I had scraped some statistics from the London 2012 Olympics profile pages for each athlete a while ago and made a blog about it (Olympic Statistics). There haven't been many entries (OK only one), but I made new one using the Olympians body mass index (BMI) statistics. Histograms of all, male and female athletes, minimum and maximum BMIs.
If you're interested, check it out here. I'll try and make some more updates for the 2012 Olympics before the 2014 start in Sochi in February.
Showing posts with label 2012. Show all posts
Showing posts with label 2012. Show all posts
Saturday, November 9, 2013
Friday, October 11, 2013
Saskatchewan Roughriders Financial Report Numbers 2012
In the previous post I was pondering over the Ticats merchandise and how it sells relative to other CFL and Canadian pro sports teams. Saskatchewan has merchandise sales that are third overall in Canada behind the Leafs and Canadiens. However interestingly the Riders are a public owned team and make public their annual report.
This Regina Leader-Post article has the highlights of the report for 2012. Gross revenues were $34.4 million versus $32.2 million in expenses. These expenses would be a lot higher than any other CFL team and are unique to Saskatchewan.
Gate receipts were $13.1 million which again would be way higher than any other team, although Edmonton might not be far behind.
Football expenses were $10.9 million which is a useful number as it would be similar for other CFL teams. This would include the $4.4 million salary cap, coaches salaries, plus one would assume equipment expenses, travel, scouting and the other costs associated with running a CFL team.
Merchandise sales were over $7 million which I would assume would lead the CFL by a wide margin (I seem to recall something about the Ticats recently selling over $1 million in merchandise in a year (third best in the CFL)) and thus it is likely the Riders outsell all other CFL teams combined). I'm not sure if this is the total sales or the profit on the sale of the items.
Sponsorship was $5.2 million. I've heard that Montreal has high sponsorship revenues but I'm not sure how comparable these would be to the Riders. I've never heard a Ticat number, but obviously it would be significantly less.
Concessions sales were $3.8 million. Again I'm not sure if this is total sales or profits. All concessions have a pretty massive markup (i.e. beer).
This Regina Leader-Post article has the highlights of the report for 2012. Gross revenues were $34.4 million versus $32.2 million in expenses. These expenses would be a lot higher than any other CFL team and are unique to Saskatchewan.
Gate receipts were $13.1 million which again would be way higher than any other team, although Edmonton might not be far behind.
Football expenses were $10.9 million which is a useful number as it would be similar for other CFL teams. This would include the $4.4 million salary cap, coaches salaries, plus one would assume equipment expenses, travel, scouting and the other costs associated with running a CFL team.
Merchandise sales were over $7 million which I would assume would lead the CFL by a wide margin (I seem to recall something about the Ticats recently selling over $1 million in merchandise in a year (third best in the CFL)) and thus it is likely the Riders outsell all other CFL teams combined). I'm not sure if this is the total sales or the profit on the sale of the items.
Sponsorship was $5.2 million. I've heard that Montreal has high sponsorship revenues but I'm not sure how comparable these would be to the Riders. I've never heard a Ticat number, but obviously it would be significantly less.
Concessions sales were $3.8 million. Again I'm not sure if this is total sales or profits. All concessions have a pretty massive markup (i.e. beer).
Wednesday, September 11, 2013
CFL Points Average For, Against and Total, 2006-2013, Over Under
I did one post looking at the average points scored per game, including the home and away numbers and the total numbers (for over under bets) for 2012. I've now gone and calculated the numbers from 2006 to 2013. Why not farther back? Because Ottawa was still in the league in 2005 and I would have to alter a few things. I'll get to it eventually. The regular season numbers bounced around a bit more than I expected:
Year Away Home Total
2006 22.6 23.7 46.3
2007 21.9 27.0 48.8
2008 25.9 30.6 56.4
2009 24.7 26.4 51.1
2010 23.9 28.4 52.3
2011 23.8 26.5 50.3
2012 23.5 28.3 51.7
The average total points scored ranged from a low of 46.3 in 2006 to a high of 56.4 two years later in 2008. So keep that in mind for your over under bets.
Year Away Home Total
2006 22.6 23.7 46.3
2007 21.9 27.0 48.8
2008 25.9 30.6 56.4
2009 24.7 26.4 51.1
2010 23.9 28.4 52.3
2011 23.8 26.5 50.3
2012 23.5 28.3 51.7
The average total points scored ranged from a low of 46.3 in 2006 to a high of 56.4 two years later in 2008. So keep that in mind for your over under bets.
Tuesday, August 27, 2013
2012 CFL Home and Away Points Stats
I've loaded in the 2012 home and away points for the CFL regular season and did some analysis on them. This could be useful for over under gambling, but is interesting to me beyond that.
The mean away points scored was 23.6 points a game versus 28.2 points for home teams, or a total points for both teams of 51.8 points per game.
The mean margin of victory in points was 11.9 versus a median margin of victory of 9 points, which was actually larger than I would have thought it would be. The largest margin of victory was 52 points. I should really look up what game that was. There were five games where a single point made the difference.
I did make a histogram of the margin of victory. Note that three points is the most popular.
The mean away points scored was 23.6 points a game versus 28.2 points for home teams, or a total points for both teams of 51.8 points per game.
