It is the last day of March and I'm getting around to doing the power rankings for this month. Not a lot has changed. The Ticats resigned receiver Bakari Grant at a salary advantageous to the team which I definitely think is a positive for them. And I don't have a lot else. Naming a commissioner I don't think should affect the power rankings.
1. Calgary Stampeders
They won the Grey Cup and have Bo Levi Mitchell signed long term. They have lost some players, but they still have talent.
2. Hamilton Tiger-Cats
With the signing of Bakari Grant the Cats again have a solid receiving corps going into a second season with Zach Collaros. Sure they lost Greg Ellingson to Ottawa (who I do like) but he wasn't really starting last year anyways. The Cats did sign Nic Grigsby to go along with C.J. Gable at running back so the Cats are likely set on offense over all, even if Gable gets injured again.
The Cats did lose their best corner in Breaux to the New Orleans Saints, but they have a lot of Canadian talent on defence and could potentially start four Canadians. That's some solid depth.
3. Edmonton Eskimos
I'm assuming Mike Reilly is healthy at the start of the year.The Eskimos were a great team in the first half of 2014 and not particularly great in the second half. I think Edmonton should be good this year as well, but they will depend on Reilly and more importantly depend on him not getting injured. That last part I'm not that sure about.
4. Saskatchewan Rough Riders
Again I'm assuming that a starting quarterback is back and healthy. I like Durant and I like Saskatchewan's commitment to the run. I like Dressler and the Rider defence. We'll see how these all hold out. Probably not enough for delusional Rider fans.
5. BC Lions
So Travis Lulay is coming back? I don't doubt it is possible, but he is just as likely to blow out his shoulder signing autographs. There's talent on this team, but too many question marks. Like how well Andrew Harris plays.
6. Montreal Alouettes
Well they don't have receiver Duron Carter any more (and we don't have to listen to Rod Black pointing out who his father is constantly which is good for non-Montreal CFL fans). I've never really been on the bandwagon of Jonathon Crompton; to me his stats are a bit sucky. However the Alouettes have a good defence. And they have signed Dan LeFevour as a backup quarterback, which I think is good.
7. Toronto Argonauts
They still have Ricky Ray and Chad Owens which helps. Honestly, the Argos need to be sold and moved to BMO as soon as possible. I think that would help their team record a lot.
8. Winnipeg Blue Bombers
They could surprise like they did the first six games of last year. Or suck like the last 12. Considering I have them second last, you can guess who I think the real Bombers are.
9. Ottawa REDBLACKS
Way better receivers, but they still have Henry Burris as the starter. I think the REDBLACKS will definitely win more than 2 games this year, but even five more wins puts them at only seven wins. Still I don't think it is inconceivable that if everything broke their way they could get an even win loss season (that may or may not include a lot of other teams losing their starting quarterbacks for extended periods of time).
Showing posts with label power rankings. Show all posts
Showing posts with label power rankings. Show all posts
Tuesday, March 31, 2015
Friday, February 27, 2015
February 2015 CFL Power Rankings
If there is one thing Tigercatonia's likes it is power rankings that are not in season. Free agency has opened, so we have more information.
1. Calgary Stampeders
They won the Cup last year (although on a somewhat dubious call), and had the best regular season record. They have arguably the best quarterback in the CFL, who is still young and not at all washed up. They have lost some talent on the offensive line, but I'm sure they can compensate. The Stamps at this time of year are a safe bet to be at the Grey Cup in Winnipeg this year.
2. Hamilton Tiger-Cats
The other team in the Grey Cup, the Cats made some signings at the start of free agency, signing import receiver Luke Tasker, receiver and return man Brandon Banks plus linebacker Taylor Reed. The Cats may have problems signing all their import receivers, however the Cats have shown ability to find them the past few years. The Cats look good at running back if Gable can come back healthy, the return of guard Peter Dyakowski should improve the line and help with the ratio and the Cats are strong with starting Canadian defenders (especially at defensive tackle). As long as quarterback Zach Collaros doesn't get his bell rung too often in the season, the Cats are looking good.
3. Edmonton Eskimos
The Eskimos had a great regular season, but petered off towards the end with quarterback Mike Reilly being injured. Assuming that Reilly becomes healthy over the off-season, the Eskimos should still have a good team, especially on offense.
4. Saskatchewan Roughriders
I'm making the assumption that the Riders will have Darian Durant back as quarterback and he will be healthy. However the Riders picking up Kevin Glenn is a smart move for them. I'm a bit concerned about turnover this year, but the team still has talent and seems to benefit from being a place players want to play.
5. Montreal Alouettes
The Als were terrible in the first half of the season and then made an impressive turnaround in the second half, ultimately losing to Hamilton in the Eastern final. The emergence of Jonathon Crompton at quarterback was the main turning point for Montreal. His stats aren't particularly impressive, but combined with a strong defence and receivers like S.J Green and Duron Carter, the team was good. Carter's gone, but GM Jim Popp has always had a good pipeline of import talent.
6. Toronto Argonauts
The Argos barely missed the playoffs, mainly due to Ricky Ray being injured. Ray should be back and is consistent and good. There's concerns that the Argos ownership woes will affect the team next year.
7. BC Lions
I'm not sure what to say about BC. They have talent, but without a healthy Travis Lulay, they aren't very good. I think the era of GM Wally Buono fielding strong teams is ending.
8. Winnipeg Blue Bombers
The Bombers were great at the beginning of 2014 and ended up terrible. The Bombers off-season moves haven't impressed me that much. In a tough Western conference, they will be in tough.
9. Ottawa REDBLACKS
I still think that Ottawa has the highest chance of finishing last, but they definitely will be better this year. However last year they had two wins, so improving by four wins would still leave them at six. Certainly the receiving corps has vastly improved, with the signings of Jackson, Price, Sinopoli and Ellingson. However they appear to still be going with Henry Burris, who was ineffective last year. Maybe a healthy DeMarco can do something.
1. Calgary Stampeders
They won the Cup last year (although on a somewhat dubious call), and had the best regular season record. They have arguably the best quarterback in the CFL, who is still young and not at all washed up. They have lost some talent on the offensive line, but I'm sure they can compensate. The Stamps at this time of year are a safe bet to be at the Grey Cup in Winnipeg this year.
2. Hamilton Tiger-Cats
The other team in the Grey Cup, the Cats made some signings at the start of free agency, signing import receiver Luke Tasker, receiver and return man Brandon Banks plus linebacker Taylor Reed. The Cats may have problems signing all their import receivers, however the Cats have shown ability to find them the past few years. The Cats look good at running back if Gable can come back healthy, the return of guard Peter Dyakowski should improve the line and help with the ratio and the Cats are strong with starting Canadian defenders (especially at defensive tackle). As long as quarterback Zach Collaros doesn't get his bell rung too often in the season, the Cats are looking good.
3. Edmonton Eskimos
The Eskimos had a great regular season, but petered off towards the end with quarterback Mike Reilly being injured. Assuming that Reilly becomes healthy over the off-season, the Eskimos should still have a good team, especially on offense.
4. Saskatchewan Roughriders
I'm making the assumption that the Riders will have Darian Durant back as quarterback and he will be healthy. However the Riders picking up Kevin Glenn is a smart move for them. I'm a bit concerned about turnover this year, but the team still has talent and seems to benefit from being a place players want to play.
5. Montreal Alouettes
The Als were terrible in the first half of the season and then made an impressive turnaround in the second half, ultimately losing to Hamilton in the Eastern final. The emergence of Jonathon Crompton at quarterback was the main turning point for Montreal. His stats aren't particularly impressive, but combined with a strong defence and receivers like S.J Green and Duron Carter, the team was good. Carter's gone, but GM Jim Popp has always had a good pipeline of import talent.
6. Toronto Argonauts
The Argos barely missed the playoffs, mainly due to Ricky Ray being injured. Ray should be back and is consistent and good. There's concerns that the Argos ownership woes will affect the team next year.
7. BC Lions
I'm not sure what to say about BC. They have talent, but without a healthy Travis Lulay, they aren't very good. I think the era of GM Wally Buono fielding strong teams is ending.
8. Winnipeg Blue Bombers
The Bombers were great at the beginning of 2014 and ended up terrible. The Bombers off-season moves haven't impressed me that much. In a tough Western conference, they will be in tough.
9. Ottawa REDBLACKS
I still think that Ottawa has the highest chance of finishing last, but they definitely will be better this year. However last year they had two wins, so improving by four wins would still leave them at six. Certainly the receiving corps has vastly improved, with the signings of Jackson, Price, Sinopoli and Ellingson. However they appear to still be going with Henry Burris, who was ineffective last year. Maybe a healthy DeMarco can do something.
Wednesday, November 12, 2014
2014 CFL Power Rankings: End of the Season Edition
1. Calgary Stampeders
The Stamps won a meaningless game to them to end the season and end up 15 and 3, way ahead of any other team. Quarterback Bo Levi Mitchell is healthy, Jon Cornish if not completely healthy has two week to rest up. You can't really argue against the Stamps as the top team.
2. Hamilton Tiger-Cats
The Cats had to win to get in the playoffs and win by eight points to finish first in the East for the first time since 1998. They did that handily and did it without star non-import receiver Andy Fantuz. The Cats actually had a run game in bad weather with former Blue Bomber running back Nick Grigsby. The Cats finished with defensive end Eric Norwood tied for second in the league for sacks and Justin Hickman returned from the NFL as the other end. Zac Collaros has emerged as one of the better CFL quarterbacks (when healthy) and the Ticat defense is arguably one of the best now in the CFL. The Cats started poorly but were one of the hottest teams in the second half. The Cats now too have two weeks off which should help them get back Fantuz.
3. Montreal Alouettes
The Alouettes are the other team that was incredibly hot in the second half, going 7 and 2. Jonathon Crompton has emerged from being dumped by the Eskimos into a reasonable CFL starter with two talented receivers in Green and Carter. The Alouette defense wasn't terrible in the first half, but in the second half they're arguably the best in the CFL.
4. Edmonton Eskimos
Normally the Eskimos would be ranked higher, but there's a lot of rumours swirling around about the health of quarterback Mike Reilly (including a rumour about a broken foot). Nicholls his backup is better than your average CFL backup, but not as good as Reilly. The Eskimos lost their last game on the road to the Riders, which didn't really matter in the standings for the Eskimos. Obviously Edmonton still has a great defence and a good running game, but problems with your starting quarterback are going to hurt.
5. Toronto Argonauts
Sure they're not in the playoffs, but they managed to beat Ottawa handily without Ricky Ray, who I'm assuming would be healthy this week if the Argos actually made the playoffs. But they didn't, so boohoo for the few Argos fans there are.
6. BC Lions
The Lions lost to Calgary at home this past week. The Lions have been losing a lot of late in the CFL. There's rumours of Travis Lulay being back, but honestly if he does come back, the first sack that happens his shoulder will pop out again.
