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 ticats. Show all posts
Showing posts with label ticats. 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.
Friday, July 1, 2016
2016 BC at Hamilton Depth Chart Analysis
The big news is that Canadian defensive tackle Ted Laurent is back for the home opener tonight against BC.
As last week, the Cats go with two American offensive tackles Simmons and Lewis. Canadians Dyakoski and Bomben are the guards and Filer the centre. So that's three Canadian starters out of the seven required on the offensive line.
Wideouts are Underwood and the Canadian Spencer Watt. Slots are Tasker, Owens, and Fantuz, another Canadian. Starting running back is C.J Gable and the Canadian fullback Prime. My assumption is that with four receiver sets with Prime in as fullback, then only one Canadian receiver will be in usually. So that's always two Canadian starters for the receivers and fullbacks, for five total on offense.
Masoli starts at quarterback, with Maher kicking and punting.
On the defensive line, Chick and Tracy are the ends, with the aforementioned Laurent as one of the tackles and Nevis as the other.
The linebackers are Lawrence, Dean and Rico Murray. Corners are Tisdale and Pointer. Defensive halfbacks are Sears Jr. and Lewis. The Canadian Stephen is the starting safety, so that's two Canadian starters on defence.
Very little change from last week's starting lineup against Toronto.
As last week, the Cats go with two American offensive tackles Simmons and Lewis. Canadians Dyakoski and Bomben are the guards and Filer the centre. So that's three Canadian starters out of the seven required on the offensive line.
Wideouts are Underwood and the Canadian Spencer Watt. Slots are Tasker, Owens, and Fantuz, another Canadian. Starting running back is C.J Gable and the Canadian fullback Prime. My assumption is that with four receiver sets with Prime in as fullback, then only one Canadian receiver will be in usually. So that's always two Canadian starters for the receivers and fullbacks, for five total on offense.
Masoli starts at quarterback, with Maher kicking and punting.
On the defensive line, Chick and Tracy are the ends, with the aforementioned Laurent as one of the tackles and Nevis as the other.
The linebackers are Lawrence, Dean and Rico Murray. Corners are Tisdale and Pointer. Defensive halfbacks are Sears Jr. and Lewis. The Canadian Stephen is the starting safety, so that's two Canadian starters on defence.
Very little change from last week's starting lineup against Toronto.
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.
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.
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
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.
Friday, September 18, 2015
2015 CFL Power Rankings Week 12
A bit late on the power rankings this week.
1. Hamilton Tiger-Cats
A road win by eight points, even if a bit messy is nothing to sneeze at. Plus the Cats completed the regular season sweep of the Argonauts, which was nice.
2. Calgary Stampeders
Sure they lost at home, but with the imminent return of Canadian running back Jon Cornish, the Stampeders become an even better team.
3. Edmonton Eskimos
Quarterback Mike Reilly is back and playing well. Beat the Stampeders at home this past week, although one should be nervous about Reilly's health.
4. Toronto Argonauts
Admittedly they have lost two games in a row to their archrivals and they are being booted by the Jays for their playoff run, the Argos are still a decent team and quarterback Ricky Ray is healthy again.
5. Ottawa REDBLACKS
Are the REDBLACKS for real? Seems so after beating BC handily on the road. Quarterback Henry Burris is looking good rather than crotchety and the team has a winning record later on into the season. Not sure if they can beat a good team, but there are a lot of loser teams in the CFL in 2015.
6. Montreal Alouettes
Didn't play last week, which must help for injuries. Plus quarterback Jonathon Crompton is supposedly healthy again. I don't think that helps much, but there are worse quarterbacks in the league.
7. BC Lions
Not a great season for BC. Does Wally Buono still have it as a GM?
8. Winnipeg Blue Bombers
Won the Banjo Bowl solidly with Matt Nichols as quarterback. Picker up quarterback Tajh Boyd from the Ticats for a pack of smokes. Still not a good team.
9. Saskatchewan Roughriders
After winning their first game of the season, the Riders came back to Earth last week. At least Kevin Glenn is back, although the Riders managed to lose a lot of games with him as the starter.
1. Hamilton Tiger-Cats
A road win by eight points, even if a bit messy is nothing to sneeze at. Plus the Cats completed the regular season sweep of the Argonauts, which was nice.
2. Calgary Stampeders
Sure they lost at home, but with the imminent return of Canadian running back Jon Cornish, the Stampeders become an even better team.
3. Edmonton Eskimos
Quarterback Mike Reilly is back and playing well. Beat the Stampeders at home this past week, although one should be nervous about Reilly's health.
4. Toronto Argonauts
Admittedly they have lost two games in a row to their archrivals and they are being booted by the Jays for their playoff run, the Argos are still a decent team and quarterback Ricky Ray is healthy again.
5. Ottawa REDBLACKS
Are the REDBLACKS for real? Seems so after beating BC handily on the road. Quarterback Henry Burris is looking good rather than crotchety and the team has a winning record later on into the season. Not sure if they can beat a good team, but there are a lot of loser teams in the CFL in 2015.