The mean margin of victory in points was 11.9 versus a median margin of victory of 9 points, which was actually larger than I would have thought it would be. The largest margin of victory was 52 points. I should really look up what game that was. There were five games where a single point made the difference.
I did make a histogram of the margin of victory. Note that three points is the most popular.
Thursday, August 15, 2013
Average Points Scored Per Team CFL 2013
I was curious, what does the average CFL team score per game? I looked at the stats for 2012. I took the total points scored for all 8 teams, then divided by 8 then 18 (for 18 games). It came out to 25.9 points per game. So consider that when you are making your point predictions. Although through the first six games of 2013 the average is only 23.9.
Ideally I wouldn't mind looking at how that differs for home versus visiting teams as well as how that varies during the year, i.e. the week one average versus the week 19 average score. Also the histogram of the margin of victory would be interesting as well. Of course then I would have to enter it in manually or scrape it from the web, which is easier said than done. One of these days I'll get around to doing it.
Ideally I wouldn't mind looking at how that differs for home versus visiting teams as well as how that varies during the year, i.e. the week one average versus the week 19 average score. Also the histogram of the margin of victory would be interesting as well. Of course then I would have to enter it in manually or scrape it from the web, which is easier said than done. One of these days I'll get around to doing it.
Sunday, July 14, 2013
CFL Home Field Advantage
I'm always pointing out that the CFL has a pretty massive home field advantage. I went and checked 2012 and the home team records were 45 and 27 (60%), with no team's home record worse than 4 and 5. The 2011 was 41 and 31.
Sunday, November 11, 2012
CFL Playoff Previews Division Semi-Final 2012
Edmonton at Toronto
Cross-over time. Edmonton has already booted Eric Tillman as general manager which is a little weird and also shows upper management doesn't really expect the Eskimos to go very far.
Edmonton sucked down the stretch, but managed to get in to the playoffs anyways, while the Argos at least managed to win their last two games including against a desperate Hamilton team. The Argos have Ricky Ray as their quarterback while the Eskimos go with the superannuated Kerry Joseph. Most interesting is that the Eskimos J.C. Sherritt, who had broken the regular season CFL record for tackles in the regular season (formerly held by Ticat Calvin Tiggle) won't be playing. I didn't really like the Esks chances and now I really don't.
Toronto is favoured by four points, which I think is a little charitable.
Team Suck 29 Eskimos 17
Saskatchewan at Calgary
The big story is the Stamps starting Drew Tate over Kevin "Rodney Dangerfield" Glenn, which seems like a bit of hubris. Also goes against the Brian Mulrooney doctrine of dancing with the one that brought you. Or was the Mulrooney doctrine accepting suitcases of money from people named Karl-Heinz. I digress.
The Stamps do have running back Jon Cornish and his record of rushing yards ever by a Canadian, which certainly helped Glenn. Also receiver and blocker downfield Nik Lewis which doesn't hurt.
Probably a lot depends on how Rider quarterback Darian Durant plays. He's been up and down this year so who knows who shows up.
No doubt the Riders will have a lot of fans at McMahon, which blunts the home field advantage, but I still like the Stamps, despite the Tate hubris. I assume Tate will be on a short leash and there will be a lot of Cornish running. Stamps favoured by six, but I think it will be closer.
Stamps 33, Riders 29
Cross-over time. Edmonton has already booted Eric Tillman as general manager which is a little weird and also shows upper management doesn't really expect the Eskimos to go very far.
Edmonton sucked down the stretch, but managed to get in to the playoffs anyways, while the Argos at least managed to win their last two games including against a desperate Hamilton team. The Argos have Ricky Ray as their quarterback while the Eskimos go with the superannuated Kerry Joseph. Most interesting is that the Eskimos J.C. Sherritt, who had broken the regular season CFL record for tackles in the regular season (formerly held by Ticat Calvin Tiggle) won't be playing. I didn't really like the Esks chances and now I really don't.
Toronto is favoured by four points, which I think is a little charitable.
Team Suck 29 Eskimos 17
Saskatchewan at Calgary
The big story is the Stamps starting Drew Tate over Kevin "Rodney Dangerfield" Glenn, which seems like a bit of hubris. Also goes against the Brian Mulrooney doctrine of dancing with the one that brought you. Or was the Mulrooney doctrine accepting suitcases of money from people named Karl-Heinz. I digress.
The Stamps do have running back Jon Cornish and his record of rushing yards ever by a Canadian, which certainly helped Glenn. Also receiver and blocker downfield Nik Lewis which doesn't hurt.
Probably a lot depends on how Rider quarterback Darian Durant plays. He's been up and down this year so who knows who shows up.
No doubt the Riders will have a lot of fans at McMahon, which blunts the home field advantage, but I still like the Stamps, despite the Tate hubris. I assume Tate will be on a short leash and there will be a lot of Cornish running. Stamps favoured by six, but I think it will be closer.
Stamps 33, Riders 29
Thursday, August 16, 2012
CFL Power Rankings 2012 Week 7
1. BC Lions
Still on top. Not super consistent, but this year in the CFL, that's what you've got.
2. Edmonton Eskimos
Feels weird writing this, but yes a team quarterbacked by Steven Jyles is number two. Can't argue with a 4 and 2 record. Must be the defence. Adding Cory Boyd probably doesn't hurt either.