7. Saskatchewan Roughriders
The Riders have also lost a lot in the second half without Darian Durant at quarterback. They did manage to win this past week. Like Lulay there's rumours of Durant being back, but I'm skeptical. The Riders have a good defence and a good running game, but at this time of the year their passing offense is way behind the other teams. They better pray for bad weather.
8. Winnipeg Blue Bombers
Didn't play last week, so in theory they would probably be healthier this week. But they are out of the playoffs so the point is moot.
9. Ottawa REDBLACKS
Managed to shit the bed when they had the chance to be a spoiler against Toronto when they were starting their backup quarterback. Finished 2 and 16, even with Henry Burris. This was a season that Big Ears Teddy really didn't need to see. They will be better next year, although even if they improve by three games over last year, that's still a 5 and 13 record.
The Stamps won a meaningless game to them to end the season and end up 15 and 3, way ahead of any other team. Quarterback Bo Levi Mitchell is healthy, Jon Cornish if not completely healthy has two week to rest up. You can't really argue against the Stamps as the top team.
2. Hamilton Tiger-Cats
The Cats had to win to get in the playoffs and win by eight points to finish first in the East for the first time since 1998. They did that handily and did it without star non-import receiver Andy Fantuz. The Cats actually had a run game in bad weather with former Blue Bomber running back Nick Grigsby. The Cats finished with defensive end Eric Norwood tied for second in the league for sacks and Justin Hickman returned from the NFL as the other end. Zac Collaros has emerged as one of the better CFL quarterbacks (when healthy) and the Ticat defense is arguably one of the best now in the CFL. The Cats started poorly but were one of the hottest teams in the second half. The Cats now too have two weeks off which should help them get back Fantuz.
3. Montreal Alouettes
The Alouettes are the other team that was incredibly hot in the second half, going 7 and 2. Jonathon Crompton has emerged from being dumped by the Eskimos into a reasonable CFL starter with two talented receivers in Green and Carter. The Alouette defense wasn't terrible in the first half, but in the second half they're arguably the best in the CFL.
4. Edmonton Eskimos
Normally the Eskimos would be ranked higher, but there's a lot of rumours swirling around about the health of quarterback Mike Reilly (including a rumour about a broken foot). Nicholls his backup is better than your average CFL backup, but not as good as Reilly. The Eskimos lost their last game on the road to the Riders, which didn't really matter in the standings for the Eskimos. Obviously Edmonton still has a great defence and a good running game, but problems with your starting quarterback are going to hurt.
5. Toronto Argonauts
Sure they're not in the playoffs, but they managed to beat Ottawa handily without Ricky Ray, who I'm assuming would be healthy this week if the Argos actually made the playoffs. But they didn't, so boohoo for the few Argos fans there are.
6. BC Lions
The Lions lost to Calgary at home this past week. The Lions have been losing a lot of late in the CFL. There's rumours of Travis Lulay being back, but honestly if he does come back, the first sack that happens his shoulder will pop out again.
7. Saskatchewan Roughriders
The Riders have also lost a lot in the second half without Darian Durant at quarterback. They did manage to win this past week. Like Lulay there's rumours of Durant being back, but I'm skeptical. The Riders have a good defence and a good running game, but at this time of the year their passing offense is way behind the other teams. They better pray for bad weather.
8. Winnipeg Blue Bombers
Didn't play last week, so in theory they would probably be healthier this week. But they are out of the playoffs so the point is moot.
9. Ottawa REDBLACKS
Managed to shit the bed when they had the chance to be a spoiler against Toronto when they were starting their backup quarterback. Finished 2 and 16, even with Henry Burris. This was a season that Big Ears Teddy really didn't need to see. They will be better next year, although even if they improve by three games over last year, that's still a 5 and 13 record.
Thursday, October 16, 2014
2014 CFL Power Rankings Week 16
1. Calgary Stampeders
Didn't play last week so they couldn't embarrass themselves out of the top rank. Also a week off probably helps them out a lot with Cornish and Mitchell. Besides the Stamps have pretty much locked up the top seed in the West so I'm not sure about them doing their best best in the regular season from now on.
2. Edmonton Eskimos
Absolutely hammered Winnipeg. Which isn't saying much. Still they've got Reilly healthy and a good defence.
3. Hamilton Tiger-Cats
The Ticats lost a heart breaker to the Argos in Dead Ted's Dome by a single point after being way up. Still only losing by a point away is pretty much a victory on neutral ground in my book. Collaros is looking good and the defence now seems capable of sacking the opposing quarterback. Apart from shitting the bed in the last five minutes of the last game.
4. Toronto Argonauts
Ricky Ray is a good quarterback, you can't deny that. After playing mostly mediocre football last game, Ray and the Argos were able to turn it on late. Not much of a run game, but the team is certainly better when Chad Owens is playing.
5. BC Lions
Absolutely hammered the REDBLACKS at home. That's something I guess. Not having Andrew Harris didn't seem to hurt, although Antolin rushing for 157 yards on 17 carries is an adequate replacement. A little hard to judge the Lions against such a crappy team.
6. Montreal Alouettes
The Alouettes also hammered a team, namely the Riders. However the Riders were afraid to pass and were on the road, which generally isn't a good combo. Crompton has emerged as an OK CFL quarterback and the Alouettes decent is serviceable. Meh.
7. Winnipeg Blue Bombers
Yes the Bombers sucked against Edmonton on the road. However the Eskimos are a good team and Willy is better at quarterback than whatever the Riders have. Still it is interesting to see the Bombers collapse after such a good start and will pretty much miss the playoffs. There's always next year, which is pretty much the Bomber fan mantra considering how long it has been since they've won the cup.
8. Saskatchewan Roughriders
I would say that Sunseri sucks at quarterback, but in the last game against the Alouettes he only had 13 attempts with eight completions so it is a little hard to judge. But overall from his oeuvre of play this year Sunseri sucks. So much so that the Riders have went out and signed crotchety quarterback Kerry Joseph. Who will probably be an improvement over Sunseri and Doege, but the team will still be crap. And will still make the playoffs with a 9 and 6 record.
9. Ottawa REDBLACKS
Oh Ottawa. Hopefully next year goes better.
Didn't play last week so they couldn't embarrass themselves out of the top rank. Also a week off probably helps them out a lot with Cornish and Mitchell. Besides the Stamps have pretty much locked up the top seed in the West so I'm not sure about them doing their best best in the regular season from now on.
2. Edmonton Eskimos
Absolutely hammered Winnipeg. Which isn't saying much. Still they've got Reilly healthy and a good defence.
3. Hamilton Tiger-Cats
The Ticats lost a heart breaker to the Argos in Dead Ted's Dome by a single point after being way up. Still only losing by a point away is pretty much a victory on neutral ground in my book. Collaros is looking good and the defence now seems capable of sacking the opposing quarterback. Apart from shitting the bed in the last five minutes of the last game.
4. Toronto Argonauts
Ricky Ray is a good quarterback, you can't deny that. After playing mostly mediocre football last game, Ray and the Argos were able to turn it on late. Not much of a run game, but the team is certainly better when Chad Owens is playing.
5. BC Lions
Absolutely hammered the REDBLACKS at home. That's something I guess. Not having Andrew Harris didn't seem to hurt, although Antolin rushing for 157 yards on 17 carries is an adequate replacement. A little hard to judge the Lions against such a crappy team.
6. Montreal Alouettes
The Alouettes also hammered a team, namely the Riders. However the Riders were afraid to pass and were on the road, which generally isn't a good combo. Crompton has emerged as an OK CFL quarterback and the Alouettes decent is serviceable. Meh.
7. Winnipeg Blue Bombers
Yes the Bombers sucked against Edmonton on the road. However the Eskimos are a good team and Willy is better at quarterback than whatever the Riders have. Still it is interesting to see the Bombers collapse after such a good start and will pretty much miss the playoffs. There's always next year, which is pretty much the Bomber fan mantra considering how long it has been since they've won the cup.
8. Saskatchewan Roughriders
I would say that Sunseri sucks at quarterback, but in the last game against the Alouettes he only had 13 attempts with eight completions so it is a little hard to judge. But overall from his oeuvre of play this year Sunseri sucks. So much so that the Riders have went out and signed crotchety quarterback Kerry Joseph. Who will probably be an improvement over Sunseri and Doege, but the team will still be crap. And will still make the playoffs with a 9 and 6 record.
9. Ottawa REDBLACKS
Oh Ottawa. Hopefully next year goes better.
Friday, October 10, 2014
2014 CFL Power Rankings Week 15
1. Calgary Stampeders
Calgary really seems to have Saskatchewan's number this year, which must really
drive Riders fans insane. Still in a year that seems to be filled with
mediocrity, the Stamps keep winning even with Drew "Dark Visor" Tate as the
quarterback. Bo Levi Mitchell is probably getting somewhat closer to returning
which would further improve Calgary.
2. Hamilton Tiger-Cats
No team has been as hot as late as Hamilton, with the Ticats winning four out
of five games and a gritty game on Saturday where they managed to beat the
Lions without any TDs. The Ticats defence has suddenly become an outfit that
is arguably the best in the CFL. Zach Collaros continues to look strong as
quarterback, especially impressing when he rolls out. One problem the Cats
now seem to have is an inability to gain a yard on a quarterback sneak. It
came close to hurting them against the Lions and has hurt they earlier in the
year.
3. Edmonton Eskimos
The Eskimos did lose the Argos, but it was by a single point and the Argos were
at home. What does that matter? By my reckoning, for power rankings purposes
the home team has to win by three points to be a true win (my power rankings
assume a neutral venue between two teams). The Eskimos weren't able to run
basically at all, but they did manage to keep it close.
4. Toronto Argonauts
The Argos did look impressive at times against the Eskimos and with slotback
and Hawaiian Chad Owens seemingly back healthy, that's a potent quarterback
receiver combination. As had been the case the past few years (really going
back to the Rich Stubler era) the Toronto Argonauts defence has been
impressive. Toronto is basically a pretty decent team and this year in
the CFL between starters being injured and other starters just being
mediocre, Ricky Ray looks pretty good.
5. BC Lions
Sure they lost, but they were on the road and they still kept it close in Hamilton. Not having Andrew Harris definitely hurts. Kevin Glenn hit some long strikes but was mostly stymied. That's good enough in the CFL for fifth in the power rankings this year.
6. Montreal Alouettes
Bye week! At least the Alouettes have a good defence and Crompton seems to not totally suck like the other Montreal quarterbacks this year. And they're rested.
7. Saskatchewan Roughriders
Sucked in the beginning against the Stamps with Doege in and inexplicably suddenly
became good when Sunseri came back and almost lead them to a big comeback. Then the
Riders sign Kerry Joseph. Doesn't show a lot of confidence in their quarterbacks with Durant injured and until the Riders manage to win a full game without Durant, I won't be impressed.
8. Winnipeg Blue Bombers
Losing to the REDBLACKS. That has to hurt as a Bomber fan (at least it wasn't
in the Peg). What about Willy? He was in for the entire game, but it didn't seem to matter.
