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 tiger-cats. Show all posts
Showing posts with label tiger-cats. Show all posts
Thursday, July 27, 2017
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.
Friday, June 26, 2015
Ticats at Stampedes Preview Week 1 CFL
I've looked at the Ticats website and no sign of the depth chart yet. Seems pretty strange as they had one for the last pre-season game. So I will have to go by some assumptions.
I'm not exactly sure which offensive tackles will start but I do know they will be Americans. Figueora I believe is on the injury list so not him. Likely in the middle will be guards Dyakoski and Bomben plus Filer as centre, all non-imports.
Collaros will start at quarterback and a lot of how the game goes will depend on him. The problem is that Gable, Grigsby and Madu are all injured at running back and Steve Tasker is out at receiver.
The Cats do have import Bakari Grant who looked good in the pre-season and if the Cats are going to win, is going to have to have a good game. Non-import Fantuz is healthy and will also need to have a good game. I'm assuming that Brandon Banks will play some five and six receiver sets. The new import Tolliver will likely start as a receiver and hopefully he pans out as the new 2015 receiver find for the Ticats. The non-import Coates could possibly also see a little bit of time.
The new running back Holley at least had some time in the last pre-season game taking over from the injured running backs. How he does receiving will be important for the offense. Prime is likely the non-import running back. Medlock obviously kicks and punts and it will be interesting what the Cats do on the new points after rule.
On defence, the line will be Justin Hickman as an end, Henry as a tackle and non-import Laurent as another tackle. If Norwood hadn't injured himself in a household accident he would have started (he had 13 sacks in 2014) and I'm not sure who replaces him.
Linebackers are I'm guessing Harris and Reed although without the depth chart I'm not sure exactly who the third is. Rico Murray is unfortunately injured.
In the secondary, Brandon Stewart is likely one of the starting corners with Gainey or Sears as one of the others. Butler a non-import starts at safety.
Calgary obviously has Bo Levi Mitchell and Jon Cornish and the defence will at least have to slow them down. I can see the Cats minimizing production from Cornish but then getting torched from the air. This game could be a shootout although I'm not sure that is recipe for the Cats winning.
Apparently the Cats haven't won their home opener for ten years, which is kind of depressing. Hopefully Collaros comes up with a monster game.
I'm not exactly sure which offensive tackles will start but I do know they will be Americans. Figueora I believe is on the injury list so not him. Likely in the middle will be guards Dyakoski and Bomben plus Filer as centre, all non-imports.
Collaros will start at quarterback and a lot of how the game goes will depend on him. The problem is that Gable, Grigsby and Madu are all injured at running back and Steve Tasker is out at receiver.
The Cats do have import Bakari Grant who looked good in the pre-season and if the Cats are going to win, is going to have to have a good game. Non-import Fantuz is healthy and will also need to have a good game. I'm assuming that Brandon Banks will play some five and six receiver sets. The new import Tolliver will likely start as a receiver and hopefully he pans out as the new 2015 receiver find for the Ticats. The non-import Coates could possibly also see a little bit of time.
The new running back Holley at least had some time in the last pre-season game taking over from the injured running backs. How he does receiving will be important for the offense. Prime is likely the non-import running back. Medlock obviously kicks and punts and it will be interesting what the Cats do on the new points after rule.
On defence, the line will be Justin Hickman as an end, Henry as a tackle and non-import Laurent as another tackle. If Norwood hadn't injured himself in a household accident he would have started (he had 13 sacks in 2014) and I'm not sure who replaces him.
Linebackers are I'm guessing Harris and Reed although without the depth chart I'm not sure exactly who the third is. Rico Murray is unfortunately injured.
In the secondary, Brandon Stewart is likely one of the starting corners with Gainey or Sears as one of the others. Butler a non-import starts at safety.
Calgary obviously has Bo Levi Mitchell and Jon Cornish and the defence will at least have to slow them down. I can see the Cats minimizing production from Cornish but then getting torched from the air. This game could be a shootout although I'm not sure that is recipe for the Cats winning.
Apparently the Cats haven't won their home opener for ten years, which is kind of depressing. Hopefully Collaros comes up with a monster game.
Friday, June 19, 2015
Coach Sal, John Salavantis Doing Colour for CKOC Hamilton Tiger-Cat Broadcasts in 2015
Nice to see coach Sal doing colour for the new CKOC Hamilton Tiger-Cat broadcasts. Not so sure about the new play by play guy Andy McNamara, but it is his second game.
Somewhat sad for CHML to no longer have the broadcasts after all they've put into the team over the years. Although it is a Corus station so I can't feel that bad for them.
Somewhat sad for CHML to no longer have the broadcasts after all they've put into the team over the years. Although it is a Corus station so I can't feel that bad for them.