3. Calgary Stampeders
Managed to win on the road with a powerful run offence that takes the pressure off Kevin Glenn. Still meh about this team.
4. Hamilton Tiger-Cats
Were ahead going in the fourth quarter, then their run defence collapsed and their offence went AWOL. Injuries starting to hurt, especially that of Fantuz and to a lesser extent Knowlton.
5. Saskatchewan Rough Riders
Back down to earth after winning three games to start the season. Still a big improvement over last year.
6. Toronto Argonauts
Certainly losing Cory Boyd doesn't help, although Chad Kackert is pretty good. The Argos are depending on Ricky Ray now and his passing offence for good or ill. Probably mostly ill.
7. Montreal Alouettes
Alouettes just don't seem to have it this year. Could this be Calvillo's last year? Maybe.
8. Winnipeg Blue Bombers
Going to the third string quarterback. That's always a good sign.
Still on top. Not super consistent, but this year in the CFL, that's what you've got.
2. Edmonton Eskimos
Feels weird writing this, but yes a team quarterbacked by Steven Jyles is number two. Can't argue with a 4 and 2 record. Must be the defence. Adding Cory Boyd probably doesn't hurt either.
3. Calgary Stampeders
Managed to win on the road with a powerful run offence that takes the pressure off Kevin Glenn. Still meh about this team.
4. Hamilton Tiger-Cats
Were ahead going in the fourth quarter, then their run defence collapsed and their offence went AWOL. Injuries starting to hurt, especially that of Fantuz and to a lesser extent Knowlton.
5. Saskatchewan Rough Riders
Back down to earth after winning three games to start the season. Still a big improvement over last year.
6. Toronto Argonauts
Certainly losing Cory Boyd doesn't help, although Chad Kackert is pretty good. The Argos are depending on Ricky Ray now and his passing offence for good or ill. Probably mostly ill.
7. Montreal Alouettes
Alouettes just don't seem to have it this year. Could this be Calvillo's last year? Maybe.
8. Winnipeg Blue Bombers
Going to the third string quarterback. That's always a good sign.
Monday, July 9, 2012
Weird New Ticats Mascot
What is this weird new mascot the Ticats have? I'm not sure I'm a big fan of its spherical nature. I snapped this at the Ticats Argos preseason game. Does it have a name? Does it scare small children?
Saturday, July 7, 2012
CFL 2012 Predictions, Week 2, Part B
Calgary at Toronto,
The Stamps looked good at home against the Alouettes last week, with Drew Tate playing well at quarterback as did non-import running back Jon Cornish. The Argos didn't look great losing a close one to the Esks at Commonwealth, although they did have a raft of penalties which in theory is fixable. Ricky Ray was respectable with 29 for 39 passes for 298 yards with a TD and no picks. Owens caught 6 passes for 100 yards so at least the Argos look like they have some receivers this year.
This is a winnable game at home for Toronto, with the Stamps favoured by 3.5, but I'm going to go with the safe pick Calgary.
Stampeders 25, Suck People 20
Edmonton at Saskatchewan
I would not have suspected before the season started that the Riders would be favoured by 4.5 points at home. The Riders looked great last week against Hamilton, with Durant returning to pre 2011 form and Dressler have a fabulous day receiving, even if actually dropped a pass.
Edmonton was more meh beating the Argos at home. Jyles had only an OK game and Fred Stamps only had 21 receiving yards, but the Eskimos still won. I'll go with the Riders. Durant right now is a better quarterback.
Riders 30, Eskimos 27
The Stamps looked good at home against the Alouettes last week, with Drew Tate playing well at quarterback as did non-import running back Jon Cornish. The Argos didn't look great losing a close one to the Esks at Commonwealth, although they did have a raft of penalties which in theory is fixable. Ricky Ray was respectable with 29 for 39 passes for 298 yards with a TD and no picks. Owens caught 6 passes for 100 yards so at least the Argos look like they have some receivers this year.
This is a winnable game at home for Toronto, with the Stamps favoured by 3.5, but I'm going to go with the safe pick Calgary.
Stampeders 25, Suck People 20
Edmonton at Saskatchewan
I would not have suspected before the season started that the Riders would be favoured by 4.5 points at home. The Riders looked great last week against Hamilton, with Durant returning to pre 2011 form and Dressler have a fabulous day receiving, even if actually dropped a pass.
Edmonton was more meh beating the Argos at home. Jyles had only an OK game and Fred Stamps only had 21 receiving yards, but the Eskimos still won. I'll go with the Riders. Durant right now is a better quarterback.
Riders 30, Eskimos 27
Wednesday, July 4, 2012
CFL Week 1, 2012 Power Rankings
1. BC Lions
Beat the Bombers handily at home, despite the Winnipeggers losing Buck Pierce in the first half (shocking!). The Bombers still have a good defence though and the Lions were able to score 33 against them.
2. Calgary Stampeders
Drew Tate is for real apparently. I doubted it going into the season, but there you go. Alouettes quarterback Anthony Calvillo wasn't just his usual self. I'm not sure if that's a one game thing or not, but the Montreal offense was quite meh in Calgary. Their defence wasn't so hot either.
