BC Lions
Quarterback Jonathon Jennings seems to be actually decent for a rookie pressed into service. Too bad they can't win too many games.
7. Winnipeg Blue Bombers
The Bombers just seem snake bit this season. At least with Nichols as the quarterback they're not totally screwed.
8. Montreal Alouettes
I'm not sure getting Kevin Glenn this late in the season is going to help much, but we'll see.
9. Saskatchewan Roughriders
There's always next year for the Riders. Evaluation time.
The Stamps beat the Argos last week a bona fide good team in a pseudo away game in Hamilton. Calgary keeps winning. Can't argue against them.
2. Hamilton Tiger-Cats
The Ticats haven't collapsed with the injury to Zach Collaros. They have excellent special teams and defence, plus an above average set of receivers. Matthews has put up remarkable completion percentage numbers of late. That's hard to beat.
3. Edmonton Eskimos
The Eskimos have won a lot of games this year. They're a good team, although maybe not a great one.
4. Toronto Argonauts
The Argos have had some impressive wins and some losses. If they were at BMO field this year, they might have a better record, but being on the road seems to be their lot in 2015.
5. Ottawa REDBLACKS
Eked one out over the Bombers in the Peg. The REDBLACKS have been impressive, but mostly against bad teams.
6. BC Lions
Quarterback Jonathon Jennings seems to be actually decent for a rookie pressed into service. Too bad they can't win too many games.
7. Winnipeg Blue Bombers
The Bombers just seem snake bit this season. At least with Nichols as the quarterback they're not totally screwed.
8. Montreal Alouettes
I'm not sure getting Kevin Glenn this late in the season is going to help much, but we'll see.
9. Saskatchewan Roughriders
There's always next year for the Riders. Evaluation time.
Monday, October 19, 2015
Jeff Matthews Had an 84% Completion Percentage in the Cats' Montreal Victory
Probably the most impressive thing in Hamilton 23 to 11 victory over Montreal (in Montreal thus breaking the regular game losing streak) was that quarterback Jeff Matthews had an 84% completion percentage. That came on 21 passes on 25 attempts for 241 yards, with a TD and no interceptions. Mind you the yards per completion average was only 11.5 yards, but who really cares with a completion percentage that high. Matthews the past two weeks has basically been the best quarterback in the CFL, which is definitely heartening for Ticats fans after Collaros went down.
Matthew's former university receiver Luke Tasker had 107 yards on eight catches. Tasker is now at 858 yards and barring injury is pretty much a lock for over 1,000 yards this year. Sinkfield also had a good game with 90 yards on eight catches with a TD. Sinkfield now has 915 yards receiving and should also easily reach 1,000 yards receiving this year. Fantuz came back and had two catches.
One problem with the Cats this game was their lack of TDs, settling for field goals. Something the Cats are going to have to work on.
Curiously the Cats had no sacks, but three interceptions. I'll take the interceptions. Plus they kept S.J Green to only 23 yards receiving.
Linebacker Simoni Lawrence and running back Michael Ford had injuries and left the game. At least this year the Cats have a reasonable Canadian running back in Woodson to back up, who made a nice catch.
Matthew's former university receiver Luke Tasker had 107 yards on eight catches. Tasker is now at 858 yards and barring injury is pretty much a lock for over 1,000 yards this year. Sinkfield also had a good game with 90 yards on eight catches with a TD. Sinkfield now has 915 yards receiving and should also easily reach 1,000 yards receiving this year. Fantuz came back and had two catches.
One problem with the Cats this game was their lack of TDs, settling for field goals. Something the Cats are going to have to work on.
Curiously the Cats had no sacks, but three interceptions. I'll take the interceptions. Plus they kept S.J Green to only 23 yards receiving.
Linebacker Simoni Lawrence and running back Michael Ford had injuries and left the game. At least this year the Cats have a reasonable Canadian running back in Woodson to back up, who made a nice catch.
Saturday, October 17, 2015
Tiger-Cats Week 17 Depth Chart Versus Alouettes is Now Up, Fantuz and Norwood Are Back, No Bakari Grant
The Ticats have now listed their depth chart against the Alouettes for tomorrow's game. Noteworthy is that Canadian slotback Andy Fantuz is listed as a starter as is import defensive end Eric Norwood.