Saturday, May 2, 2015
Ticat Salary Cap Implications of Linden Gaydosh and Spencer Watt Achilles Injuries
Obviously have two good Canadian players lost for the whole season before training camp even starts isn't a good thing for the Ticats. Spencer Watt as a receiver being injured presents more of a problem. One assumes that Watt would take over from Sam Giguere as the second starting Canadian receiver after Andy Fantuz and would also likely start in the case of any Fantuz injuries (which certainly existed last season). After Watt (a former Argo), for Canadian receivers the Ticats have former Hamilton Hurricane Matt Coates who caught a few catches last year and likely will get a lot bigger of an opportunity.
Gaydosh's injury effects on the team is more muted, simply because the Ticats have two excellent Canadian defensive tackles in Brian Bulcke and Ted Laurent plus an awesome import in Bryan Hall. If the Cats were to sit Hall and go with Bulcke and Laurent as starters, Gaydosh (a first overall CFL draft pick in 2013) would have been a very useful backup. However the Cats likely will start Hall, so Gaydosh would have less playing time barring injuries. The Cats just have a lot of non-import defensive tackle talent and if they don't start two Canadians, it is pretty crowded. I was curious about what the Cats were going to do about the situation, but with Gaydosh now gone, it is now a non-issue.
With both players being out for the season, their salaries won't count against the salary cap. I don't know what Gaydosh signed for, but being on the second year of his first CFL contract, it probably wasn't a huge amount. Watt as a talented import receiver likely did receive a fair amount of money by CFL standards (although if I had to guess, slightly less than what Giguere got). The Gaydosh and Watt money is now available for other players, but since most of the free agents are picked over, there's not any obvious places to now spend it, as the new imports coming to camp usually have pretty small first contracts. The Cats now have some room to take on salary as part of a trade, although meaningful trades are rare in the CFL. Potentially the Cats will be in a position to sign some players that end up getting cut from other teams in training camp, especially if those players were cut because of another team's salary cap problems.
Gaydosh's injury effects on the team is more muted, simply because the Ticats have two excellent Canadian defensive tackles in Brian Bulcke and Ted Laurent plus an awesome import in Bryan Hall. If the Cats were to sit Hall and go with Bulcke and Laurent as starters, Gaydosh (a first overall CFL draft pick in 2013) would have been a very useful backup. However the Cats likely will start Hall, so Gaydosh would have less playing time barring injuries. The Cats just have a lot of non-import defensive tackle talent and if they don't start two Canadians, it is pretty crowded. I was curious about what the Cats were going to do about the situation, but with Gaydosh now gone, it is now a non-issue.
With both players being out for the season, their salaries won't count against the salary cap. I don't know what Gaydosh signed for, but being on the second year of his first CFL contract, it probably wasn't a huge amount. Watt as a talented import receiver likely did receive a fair amount of money by CFL standards (although if I had to guess, slightly less than what Giguere got). The Gaydosh and Watt money is now available for other players, but since most of the free agents are picked over, there's not any obvious places to now spend it, as the new imports coming to camp usually have pretty small first contracts. The Cats now have some room to take on salary as part of a trade, although meaningful trades are rare in the CFL. Potentially the Cats will be in a position to sign some players that end up getting cut from other teams in training camp, especially if those players were cut because of another team's salary cap problems.
Tuesday, April 21, 2015
Ottawa REDBLACKS Signs Former Ticat Receiver Chris Williams?
Judging by the Twitter feed of the Ottawa REDBLACKS, they've signed former Ticat receiver Chris Williams. Williams you recall went to the NFL after an acrimonious contract dispute with the Ticats, where Williams claimed he wasn't offered a minimum duration contract. Williams was able to go to the NFL after a legal decision, however the Ticats retained his CFL rights for 2013 and 2014. Williams was on the roster of the Saints and Bears.
This is an interesting signing by Ottawa. Williams had 1,298 yards receiving and 16 TDs in 2012 for the Cats. They've already significantly boosted their receiving corps, including the signing of former Ticat receiver, Greg Ellingson and Calgary's Brad Sinopoli. Plus Williams has played with former Ticat quarterback and current Ottawa quarterback Henry Burris, so there's some chemistry there. Plus Williams is an excellent kick and punt returner (1,117 yards in 2012).
I'm impressed. Even if all of Ottawa's receiver signings don't pan out, some of them will at least. I'm thinking of moving Ottawa up in my power rankings.
This is an interesting signing by Ottawa. Williams had 1,298 yards receiving and 16 TDs in 2012 for the Cats. They've already significantly boosted their receiving corps, including the signing of former Ticat receiver, Greg Ellingson and Calgary's Brad Sinopoli. Plus Williams has played with former Ticat quarterback and current Ottawa quarterback Henry Burris, so there's some chemistry there. Plus Williams is an excellent kick and punt returner (1,117 yards in 2012).