3. Saskatchewan Roughriders
Darian Durant seems to have rebounded from his suckage as the Riders shocked the Ticats at home (with the help of a Dressler reception that actually hit the ground, but I digress). Both offense and defence look good and Dressler was a force. Durant received some pressure, but managed to scramble away multiple times. Four sacks. I don't know if this will continue, but the Riders looked good at Ivor Wynne.
4. Edmonton Eskimos
Beat the Argos at home by a small margin, although the Argos did have about a billion penalties. Steven Jyles played OK, better than I thought he would, but nothing to write home about. Defence not bad. Still have Fred Stamps.
5. Winnipeg Blue Bombers
Sure they lost by a good number of points to the Lions, but it was on the road and BC is the class of the league. The Bombers still have a good defence. Buck Pierce still gets injured with stunning regularity. Not much more to say.
6. Toronto Argonauts
Lots of penalties, but didn't lose by much. Receiving lots of penalties in the first game is fixable. Ray didn't look bad. Defence still decent.
7. Hamilton Tiger-Cats
Played OK in the first half. Result may have been different if Dressler incompletion actually detected by refs or the Cats actually challenged. Team seemed to give up in second half. Burris mediocre. Front four not great, only registering a sack, despite Durant hanging on to the ball a lot. Ratio problems.
8. Montreal Alouettes
Is this the beginning of the end for Calvillo? How bad is the Alouette offense? The Alouettes probably won't stay here, but they didn't look good in week one.
Beat the Bombers handily at home, despite the Winnipeggers losing Buck Pierce in the first half (shocking!). The Bombers still have a good defence though and the Lions were able to score 33 against them.
2. Calgary Stampeders
Drew Tate is for real apparently. I doubted it going into the season, but there you go. Alouettes quarterback Anthony Calvillo wasn't just his usual self. I'm not sure if that's a one game thing or not, but the Montreal offense was quite meh in Calgary. Their defence wasn't so hot either.
3. Saskatchewan Roughriders
Darian Durant seems to have rebounded from his suckage as the Riders shocked the Ticats at home (with the help of a Dressler reception that actually hit the ground, but I digress). Both offense and defence look good and Dressler was a force. Durant received some pressure, but managed to scramble away multiple times. Four sacks. I don't know if this will continue, but the Riders looked good at Ivor Wynne.
4. Edmonton Eskimos
Beat the Argos at home by a small margin, although the Argos did have about a billion penalties. Steven Jyles played OK, better than I thought he would, but nothing to write home about. Defence not bad. Still have Fred Stamps.
5. Winnipeg Blue Bombers
Sure they lost by a good number of points to the Lions, but it was on the road and BC is the class of the league. The Bombers still have a good defence. Buck Pierce still gets injured with stunning regularity. Not much more to say.
6. Toronto Argonauts
Lots of penalties, but didn't lose by much. Receiving lots of penalties in the first game is fixable. Ray didn't look bad. Defence still decent.
7. Hamilton Tiger-Cats
Played OK in the first half. Result may have been different if Dressler incompletion actually detected by refs or the Cats actually challenged. Team seemed to give up in second half. Burris mediocre. Front four not great, only registering a sack, despite Durant hanging on to the ball a lot. Ratio problems.
8. Montreal Alouettes
Is this the beginning of the end for Calvillo? How bad is the Alouette offense? The Alouettes probably won't stay here, but they didn't look good in week one.
Friday, June 29, 2012
Ticats Honk It Up, Lose to Riders 43 to 16
Well that sucked. I didn't go into the game expecting that, but the Cats coughed up another opening night furball and lost at home to the Riders. More annoying was the fact that two Saskatchewan fans were sitting to rows above me squawking all night. At half time I thought, we've got this, but then we played even worse.
I'll say more tomorrow, but the defence wasn't great, especially the front four. They got pressure sometimes, but Durant always seemed to wiggle away. The Riders also often had second and long and found ways to convert. That's never good.
All in all, a poor night for the Cats, one in which poor Ted Michaels is forced to take call after call on the fifth quarter berating the Cats. Next week is in BC too. Ugh.
I'll say more tomorrow, but the defence wasn't great, especially the front four. They got pressure sometimes, but Durant always seemed to wiggle away. The Riders also often had second and long and found ways to convert. That's never good.
All in all, a poor night for the Cats, one in which poor Ted Michaels is forced to take call after call on the fifth quarter berating the Cats. Next week is in BC too. Ugh.
Riders at Ticats Preview
The CFL season opener takes place in Hamilton tonight and a Ticat team with some differences takes the field tonight at Ivor Wynne for the last season before demolition.
Looking at the offensive line, the Ticats stick with import strategy with the returning Simmons at left and new comer Dile at right. Dyakowski (Canadian genius) is back at right guard, with UBC product Husband at right guard. O'Neill starts at centre. Hage is listed as backup, but I don't know if he will even dress after a long recovery from last season's knee injury.
Reigning rookie of the year Williams and the finally here non-import Giguere start at wideouts, with second year Grant and non-import signing Fantuz at the slots. Stala is a backup although I'm not sure if he will come on with five receiver sets or six. Brown is back as the non-import fullback, although I'm also not sure how many four receiver sets the Cats will run, but I'm sure he will be in for short yardage.
Burris starts (duh), with Porter backing up and no doubt has the sneak job. Cobourne is back as the running back.