Still the Bombers are in a bit of a dogfight with the Lions for a cross-over playoff spot. Only that doesn't seem to be as sure a lock as it was earlier in the season.
9. Ottawa REDBLACKS
I'm tempted to move the REDBLACKS up from last place, but any team, even
an expansion one is going to have games where a lot of stuff breaks their
way leading to a sure victory. If the REDBLACKS were to win another game
in the next couple, I'll consider moving them up.
Calgary really seems to have Saskatchewan's number this year, which must really
drive Riders fans insane. Still in a year that seems to be filled with
mediocrity, the Stamps keep winning even with Drew "Dark Visor" Tate as the
quarterback. Bo Levi Mitchell is probably getting somewhat closer to returning
which would further improve Calgary.
2. Hamilton Tiger-Cats
No team has been as hot as late as Hamilton, with the Ticats winning four out
of five games and a gritty game on Saturday where they managed to beat the
Lions without any TDs. The Ticats defence has suddenly become an outfit that
is arguably the best in the CFL. Zach Collaros continues to look strong as
quarterback, especially impressing when he rolls out. One problem the Cats
now seem to have is an inability to gain a yard on a quarterback sneak. It
came close to hurting them against the Lions and has hurt they earlier in the
year.
3. Edmonton Eskimos
The Eskimos did lose the Argos, but it was by a single point and the Argos were
at home. What does that matter? By my reckoning, for power rankings purposes
the home team has to win by three points to be a true win (my power rankings
assume a neutral venue between two teams). The Eskimos weren't able to run
basically at all, but they did manage to keep it close.
4. Toronto Argonauts
The Argos did look impressive at times against the Eskimos and with slotback
and Hawaiian Chad Owens seemingly back healthy, that's a potent quarterback
receiver combination. As had been the case the past few years (really going
back to the Rich Stubler era) the Toronto Argonauts defence has been
impressive. Toronto is basically a pretty decent team and this year in
the CFL between starters being injured and other starters just being
mediocre, Ricky Ray looks pretty good.
5. BC Lions
Sure they lost, but they were on the road and they still kept it close in Hamilton. Not having Andrew Harris definitely hurts. Kevin Glenn hit some long strikes but was mostly stymied. That's good enough in the CFL for fifth in the power rankings this year.
6. Montreal Alouettes
Bye week! At least the Alouettes have a good defence and Crompton seems to not totally suck like the other Montreal quarterbacks this year. And they're rested.
7. Saskatchewan Roughriders
Sucked in the beginning against the Stamps with Doege in and inexplicably suddenly
became good when Sunseri came back and almost lead them to a big comeback. Then the
Riders sign Kerry Joseph. Doesn't show a lot of confidence in their quarterbacks with Durant injured and until the Riders manage to win a full game without Durant, I won't be impressed.
8. Winnipeg Blue Bombers
Losing to the REDBLACKS. That has to hurt as a Bomber fan (at least it wasn't
in the Peg). What about Willy? He was in for the entire game, but it didn't seem to matter.
Still the Bombers are in a bit of a dogfight with the Lions for a cross-over playoff spot. Only that doesn't seem to be as sure a lock as it was earlier in the season.
9. Ottawa REDBLACKS
I'm tempted to move the REDBLACKS up from last place, but any team, even
an expansion one is going to have games where a lot of stuff breaks their
way leading to a sure victory. If the REDBLACKS were to win another game
in the next couple, I'll consider moving them up.
Tuesday, September 9, 2014
2014 CFL Power Rankings Week 11
I worked on this yesterday before the Darian Durant being out for the season broke and I subsequently updated it with that information.
1. Calgary Stampeders
Beat the Eskimos back to back and this time on the road. Their regular season record would suggest they are one of the CFL's best ever teams. I certainly don't disagree that they are right now the best team in the league, but they don't really seem to be an all time team (mainly because they don't seem to have a lot of blowouts).
2. Edmonton Eskimos
Last week's score was closer than how the Eskimos played. Not having Mike Reilly at quarterback definitely hurts, although Nicholls seems to be quite good by the standards of backups in the CFL. Is Reilly guaranteed back this week? Who knows. He could be back though, unlike Darian Durant.
2. Saskatchewan Roughriders
Also won back to back against the same team and also this time on the road. The Riders looked mediocre at the beginning of the season, but have seemed to regain their form from winning the Grey Cup last year. Dressler is now back and their defensive front four is quite ferocious.
3. Winnipeg Blue Bombers
Close, but still a loss at home in the Banjo Bowl. Drew Willy is playing better than I thought he would have at the beginning of the season, although not fantastic. This will probably continue (unless he too gets injured). Considering the way quarterbacks are dropping like flies, Willy is pretty good.
4. Saskatchewan Roughriders
Like Calgary also won back to back against the same team and also this time on the road. The Riders looked mediocre at the beginning of the season, but have seemed to regain their form from winning the Grey Cup last year. Dressler is now back and their defensive front four is quite ferocious. But today word came that Durant is probably gone for the season and some guy named Tino or something is the backup. That's not good. The Riders are talented enough at running back, offensive line and on defence to not totally fall off the wagon, but there definitely will be problems with no Durant.
5. BC Lions
How long is Lulay gone for now? Is this addition by subtraction considering Lulay didn't look particularly good against the expansion REDBLACKS? At least they have Glenn as backup. If they didn't this season would be quite different.
6. Toronto Argonauts
Didn't play so they didn't lose. They didn't look great the previous week against Hamilton, but they did lose on the road by only a point which is actually pretty good this low on the power rankings. I'm assuming a week's rest really helps the Argos. Not as much as actually getting into BMO field, but somewhat.
7. Montreal Alouettes
The Als won, despite looking dreadful in the first half against the Ticats. One thing the Alouettes did have was good special teams throughout the game. Crompton looked improved in the second half as a quarterback and Duron Carter and Chad Johnson actually looked good as receivers. Montreal's defence also looked good in the second half.
8. Hamilton Tiger-Cats
After the first half, the Ticats looked like they were going to go up in the power rankings. The offense until Collaros was kicking ass and the defence was looking good. Then they fell apart somehow in the second half to a not particularly great Montreal team. What can you say about this team? Their talent is good, but they can't seem to find a way to win. They also need to learn to step on other teams' throats.
9. Ottawa REDBLACKS
Well they came come close to beating BC. They've got a reasonable defence. Unfortunately their offense can never seem to get it done. Maybe they can upgrade their imports with NFL cuts.
1. Calgary Stampeders
Beat the Eskimos back to back and this time on the road. Their regular season record would suggest they are one of the CFL's best ever teams. I certainly don't disagree that they are right now the best team in the league, but they don't really seem to be an all time team (mainly because they don't seem to have a lot of blowouts).
2. Edmonton Eskimos
Last week's score was closer than how the Eskimos played. Not having Mike Reilly at quarterback definitely hurts, although Nicholls seems to be quite good by the standards of backups in the CFL. Is Reilly guaranteed back this week? Who knows. He could be back though, unlike Darian Durant.
2. Saskatchewan Roughriders
Also won back to back against the same team and also this time on the road. The Riders looked mediocre at the beginning of the season, but have seemed to regain their form from winning the Grey Cup last year. Dressler is now back and their defensive front four is quite ferocious.
3. Winnipeg Blue Bombers
Close, but still a loss at home in the Banjo Bowl. Drew Willy is playing better than I thought he would have at the beginning of the season, although not fantastic. This will probably continue (unless he too gets injured). Considering the way quarterbacks are dropping like flies, Willy is pretty good.
4. Saskatchewan Roughriders
Like Calgary also won back to back against the same team and also this time on the road. The Riders looked mediocre at the beginning of the season, but have seemed to regain their form from winning the Grey Cup last year. Dressler is now back and their defensive front four is quite ferocious. But today word came that Durant is probably gone for the season and some guy named Tino or something is the backup. That's not good. The Riders are talented enough at running back, offensive line and on defence to not totally fall off the wagon, but there definitely will be problems with no Durant.
5. BC Lions
How long is Lulay gone for now? Is this addition by subtraction considering Lulay didn't look particularly good against the expansion REDBLACKS? At least they have Glenn as backup. If they didn't this season would be quite different.
6. Toronto Argonauts
Didn't play so they didn't lose. They didn't look great the previous week against Hamilton, but they did lose on the road by only a point which is actually pretty good this low on the power rankings. I'm assuming a week's rest really helps the Argos. Not as much as actually getting into BMO field, but somewhat.
7. Montreal Alouettes
The Als won, despite looking dreadful in the first half against the Ticats. One thing the Alouettes did have was good special teams throughout the game. Crompton looked improved in the second half as a quarterback and Duron Carter and Chad Johnson actually looked good as receivers. Montreal's defence also looked good in the second half.
8. Hamilton Tiger-Cats
After the first half, the Ticats looked like they were going to go up in the power rankings. The offense until Collaros was kicking ass and the defence was looking good. Then they fell apart somehow in the second half to a not particularly great Montreal team. What can you say about this team? Their talent is good, but they can't seem to find a way to win. They also need to learn to step on other teams' throats.
9. Ottawa REDBLACKS
Well they came come close to beating BC. They've got a reasonable defence. Unfortunately their offense can never seem to get it done. Maybe they can upgrade their imports with NFL cuts.
Thursday, September 4, 2014
2014 CFL Power Rankings Week 10
1. Calgary Stampeders
Can't argue with 8 and 1 and defeating their hated provincial rival with a good record. Cornish is back too and effective.
2. Saskatchewan Roughriders
Beat Winnipeg at home, have Dressler back and as far as I know Durant doesn't have any health issues.
3. Edmonton Eskimos
Still have an 8 and 2 record, but quarterback Mike Reilly's health seems shaky of late. Don't mind the backup, but Reilly has had a good year.
4. BC Lions
Left out of the Labour Day weekend games. Lions are looking like a decent team this year even without Lulay and a week's rest never hurts.
5. Winnipeg Blue Bombers
Only lost by five points to their prairie rivals in Regina. The Bombers are still better than any Eastern team.
6. Hamilton Tiger-Cats
Managed to play in their new, uncompleted stadium and doubled their win total against the Argos. Collaros was back and looked fabulous. Defence was good too, even getting an uncharacteristic five sacks.
7. Toronto Argonauts
Ricky Ray didn't look very good (and certainly won't be East nominee for most outstanding player like last year (which was pretty dubious itself)) and the Argos mostly stunk. However they did only lose by a single point on the road. So there's that.
8. Montreal Alouettes
Managed to beat Ottawa, proving they're the best of the two worst teams. With a new starting quarterback in Crompton no less.
9. Ottawa REDBLACKS
I thought Ottawa would have more than one win at this time. Maybe the team can retool with the NFL's final cuts.
Can't argue with 8 and 1 and defeating their hated provincial rival with a good record. Cornish is back too and effective.
2. Saskatchewan Roughriders
Beat Winnipeg at home, have Dressler back and as far as I know Durant doesn't have any health issues.
3. Edmonton Eskimos
Still have an 8 and 2 record, but quarterback Mike Reilly's health seems shaky of late. Don't mind the backup, but Reilly has had a good year.