I'm impressed. Even if all of Ottawa's receiver signings don't pan out, some of them will at least. I'm thinking of moving Ottawa up in my power rankings.
Friday, February 13, 2015
Thoughts on the 2015 Ticats Schedule: Sucky
I knew with the Pan Am games that there were going to be some issues with the Ticats this year. But I didn't think it would be as bad as last year. And maybe worse.
The fact the first regular season home game isn't until August, namely on the Civic holiday is crazy. That's a tough start to the season in a league that historically has been quite biased towards the home team. There's actually four home games in August. That's not going to be an easy sell ticket-wise.
The rest of the season isn't so bad. The Cats do get two home games against the Argos, which is nice.
The pre-season home game is also quite early taking place on June 8th. More weirdly, that's a Monday. Not great.
A lot of this stems from the fact that the league is unbalanced with nine teams. Adding a tenth team to the East would make schedule making a lot better.
The fact the first regular season home game isn't until August, namely on the Civic holiday is crazy. That's a tough start to the season in a league that historically has been quite biased towards the home team. There's actually four home games in August. That's not going to be an easy sell ticket-wise.
The rest of the season isn't so bad. The Cats do get two home games against the Argos, which is nice.
The pre-season home game is also quite early taking place on June 8th. More weirdly, that's a Monday. Not great.
A lot of this stems from the fact that the league is unbalanced with nine teams. Adding a tenth team to the East would make schedule making a lot better.
Friday, January 16, 2015
Picture of Tim Horton'sd Field at Night January 2015
Here's a photo I took of the still unfinished Tim Horton's Field with the lights on last night. Hopefully it will be ready for the Ticats preseason game in June.
Monday, January 12, 2015
Tim Horton's Field Not Ready Yet
Somewhat incredibly the Ticats' new stadium still isn't ready yet. From this Spec article:
"The city hopes the Pan Am stadium will be finished in February – or at least by April.
The city is still waiting to take possession of the $145-million stadium that was supposed to be finished last July. Infrastructure Ontario most recently estimated the building would handed over by the end of January. "
Considering the stadium was supposed to be open at the end of June last year, that's remarkable. The first pre-season game is likely far enough away to not be affected fortunately. I should swing by the stadium and take a few shots to see the current state.
I'll be curious to see in the future if there is any complaints about shoddy construction. I'm guessing this stadium doesn't last as long as Ivor Wynne.
"The city hopes the Pan Am stadium will be finished in February – or at least by April.
The city is still waiting to take possession of the $145-million stadium that was supposed to be finished last July. Infrastructure Ontario most recently estimated the building would handed over by the end of January. "
Considering the stadium was supposed to be open at the end of June last year, that's remarkable. The first pre-season game is likely far enough away to not be affected fortunately. I should swing by the stadium and take a few shots to see the current state.
I'll be curious to see in the future if there is any complaints about shoddy construction. I'm guessing this stadium doesn't last as long as Ivor Wynne.
Monday, November 10, 2014
Photo from the Upper West Stands Montreal at Hamilton 2014
Here's a photo I took from the upper part of the West stands that just opened for the final regular season game.
Unlike the stands on the other side, there is a railing between each row as this side is quite steep.
The washroom nearest to where the photo was taken only had five urinals.
Saturday, October 25, 2014
Hamilton Tiger-Cats Go for 2014 Harold Ballard Cup and Playoff Spot
The Tiger-Cats are going for their second consecutive Harold Ballard Cup (presented to the season series winner between the Ticats and the Argonauts) in Toronto this afternoon. Both teams have won a single game and both games were by a single point. If this game ends in a tie, what's the tie breaker? The Cats won the 2013 Harold Ballard Cup.
Ticat notable injuries are Andy Fantuz (that's not good), Cary Koch (meh), Marcellus Bowman (not great), Ted Laurent (very bad), Ellingson yet again (not great). Not having Bulcke and Laurent kind of screws with the Ticats ratio plans of having two defensive line starters and they'll have to cope with none. Playing three Americans on the offensive line, somewhat constrains them, although at least they have two other defensive Canadian starters. Not have Fantuz obviously hurts with ratio as well.
At least the Cats have Madu back at running back.
Ticat notable injuries are Andy Fantuz (that's not good), Cary Koch (meh), Marcellus Bowman (not great), Ted Laurent (very bad), Ellingson yet again (not great). Not having Bulcke and Laurent kind of screws with the Ticats ratio plans of having two defensive line starters and they'll have to cope with none. Playing three Americans on the offensive line, somewhat constrains them, although at least they have two other defensive Canadian starters. Not have Fantuz obviously hurts with ratio as well.