The defensive line is a work in progress and all import. Boudreaux and NFL third round pick Crable are the ends, with the returning McElveen and Rose in the middle.
The linebacking corps differs from last year with Johnson and Williams back and non-import and former Argo Eiben. Knowlton is listed as a backup.
Changes from last year on the corner. Rookie Windsor (obviously a non-import) product Bucknor is on one side and the recently acquired former Cat Tisdale on the other. Bucknor wasn't even drafted as far as I can tell, being signed as a free agent. This is unusual and hopefully he won't be burned too badly.
Imports Smith and Young are back as the halfbacks and import Young is back as the safety.
Congi is the kicker and Australian Bartel is the punter. Hopefully Bartel won't be put in some weird situations.
So five non-import starters on offence and two on defence.
The Riders also go with two import tackles in Fulton and Patrick with an all-Canadian interior.
The Riders have an import wideout and slotback, Harper and Dressler with two Canadians, Bagg and Getzlaff at wideout and slot and non-import fullback Hughes. Durant starts at quarterback with Willy (that's his last name) as backup, with Sheets as running back.
Both starting defensive ends are imports, Hawkins and former Bomber Willis, with import George in the middle with non-import Shologan.
For linebacker, the Riders go with two imports on the outside, Brackenridge and rookie Kromah with 2010 number 1 draft pick Shomari Williams in the middle.
The Riders go with an all import secondary, with Jackson and Graham as the corners, Russ and McKenzie as the halfbacks and Patrick as the safety.
Milo is the kicker and punter.
So that's five non-import starters on offence and two on defence, one more than the minimum. That's usually a good sign.
Looking at the offensive line, the Ticats stick with import strategy with the returning Simmons at left and new comer Dile at right. Dyakowski (Canadian genius) is back at right guard, with UBC product Husband at right guard. O'Neill starts at centre. Hage is listed as backup, but I don't know if he will even dress after a long recovery from last season's knee injury.
Reigning rookie of the year Williams and the finally here non-import Giguere start at wideouts, with second year Grant and non-import signing Fantuz at the slots. Stala is a backup although I'm not sure if he will come on with five receiver sets or six. Brown is back as the non-import fullback, although I'm also not sure how many four receiver sets the Cats will run, but I'm sure he will be in for short yardage.
Burris starts (duh), with Porter backing up and no doubt has the sneak job. Cobourne is back as the running back.
The defensive line is a work in progress and all import. Boudreaux and NFL third round pick Crable are the ends, with the returning McElveen and Rose in the middle.
The linebacking corps differs from last year with Johnson and Williams back and non-import and former Argo Eiben. Knowlton is listed as a backup.
Changes from last year on the corner. Rookie Windsor (obviously a non-import) product Bucknor is on one side and the recently acquired former Cat Tisdale on the other. Bucknor wasn't even drafted as far as I can tell, being signed as a free agent. This is unusual and hopefully he won't be burned too badly.
Imports Smith and Young are back as the halfbacks and import Young is back as the safety.
Congi is the kicker and Australian Bartel is the punter. Hopefully Bartel won't be put in some weird situations.
So five non-import starters on offence and two on defence.
The Riders also go with two import tackles in Fulton and Patrick with an all-Canadian interior.
The Riders have an import wideout and slotback, Harper and Dressler with two Canadians, Bagg and Getzlaff at wideout and slot and non-import fullback Hughes. Durant starts at quarterback with Willy (that's his last name) as backup, with Sheets as running back.
Both starting defensive ends are imports, Hawkins and former Bomber Willis, with import George in the middle with non-import Shologan.
For linebacker, the Riders go with two imports on the outside, Brackenridge and rookie Kromah with 2010 number 1 draft pick Shomari Williams in the middle.
The Riders go with an all import secondary, with Jackson and Graham as the corners, Russ and McKenzie as the halfbacks and Patrick as the safety.
Milo is the kicker and punter.
So that's five non-import starters on offence and two on defence, one more than the minimum. That's usually a good sign.
CFL 2012 Predictions, Week 1, Part A
Saskatchewan at Hamilton,
You never really know what teams are going to be like before the season starts. The Riders will probably not be good. I won't say there will be terrible, like 3 and 15 terrible, but I doubt they will be 500. The Cats should have a good enough offense to carry them this year.
That said, I'm pretty sure the Cats will take this one. They are at home, looked good in the pre-season when Burris was at the controls and the Riders were poor during the pre-season and lost Fantuz to the Ticats. Current Vegas odds are the Cats by 7.
Ticats 27, Fantuzless People 18
Winnipeg at BC
BC is coming off a Grey Cup win, playing at home, looked like they were going to lose some players to the NFL and then didn't and have the best quarterback. The Bombers didn't do much of anything in the off-season and don't have ratio breaker Doug Brown to stuff the middle anymore. And their starting running back just exploded his Achilles. Current line is the Lions by 7.5.
Buck Pierce could have a monster game or get injured. You just don't know. I'm going with the Lions.
Left Coast People 23, Mosquito People 16
You never really know what teams are going to be like before the season starts. The Riders will probably not be good. I won't say there will be terrible, like 3 and 15 terrible, but I doubt they will be 500. The Cats should have a good enough offense to carry them this year.