6. Montreal Alouettes
Didn't play last week, which must help for injuries. Plus quarterback Jonathon Crompton is supposedly healthy again. I don't think that helps much, but there are worse quarterbacks in the league.
7. BC Lions
Not a great season for BC. Does Wally Buono still have it as a GM?
8. Winnipeg Blue Bombers
Won the Banjo Bowl solidly with Matt Nichols as quarterback. Picker up quarterback Tajh Boyd from the Ticats for a pack of smokes. Still not a good team.
9. Saskatchewan Roughriders
After winning their first game of the season, the Riders came back to Earth last week. At least Kevin Glenn is back, although the Riders managed to lose a lot of games with him as the starter.
Friday, September 11, 2015
2015 CFL Predictions Week 12
Hamilton at Toronto
Often in the CFL it is hard to win back to back games against the same opponent. The Ticats were so dominant last week against the Argos at home, especially on offense, that I think the Tiger-Cats will take this one. The Cats were successful even with all their injuries. Plus there should be a healthy number of Ticats fans at Dead Ted's Dome tonight.
Tiger-Cats 31 Argonauts 29
Saskatchewan at Winnipeg
The Banjo Bowl and a rematch from last week. The Bombers lost but will start Matt Nichols at quarterback who they obtained from Edmonton. Can the Riders make it two in a row? I think they have the momentum, although they are not a good team by any means. They are playing Winnipeg however.
Roughriders 25 Blue Bombers 20
Calgary at Edmonton
The Esks are at home after losing the Labour Day classic last week. Their offense didn't do much, but their defence was good as usual. Mike Reilly could potentially play more. I'll pick the home team here.
Eskimos 19 Stampeders 16
Ottawa at BC
Eastern team often don't do well in BC, however this game is at 4 pm Eastern, which is a lot better than an 8 pm Pacific start. The Lions don't have Lulay this week, but that didn't really stop them against Montreal last week. I'm going to go with the home team this week. Ottawa just isn't very good on the road.
Lions 27 REDBLACKS 19
Often in the CFL it is hard to win back to back games against the same opponent. The Ticats were so dominant last week against the Argos at home, especially on offense, that I think the Tiger-Cats will take this one. The Cats were successful even with all their injuries. Plus there should be a healthy number of Ticats fans at Dead Ted's Dome tonight.
Tiger-Cats 31 Argonauts 29
Saskatchewan at Winnipeg
The Banjo Bowl and a rematch from last week. The Bombers lost but will start Matt Nichols at quarterback who they obtained from Edmonton. Can the Riders make it two in a row? I think they have the momentum, although they are not a good team by any means. They are playing Winnipeg however.
Roughriders 25 Blue Bombers 20
Calgary at Edmonton
The Esks are at home after losing the Labour Day classic last week. Their offense didn't do much, but their defence was good as usual. Mike Reilly could potentially play more. I'll pick the home team here.
Eskimos 19 Stampeders 16
Ottawa at BC
Eastern team often don't do well in BC, however this game is at 4 pm Eastern, which is a lot better than an 8 pm Pacific start. The Lions don't have Lulay this week, but that didn't really stop them against Montreal last week. I'm going to go with the home team this week. Ottawa just isn't very good on the road.
Lions 27 REDBLACKS 19
Thursday, September 10, 2015
View From West Stands of Tim Horton's Field
Snapped this photo from the West stands during the Labour Day Classic. 
2015 CFL Power Rankings Week 11
1. Hamilton Tiger-Cats
Crushed Toronto despite a lot of injuries. The true hero was Zach Collaros who continually burned Toronto's zone defence. The Hamilton defence was decent, even missing Norwood.
2. Calgary Stampeders
The team with the best record, but definitely not the best offense. Benefiting from games against the loser Riders and Bombers
3. Edmonton Eskimos
Mike Reilly is sort of back. The Eskimos need to get their offense on track to be really good.
4. Toronto Argonauts
Not a very good outing against Hamilton. Still better than a lot of teams in the CFL and Ricky Ray now seems to be somewhat healthy giving the Argos a lot of depth at quarterback, which is something pretty much unheard of in the CFL of 2015.
5. Ottawa REDBLACKS
Didn't play, didn't lose. That's good enough to stick at the fifth position.
6. BC Lions
Beat Montreal with backup Beck after Lulay was injured with a knee ligament sprain. The Lions were not particularly good with Lulay anyways. Perhaps more distressing was that Andrew Harris rushed 21 times for 65 yards, with the longest run being 8 yards. That's not going to beat the good teams in the CFL.
7. Montreal Alouettes
Lost to the Lions, which is basically the team that they are most alike in the power rankings. After playing reasonably well to beat Hamilton, Tanner Marsh went 16 for 30, passing for 103 yards and count them, five interceptions. Ouch.
8. Saskatchewan Roughriders
Off the Schneid! And no longer at the bottom of the Tigercatatonia Power Rankings. The no longer winless Riders are still a crap team. But now at least they are a crap team with one win.
9. Winnipeg Blue Bombers
I'm assuming that with Winnipeg acquiring quarterback Matt Nichols that they will be somewhat better eventually once they learn the playbook. Although after the beating they took by the Riders, the Bombers aren't exactly looking good.