At least the Cats have Madu back at running back.
Monday, October 13, 2014
Thoughts on the Ticats Loss in Toronto, Harold Ballard Cup All Tied Up
I attended the Ticats game at the Rogers Centre on Friday against the Argos, which the Ticats ended up blowing a big lead and losing 34 to 33. Being in the stadium was fun as a Ticat fan for majority of the game until the Argos managed to win with two late TDs. My section was mostly an Argo one, although there were plenty of Ticat fans overall and certainly by sound, Ticats plays were cheered loudly (my guess is that the average Ticat fan was at least thrice as loud as the average Argo fan).
The Argos outscored the Ticats 21 to 3 in the final quarter versus the Cats outscoring the Argos 30 to 13 through the first three quarters. Did the Argos make the biggest comeback in the CFL this year? One related point I've made about the Ticats is that the truly good teams in the CFL step on the throats of an opposing team when they get ahead and keep scoring points to absolutely guarantee victory. The Cats were almost there this game, but basically needed another field goal.
The Tiger-Cats did actually have a good chance to win at the end of the game when Sinkfield managed to return the Argos kickoff after the go ahead TD to the Ticats' 51 yard line with around a minute left (Sinkfield actually had a fabulous game returning kickoffs and punts). With the game indoors and having Medlock, that wouldn't have required many yards for a field goal. But the Ticats managed to totally screw up that possession, ending it with a bad snap on a long third down.
Stats wise, Collaros had a pretty good game, going 23 for 32 for 302 yards with two TDs throwing and no picks. Collaros also had seven runs for 65 yards and at TD which is impressive.
Madu had a great day catching the ball with 87 yards on six catches, but only 14 yards on three runs. The Cats don't use the running back to run much, but do use the position as almost the primary receiver. Fantuz had a good day with seven catches for 77 yards and a TD and Tasker had three catches for 71 yards and a TD. Tasker has emerged as the best import receiver.
One interesting reception, Matt Coates caught a single pass for fifteen yards. Who's Matt Coates? I had to look him up. He's a rookie non-import (23 years old, 6'3" 197 lbs.) who came from the Hamilton Hurricanes rather than the CIS or NCAA. I assume he was on the roster for special teams, but another no-import receiver making a catch besides Giguere and Fantuz is always news.
The Cats defence also had a good game until the fourth quarter. Lineback Taylor Reed led with seven tackles. Norwood is also having a great year a defensive end, with six tackles and three sacks, putting him at 11 sacks on the year. Hickman had a tackle. Non-import defensive tackle Ted Laurent had a sack, putting him at seven sacks, which is good for an interior defensive lineman.
Ricky Ray didn't look good for the first three quarters, but ended up with good stats, with 34 completions on a massive 48 attempts for 431 yards, three TDs and a pick. Ray has to be coming close to being a lock for the eastern nominee for most outstanding player, which he won last year (but not the overall award).
Chiles had a great day, with eight receptions for 123 yards. Chad Owens also had a great day with 109 yards from six catches and the game winning TD.
One last thing, the Harold Ballard trophy race (presented to which ever team wins the season series between Toronto and Hamilton) is tied, with each team having a win apiece and the total points scored also tied. If the Cats and Argos tie their next game, I'm not sure what the tie breaker is.
The Argos outscored the Ticats 21 to 3 in the final quarter versus the Cats outscoring the Argos 30 to 13 through the first three quarters. Did the Argos make the biggest comeback in the CFL this year? One related point I've made about the Ticats is that the truly good teams in the CFL step on the throats of an opposing team when they get ahead and keep scoring points to absolutely guarantee victory. The Cats were almost there this game, but basically needed another field goal.
The Tiger-Cats did actually have a good chance to win at the end of the game when Sinkfield managed to return the Argos kickoff after the go ahead TD to the Ticats' 51 yard line with around a minute left (Sinkfield actually had a fabulous game returning kickoffs and punts). With the game indoors and having Medlock, that wouldn't have required many yards for a field goal. But the Ticats managed to totally screw up that possession, ending it with a bad snap on a long third down.
Stats wise, Collaros had a pretty good game, going 23 for 32 for 302 yards with two TDs throwing and no picks. Collaros also had seven runs for 65 yards and at TD which is impressive.
Madu had a great day catching the ball with 87 yards on six catches, but only 14 yards on three runs. The Cats don't use the running back to run much, but do use the position as almost the primary receiver. Fantuz had a good day with seven catches for 77 yards and a TD and Tasker had three catches for 71 yards and a TD. Tasker has emerged as the best import receiver.
One interesting reception, Matt Coates caught a single pass for fifteen yards. Who's Matt Coates? I had to look him up. He's a rookie non-import (23 years old, 6'3" 197 lbs.) who came from the Hamilton Hurricanes rather than the CIS or NCAA. I assume he was on the roster for special teams, but another no-import receiver making a catch besides Giguere and Fantuz is always news.