4. BC Lions
Left out of the Labour Day weekend games. Lions are looking like a decent team this year even without Lulay and a week's rest never hurts.
5. Winnipeg Blue Bombers
Only lost by five points to their prairie rivals in Regina. The Bombers are still better than any Eastern team.
6. Hamilton Tiger-Cats
Managed to play in their new, uncompleted stadium and doubled their win total against the Argos. Collaros was back and looked fabulous. Defence was good too, even getting an uncharacteristic five sacks.
7. Toronto Argonauts
Ricky Ray didn't look very good (and certainly won't be East nominee for most outstanding player like last year (which was pretty dubious itself)) and the Argos mostly stunk. However they did only lose by a single point on the road. So there's that.
8. Montreal Alouettes
Managed to beat Ottawa, proving they're the best of the two worst teams. With a new starting quarterback in Crompton no less.
9. Ottawa REDBLACKS
I thought Ottawa would have more than one win at this time. Maybe the team can retool with the NFL's final cuts.
Tuesday, August 12, 2014
2014 CFL Power Rankings Week 7
1. Calgary Stampeders
Stomped the REDBLACKS. Which isn't much of an accomplishment. But still the Stampeder juggernaut rolls on, even without running back Jon Cornish.
2. Edmonton Eskimos
Beat the Alouettes some what handily but not a complete beating. The Eskimos are just a lot better than last year.
3. Saskatchewan Roughriders
Beat the Bombers in Bomberland. The Riders have looked a bit wonky at times, but have seemed to have righted the ship and get back in the first for first place in the West.
4. BC Lions
A tough victory at home, the Lions came back from a small half-time deficit. Allowed a lot of yards to Doug LeFevour, but Kevin Glenn was even better passing for over 400 yards. It will be interesting when Travis Lulay comes back. Expect Glenn to get benched and have an even bigger chip on his shoulder.
5. Winnipeg Blue Bombers
It has to be painful for the Bombers to lose at home to their hated banjo playing Prairie rivals. Drew Willy couldn't get it done after getting it done late the week before. Perhaps the Bombers are starting to regress towards the team they were last year. Too bad they weren't still in the East.
6. Toronto Argonauts
Didn't play which makes them look better. I'm assuming that Chad Owens and Andre Durie are getting healthier. Still have Ricky Ray which is something.
7. Hamilton Tiger-Cats
The Ticats are now that team in the CFL that loses lots of close games. The Ticats had this one, but couldn't get it done late. Still LeFevour is looking good and if the Ticats could put together a good game they could be scary. Expect Kent Austin to have an aneurysm by the end of the year.
8. Ottawa REDBLACKS
They aren't very good. But better than Montreal.
9. Montreal Alouettes
Smelly. At least they seem to have realized that Troy Smith isn't the answer. Like Fred Brooks advice in the Mythical Man Month that throwing more programmers at a bad software project won't help things, I say that throwing more coaches at a bad team doesn't help either.
Stomped the REDBLACKS. Which isn't much of an accomplishment. But still the Stampeder juggernaut rolls on, even without running back Jon Cornish.
2. Edmonton Eskimos
Beat the Alouettes some what handily but not a complete beating. The Eskimos are just a lot better than last year.
3. Saskatchewan Roughriders
Beat the Bombers in Bomberland. The Riders have looked a bit wonky at times, but have seemed to have righted the ship and get back in the first for first place in the West.
4. BC Lions
A tough victory at home, the Lions came back from a small half-time deficit. Allowed a lot of yards to Doug LeFevour, but Kevin Glenn was even better passing for over 400 yards. It will be interesting when Travis Lulay comes back. Expect Glenn to get benched and have an even bigger chip on his shoulder.
5. Winnipeg Blue Bombers
It has to be painful for the Bombers to lose at home to their hated banjo playing Prairie rivals. Drew Willy couldn't get it done after getting it done late the week before. Perhaps the Bombers are starting to regress towards the team they were last year. Too bad they weren't still in the East.
6. Toronto Argonauts
Didn't play which makes them look better. I'm assuming that Chad Owens and Andre Durie are getting healthier. Still have Ricky Ray which is something.
7. Hamilton Tiger-Cats
The Ticats are now that team in the CFL that loses lots of close games. The Ticats had this one, but couldn't get it done late. Still LeFevour is looking good and if the Ticats could put together a good game they could be scary. Expect Kent Austin to have an aneurysm by the end of the year.
8. Ottawa REDBLACKS
They aren't very good. But better than Montreal.
9. Montreal Alouettes
Smelly. At least they seem to have realized that Troy Smith isn't the answer. Like Fred Brooks advice in the Mythical Man Month that throwing more programmers at a bad software project won't help things, I say that throwing more coaches at a bad team doesn't help either.
Thursday, July 10, 2014
2014 CFL Power Rankings Week 2
So the Argos don't totally suck. Who knew?
1. Calgary Stampeders
Still undefeated! Sometimes not playing can do wonders for your power rankings. Still a good team in a sea of mediocrity.
2. Saskatchewan Rough Riders
So they were roughed up in Dead Ted's Dome (TM). I'll chose to believe it is an aberration. Although more sucking will prompt a big drop.
3. Edmonton Eskimos
That's right, two wins in a row! Maybe not against marquee teams (in 2014, the Cats and Lions are apparently no longer marquee teams) but who is to argue with success. Not me. Until they lose against a good team.
4. Winnipeg Blue Bombers
Also two wins in a row, including beating the expansion Rot und Schwarz at home by a touchdown and rouge. Willy is looking relatively slick. I smell cross-over playoff spot.
5. Toronto Argonauts
Turns out Ricky Ray and Chad Owens can still play and the Argos can make interceptions. As much as I dislike the double blue, they'll probably be mediocre this year rather than down right smelly.
6. Montreal Alouettes
Managed to beat BC at home with some relatively feeble stats from quarterback Troy Smith. The Alouettes seem to have a decent defence, which is a plus.
7. Hamilton Tiger-Cats
Sure they've lost two in a row on the road and their stadium won't be finished. At least in the last game, they only lost by four points and were up going into the fourth quarter before blowing it. Also Collaros is concussed so at least they have both LeFevour and Masoli. Hopefully one won't suck. Plus they've got a bye week.
8. BC Lions
What's up with the Lions? Sure they don't have Lulay right now, but Kevin Glenn is the defacto CFL injury backup at quarterback, no? Seems odd and I don't have a lot of confidence in them.
9. Ottawa redblacks
Well they did OK in their first game. I'm waiting for them to win a game though before moving them from the basement.
1. Calgary Stampeders
Still undefeated! Sometimes not playing can do wonders for your power rankings. Still a good team in a sea of mediocrity.
2. Saskatchewan Rough Riders
So they were roughed up in Dead Ted's Dome (TM). I'll chose to believe it is an aberration. Although more sucking will prompt a big drop.
3. Edmonton Eskimos
That's right, two wins in a row! Maybe not against marquee teams (in 2014, the Cats and Lions are apparently no longer marquee teams) but who is to argue with success. Not me. Until they lose against a good team.
4. Winnipeg Blue Bombers
Also two wins in a row, including beating the expansion Rot und Schwarz at home by a touchdown and rouge. Willy is looking relatively slick. I smell cross-over playoff spot.
5. Toronto Argonauts
Turns out Ricky Ray and Chad Owens can still play and the Argos can make interceptions. As much as I dislike the double blue, they'll probably be mediocre this year rather than down right smelly.
6. Montreal Alouettes
Managed to beat BC at home with some relatively feeble stats from quarterback Troy Smith. The Alouettes seem to have a decent defence, which is a plus.
7. Hamilton Tiger-Cats
Sure they've lost two in a row on the road and their stadium won't be finished. At least in the last game, they only lost by four points and were up going into the fourth quarter before blowing it. Also Collaros is concussed so at least they have both LeFevour and Masoli. Hopefully one won't suck. Plus they've got a bye week.
8. BC Lions
What's up with the Lions? Sure they don't have Lulay right now, but Kevin Glenn is the defacto CFL injury backup at quarterback, no? Seems odd and I don't have a lot of confidence in them.
9. Ottawa redblacks
Well they did OK in their first game. I'm waiting for them to win a game though before moving them from the basement.
Wednesday, July 2, 2014
2014 CFL Power Rankings Week 1
As there is every year, there's some tumult after week 1.
1. Saskatchewan Rough Riders
There were some doubts heading into the season that off-season losses would hurt the Riders. Apparently not. Darian Durant easily dispatched the Tiger-Cats in inclement weather, dealing out ten sacks to boot, three from non-import Ricky Foley. Durant is an experienced good CFL quarterback. That counts for a lot.
2. Calgary Stampeders
The Stamps started Bo Levi Mitchell instead of Drew Tate and that paid off handsomely with a dismantling of the Montreal Alouettes. Cornish getting roughed up isn't good, but Calgary is again a good team.
3. Edmonton Eskimos
Seems strange, but Mike Reilly and the Esks beat the Lions on the road to open the season. Reilly ran for his life last year, but picked up valuable experience. Edmonton probably won't be a great team this year, but they won't lose every close game like they seemed to last year.
4. BC Lions
Losing at home to the Eskimos isn't a great way to start the season and I expected a little more from Kevin Glenn. It was Glenn's first game ever with the Lions (regular season) however and Glenn has always been a quarterback who is better when comfortable with a few reliable targets. Lulay could potentially be back this week which would be a plus.
5. Winnipeg Blue Bombers
Are the Bombers and Drew 'Slick' Willy for real? I'm not sure. Are they better than last year? Yes. Willy at least appears good enough for the Bombers to rally around rather than churning through quarterbacks like they did last year. I'm a little skeptical at Aaron Kelly being a team's star receiver, but who can argue with success.
6. Hamilton Tiger-Cats
Not impressive at all although the crazy weather did the Cats no favours. Perhaps what is most scary is that the Cats allowed ten sacks while starting two Americans on the offensive line. The Ticats certainly still have talent, but if they can't get their line together to protect Collaros, it is going to be a long season.
7. Toronto Argonauts
Ricky Ray losing to the Bombers and being outplayed by Drew Willy isn't exactly a great portent for the Argos season. Ray is still a good CFL quarterback and I still like Scott Milanovich as coach.
8. Montreal Alouettes
Looks like the Troy Smith quarterbacking experiment might not be working out. That's not good for Montreal. Welcome to life post Anthony Calvillo.
9. Ottawa Red Blacks
They're still an expansion team and until they play a game, I'm not believing.
1. Saskatchewan Rough Riders
There were some doubts heading into the season that off-season losses would hurt the Riders. Apparently not. Darian Durant easily dispatched the Tiger-Cats in inclement weather, dealing out ten sacks to boot, three from non-import Ricky Foley. Durant is an experienced good CFL quarterback. That counts for a lot.
2. Calgary Stampeders
The Stamps started Bo Levi Mitchell instead of Drew Tate and that paid off handsomely with a dismantling of the Montreal Alouettes. Cornish getting roughed up isn't good, but Calgary is again a good team.