A bit of a difference on the offensive line from last week. Import Howard is in at the important left tackle position for Figueroa. Import Lewis is the right tackle. The Canadian interior is the 2015 usual, with Dyakowski and Bomben as the guards and Filer as the centre.
At wide receiver, both are imports, Underwood and Collins who wasn't in last week. No Bakari Grant. Slots are imports Sinkfield and Tasker plus Fantuz.
Running back is Ford, with non-import Prime as the fullback. Matthews is the quarterback with Harris backing up. That's four Canadian offensive starters.
Defensive ends are imports Hickman and the aforementioned Norwood, with import Hall and non-import Laurent in the middle.
Linebackers are the usual imports, Lawrence, Reed and Harris.
Corners are the import Carter and non-import Stephen. Half-backs are the non-imports Stewart and Davis, with the Canadian Butler as the safety.
That's three defensive Canadian starters.
A bit of a difference on the offensive line from last week. Import Howard is in at the important left tackle position for Figueroa. Import Lewis is the right tackle. The Canadian interior is the 2015 usual, with Dyakowski and Bomben as the guards and Filer as the centre.
At wide receiver, both are imports, Underwood and Collins who wasn't in last week. No Bakari Grant. Slots are imports Sinkfield and Tasker plus Fantuz.
Running back is Ford, with non-import Prime as the fullback. Matthews is the quarterback with Harris backing up. That's four Canadian offensive starters.
Defensive ends are imports Hickman and the aforementioned Norwood, with import Hall and non-import Laurent in the middle.
Linebackers are the usual imports, Lawrence, Reed and Harris.
Corners are the import Carter and non-import Stephen. Half-backs are the non-imports Stewart and Davis, with the Canadian Butler as the safety.
That's three defensive Canadian starters.
Ticats Don't Have Their Alouette Depth Chart Up Yet
It's less than 24 hours until the Tiger-Cats play the Alouettes and there is still no depth chart up on the Ticat website. That's pretty annoying. I'm assuming that Andy Fantuz and Eric Norwood will be playing.
2015 CFL Predictions Week 17
Unfortunately due to lack of access to the internet I missed a couple of games this week. Here's the last three.
Calgary at Toronto
In Hamilton. Both teams should be motivated, trying to win first place overall in their respective divisions. The Argos have proved to play well with Trevor Harris as their quarterback all year long, despite their issues with playing in the Roger Centre. The Stamps have added Canadian back Jerome Messam second overall to their running attack, which should help, although I'm not sure there's enough carries for both Messam and Jon Cornish. I'll pick Toronto in Hamilton, which is bizarre, but the CFL is kind of weird.
Argonauts 33 Stampeders 29
BC at Edmonton
BC would seem to have a lock on the third and final playoff spot. However Edmonton is a lot better team and this is at home and the Eskimos are still fighting for first.
Eskimos 26 Lions 19
Hamilton at Montreal
Montreal has had Hamilton's number all season even when the Cats had Zach Collaros playing quarterback for them. Now the Alouettes have traded for erstwhile quarterback Kevin Glenn in a desperate attempt by coach and GM Jim Popp to make the playoffs. Statistically the only real way the Alouettes can make the playoffs is via the cross-over and winning today would definitely help as they're currently tied with BC on points which would mean BC would get in. The Cats do have Andy Fantuz and Eric Norwood back which should make their offense and defence significantly better. New quarterback Jeff Matthews was able to beat Kevin Glenn in his last game when he was with the Riders, I think he does again with the Alouettes trying to get by with Glenn and a new playbook.
Tiger-Cats 30 Alouettes 23
Calgary at Toronto
In Hamilton. Both teams should be motivated, trying to win first place overall in their respective divisions. The Argos have proved to play well with Trevor Harris as their quarterback all year long, despite their issues with playing in the Roger Centre. The Stamps have added Canadian back Jerome Messam second overall to their running attack, which should help, although I'm not sure there's enough carries for both Messam and Jon Cornish. I'll pick Toronto in Hamilton, which is bizarre, but the CFL is kind of weird.
Argonauts 33 Stampeders 29
BC at Edmonton
BC would seem to have a lock on the third and final playoff spot. However Edmonton is a lot better team and this is at home and the Eskimos are still fighting for first.