The Cats defence also had a good game until the fourth quarter. Lineback Taylor Reed led with seven tackles. Norwood is also having a great year a defensive end, with six tackles and three sacks, putting him at 11 sacks on the year. Hickman had a tackle. Non-import defensive tackle Ted Laurent had a sack, putting him at seven sacks, which is good for an interior defensive lineman.
Ricky Ray didn't look good for the first three quarters, but ended up with good stats, with 34 completions on a massive 48 attempts for 431 yards, three TDs and a pick. Ray has to be coming close to being a lock for the eastern nominee for most outstanding player, which he won last year (but not the overall award).
Chiles had a great day, with eight receptions for 123 yards. Chad Owens also had a great day with 109 yards from six catches and the game winning TD.
One last thing, the Harold Ballard trophy race (presented to which ever team wins the season series between Toronto and Hamilton) is tied, with each team having a win apiece and the total points scored also tied. If the Cats and Argos tie their next game, I'm not sure what the tie breaker is.
Sunday, October 5, 2014
BC at Hamilton Picture
A shot of Tim Horton's Field last night during the Cats win against the Lions.
Saturday, September 13, 2014
Saskatchewan Roughriders in Hamilton Lineup Preview
The Riders are coming in after back to back victories against the Blue Bombers and without starting quarterback Darian Durant who might be out for the season. The Cats lost in Montreal against the Alouettes last week.
The offensive line stays similar to previous game with the weird for the CFL formation of three American linemen. Olson and Figueroa are the import tackles and Simmons is the import guard. I'm a little surprised this far into the season the Cats haven't tried another Canadian at guard but apparently the team's depth is so bad they can only muster up two Canadian starters for the line. I guess they're waiting for Dyakowski. Filer is the centre and O'Neill the non-import guard.
Tasker and non-import Giguere are are the wide receivers. Grant and Fantuz are the import slotbacks and Fantuz is the other. Madu is again the running back and non-import Prime is the fullback. Collaros starts with Masoli and McGee the backups at quarterback.
Medlock kicks and punts as usual. What is different is Sinkfield in as kick and punt returner after mediocre efforts from Koch and Tasker against Montreal last week. No Koch at all this week as he is on the one game injured list (which doesn't mean a lot).
With five or six receivers there probably is four Canadian starters. With a fullback and four receivers I'm not sure as it could be five with the two linemen, Prime, Fantuz and Giguere.
On defence, Scott and Norwood are the import defensive ends. Scott hasn't played much this year as he only has three tackles this year but was listed as the starter last week. Last year he had 16 and a sack. Coleman started last week but was injured during the game is now on the six game list. Norwood has had 13 tackles in 2014 and two sacks.
As has been the case pretty much all this season, Bulcke and Laurent are the two non-import defensive tackle starters. New this week is 2013 first overall pick Linden Gaydosh in as a backup defensive tackle. That's a lot of Canadian depth at defensive tackle.
The linebackers are Lawrence, Reed and Harris. Big hitting Bowman is listed as a backup.
Again Breaux and non-import Stephen are the corners. Stewart is one halfback and Rico Murray is other moving from linebacker. tacking over from Davis. Non-import Butler is the safety.
That's four Canadian starters on defence this week, which as I have noted most weeks is a lot for a CFL team.
The offensive line stays similar to previous game with the weird for the CFL formation of three American linemen. Olson and Figueroa are the import tackles and Simmons is the import guard. I'm a little surprised this far into the season the Cats haven't tried another Canadian at guard but apparently the team's depth is so bad they can only muster up two Canadian starters for the line. I guess they're waiting for Dyakowski. Filer is the centre and O'Neill the non-import guard.
Tasker and non-import Giguere are are the wide receivers. Grant and Fantuz are the import slotbacks and Fantuz is the other. Madu is again the running back and non-import Prime is the fullback. Collaros starts with Masoli and McGee the backups at quarterback.
Medlock kicks and punts as usual. What is different is Sinkfield in as kick and punt returner after mediocre efforts from Koch and Tasker against Montreal last week. No Koch at all this week as he is on the one game injured list (which doesn't mean a lot).
With five or six receivers there probably is four Canadian starters. With a fullback and four receivers I'm not sure as it could be five with the two linemen, Prime, Fantuz and Giguere.
On defence, Scott and Norwood are the import defensive ends. Scott hasn't played much this year as he only has three tackles this year but was listed as the starter last week. Last year he had 16 and a sack. Coleman started last week but was injured during the game is now on the six game list. Norwood has had 13 tackles in 2014 and two sacks.