Crushed Toronto despite a lot of injuries. The true hero was Zach Collaros who continually burned Toronto's zone defence. The Hamilton defence was decent, even missing Norwood.
2. Calgary Stampeders
The team with the best record, but definitely not the best offense. Benefiting from games against the loser Riders and Bombers
3. Edmonton Eskimos
Mike Reilly is sort of back. The Eskimos need to get their offense on track to be really good.
4. Toronto Argonauts
Not a very good outing against Hamilton. Still better than a lot of teams in the CFL and Ricky Ray now seems to be somewhat healthy giving the Argos a lot of depth at quarterback, which is something pretty much unheard of in the CFL of 2015.
5. Ottawa REDBLACKS
Didn't play, didn't lose. That's good enough to stick at the fifth position.
6. BC Lions
Beat Montreal with backup Beck after Lulay was injured with a knee ligament sprain. The Lions were not particularly good with Lulay anyways. Perhaps more distressing was that Andrew Harris rushed 21 times for 65 yards, with the longest run being 8 yards. That's not going to beat the good teams in the CFL.
7. Montreal Alouettes
Lost to the Lions, which is basically the team that they are most alike in the power rankings. After playing reasonably well to beat Hamilton, Tanner Marsh went 16 for 30, passing for 103 yards and count them, five interceptions. Ouch.
8. Saskatchewan Roughriders
Off the Schneid! And no longer at the bottom of the Tigercatatonia Power Rankings. The no longer winless Riders are still a crap team. But now at least they are a crap team with one win.
9. Winnipeg Blue Bombers
I'm assuming that with Winnipeg acquiring quarterback Matt Nichols that they will be somewhat better eventually once they learn the playbook. Although after the beating they took by the Riders, the Bombers aren't exactly looking good.
Sunday, September 6, 2015
2015 Labour Classic Tiger-Cat Depth Chart is Out
The Cats just released their depth chart for the game against the Argos.
For the offensive line, as per usual, American tackles with Olson and Lewis. Bomben is out at guard with the veteran O'Neill in. Dyakowski and Filer are still at guard and centre. As per usual the three interior positions are Canadian.
Bakari Grant is still out. Coates is in as the lone starting Canadian receiver at wideout. Tolliver is the other wide receiver, with Sinkfield, Underwood and Tasker as the slots.
Grigsby is listed ahead of Holly at running back, with non-import Prime as the fullback. Collaros is the quarterback with Matthews backing up and likely in for sneaks.
Medlock punts and kicks this week as punter Hugh O'Neill is out injured (likely beard related), with Banks as the returner.
That's four Canadian starters on offense.
On defence, Norwood is out injured at defensive end and Sears Jr is out in the secondary. Import Tracy comes in for him, with Hickman as the other end. Non-import Laurent and Hall are the defensive tackles. Lawrence, Reed and Harris are the starting linebackers.
Gainey and non-import Stephen are the starting corners. Rico Murray and Davis are the starting defensive halfbacks. Non-import Butler starts at safety. So that's three starting Canadian defenders.
Norwood, Grant, Bomben and Sears Jr. being out injured definitely hurts, although not fatally. The question is O'Neill a big downgrade at guard for Bomben and whether Tracy can get pressure on the quarterback in place of Norwood. Laurent, Henry and Hickman are still three solid players on the defensive line.
Also interesting will be the performance at Grigsby at running back. Expect more passes to him, although I doubt a lot of runs. Can Grigsby pass block adequately is another question.
For the offensive line, as per usual, American tackles with Olson and Lewis. Bomben is out at guard with the veteran O'Neill in. Dyakowski and Filer are still at guard and centre. As per usual the three interior positions are Canadian.
Bakari Grant is still out. Coates is in as the lone starting Canadian receiver at wideout. Tolliver is the other wide receiver, with Sinkfield, Underwood and Tasker as the slots.
Grigsby is listed ahead of Holly at running back, with non-import Prime as the fullback. Collaros is the quarterback with Matthews backing up and likely in for sneaks.
Medlock punts and kicks this week as punter Hugh O'Neill is out injured (likely beard related), with Banks as the returner.
That's four Canadian starters on offense.
On defence, Norwood is out injured at defensive end and Sears Jr is out in the secondary. Import Tracy comes in for him, with Hickman as the other end. Non-import Laurent and Hall are the defensive tackles. Lawrence, Reed and Harris are the starting linebackers.
Gainey and non-import Stephen are the starting corners. Rico Murray and Davis are the starting defensive halfbacks. Non-import Butler starts at safety. So that's three starting Canadian defenders.
Norwood, Grant, Bomben and Sears Jr. being out injured definitely hurts, although not fatally. The question is O'Neill a big downgrade at guard for Bomben and whether Tracy can get pressure on the quarterback in place of Norwood. Laurent, Henry and Hickman are still three solid players on the defensive line.
Also interesting will be the performance at Grigsby at running back. Expect more passes to him, although I doubt a lot of runs. Can Grigsby pass block adequately is another question.
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