Eskimos 26 Lions 19
Hamilton at Montreal
Montreal has had Hamilton's number all season even when the Cats had Zach Collaros playing quarterback for them. Now the Alouettes have traded for erstwhile quarterback Kevin Glenn in a desperate attempt by coach and GM Jim Popp to make the playoffs. Statistically the only real way the Alouettes can make the playoffs is via the cross-over and winning today would definitely help as they're currently tied with BC on points which would mean BC would get in. The Cats do have Andy Fantuz and Eric Norwood back which should make their offense and defence significantly better. New quarterback Jeff Matthews was able to beat Kevin Glenn in his last game when he was with the Riders, I think he does again with the Alouettes trying to get by with Glenn and a new playbook.
Tiger-Cats 30 Alouettes 23
Tuesday, October 6, 2015
2015 CFL Predictions Week 16
Not a fan of Tuesday night CFL games.
Ottawa at Toronto in Ottawa
If the game actually happened in Toronto like it was supposed to, I would probably pick Toronto. However being in Ottawa in front of how many fans, I'm still going to pick Toronto. I don't think the REDBLACKS are as good as their record indicates.
Argonauts 28 REDBLACKS 26
Saskatchewan at Hamilton
The Riders shit the bed against BC last week so even though Hamilton doesn't have Zach Collaros, I'm guessing the Ticat defence will carry the day. Plus Jeff Matthews has another week of practice under his belt and really wasn't that bad considering the hurricane conditions in Hamilton last week.
Tiger-Cats 29 Roughriders 26
Edmonton at Calgary
It is in Calgary and Edmonton wasn't that impressive against the Bombers last week. That's enough for me (plus the fact Cornish is back, which sets up Mitchell's passing game).
Stampeders 33 Eskimos 25
Winnipeg at BC
This is a weird one. One would have thought with all the BC quarterback injuries that they would be screwed but apparently not. The Bombers almost won last week, but ended up sucking. It is in BC so I'll take the home field CFL advantage.
Lions 28 Blue Bombers 25
Ottawa at Toronto in Ottawa
If the game actually happened in Toronto like it was supposed to, I would probably pick Toronto. However being in Ottawa in front of how many fans, I'm still going to pick Toronto. I don't think the REDBLACKS are as good as their record indicates.
Argonauts 28 REDBLACKS 26
Saskatchewan at Hamilton
The Riders shit the bed against BC last week so even though Hamilton doesn't have Zach Collaros, I'm guessing the Ticat defence will carry the day. Plus Jeff Matthews has another week of practice under his belt and really wasn't that bad considering the hurricane conditions in Hamilton last week.
Tiger-Cats 29 Roughriders 26
Edmonton at Calgary
It is in Calgary and Edmonton wasn't that impressive against the Bombers last week. That's enough for me (plus the fact Cornish is back, which sets up Mitchell's passing game).
Stampeders 33 Eskimos 25
Winnipeg at BC
This is a weird one. One would have thought with all the BC quarterback injuries that they would be screwed but apparently not. The Bombers almost won last week, but ended up sucking. It is in BC so I'll take the home field CFL advantage.
Lions 28 Blue Bombers 25
Thursday, October 1, 2015
2015 CFL Predictions Week 15
Thursday game this week.
Montreal at Ottawa
Just saw on the Twitter that Jonathon Crompton is back on the six game disable list, not long after getting off it. Weird. Who starts for the Alouettes, Cato or Marsh? Who knows? I think that Ottawa bounces back at home with Burris having a decent game.
REDBLACKS 30 Alouettes 25
Calgary at Hamilton
Too bad for the Ticats that in their first game without Zach Collaros they have to go against Calgary. I think Matthews can do against the bottom four teams, but Calgary is excellent and has a decent pass rush. No doubt the Cats will try and run the ball a little more, but even with their defence (barring an injury to Bo Levi Mitchell) I don't think the Cats can finish.
Stampeders 29 Tiger-Cats 19
Edmonton at Winnipeg
Winnipeg is home again and against their quarterback Matt Nichols' former team, the Eskimos. The Bombers haven't been a good team without Drew Willy, although last week they played tough against Calgary at home. Against my better judgement, I'm going to pick the Bombers at home.