As has been the case pretty much all this season, Bulcke and Laurent are the two non-import defensive tackle starters. New this week is 2013 first overall pick Linden Gaydosh in as a backup defensive tackle. That's a lot of Canadian depth at defensive tackle.
The linebackers are Lawrence, Reed and Harris. Big hitting Bowman is listed as a backup.
Again Breaux and non-import Stephen are the corners. Stewart is one halfback and Rico Murray is other moving from linebacker. tacking over from Davis. Non-import Butler is the safety.
That's four Canadian starters on defence this week, which as I have noted most weeks is a lot for a CFL team.
Thursday, September 11, 2014
Third Pigskin Pete Paul Weiler Passes Away Yesterday
Tigercatatonia was sad to hear the news of the third Pigskin Pete, Paul Weiler passing away yesterday. Tigercatatonia was always a fan and also amazed at how long Paul held the position.
I once asked on an internet forum if any other team had someone like Pigskin. The answers seem to be no, just the typical mascots like Stripes (and that creepy spherical one the Cats have). Since the role dated from the 1920s Pigskin Pete was like a throwback to another time, although a throwback that survived because it was a good idea and associated with a good person.
Pigskin Pete is also a uniquely Hamilton story and icon. In an internet age where everything global seems local, someone like Pete is one of those hyperlocal things that still matter. We'll miss you Pete
I once asked on an internet forum if any other team had someone like Pigskin. The answers seem to be no, just the typical mascots like Stripes (and that creepy spherical one the Cats have). Since the role dated from the 1920s Pigskin Pete was like a throwback to another time, although a throwback that survived because it was a good idea and associated with a good person.
Pigskin Pete is also a uniquely Hamilton story and icon. In an internet age where everything global seems local, someone like Pete is one of those hyperlocal things that still matter. We'll miss you Pete
Thursday, August 21, 2014
2014 CFL Predictions Week 9
Montreal at Winnipeg
While the Alouettes seem to have dropped the Troy Smith experiment for now, Alex Brink is basically Winnipeg's sloppy seconds. Plus the Bombers are at home and have Drew Willy.
Bombers 24 Alouettes 19
Toronto at Edmonton
Call me crazy, but I'm picking Toronto. They're not at home, but sometimes wacky things happen. Plus Edmonton is good, but they have to revert a little closer to last season's results.
Argonauts 31 Eskimos 28
Calgary at Ottawa
The REDBLACKs are still an expansion team and the Stamps seem to be good enough that they don't lose to the crap teams.
Stampeders 41 REDBLACKS 27
Saskatchewan at BC
BC just seems hot to me and the Riders just kind of meh this year. Plus BC is at home. Not really sure about that whole guaranteed win thing, but the Lions have a giant stadium so extra tickets aren't a lot of pressure.
Lions 22 Roughriders 19
While the Alouettes seem to have dropped the Troy Smith experiment for now, Alex Brink is basically Winnipeg's sloppy seconds. Plus the Bombers are at home and have Drew Willy.
Bombers 24 Alouettes 19
Toronto at Edmonton
Call me crazy, but I'm picking Toronto. They're not at home, but sometimes wacky things happen. Plus Edmonton is good, but they have to revert a little closer to last season's results.
Argonauts 31 Eskimos 28
Calgary at Ottawa
The REDBLACKs are still an expansion team and the Stamps seem to be good enough that they don't lose to the crap teams.
Stampeders 41 REDBLACKS 27
Saskatchewan at BC
BC just seems hot to me and the Riders just kind of meh this year. Plus BC is at home. Not really sure about that whole guaranteed win thing, but the Lions have a giant stadium so extra tickets aren't a lot of pressure.
Lions 22 Roughriders 19
2014 CFL Power Rankings Week 8
1. Calgary Stampeders
Admittedly they beat a team with one win this week, but it was on the road and Hamilton is as good as it gets for a one win team this time of the year. Which isn't that great but still. Bo Levi Mitchell has emerged as one of the best quarterbacks and the Stamps have gotten it done without Jon Cornish. Impressive.
2. Edmonton Eskimos
Sure they barely beat Ottawa on the road, but the Eskimos have had a consistently good record so far this year. Can't really argue with ranking them high.
3. BC Lions
Sure they beat a tired Toronto team this week, but the Lions seem to be coming together with Kevin Glenn at the helm after a slow start. Certainly we're setting up for the inevitable Kevin Glenn doesn't get any respect story line that seems to happen every year, but that doesn't stop the team from having a good record.
4. Saskatchewan Roughriders
Beat the Alouettes at home by five points. Although Montreal wasn't hamstrung by Troy Smith at quarterback so that's not a super embarrassing win. Still not sure about the Riders this season, but if they get Weston Dressler back they'll be a tougher team to play.