That said, I'm pretty sure the Cats will take this one. They are at home, looked good in the pre-season when Burris was at the controls and the Riders were poor during the pre-season and lost Fantuz to the Ticats. Current Vegas odds are the Cats by 7.
Ticats 27, Fantuzless People 18
Winnipeg at BC
BC is coming off a Grey Cup win, playing at home, looked like they were going to lose some players to the NFL and then didn't and have the best quarterback. The Bombers didn't do much of anything in the off-season and don't have ratio breaker Doug Brown to stuff the middle anymore. And their starting running back just exploded his Achilles. Current line is the Lions by 7.5.
Buck Pierce could have a monster game or get injured. You just don't know. I'm going with the Lions.
Left Coast People 23, Mosquito People 16
Sunday, June 24, 2012
CFL June 2012 Power Rankings, Post Pre Season
Now that the 2012 pre-season is over and the last Canadian quarterback has been released, it is time for the June power rankings.
1. BC Lions
Reigning Grey Cup champions, not a lot of changes from last year and an excellent quarterback under 30 and dominant in the pre-season, things are looking good for the Lions. New coach, but it shouldn't make a difference. Also the team probably won't start 0 and 5 this year.
2. Hamilton Tiger-Cats
Didn't look great overall in the pre-season, but the team played well when Henry Burris is in. One of the few teams to have a serviceable backup quarterback. The offense should be good, but the defence is a little suspect, especially the defensive line.
3. Winnipeg Blue Bombers
Probably going against consensus, and the Bombers didn't make many moves in the off-season to improve their team. Buck Pierce is a good quarterback, providing he doesn't break a bone or get a concussion or some other injury that can occur at any time. Still a good defence can get you to the Grey Cup (like last year) and is especially effective early in the season.
4. Montreal Alouettes
Is this the season when the wheels finally come off the Alouettes bandwagon? Anthony Calvillo can still play, but is obviously old in football years. The Alouettes also have a decent backup. Like the Cats, the Alouettes offense should be fine, but the Alouette defence last season wasn't great and who knows after big changes what it will be like this season. GM Jim Popp always finds good imports every season so maybe things will turn out OK.
5. Calgary Stampeders
I'm not totally sold on quarterback Drew Tate this year as a top quarterback this year. The Stamps do have insurance in Kevin Glenn. Possible quarterback controversy. Again a good offense and a meh defence. Will benefit from playing the Eskimos and Riders multiple times.
6. Toronto Argonauts
With Ricky Ray at quarterback and better receivers, the Argos should be better than last year and Toronto wasn't absolute excrement last year at 6 and 12. The Argos had a good defence last year too. However Ricky Ray isn't that fantastic either, so the Argos only have so much upside.
7. Saskatchewan Rough Riders
Going against consensus perhaps, but I don't think the Riders will be the worst team in the CFL in 2012. Second worst sure, but not worst. Darian Durant still has some skills, although the team will miss Andy Fantuz, not that he did much for them last year, only playing in a handful of games. The Riders still have some decent receivers, providing that Rob Bagg can come back successfully from injury.
8. Edmonton Eskimos
After trading away Ricky Ray, the Eskimos are going with somebody at quarterback, who I'm not sure. I thought it would be Steven Jyles, but judging by the pre-season stats, Nichols had some decent results. After a surprisingly good record last year, this will be a rebuilding year for the Eskimos.
TSN has their pre-season show tomorrow at 8 pm.
1. BC Lions
Reigning Grey Cup champions, not a lot of changes from last year and an excellent quarterback under 30 and dominant in the pre-season, things are looking good for the Lions. New coach, but it shouldn't make a difference. Also the team probably won't start 0 and 5 this year.
2. Hamilton Tiger-Cats
Didn't look great overall in the pre-season, but the team played well when Henry Burris is in. One of the few teams to have a serviceable backup quarterback. The offense should be good, but the defence is a little suspect, especially the defensive line.
3. Winnipeg Blue Bombers
Probably going against consensus, and the Bombers didn't make many moves in the off-season to improve their team. Buck Pierce is a good quarterback, providing he doesn't break a bone or get a concussion or some other injury that can occur at any time. Still a good defence can get you to the Grey Cup (like last year) and is especially effective early in the season.
4. Montreal Alouettes
Is this the season when the wheels finally come off the Alouettes bandwagon? Anthony Calvillo can still play, but is obviously old in football years. The Alouettes also have a decent backup. Like the Cats, the Alouettes offense should be fine, but the Alouette defence last season wasn't great and who knows after big changes what it will be like this season. GM Jim Popp always finds good imports every season so maybe things will turn out OK.
5. Calgary Stampeders
I'm not totally sold on quarterback Drew Tate this year as a top quarterback this year. The Stamps do have insurance in Kevin Glenn. Possible quarterback controversy. Again a good offense and a meh defence. Will benefit from playing the Eskimos and Riders multiple times.
6. Toronto Argonauts
With Ricky Ray at quarterback and better receivers, the Argos should be better than last year and Toronto wasn't absolute excrement last year at 6 and 12. The Argos had a good defence last year too. However Ricky Ray isn't that fantastic either, so the Argos only have so much upside.