Blue Bombers 23 Eskimos 21
Saskatchewan at BC
Two bad teams going against each other. BC is at home, but the Riders have Glenn back at quarterback and he hasn't looked bad. I'll go with the more experience quarterback.
Roughriders 25 Lions 18
Montreal at Ottawa
Just saw on the Twitter that Jonathon Crompton is back on the six game disable list, not long after getting off it. Weird. Who starts for the Alouettes, Cato or Marsh? Who knows? I think that Ottawa bounces back at home with Burris having a decent game.
REDBLACKS 30 Alouettes 25
Calgary at Hamilton
Too bad for the Ticats that in their first game without Zach Collaros they have to go against Calgary. I think Matthews can do against the bottom four teams, but Calgary is excellent and has a decent pass rush. No doubt the Cats will try and run the ball a little more, but even with their defence (barring an injury to Bo Levi Mitchell) I don't think the Cats can finish.
Stampeders 29 Tiger-Cats 19
Edmonton at Winnipeg
Winnipeg is home again and against their quarterback Matt Nichols' former team, the Eskimos. The Bombers haven't been a good team without Drew Willy, although last week they played tough against Calgary at home. Against my better judgement, I'm going to pick the Bombers at home.
Blue Bombers 23 Eskimos 21
Saskatchewan at BC
Two bad teams going against each other. BC is at home, but the Riders have Glenn back at quarterback and he hasn't looked bad. I'll go with the more experience quarterback.
Roughriders 25 Lions 18
Wednesday, September 30, 2015
2015 CFL Power Rankings Week 14
1. Calgary Stampeders
A lot closer game than one would expected versus the Bombers in Bomberland, however Calgary pulled out a win at the end, aided by a botched call by the officials. Still Calgary just wins.
2. Toronto Argonauts
The Argos proved that they still have it after beating the REDBLACKS in Ottawa. Who cares about Ricky Ray? Quarterback Trevor Harris is still getting it done.
3. Edmonton Eskimos
Bounced back from only 49 yards the week before to beat BC. Mike Reilly is looking better and they still have a good defence.
4. Ottawa REDBLACKS
Lost to the Argonauts. The REDBLACKS seem to have trouble with the better teams. Still looking good for a playoff position.
5. Hamilton Tiger-Cats
How bad are the Cats without starting quarterback Zach Collaros. Not great, but they still have a great defence and good special teams. New starter Matthews will have a good receiving corps to past too, although obviously he's quite inexperienced.
6. Saskatchewan Roughriders
The Riders looked decent winning with Kevin Glenn against Montreal at home last week. They have Jerome Messam at running back and one of the better running attacks in the league. Who knows, maybe they will make the playoffs after all.
7. Montreal Alouttes
Maybe Crompton isn't that good after the Alouettes lost to the Roughriders. GM Jim Popp's record after taking over as head coach isn't so great.
8. Winnipeg Blue Bombers
Managed to stay close to Calgary with Matt Nichols as quarterback and were eventually screwed on a bad call. This team seems snake bit this year.
9. BC Lions
Way down on the quarterbacks, the Lions just don't seem to have it in 2015. Harris is having a good season though as is Bighill.
A lot closer game than one would expected versus the Bombers in Bomberland, however Calgary pulled out a win at the end, aided by a botched call by the officials. Still Calgary just wins.
2. Toronto Argonauts
The Argos proved that they still have it after beating the REDBLACKS in Ottawa. Who cares about Ricky Ray? Quarterback Trevor Harris is still getting it done.
3. Edmonton Eskimos
Bounced back from only 49 yards the week before to beat BC. Mike Reilly is looking better and they still have a good defence.
4. Ottawa REDBLACKS
Lost to the Argonauts. The REDBLACKS seem to have trouble with the better teams. Still looking good for a playoff position.
5. Hamilton Tiger-Cats
How bad are the Cats without starting quarterback Zach Collaros. Not great, but they still have a great defence and good special teams. New starter Matthews will have a good receiving corps to past too, although obviously he's quite inexperienced.
6. Saskatchewan Roughriders
The Riders looked decent winning with Kevin Glenn against Montreal at home last week. They have Jerome Messam at running back and one of the better running attacks in the league. Who knows, maybe they will make the playoffs after all.