3. Edmonton Eskimos
Seems strange, but Mike Reilly and the Esks beat the Lions on the road to open the season. Reilly ran for his life last year, but picked up valuable experience. Edmonton probably won't be a great team this year, but they won't lose every close game like they seemed to last year.
4. BC Lions
Losing at home to the Eskimos isn't a great way to start the season and I expected a little more from Kevin Glenn. It was Glenn's first game ever with the Lions (regular season) however and Glenn has always been a quarterback who is better when comfortable with a few reliable targets. Lulay could potentially be back this week which would be a plus.
5. Winnipeg Blue Bombers
Are the Bombers and Drew 'Slick' Willy for real? I'm not sure. Are they better than last year? Yes. Willy at least appears good enough for the Bombers to rally around rather than churning through quarterbacks like they did last year. I'm a little skeptical at Aaron Kelly being a team's star receiver, but who can argue with success.
6. Hamilton Tiger-Cats
Not impressive at all although the crazy weather did the Cats no favours. Perhaps what is most scary is that the Cats allowed ten sacks while starting two Americans on the offensive line. The Ticats certainly still have talent, but if they can't get their line together to protect Collaros, it is going to be a long season.
7. Toronto Argonauts
Ricky Ray losing to the Bombers and being outplayed by Drew Willy isn't exactly a great portent for the Argos season. Ray is still a good CFL quarterback and I still like Scott Milanovich as coach.
8. Montreal Alouettes
Looks like the Troy Smith quarterbacking experiment might not be working out. That's not good for Montreal. Welcome to life post Anthony Calvillo.
9. Ottawa Red Blacks
They're still an expansion team and until they play a game, I'm not believing.
Tuesday, June 24, 2014
Post Pre-Season Power Rankings
With the regular season about to start, I better get these up.
1. Toronto Argonauts
After the last pre-season game with Hamilton, the fact remains that the Argos quarterback Ricky Ray is a known, decent quality. He's only got so much downside barring injury. I'm assuming that the Argos defence will again be good, if only because the Argos usually start five Canadians on the offensive line so they barely start any Canadians on defence.
2. Calgary Stampeders
The Stamps didn't look all that great in the last pre-season game, however at least John Hufnagel is going to start Bo Levi Mitchell ahead of Drew Tate at quarterback. They've still got Jon Cornish so they should be OK.
3. Hamilton Tiger-Cats
Didn't do anything that great against the Argos and the assumed starter Collaros hasn't been overpowering. Not having Andy Fantuz due to injury definitely hurts, as these power rankings are based on what the team will be able to do the coming week. The Cats are pretty deep in Canadian talent so the effect shouldn't be terrible. C.J. Gable will probably be leaned on on.
4. Saskatchewan Rough Riders
The Riders are the defending Grey Cup champs, but they lost a lot of important pieces from that team. I'm not sure how much to expect.
5. BC Lions
No Travis Lulay in week one, but they have Kevin Glenn to pick up the slack. They've still got Andrew Harris plus whatever talent Wally Buono has managed to unearth. Plus they have an envious record against EST teams so there's that.
6. Montreal Alouettes
None of the Alouette quarterbacks were impressive in the pre-season and much talked about signing Chad Johnson caught a pass. Tom Higgins has been historically an effective coach so we'll see what happens. The offensive co-ordinator has already been torched and replaced by Ryan Dinwiddie of all people. I'm assuming Jim Popp won't torch Higgins midway through the season, but I won't be totally surprised either.
7. Winnipeg Blue Bombers
Some year the Bombers have to get better. Probably not this year, but it has to happen eventually.
8. Edmonton Eskimos
It probably isn't a good sign when you're clamping down on reporter access during the pre-season. Mike Reilly looks to be a decent quarterback, although I'm assuming he'll be spending a lot of time running for his life and at some point carted off with a concussion.
9. Ottawa Redblacks
They're an expansion team. Haven't looked shabby. But without seeing any real game experience this is where they have to go. I'm assuming depth will kill them.
1. Toronto Argonauts
After the last pre-season game with Hamilton, the fact remains that the Argos quarterback Ricky Ray is a known, decent quality. He's only got so much downside barring injury. I'm assuming that the Argos defence will again be good, if only because the Argos usually start five Canadians on the offensive line so they barely start any Canadians on defence.
2. Calgary Stampeders
The Stamps didn't look all that great in the last pre-season game, however at least John Hufnagel is going to start Bo Levi Mitchell ahead of Drew Tate at quarterback. They've still got Jon Cornish so they should be OK.
3. Hamilton Tiger-Cats
Didn't do anything that great against the Argos and the assumed starter Collaros hasn't been overpowering. Not having Andy Fantuz due to injury definitely hurts, as these power rankings are based on what the team will be able to do the coming week. The Cats are pretty deep in Canadian talent so the effect shouldn't be terrible. C.J. Gable will probably be leaned on on.
4. Saskatchewan Rough Riders
The Riders are the defending Grey Cup champs, but they lost a lot of important pieces from that team. I'm not sure how much to expect.
5. BC Lions
No Travis Lulay in week one, but they have Kevin Glenn to pick up the slack. They've still got Andrew Harris plus whatever talent Wally Buono has managed to unearth. Plus they have an envious record against EST teams so there's that.
6. Montreal Alouettes
None of the Alouette quarterbacks were impressive in the pre-season and much talked about signing Chad Johnson caught a pass. Tom Higgins has been historically an effective coach so we'll see what happens. The offensive co-ordinator has already been torched and replaced by Ryan Dinwiddie of all people. I'm assuming Jim Popp won't torch Higgins midway through the season, but I won't be totally surprised either.
7. Winnipeg Blue Bombers
Some year the Bombers have to get better. Probably not this year, but it has to happen eventually.
8. Edmonton Eskimos
It probably isn't a good sign when you're clamping down on reporter access during the pre-season. Mike Reilly looks to be a decent quarterback, although I'm assuming he'll be spending a lot of time running for his life and at some point carted off with a concussion.
9. Ottawa Redblacks
They're an expansion team. Haven't looked shabby. But without seeing any real game experience this is where they have to go. I'm assuming depth will kill them.
Thursday, June 19, 2014
Mid Pre-Season CFL 2014 Power Rankings
Power rankings during in the middle of the pre-season is bound to be arbitrary. But it is necessary.
1. Calgary
Mostly on the strength of John Hufnagel, Jon Cornish and Bo Levi Mitchell and definitely not the whiny and injury prone Drew Tate. Calgary I can say will field a decent team this year. That's enough to be number one at this point.
2. Hamilton
Can Hamilton win with Zac Collaros as quarterback. That I'm not completely sure about, but with LeFevour and Masoli as backups if Collaros falters someone will emerge. C.J. Gable has the capabilities to have a breakout season and the Cats have a strong receiving corps. Plus surprisingly strong Canadians on defence. In the land of the eunuchs, the man with one ball is king.
3. BC
I'm not sure if Travis Lulay has begun his descent into an injury prone quarterback like Drew Tate, but I'm not not sure either. If he's in he's good, otherwise they have Kevin Glenn and the chip on his shoulder to come in and play successfully if Lulay is injured. And then not play after Lulay becomes healthy again no matter how well Glenn had played during the interim.
4. Saskatchewan
They won the Grey Cup last year, but they lost a lot of talent, like Butler, Dressler, and Kory Sheets. They still have Darian Durant so they shouldn't be total excrement this year, but expect a lot of bitching in Saskatchewan.
5. Toronto
Rick Ray is still an effective if somewhat aged quarterback and I'm going to assume the Argos defence will be good, because they always seem to be of late. That's enough for the fifth ranking out of nine teams.
6. Montreal
Since the last pre-season rankings, the Alouettes fired their offensive co-ordinator possibly because he had a beer during a meeting. I guess head coach Tom "Ned Flanders" Higgins runs a pretty tight ship. I'm not particularly impressed by the Alouette quarterbacks and won't be until they show me something. Chad Johnson strikes me as a distraction, although I'll admit by CFL player standards his Twitter feed is amusing.
7. Edmonton
Maybe Mike Reilly will have better protection this year and won't get killed. I don't know if that last statement is true and I kind of doubt it is. They lost Ted Laurent to Ticats just before the start of camp. Considering the mediocre play of the Eskimos last year, that can't help.
8. Winnipeg
At least former geezer GM Joe Mack isn't around to fuck things up anymore for the Bombers. However he left his mess behind and the Bombers are now in the West. Much bitching from Bomber fans and Doug Brown's newspaper column will ensue.
9. Ottawa
Last place prediction for an expansion team seems safe.
1. Calgary
Mostly on the strength of John Hufnagel, Jon Cornish and Bo Levi Mitchell and definitely not the whiny and injury prone Drew Tate. Calgary I can say will field a decent team this year. That's enough to be number one at this point.
2. Hamilton
Can Hamilton win with Zac Collaros as quarterback. That I'm not completely sure about, but with LeFevour and Masoli as backups if Collaros falters someone will emerge. C.J. Gable has the capabilities to have a breakout season and the Cats have a strong receiving corps. Plus surprisingly strong Canadians on defence. In the land of the eunuchs, the man with one ball is king.
3. BC
I'm not sure if Travis Lulay has begun his descent into an injury prone quarterback like Drew Tate, but I'm not not sure either. If he's in he's good, otherwise they have Kevin Glenn and the chip on his shoulder to come in and play successfully if Lulay is injured. And then not play after Lulay becomes healthy again no matter how well Glenn had played during the interim.
4. Saskatchewan
They won the Grey Cup last year, but they lost a lot of talent, like Butler, Dressler, and Kory Sheets. They still have Darian Durant so they shouldn't be total excrement this year, but expect a lot of bitching in Saskatchewan.
5. Toronto
Rick Ray is still an effective if somewhat aged quarterback and I'm going to assume the Argos defence will be good, because they always seem to be of late. That's enough for the fifth ranking out of nine teams.
6. Montreal
Since the last pre-season rankings, the Alouettes fired their offensive co-ordinator possibly because he had a beer during a meeting. I guess head coach Tom "Ned Flanders" Higgins runs a pretty tight ship. I'm not particularly impressed by the Alouette quarterbacks and won't be until they show me something. Chad Johnson strikes me as a distraction, although I'll admit by CFL player standards his Twitter feed is amusing.
7. Edmonton
Maybe Mike Reilly will have better protection this year and won't get killed. I don't know if that last statement is true and I kind of doubt it is. They lost Ted Laurent to Ticats just before the start of camp. Considering the mediocre play of the Eskimos last year, that can't help.
8. Winnipeg
At least former geezer GM Joe Mack isn't around to fuck things up anymore for the Bombers. However he left his mess behind and the Bombers are now in the West. Much bitching from Bomber fans and Doug Brown's newspaper column will ensue.
9. Ottawa
Last place prediction for an expansion team seems safe.