7. Saskatchewan Rough Riders
Going against consensus perhaps, but I don't think the Riders will be the worst team in the CFL in 2012. Second worst sure, but not worst. Darian Durant still has some skills, although the team will miss Andy Fantuz, not that he did much for them last year, only playing in a handful of games. The Riders still have some decent receivers, providing that Rob Bagg can come back successfully from injury.
8. Edmonton Eskimos
After trading away Ricky Ray, the Eskimos are going with somebody at quarterback, who I'm not sure. I thought it would be Steven Jyles, but judging by the pre-season stats, Nichols had some decent results. After a surprisingly good record last year, this will be a rebuilding year for the Eskimos.
TSN has their pre-season show tomorrow at 8 pm.
Saturday, June 16, 2012
Ticats Lose to Argos 29 to 24; Beer Prices Rise to $9.00
I attended the pre-season game on Wednesday. Generally, despite the loss I was happy with how the team looked. Burris looked good when he was in and the receiving corps is strong, both import and non-import although Aaron Kelly was his usual inconsistent self. Running game was decent with Walker and Berezik looking good. Porter played poorly. I think he needs to talk to Danny Mac and learn his quick release. LeFevour looked good as the third string quarterback, and Forcier looked crap and is apparently now released.
Hamilton outgained Toronto 524 yards to 317, but the turnovers were a problem. The linebackers looked good, but the defensive line looked weak.
The Cats at one point had third and 46 (to which I yelled go for it) which made me wonder, what's the record for the longest third down in the CFL? Probably a lot longer than third and 46.
Argos didn't look bad with Ricky Ray in, but I question their depth. They did manage to win six games last year with complete fools at quarterback, so a nine win season is not impossible.
With regards to the game day experience, I wasn't surprised to see tall boy beer prices rise to $9.00 from $8.75 last year. That probably hurts tips for the attendants. Who knows what the prices will be in the new stadium. With regards to beer service, I noticed that on the North side concourse, the all you can eat section near section five has been replaced by a regular food and beer stand, which wasn't busy at all.
There's a Smoke's Poutinerie on the South side now which is an improvement. I saw someone with a full sized pizza box from Pizza Pizza. I can't imagine how much that costs. There was also something called "Three Minutes of Madness" sponsored by Pizza Pizza which seems to consist of jump cuts of fans on the big screen with no apparent purpose.
The cheerleaders had their last centre field performance at 9:28 of the third quarter which strikes me as somewhat lazy. The Cats appear to have a DJ, located somewhere, but I could never figure out where sitting on the North side.
There was a nice hit by linebacker Jamall Johnson but rather than a replay, we saw a Poole Shoppe commercial. That was somewhat annoying.
Finally there was some new mascot that seemed to be a tiger, but in some weird spherical form. I found it disturbing and would appreciate it if it didn't make a return appearance.
Hamilton outgained Toronto 524 yards to 317, but the turnovers were a problem. The linebackers looked good, but the defensive line looked weak.
The Cats at one point had third and 46 (to which I yelled go for it) which made me wonder, what's the record for the longest third down in the CFL? Probably a lot longer than third and 46.
Argos didn't look bad with Ricky Ray in, but I question their depth. They did manage to win six games last year with complete fools at quarterback, so a nine win season is not impossible.
With regards to the game day experience, I wasn't surprised to see tall boy beer prices rise to $9.00 from $8.75 last year. That probably hurts tips for the attendants. Who knows what the prices will be in the new stadium. With regards to beer service, I noticed that on the North side concourse, the all you can eat section near section five has been replaced by a regular food and beer stand, which wasn't busy at all.
There's a Smoke's Poutinerie on the South side now which is an improvement. I saw someone with a full sized pizza box from Pizza Pizza. I can't imagine how much that costs. There was also something called "Three Minutes of Madness" sponsored by Pizza Pizza which seems to consist of jump cuts of fans on the big screen with no apparent purpose.
The cheerleaders had their last centre field performance at 9:28 of the third quarter which strikes me as somewhat lazy. The Cats appear to have a DJ, located somewhere, but I could never figure out where sitting on the North side.
There was a nice hit by linebacker Jamall Johnson but rather than a replay, we saw a Poole Shoppe commercial. That was somewhat annoying.
Finally there was some new mascot that seemed to be a tiger, but in some weird spherical form. I found it disturbing and would appreciate it if it didn't make a return appearance.
Friday, June 8, 2012
Mallett Achilles Tear, Here's Hoping for Running Back Fungibility
So new running back Martell Mallett is gone for the season with a torn Achilles tendon. Not great news. I'm not even sure who else is in camp as backup import running backs, but I'm sure we will find out. I'm guessing Avon Cobourne won't be getting a call.
A common trope on Tigercatatonia is the fungibility of import running backs in the CFL. There's a massive supply of good running backs coming from the US college system, so the talent level of the next guy in line isn't much. Usually what makes a great running back in the CFL is his receiving ability coming out of the backfield and that's where rookies are usually weakest. Fortunately the Cats have a good crop of receivers to take pressure off whoever steps into Mallett's shoes. So we'll see what happens.
Mallett being gone for the season means his salary won't apply against the cap (although it still gets paid) so the Cats could bring in a relatively big name, assuming that Mallett was getting paid a decent salary. Fred Reid?