7. Montreal Alouttes
Maybe Crompton isn't that good after the Alouettes lost to the Roughriders. GM Jim Popp's record after taking over as head coach isn't so great.
8. Winnipeg Blue Bombers
Managed to stay close to Calgary with Matt Nichols as quarterback and were eventually screwed on a bad call. This team seems snake bit this year.
9. BC Lions
Way down on the quarterbacks, the Lions just don't seem to have it in 2015. Harris is having a good season though as is Bighill.
Friday, September 25, 2015
2015 CFL Predictions Week 14
Calgary at Winnipeg
Yeah I don't really see the Stampeders losing in Winnipeg this week, home field advantage be damned. Although Winnipeg should be motivated since they are still in the playoff race and the Stamps aren't really that far from locking up first in the West.
Stampeders 31 Blue Bombers 19
BC at Edmonton
Considering that BC is having quarterback injury problems and Edmonton actually has Mike Reilly back (although he only passed for 49 yards last week in Hamilton) and Edmonton is at home, that smells like an Eskimo victory.
Eskimos 27 Lions 16
Toronto at Ottawa
This game is definitely interesting. Both teams have winning records. Ottawa hasn't been particularly good against good teams this year in the CFL compiling their winning record and at times has been blown out. I'm going to go against home field and pick Toronto.
Argonauts 26 REDBLACKS 24
Montreal at Saskatchewan
Crompton is back, as is Glenn. The game is in Saskatchewan, where the Riders achieved their single lone victory of 2015. On neutral ground, I think Montreal is a better team, however the Riders weren't terrible last week, although they again managed to lose a close one to Ottawa. Montreal has playoff motivation. I think the Riders manage to pull one out for once.
Roughriders 30 Alouettes 28
Yeah I don't really see the Stampeders losing in Winnipeg this week, home field advantage be damned. Although Winnipeg should be motivated since they are still in the playoff race and the Stamps aren't really that far from locking up first in the West.
Stampeders 31 Blue Bombers 19
BC at Edmonton
Considering that BC is having quarterback injury problems and Edmonton actually has Mike Reilly back (although he only passed for 49 yards last week in Hamilton) and Edmonton is at home, that smells like an Eskimo victory.
Eskimos 27 Lions 16
Toronto at Ottawa
This game is definitely interesting. Both teams have winning records. Ottawa hasn't been particularly good against good teams this year in the CFL compiling their winning record and at times has been blown out. I'm going to go against home field and pick Toronto.
Argonauts 26 REDBLACKS 24
Montreal at Saskatchewan
Crompton is back, as is Glenn. The game is in Saskatchewan, where the Riders achieved their single lone victory of 2015. On neutral ground, I think Montreal is a better team, however the Riders weren't terrible last week, although they again managed to lose a close one to Ottawa. Montreal has playoff motivation. I think the Riders manage to pull one out for once.
Roughriders 30 Alouettes 28
Thursday, September 24, 2015
2015 CFL Power Rankings Week 13
1. Calgary StampedersWith Zach Collaros' injury, let's face it
Calgary is alone and Bo Levi Mitchell doesn't have competition for the
best quarterback anymore. Plus they beat BC this past week.
2. Toronto Argonauts
Still have Trevor Harris healthy. Don't really have much in the way of fans, but that hasn't really helped the Riders this year so I don't think it is that important.
3. Edmonton Eskimos
The fact they only had 49 yards passing in Hamilton last week is troubling. They do have a good defence, though and Mike Reilly is back. 49 yards though. Jeez.
4. Ottawa REDBLACKS
Henry Burris has been healthy all year long which is an accomplishment in the CFL. Looks like a pretty good shot to make the playoffs after a two win season in 2014. That's pretty good for an expansion team.
5. Hamilton Tiger-Cats
So no Zach Collaros and Matthews didn't really impress in his relief roll. The Tiger-Cats do have the best defence in the CFL though.
6. Montreal Alouettes
Beat Winnipeg and Jonathon Crompton is back. Need to see more from them to move up the rankings, although they are looking good for the cross-over.
7. BC Lions
Down to their third string quarterback and lost again. Not looking good for the Lions.
8. Saskatchewan Roughriders
Almost won at home. Still stuck at one win. Glenn is back, which is something.