Monday, June 9, 2014
2014 Pre Pre-Season Power Rankings
It has been a while since I've done a power rankings. I meant too, but never got around to it. Now with no strike (yay!) and tonight's first pre-season game between Toronto and Winnipeg I've got to get one done before any type of playing information is known, even pre-season games.
Also we'll find out tonight who replaces Dave Randorf on the panel. I would accept the Wendy's girl. I will not accept Rod Black.
1. Calgary Stampeders
A bit of a risky pick. The Stamps no longer have Kevin Glenn to sub in when Drew Tate is inevitably injured (I think Tate says he won't be healed until next year himself). However they do have Bo Levi Mitchell and a consistent and significantly better running back than the average fungible import running back in Jon Cornish. Second in the West last year, but I'm thinking they've got the drop on the rest of the division.
2. Hamilton Tiger-Cats
Somewhat of a homer pick, but at least I didn't put them first. Made it to the Grey Cup before ultimately falling to the Riders, mainly on a bullshit play where the quarterback was sack and the ball flew up into the air and right into the running back's hands. But I digress. The Cats no longer have Henry Burris, who looked good statistically, but down the stretch of the season was frequently spelled off by his backup Dan LeFevour. The Cats have picked up Argo backup Zack Collaros as Burris' replacement. Collaros is young, but had a great run winning a bunch of road games on the road for the Argos while their first string quarterback was injured.
The Cats also have a great receiving corps and a potentially fantastic running back in C.J Gable if he can step it up from last year. The Cats also have a potentially decent defence, with surprisingly good Canadians. The Cats broke a record for injured players last year and still made the Grey Cup, so a better year than last year injury wise would guarantee a good season.
3. BC Lions
Before signing Kevin Glenn, I would have been more leery with my BC placement as I have some concerns with the health of first string quarterback, Travis Lulay. With Glenn, there's less of a dropoff and the rest of the team isn't that bad. I still like Andrew Harris at running back. I'm not super up to date on the off-season moves BC made besides Glenn, but I'm going to assume Wally Buono made good moves.
4. Saskatchewan Rough Riders
Sure they won the Grey Cup last year, mostly on a lucky bounce early, but what have they done in 2014? Mainly lost some of their most important players. Running back Kory Sheets is gone to the Raiders and Weston Dressler to KC. Who knows if they will stick, but it isn't a great way to start a season. They still have quarterback Darian Durant, but he isn't the best quarterback in the CFL in my opinion and will have a harder time without Dressler and sheets.
5. Toronto Argonauts
First in the East after the regular season, the Argos lost to the Cats in the Eastern final with their crack using mayor in attendance (to be fair, Hamilton mayor Bob Bratina was also at the game and looked somewhat stunned, although that probably wasn't due to crack). The Argos had a decent team last year, especially on defence. The Argos released backup Zack Collaros, so they'll have to make due with somewhat elderly quarterback Ricky Ray even if he gets injured again. The Argos still have Chad Owens although the league seemed to figure him out last year, compared to the previous year. We'll see what the Argos do.
6. Montreal Alouettes
The Alouettes definitely got somewhat better at the end of the season when they went with quarterback Troy Smith with an injured and now departed Anthoney Calvillo. I'm not sure how good he is as a quarterback over a season and the backups don't inspire me with a lot of confidence. GM Jim Popp always seems to unearth some decent imports so the Alouettes are rarely truly terrible.
7. Edmonton Eskimos
I don't have a lot of opinions on the Eskimos. Mike Reilly did OK as a quarterback last year considering his porous offensive line. At least he picked up a lot of experience. They could be somewhat better than last year, but that's not saying a lot.
8. Winnipeg Blue Bombers
Ugh. Try out a bunch of quarterbacks and hope one emerges. Seems like the Bombers have been doing that since the end of Swaggerville (remember that?). I just can't see this team doing much.
9. Ottawa RedBlacks
They've got Burris as quarterback, but he's no doubt quite old. Personally I would have stuck with Glenn. They are an expansion team therefore last place.
Also we'll find out tonight who replaces Dave Randorf on the panel. I would accept the Wendy's girl. I will not accept Rod Black.
1. Calgary Stampeders
A bit of a risky pick. The Stamps no longer have Kevin Glenn to sub in when Drew Tate is inevitably injured (I think Tate says he won't be healed until next year himself). However they do have Bo Levi Mitchell and a consistent and significantly better running back than the average fungible import running back in Jon Cornish. Second in the West last year, but I'm thinking they've got the drop on the rest of the division.
2. Hamilton Tiger-Cats
Somewhat of a homer pick, but at least I didn't put them first. Made it to the Grey Cup before ultimately falling to the Riders, mainly on a bullshit play where the quarterback was sack and the ball flew up into the air and right into the running back's hands. But I digress. The Cats no longer have Henry Burris, who looked good statistically, but down the stretch of the season was frequently spelled off by his backup Dan LeFevour. The Cats have picked up Argo backup Zack Collaros as Burris' replacement. Collaros is young, but had a great run winning a bunch of road games on the road for the Argos while their first string quarterback was injured.
The Cats also have a great receiving corps and a potentially fantastic running back in C.J Gable if he can step it up from last year. The Cats also have a potentially decent defence, with surprisingly good Canadians. The Cats broke a record for injured players last year and still made the Grey Cup, so a better year than last year injury wise would guarantee a good season.
3. BC Lions
Before signing Kevin Glenn, I would have been more leery with my BC placement as I have some concerns with the health of first string quarterback, Travis Lulay. With Glenn, there's less of a dropoff and the rest of the team isn't that bad. I still like Andrew Harris at running back. I'm not super up to date on the off-season moves BC made besides Glenn, but I'm going to assume Wally Buono made good moves.
4. Saskatchewan Rough Riders
Sure they won the Grey Cup last year, mostly on a lucky bounce early, but what have they done in 2014? Mainly lost some of their most important players. Running back Kory Sheets is gone to the Raiders and Weston Dressler to KC. Who knows if they will stick, but it isn't a great way to start a season. They still have quarterback Darian Durant, but he isn't the best quarterback in the CFL in my opinion and will have a harder time without Dressler and sheets.
5. Toronto Argonauts
First in the East after the regular season, the Argos lost to the Cats in the Eastern final with their crack using mayor in attendance (to be fair, Hamilton mayor Bob Bratina was also at the game and looked somewhat stunned, although that probably wasn't due to crack). The Argos had a decent team last year, especially on defence. The Argos released backup Zack Collaros, so they'll have to make due with somewhat elderly quarterback Ricky Ray even if he gets injured again. The Argos still have Chad Owens although the league seemed to figure him out last year, compared to the previous year. We'll see what the Argos do.
6. Montreal Alouettes
The Alouettes definitely got somewhat better at the end of the season when they went with quarterback Troy Smith with an injured and now departed Anthoney Calvillo. I'm not sure how good he is as a quarterback over a season and the backups don't inspire me with a lot of confidence. GM Jim Popp always seems to unearth some decent imports so the Alouettes are rarely truly terrible.
7. Edmonton Eskimos
I don't have a lot of opinions on the Eskimos. Mike Reilly did OK as a quarterback last year considering his porous offensive line. At least he picked up a lot of experience. They could be somewhat better than last year, but that's not saying a lot.
8. Winnipeg Blue Bombers
Ugh. Try out a bunch of quarterbacks and hope one emerges. Seems like the Bombers have been doing that since the end of Swaggerville (remember that?). I just can't see this team doing much.
9. Ottawa RedBlacks
They've got Burris as quarterback, but he's no doubt quite old. Personally I would have stuck with Glenn. They are an expansion team therefore last place.
Monday, November 4, 2013
2013 CFL Power Rankings Week 19
1. Calgary Stampeders
Still the best team, although the fallout from injuries from their game against the Lions remains to be seen. At least they have an off week. They still have Glenn and Cornish and Hughes which is a pretty good core.
2. Toronto Argonauts
Sure they lost against Montreal, but that was without Ricky Ray and his ridiculous completion percentage along with other assorted starters. Plus they have a solid ballhawking defence. They did lose three out of four to close out the season, which is a bit worrisome, but because of their earlier stellar play the last four games weren't that important.
3. Saskatchewan Roughriders
The Riders did lose to Edmonton in the final regular season game of the year, but they kept it close with backup quarterback Willy. The Riders were great in the first half of the year, but pretty mediocre in the second half and go into the playoffs with a two game losing streak. When Sheets is healthy, the Riders are still a good team, but not a great team.
4. Hamilton Tiger-Cats
The Cats won four of their five last games and blew out the hapless Bombers on the road despite resting their starting linebackers, C.J. Gable, slot Andy Fantuz and others. At least Hamilton looks like they have good depth. Burris looked better in this game than against the ferocious pass rush of Montreal the previous two weeks. Hamilton is relatively healthy (apart from import receivers Ellingson and Tasker) compared to a lot of other teams which is a plus.
5. BC Lions
Travis Lulay came back which is the main thing for the Lions. They beat the Stamps at home easily. Also importantly Andrew Harris had over 100 yards rushing and got back on track, while Stefan Logan added another 62 on the ground for an effective ground attack. BC is a bit of a wild card going into the playoffs and could easily upset the Riders.
6. Montreal Alouettes
The Als beat Toronto in a meaningless game. That's something. Quarterback Troy Smith looked decent and has emerged as an OK replacement for Anthony Calvillo. Montreal still has a great defence, which separates them from the two bottom teams. Their offense is still their Achilles heel even with Smith.
7. Edmonton Eskimos
Kavis Reed is now gone. I'm not sure if that makes the team automatically better or not. The Esks did manage to go out on a high note, beating the Roughriders in a meaningless game where the Riders resting a lot of players. That's more than the last placed team. Will the Esks be better next year? Sometimes bad teams play better at the end of the season as they regress towards the mean. The Eskimos didn't do that. There's a couple of good parts (Fred Stamps), but the Eskimos just didn't have the horses. Expect to see a jettisoning of many players over the off-season. Improving the offensive line might be a good starting point to try and keep Mike Reilly alive.
8. Winnipeg Blue Bombers
Hamilton didn't absolutely need to win their game with the Bombers on the weekend, but were somewhat motivated to have a winning regular season record. The Bombers were playing for pride and for next year's jobs. They basically shit the bed. Max Hall couldn't move the ball at all and had a veritable festival of two and outs and were torched by also ran receiver Onrea Jones. Does Tim Burke get fired? I think there's a case to be made. Will the Bombers be better next year? Regression to the mean would say so. The Bombers are pretty screwed moving to the West next year anyways. Another rebuilding year.
Still the best team, although the fallout from injuries from their game against the Lions remains to be seen. At least they have an off week. They still have Glenn and Cornish and Hughes which is a pretty good core.
2. Toronto Argonauts
Sure they lost against Montreal, but that was without Ricky Ray and his ridiculous completion percentage along with other assorted starters. Plus they have a solid ballhawking defence. They did lose three out of four to close out the season, which is a bit worrisome, but because of their earlier stellar play the last four games weren't that important.