A common trope on Tigercatatonia is the fungibility of import running backs in the CFL. There's a massive supply of good running backs coming from the US college system, so the talent level of the next guy in line isn't much. Usually what makes a great running back in the CFL is his receiving ability coming out of the backfield and that's where rookies are usually weakest. Fortunately the Cats have a good crop of receivers to take pressure off whoever steps into Mallett's shoes. So we'll see what happens.
Mallett being gone for the season means his salary won't apply against the cap (although it still gets paid) so the Cats could bring in a relatively big name, assuming that Mallett was getting paid a decent salary. Fred Reid?
Saturday, May 19, 2012
May 2012 CFL Power Rankings
1. BC Lions
Won the Grey Cup last year, players that seemed like they would be going to the NFL ended up not going and the best quarterback in the game (taking into account his relative youth versus Anthony Calvillo). The other West teams look weak this year too so BC should at least get the chance to play for the Grey Cup in Toronto.
2. Hamilton Tiger Cats
No one can blame the Cats for not making moves in the off-season. Whether Henry Burris is better than Kevin Glenn remains to be seen, but with the signing of Andy Fantuz, plus the receivers the Cats already have, should make Burris better. Signing receiver Samuel Giguere adds Canadian depth at receiver. Offensive and defensive lines still somewhat suspect, but the Cats should score a lot of points.
3. Montreal Alouettes
Anthony Calvillo is yet another year older. Provided health issues don't crop up, expect good performances. Defence was poor in the second half and in the process of being rebuilt. GM Jim Popp always seems to be able to unearth quality imports, so Montreal at the least will be average this year with decent upside.
4. Winnipeg Blue Bombers
Quarterback Buck Pierce proved last year he can stay relatively healthy and play well. There's no guarantee of that this year. The Bomber defence was awesome last year and should still be good, although the retirement of non-import defensive tackle Doug Brown hurts. Winnipeg didn't do much on the free agent market.
5. Calgary Stampeders
Starting quarterback Drew Tate really didn't prove a lot last year so how he plays this year is unknown. The Stamps having Kevin Glenn as a backup at least ensures that if Tate starts to suck, the offence won't fall apart. Decent defence.
6. Toronto Argonauts
Adding quarterback Ricky Ray helps the Argos where they were weakest last year, although their receivers were a mediocre bunch. Offensive line is still questionable. Defence was reasonable last year and kept the Argos in games. Special teams were great.
7. Saskatchewan Rough Riders
The Riders were bad last year (although they had enough talent) and now they've lost receiver Andy Fantuz to free agency. Fantuz didn't do a lot last year for the team after returning from the NFL and getting injured, but the season was pretty much a write off by that point anyways. Darian Durant regressed at quarterback last year. How they do this year will depend on whether he's the 2010 version or the 2011 version.
8. Edmonton Eskimos
Look to be in a rebuilding year. Steven Jyles as a starting quarterback doesn't inspire a lot of confidence. Started last season hot and were cold in the second half. This being the CFL, the Eskimos could surprise, if Jyles plays well.
Won the Grey Cup last year, players that seemed like they would be going to the NFL ended up not going and the best quarterback in the game (taking into account his relative youth versus Anthony Calvillo). The other West teams look weak this year too so BC should at least get the chance to play for the Grey Cup in Toronto.
2. Hamilton Tiger Cats
No one can blame the Cats for not making moves in the off-season. Whether Henry Burris is better than Kevin Glenn remains to be seen, but with the signing of Andy Fantuz, plus the receivers the Cats already have, should make Burris better. Signing receiver Samuel Giguere adds Canadian depth at receiver. Offensive and defensive lines still somewhat suspect, but the Cats should score a lot of points.
3. Montreal Alouettes
Anthony Calvillo is yet another year older. Provided health issues don't crop up, expect good performances. Defence was poor in the second half and in the process of being rebuilt. GM Jim Popp always seems to be able to unearth quality imports, so Montreal at the least will be average this year with decent upside.
4. Winnipeg Blue Bombers
Quarterback Buck Pierce proved last year he can stay relatively healthy and play well. There's no guarantee of that this year. The Bomber defence was awesome last year and should still be good, although the retirement of non-import defensive tackle Doug Brown hurts. Winnipeg didn't do much on the free agent market.
5. Calgary Stampeders
Starting quarterback Drew Tate really didn't prove a lot last year so how he plays this year is unknown. The Stamps having Kevin Glenn as a backup at least ensures that if Tate starts to suck, the offence won't fall apart. Decent defence.
6. Toronto Argonauts
Adding quarterback Ricky Ray helps the Argos where they were weakest last year, although their receivers were a mediocre bunch. Offensive line is still questionable. Defence was reasonable last year and kept the Argos in games. Special teams were great.
7. Saskatchewan Rough Riders
The Riders were bad last year (although they had enough talent) and now they've lost receiver Andy Fantuz to free agency. Fantuz didn't do a lot last year for the team after returning from the NFL and getting injured, but the season was pretty much a write off by that point anyways. Darian Durant regressed at quarterback last year. How they do this year will depend on whether he's the 2010 version or the 2011 version.
8. Edmonton Eskimos
Look to be in a rebuilding year. Steven Jyles as a starting quarterback doesn't inspire a lot of confidence. Started last season hot and were cold in the second half. This being the CFL, the Eskimos could surprise, if Jyles plays well.
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