9. Winnipeg Blue Bombers
Not a good time in Bomberville.
2. Toronto Argonauts
Still have Trevor Harris healthy. Don't really have much in the way of fans, but that hasn't really helped the Riders this year so I don't think it is that important.
3. Edmonton Eskimos
The fact they only had 49 yards passing in Hamilton last week is troubling. They do have a good defence, though and Mike Reilly is back. 49 yards though. Jeez.
4. Ottawa REDBLACKS
Henry Burris has been healthy all year long which is an accomplishment in the CFL. Looks like a pretty good shot to make the playoffs after a two win season in 2014. That's pretty good for an expansion team.
5. Hamilton Tiger-Cats
So no Zach Collaros and Matthews didn't really impress in his relief roll. The Tiger-Cats do have the best defence in the CFL though.
6. Montreal Alouettes
Beat Winnipeg and Jonathon Crompton is back. Need to see more from them to move up the rankings, although they are looking good for the cross-over.
7. BC Lions
Down to their third string quarterback and lost again. Not looking good for the Lions.
8. Saskatchewan Roughriders
Almost won at home. Still stuck at one win. Glenn is back, which is something.
9. Winnipeg Blue Bombers
Not a good time in Bomberville.
Monday, September 21, 2015
Does Jeff Matthews Have What It Takes to Be A Successful Starter This Season for the Ticats?
Obviously Zach Collaros' knee injury on Saturday isn't good for the Cats. At best he is likely to be gone for a number of games. Jeff Matthews would seem to have a decent chance to start for the Cats, although his play on Saturday in relief wasn't good and it would not have taken much to defeat the Eskimos.
Matthews tossed three interceptions, two that were pick sixes and one in the Eskimo end zone. A couple of them seemed down right baffling. Matthews also fumbled and lost the ball on a running play. However, having seen bad Ticat backups forced into the game (Billy Dickens, Timmy Chang) Matthews wasn't terrible. He didn't have two and and out after two and out after getting blitzed repeatedly which is what happens to most CFL rookie backups. He went 7 for 10 with 90 yards and a TD before being yanked, which was more yards than Reilly had the entire game (49 yards on 7 for 22 attempts). This week is a bye week, and no doubt Matthews will get considerably more snaps. Plus the Cats will likely try to add more of a running game to help out Matthews, including using four receivers and a fullback more often (which the Cats have rarely done). Weirdly while Matthews was in on Saturday, he often played with six receiver sets, which Collaros doesn't do that often.
The Ticats defence is arguably the best in the league right now (i.e. giving up 49 passing yards) and their special teams are up there too. Besides Collaros though, the Cats have other injury problems, including Dyakowski, Bomben and Olson on the offensive line in the last game alone. Plus Gable and Fantuz are still out, who both would be especially useful on a Matthews led team.
Are the Cats the favourite to win the Grey Cup still? No. Can they still make the playoffs? I think they can, although losing this past game against Edmonton where they had chances to win is going to hurt.
Matthews tossed three interceptions, two that were pick sixes and one in the Eskimo end zone. A couple of them seemed down right baffling. Matthews also fumbled and lost the ball on a running play. However, having seen bad Ticat backups forced into the game (Billy Dickens, Timmy Chang) Matthews wasn't terrible. He didn't have two and and out after two and out after getting blitzed repeatedly which is what happens to most CFL rookie backups. He went 7 for 10 with 90 yards and a TD before being yanked, which was more yards than Reilly had the entire game (49 yards on 7 for 22 attempts). This week is a bye week, and no doubt Matthews will get considerably more snaps. Plus the Cats will likely try to add more of a running game to help out Matthews, including using four receivers and a fullback more often (which the Cats have rarely done). Weirdly while Matthews was in on Saturday, he often played with six receiver sets, which Collaros doesn't do that often.
The Ticats defence is arguably the best in the league right now (i.e. giving up 49 passing yards) and their special teams are up there too. Besides Collaros though, the Cats have other injury problems, including Dyakowski, Bomben and Olson on the offensive line in the last game alone. Plus Gable and Fantuz are still out, who both would be especially useful on a Matthews led team.
Are the Cats the favourite to win the Grey Cup still? No. Can they still make the playoffs? I think they can, although losing this past game against Edmonton where they had chances to win is going to hurt.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)