3. Saskatchewan Roughriders
The Riders did lose to Edmonton in the final regular season game of the year, but they kept it close with backup quarterback Willy. The Riders were great in the first half of the year, but pretty mediocre in the second half and go into the playoffs with a two game losing streak. When Sheets is healthy, the Riders are still a good team, but not a great team.
4. Hamilton Tiger-Cats
The Cats won four of their five last games and blew out the hapless Bombers on the road despite resting their starting linebackers, C.J. Gable, slot Andy Fantuz and others. At least Hamilton looks like they have good depth. Burris looked better in this game than against the ferocious pass rush of Montreal the previous two weeks. Hamilton is relatively healthy (apart from import receivers Ellingson and Tasker) compared to a lot of other teams which is a plus.
5. BC Lions
Travis Lulay came back which is the main thing for the Lions. They beat the Stamps at home easily. Also importantly Andrew Harris had over 100 yards rushing and got back on track, while Stefan Logan added another 62 on the ground for an effective ground attack. BC is a bit of a wild card going into the playoffs and could easily upset the Riders.
6. Montreal Alouettes
The Als beat Toronto in a meaningless game. That's something. Quarterback Troy Smith looked decent and has emerged as an OK replacement for Anthony Calvillo. Montreal still has a great defence, which separates them from the two bottom teams. Their offense is still their Achilles heel even with Smith.
7. Edmonton Eskimos
Kavis Reed is now gone. I'm not sure if that makes the team automatically better or not. The Esks did manage to go out on a high note, beating the Roughriders in a meaningless game where the Riders resting a lot of players. That's more than the last placed team. Will the Esks be better next year? Sometimes bad teams play better at the end of the season as they regress towards the mean. The Eskimos didn't do that. There's a couple of good parts (Fred Stamps), but the Eskimos just didn't have the horses. Expect to see a jettisoning of many players over the off-season. Improving the offensive line might be a good starting point to try and keep Mike Reilly alive.
8. Winnipeg Blue Bombers
Hamilton didn't absolutely need to win their game with the Bombers on the weekend, but were somewhat motivated to have a winning regular season record. The Bombers were playing for pride and for next year's jobs. They basically shit the bed. Max Hall couldn't move the ball at all and had a veritable festival of two and outs and were torched by also ran receiver Onrea Jones. Does Tim Burke get fired? I think there's a case to be made. Will the Bombers be better next year? Regression to the mean would say so. The Bombers are pretty screwed moving to the West next year anyways. Another rebuilding year.
Wednesday, October 23, 2013
2013 CFL Power Rankings Week 17
1. Calgary Stampeders
Not a big surprise that the Stamps are yet again number one. Yet another victory, this time over the hapless Eskimos. Glenn has settled into being the starter, Cornish and Hughes are rolling. Blah, blah, blah first overall.
2. Saskatchewan Roughriders
The Riders bitchslapped the Lions last week. Sheets is back and playing well, Durant is playing better with Sheets back.
3. Toronto Argonauts
After two back to back losses, the Argos went back to winning last week. Admittedly it was against the Bombers and it was close, but with Ray back at the helm and an excellent defence, the Argos are capable of beating all the teams in the CFL.
4. Hamilton Tiger-Cats
The Ticats were demolished by the Alouettes in Montreal and didn't look particularly good. The offense was terrible (although how much that was the Alouette defence is hard to say) and were outplayed thoroughly on special teams. Games like this are going to happen on occasion, especially on the road and doesn't mean the team is doomed. Now if they lose next week, things are more problematic.
5. Montreal Alouettes
Impressive outing by the Alouette defence at home against the usually offensively powerful Tabbies. The Alouettes, led by Chip Cox are clearly the best defence in the CFL and their special teams aren't bad either. Their offense was OK last week as well for once. Despite what TSN commentators would have you think, new Montreal quarterback Troy Smith had a mediocre game (below 50% completion rate). Can the Alouettes do it twice in a row and away from home?
6. BC Lions
Is Travis Lulay coming back this season? Hopefully, because the Lions aren't going to do much this year with DeMarco as the quarterback. The Lions seem to be weakening down the stretch. The Lions didn't look that great with Lulay in this year, so maybe the problem is that excluding the quarterback position, the Lions just aren't very good this year. Harris has had a subpar year so far compared to last year. Maybe Stefan Logan will help.
7. Winnipeg Blue Bombers
Came close to beating Toronto. That's something at least and Hall is a plausible starting CFL quarterback. The Bombers announced they're raising ticket prices this year. Since they're so bad this year, they could be better next year, but don't bet on it.
8. Edmonton Eskimos
Weak offensive line, not very good defence and Fred Stamps. Stamps is good, but not good enough to help the worst team in the CFL out of the basement of the rankings. At least Stamps has his Humpty's commercials.
Not a big surprise that the Stamps are yet again number one. Yet another victory, this time over the hapless Eskimos. Glenn has settled into being the starter, Cornish and Hughes are rolling. Blah, blah, blah first overall.
2. Saskatchewan Roughriders
The Riders bitchslapped the Lions last week. Sheets is back and playing well, Durant is playing better with Sheets back.
3. Toronto Argonauts
After two back to back losses, the Argos went back to winning last week. Admittedly it was against the Bombers and it was close, but with Ray back at the helm and an excellent defence, the Argos are capable of beating all the teams in the CFL.
4. Hamilton Tiger-Cats
The Ticats were demolished by the Alouettes in Montreal and didn't look particularly good. The offense was terrible (although how much that was the Alouette defence is hard to say) and were outplayed thoroughly on special teams. Games like this are going to happen on occasion, especially on the road and doesn't mean the team is doomed. Now if they lose next week, things are more problematic.
5. Montreal Alouettes
Impressive outing by the Alouette defence at home against the usually offensively powerful Tabbies. The Alouettes, led by Chip Cox are clearly the best defence in the CFL and their special teams aren't bad either. Their offense was OK last week as well for once. Despite what TSN commentators would have you think, new Montreal quarterback Troy Smith had a mediocre game (below 50% completion rate). Can the Alouettes do it twice in a row and away from home?
6. BC Lions
Is Travis Lulay coming back this season? Hopefully, because the Lions aren't going to do much this year with DeMarco as the quarterback. The Lions seem to be weakening down the stretch. The Lions didn't look that great with Lulay in this year, so maybe the problem is that excluding the quarterback position, the Lions just aren't very good this year. Harris has had a subpar year so far compared to last year. Maybe Stefan Logan will help.
7. Winnipeg Blue Bombers
Came close to beating Toronto. That's something at least and Hall is a plausible starting CFL quarterback. The Bombers announced they're raising ticket prices this year. Since they're so bad this year, they could be better next year, but don't bet on it.
8. Edmonton Eskimos
Weak offensive line, not very good defence and Fred Stamps. Stamps is good, but not good enough to help the worst team in the CFL out of the basement of the rankings. At least Stamps has his Humpty's commercials.
Monday, October 7, 2013
2013 CFL Power Rankings Week 15
1. Toronto Argonauts
Sure they lost, but it was to Hamilton which is a decent team. The defence is still decent and the team is great in the second half. With Ricky Ray close to returning, the Argos are that much better. Not that Collaros is bad, but Ray will be efficient in the first half.
2. Calgary Stampeders
Sure they whipped the Blue Bombers, but that's not saying a lot. Still with both Kevin Glenn and Jon Cornish playing healthy the Stamps have a great offense. Throw in Charleston Hughes on defense and that's a good team.
3. Saskatchewan Roughriders
The Riders without running back Kory Sheets? Not very good. With him? A lot better and able to beat BC on the road. Darian Durant is a good quarterback, but much more effective when he doesn't have to throw every down and where play action is a genuine threat. As long as Sheets remains healthy, the Riders are a good team.
4. Hamilton Tiger-Cats
Beat the Argos at home, proving the Cats can beat a good team and not just the also rans. The Cats have a rarity in the CFL, a healthy starting quarterback. The Cats do have a lot of injury problems including in the receiving corps but the Cats have found OK replacements. Hamilton does seem to not be capable of putting together two wins in a row though.
5. BC Lions
When is Travis Lulay coming back? His replacement DeMarco isn't bad, he isn't Lulay. The Lions aren't a bad team, but without Lulay they're confined to mediocrity, like losing at home to the Riders.
6. Montreal Alouettes
The Alouettes are coming off a big victory but it was against one of the CFL's wanker teams, the Edmonton Eskimos which were led by a likely concussed quarterback. The Alouettes have a great defence, but without Anthony Calvillo their offense is a work in progress.
7. Edmonton Eskimos
The Eskimos are a bad team and now they can't make the playoffs. Will coach Kavis Reed survive?
8. Winnipeg Blue Bombers
Surprise, surprise the Bombers lost again. And they've traded their best rush end for some magic beans. At least they'll have a couple games against the Rouge et Noir next year.
Sure they lost, but it was to Hamilton which is a decent team. The defence is still decent and the team is great in the second half. With Ricky Ray close to returning, the Argos are that much better. Not that Collaros is bad, but Ray will be efficient in the first half.
2. Calgary Stampeders
Sure they whipped the Blue Bombers, but that's not saying a lot. Still with both Kevin Glenn and Jon Cornish playing healthy the Stamps have a great offense. Throw in Charleston Hughes on defense and that's a good team.
3. Saskatchewan Roughriders
The Riders without running back Kory Sheets? Not very good. With him? A lot better and able to beat BC on the road. Darian Durant is a good quarterback, but much more effective when he doesn't have to throw every down and where play action is a genuine threat. As long as Sheets remains healthy, the Riders are a good team.
4. Hamilton Tiger-Cats
Beat the Argos at home, proving the Cats can beat a good team and not just the also rans. The Cats have a rarity in the CFL, a healthy starting quarterback. The Cats do have a lot of injury problems including in the receiving corps but the Cats have found OK replacements. Hamilton does seem to not be capable of putting together two wins in a row though.
5. BC Lions
When is Travis Lulay coming back? His replacement DeMarco isn't bad, he isn't Lulay. The Lions aren't a bad team, but without Lulay they're confined to mediocrity, like losing at home to the Riders.
6. Montreal Alouettes
The Alouettes are coming off a big victory but it was against one of the CFL's wanker teams, the Edmonton Eskimos which were led by a likely concussed quarterback. The Alouettes have a great defence, but without Anthony Calvillo their offense is a work in progress.
7. Edmonton Eskimos
The Eskimos are a bad team and now they can't make the playoffs. Will coach Kavis Reed survive?
8. Winnipeg Blue Bombers
Surprise, surprise the Bombers lost again. And they've traded their best rush end for some magic beans. At least they'll have a couple games against the Rouge et Noir next year.
Monday, September 30, 2013
2013 CFL Power Rankings Week 14
1. Toronto Argonauts
Behind most of the game on the road in Edmonton, the Argos managed to mount a comeback, with Collaros as the quarterback and again with no Chad Owens. Kackert is back at running back though and had a monster game. The Argos have won four in a row on the road against some of the best teams and a mediocre team in Edmonton. Scott Milanovich must be the odds on favourite for whatever the CFL calls their coach of the year.