5. Toronto Argonauts
Not five Western teams on top. Tabernac! The double blue rolled over the Bombers easily in Dead Ted's Dome (TM) this past week so there's that. Ray without Durie and Owens at receiver hasn't been too bad actually. The Argos could be decent when they come back.
6 Winnipeg Blue Bombers
Losing to an Eastern team? That hurts. Drew Willy is decent but not omnipotent this year. We'll see how the Bombers do against non-Eastern teams.
7. Ottawa REDBLACKs
Almost beat Edmonton at home. That's something. Actually being seventh is something for an expansion team. Lack of depth hurts but isn't really surprising.
8. Montreal Alouettes
Not a bad showing and not starting Troy Smith helps. Still a pretty smelly team. I'm not really sure this team is that talented.
9. Hamilton Tiger-Cats
On paper outside of quarterback they seem like they have some talent, especially Canadians and receiver. Playing three Americans on the offensive line is unconventional and doesn't seem to be working that great (in terms of the team winning). Of course LeFevour seems to be out for the season with a torn ACL and with a concussed Collaros the Cats are down to the biblically names Jeremiah Masoli at quarterback. After that it's someone named McGee. Also I'm not sure what the injury status of C.J Gable is. From the Grey Cup to doghouse in a season. Hard out here for a Ticat fan. And no doubt for whatever pimps are responsible for the girls working Barton street near the stadium. Have you seen those girls? None of them are a pimp's dream, that's for sure.
Admittedly they beat a team with one win this week, but it was on the road and Hamilton is as good as it gets for a one win team this time of the year. Which isn't that great but still. Bo Levi Mitchell has emerged as one of the best quarterbacks and the Stamps have gotten it done without Jon Cornish. Impressive.
2. Edmonton Eskimos
Sure they barely beat Ottawa on the road, but the Eskimos have had a consistently good record so far this year. Can't really argue with ranking them high.
3. BC Lions
Sure they beat a tired Toronto team this week, but the Lions seem to be coming together with Kevin Glenn at the helm after a slow start. Certainly we're setting up for the inevitable Kevin Glenn doesn't get any respect story line that seems to happen every year, but that doesn't stop the team from having a good record.
4. Saskatchewan Roughriders
Beat the Alouettes at home by five points. Although Montreal wasn't hamstrung by Troy Smith at quarterback so that's not a super embarrassing win. Still not sure about the Riders this season, but if they get Weston Dressler back they'll be a tougher team to play.
5. Toronto Argonauts
Not five Western teams on top. Tabernac! The double blue rolled over the Bombers easily in Dead Ted's Dome (TM) this past week so there's that. Ray without Durie and Owens at receiver hasn't been too bad actually. The Argos could be decent when they come back.
6 Winnipeg Blue Bombers
Losing to an Eastern team? That hurts. Drew Willy is decent but not omnipotent this year. We'll see how the Bombers do against non-Eastern teams.
7. Ottawa REDBLACKs
Almost beat Edmonton at home. That's something. Actually being seventh is something for an expansion team. Lack of depth hurts but isn't really surprising.
8. Montreal Alouettes
Not a bad showing and not starting Troy Smith helps. Still a pretty smelly team. I'm not really sure this team is that talented.
9. Hamilton Tiger-Cats
On paper outside of quarterback they seem like they have some talent, especially Canadians and receiver. Playing three Americans on the offensive line is unconventional and doesn't seem to be working that great (in terms of the team winning). Of course LeFevour seems to be out for the season with a torn ACL and with a concussed Collaros the Cats are down to the biblically names Jeremiah Masoli at quarterback. After that it's someone named McGee. Also I'm not sure what the injury status of C.J Gable is. From the Grey Cup to doghouse in a season. Hard out here for a Ticat fan. And no doubt for whatever pimps are responsible for the girls working Barton street near the stadium. Have you seen those girls? None of them are a pimp's dream, that's for sure.
Sunday, August 10, 2014
2014 CFL Television Ratings Week 6
Chris Zelkowich has the Canadian weekend sports television ratings over at his Yahoo blog. Unusually this summer the Jays games held down the first, second and fourth spots, with the CFL games in the third, fifth and sixth spots:
1. MLB, Blue Jays at Astros, Friday, Sportsnet: 832,000
3. CFL, Lions at Stampeders, Friday, TSN: 656,000
5. CFL, Roughriders at RedBlacks, Saturday, TSN: 516,000
6. CFL, Argonauts at Alouettes, Friday, TSN: 514,000
Low ratings for the CFL this week compared to previous weeks and significantly lower than last year's average (around 700K). Surprising that the Riders game was so low. The East totally sucking this year can't help
1. MLB, Blue Jays at Astros, Friday, Sportsnet: 832,000
3. CFL, Lions at Stampeders, Friday, TSN: 656,000
5. CFL, Roughriders at RedBlacks, Saturday, TSN: 516,000
6. CFL, Argonauts at Alouettes, Friday, TSN: 514,000
Low ratings for the CFL this week compared to previous weeks and significantly lower than last year's average (around 700K). Surprising that the Riders game was so low. The East totally sucking this year can't help
Thursday, August 7, 2014
2014 CFL Power Rankings Week 6
1. Calgary Stampeders
Sure they lost a close one to BC. And at home. I still have faith in them. Although clearly they would be better if Cornish was healthy.
2. Edmonton Eskimos
Didn't play last week, so they couldn't show me something that would make me like them less.
3. Winnipeg Blue Bombers
The Bombers look like they are for real this year. Won an interesting game in Hamilton as they looked great in the first half, kind of sucked in the second and then looked great at the end as they drove the length of the field (or at least it seemed so).
4. Saskatchewan Rough Riders
The Riders would appear to be back after wiping the Redblacks at home. Not a great test, but it is something.
5. BC Lions
Another week where all five Western teams are better than the Eastern teams. Considering they beat Calgary at home in a close one, they certainly could have ranked higher, but they've had some weak games this year. Getting Andrew Harris involved seems key.
6. Toronto Argonauts
Blasted Montreal. That's something. Did it without Durie and Owens too.
7. Hamilton Tiger-Cats
Sure they lost at home, but it was close, against a good team, and came back from a big deficit. LeFevour was crap in the first half, but recovered in the second. Hamilton can win games if they play all four quarters, but that seems unlikely.
8. Ottawa Redblacks
Sucked mostly against Saskatchewan. Their offense isn't bad though. They need a better defence, especially in the first half and to avoid turnovers. Which isn't likely to happen.
9. Montreal Alouettes
Introduced a lot of coaches. That's never a good sign. The Als weren't a terrible team last year and in fact had a very good defence. Not this year.
Sure they lost a close one to BC. And at home. I still have faith in them. Although clearly they would be better if Cornish was healthy.
2. Edmonton Eskimos
Didn't play last week, so they couldn't show me something that would make me like them less.
3. Winnipeg Blue Bombers
The Bombers look like they are for real this year. Won an interesting game in Hamilton as they looked great in the first half, kind of sucked in the second and then looked great at the end as they drove the length of the field (or at least it seemed so).
4. Saskatchewan Rough Riders
The Riders would appear to be back after wiping the Redblacks at home. Not a great test, but it is something.
5. BC Lions
Another week where all five Western teams are better than the Eastern teams. Considering they beat Calgary at home in a close one, they certainly could have ranked higher, but they've had some weak games this year. Getting Andrew Harris involved seems key.
6. Toronto Argonauts
Blasted Montreal. That's something. Did it without Durie and Owens too.
7. Hamilton Tiger-Cats
Sure they lost at home, but it was close, against a good team, and came back from a big deficit. LeFevour was crap in the first half, but recovered in the second. Hamilton can win games if they play all four quarters, but that seems unlikely.
8. Ottawa Redblacks
Sucked mostly against Saskatchewan. Their offense isn't bad though. They need a better defence, especially in the first half and to avoid turnovers. Which isn't likely to happen.
9. Montreal Alouettes
Introduced a lot of coaches. That's never a good sign. The Als weren't a terrible team last year and in fact had a very good defence. Not this year.
Saturday, August 2, 2014
City Announces August Ticat Game Moved to McMaster
The city announced Friday that, in a surprise to no one, Tim Horton's Field can't host the August 16th game and the game instead will be played at Mac. The city claims it will be ready for the Labour Day game versus the Argos, which is good, because this Spec article says Mac isn't available.
Obviously the ticket revenue issue hurts, but is to a large part mitigated by the million the Ticats are supposed to get per game (in fact if they received $9 million per game for nine games, that's probably more than the ticket revenue).
However where the Cats lose is obviously all the other game income and momentum. So not only are the Cats likely getting crushed by missed merchandise sales at the games, they're liking selling less overall. Beer and concession income will be missed too, plus in game advertising revenue will be sharply reduced.
Luckily while the Cats have been terrible, so have the other three teams in the East, especially Montreal.
Obviously the ticket revenue issue hurts, but is to a large part mitigated by the million the Ticats are supposed to get per game (in fact if they received $9 million per game for nine games, that's probably more than the ticket revenue).
However where the Cats lose is obviously all the other game income and momentum. So not only are the Cats likely getting crushed by missed merchandise sales at the games, they're liking selling less overall. Beer and concession income will be missed too, plus in game advertising revenue will be sharply reduced.
Luckily while the Cats have been terrible, so have the other three teams in the East, especially Montreal.
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