2. Calgary Stampeders
Didn't look good at all in the first quarter against the Cats on the road, but somehow luckily weren't behind by much and ended up winning behind some powerful John Cornish running and Kevin Glenn deep strikes. Even with injuries to Nik Lewis and others, the Stamps are the class of the West.
3. BC Lions
Absolutely whipped Winnipeg without Travis Lulay and DeMarco has emerged as another excellent CFL backup. Granted they kicked the Bombers asses, which says less than for other beating other teams. Bighill and Elimimian are a great combination on defence for BC.
4. Montreal Alouettes
It wasn't pretty, but the Alouettes managed to win at home against the now somewhat hapless Riders. Neiswander had a passable game as a replacement quarterback for Anthony Calvillo, but more importantly the Alouettes have a great defence, perhaps one of the better ones in the CFL. Led CFL leading tackler by Chip Cox, the Alouettes had a bunch of sacks and picks against the Riders.
5. Hamilton Tiger-Cats
Looked great in the first quarter against Calgary, but didn't score many points then wilted, even leading to Henry Burris getting pulled for ineffectiveness. The Cats can beat the bad teams, but have trouble against the good teams. Until that changes, the Cats aren't moving up.
6. Saskatchewan Roughriders
How the mighty have fallen. Four losses in a row and they still have their starting quarterback. Losing Kory Sheets has obviously hurt the Riders and unusual for the CFL and import running backs, they haven't been able to find someone to replace him. The Riders better get on track soon or there will be no home playoff game this season, which would cost the organization major bank.
7. Edmonton Eskimos
Well they came close against Toronto, but ultimately folded. Mike Reilly finally got a concussion, which seemed inevitable. Edmonton is somewhat better than their record attests, but not that much better. Fred Stamps is a great receiver on a bad team.
8. Winnipeg Blue Bombers
How low can the Blue Bombers go? Pretty low. Not looking good for next year, although injuries haven't helped. At least Ottawa will be in the league next year. Too bad the Bombers will be in the West.
Behind most of the game on the road in Edmonton, the Argos managed to mount a comeback, with Collaros as the quarterback and again with no Chad Owens. Kackert is back at running back though and had a monster game. The Argos have won four in a row on the road against some of the best teams and a mediocre team in Edmonton. Scott Milanovich must be the odds on favourite for whatever the CFL calls their coach of the year.
2. Calgary Stampeders
Didn't look good at all in the first quarter against the Cats on the road, but somehow luckily weren't behind by much and ended up winning behind some powerful John Cornish running and Kevin Glenn deep strikes. Even with injuries to Nik Lewis and others, the Stamps are the class of the West.
3. BC Lions
Absolutely whipped Winnipeg without Travis Lulay and DeMarco has emerged as another excellent CFL backup. Granted they kicked the Bombers asses, which says less than for other beating other teams. Bighill and Elimimian are a great combination on defence for BC.
4. Montreal Alouettes
It wasn't pretty, but the Alouettes managed to win at home against the now somewhat hapless Riders. Neiswander had a passable game as a replacement quarterback for Anthony Calvillo, but more importantly the Alouettes have a great defence, perhaps one of the better ones in the CFL. Led CFL leading tackler by Chip Cox, the Alouettes had a bunch of sacks and picks against the Riders.
5. Hamilton Tiger-Cats
Looked great in the first quarter against Calgary, but didn't score many points then wilted, even leading to Henry Burris getting pulled for ineffectiveness. The Cats can beat the bad teams, but have trouble against the good teams. Until that changes, the Cats aren't moving up.
6. Saskatchewan Roughriders
How the mighty have fallen. Four losses in a row and they still have their starting quarterback. Losing Kory Sheets has obviously hurt the Riders and unusual for the CFL and import running backs, they haven't been able to find someone to replace him. The Riders better get on track soon or there will be no home playoff game this season, which would cost the organization major bank.
7. Edmonton Eskimos
Well they came close against Toronto, but ultimately folded. Mike Reilly finally got a concussion, which seemed inevitable. Edmonton is somewhat better than their record attests, but not that much better. Fred Stamps is a great receiver on a bad team.
8. Winnipeg Blue Bombers
How low can the Blue Bombers go? Pretty low. Not looking good for next year, although injuries haven't helped. At least Ottawa will be in the league next year. Too bad the Bombers will be in the West.
Tuesday, September 24, 2013
2013 CFL Power Rankings Week 13
1. Toronto Argonauts
One team to rule them all. The Argos went in and beat the Riders and now the Stamps on the road with their backup quarterback Zach Collaros and without star receiver Chad Owens. You can't really argue with them being number one. The Argos have an excellent defence that generates a lot of turnovers. Scott Milanovich has emerged as a great head coach who I'm sure the Alouettes wish they had. Now after two hard games the Argos get the Eskimos.
2. Calgary Stampeders
Lost a hard fought game to the Argos with Kevin Glenn as the quarterback. Losing at home isn't a good thing, but the wheels haven't totally fallen off the Stampeder bus. The Stamps still have three capable quarterbacks, a great running back in Jon Cornish and a good defence. Just not good enough to beat the double blue apparently.
3. BC Lions
The Lions are back and managed to win in Saskatchewan with backup DeMarco (yet another win by a backup quarterback in the CFL in 2013). Apart from Harris the Lions don't have a lot of offensive stars that dominate, but they get the job done. Having both Bighill and Elimimian on defence makes a big difference to the Lions.
4. Saskatchewan Roughriders
After three losses in a row, including several at home, the wheels are starting to come off the Rider bus. There's no backup quarterbacks to blame, just losing close games. The Riders still have a lot of talent and seem to have no trouble with the bad teams in the CFL, but against the best teams in the CFL they aren't getting it done. At least they have Montreal next week to try and get things going again.
5. Hamilton Tiger-Cats
The Cats won a game against the Alouettes that was a lot closer than is should be, considering the Als were playing their third best quarterback. Still they won and that's what good teams sometimes do, win games where they didn't play particularly great. In the Cats defence, it wasn't really a home game and the fans seemed evenly split between the Als and Cats. Burris had a poor game stat-wise yet the Cats still won. However the Cats haven't beaten a good team yet and can't move up without doing that. They'll get a chance against Calgary at home next week.
6. Montreal Alouettes
The Als came close in Moncton, but the team is hampered without Anthony Calvillo as quarterback. The defence is great, but mistakes and two and outs on offense will eventually wear down any team. Without Calvillo coming back, the Als will have trouble with all but the weakest teams in the CFL.
7. Edmonton Eskimos
Didn't look like they were going to get it done in the Peg, but the Eskimos have won back to back games against Winnipeg. That's something I guess. It did take a bizarre play where a player tipped a pass into Fred Stamps hands ten yards down field at the end of the game, but as they say, luck is the residue of skill. Don't expect the Eskimos to do much against better teams.
8. Winnipeg Blue Bombers
What to say? The Bombers had their game at home against Edmonton won, but proceeded to cough it up in spectacular and amusing fashion (if you're not a Bomber fan). If the Bombers can't beat the Eskimos who can they beat? OK the Roughriders that one time.
One team to rule them all. The Argos went in and beat the Riders and now the Stamps on the road with their backup quarterback Zach Collaros and without star receiver Chad Owens. You can't really argue with them being number one. The Argos have an excellent defence that generates a lot of turnovers. Scott Milanovich has emerged as a great head coach who I'm sure the Alouettes wish they had. Now after two hard games the Argos get the Eskimos.
2. Calgary Stampeders
Lost a hard fought game to the Argos with Kevin Glenn as the quarterback. Losing at home isn't a good thing, but the wheels haven't totally fallen off the Stampeder bus. The Stamps still have three capable quarterbacks, a great running back in Jon Cornish and a good defence. Just not good enough to beat the double blue apparently.
3. BC Lions
The Lions are back and managed to win in Saskatchewan with backup DeMarco (yet another win by a backup quarterback in the CFL in 2013). Apart from Harris the Lions don't have a lot of offensive stars that dominate, but they get the job done. Having both Bighill and Elimimian on defence makes a big difference to the Lions.
4. Saskatchewan Roughriders
After three losses in a row, including several at home, the wheels are starting to come off the Rider bus. There's no backup quarterbacks to blame, just losing close games. The Riders still have a lot of talent and seem to have no trouble with the bad teams in the CFL, but against the best teams in the CFL they aren't getting it done. At least they have Montreal next week to try and get things going again.
5. Hamilton Tiger-Cats
The Cats won a game against the Alouettes that was a lot closer than is should be, considering the Als were playing their third best quarterback. Still they won and that's what good teams sometimes do, win games where they didn't play particularly great. In the Cats defence, it wasn't really a home game and the fans seemed evenly split between the Als and Cats. Burris had a poor game stat-wise yet the Cats still won. However the Cats haven't beaten a good team yet and can't move up without doing that. They'll get a chance against Calgary at home next week.
6. Montreal Alouettes
The Als came close in Moncton, but the team is hampered without Anthony Calvillo as quarterback. The defence is great, but mistakes and two and outs on offense will eventually wear down any team. Without Calvillo coming back, the Als will have trouble with all but the weakest teams in the CFL.
7. Edmonton Eskimos
Didn't look like they were going to get it done in the Peg, but the Eskimos have won back to back games against Winnipeg. That's something I guess. It did take a bizarre play where a player tipped a pass into Fred Stamps hands ten yards down field at the end of the game, but as they say, luck is the residue of skill. Don't expect the Eskimos to do much against better teams.
8. Winnipeg Blue Bombers
What to say? The Bombers had their game at home against Edmonton won, but proceeded to cough it up in spectacular and amusing fashion (if you're not a Bomber fan). If the Bombers can't beat the Eskimos who can they beat? OK the Roughriders that one time.
Wednesday, September 18, 2013
2013 CFL Power Rankings Week 12
1. Calgary Stampeders
Good teams find ways to win when they really shouldn't. That was the case this past week against Hamilton at home. I think that Bo Levi Mitchell has pretty much passed Drew Tate on the depth chart. With Kory Sheets injured, Jon Cornish is now the best back in the CFL.
2. Toronto Argonauts
Winning on the road with defence, a backup quarterback against the Riders. Impressive effort for the Argos showing they're for real. The Argonauts also did it without star receiver Chad Owens, showing they have some depth at receiver. Kackert was injured during the game, but I don't think he's really any better than whoever the Argos toss in there.
3. Saskatchewan Roughriders
Problems in Riderville and suddenly with two losses in a row the Riders aren't looking so hot. Durant passed for 381 yards, but only made 50% of 50 attempts, with 3 TDs and 3 picks. Kory Sheets being hurt definitely hurts the Riders. Giving up 19 points in the fourth quarter and only scoring 3 isn't something a good team does.
4. BC Lions
Spanked Montreal pretty hard in BC, albeit the Alouettes had no Anthony Calvillo so that's not that huge an accomplishment. Taylor had a good game at receiver, although Arceneaux caught six catches for 16 yards which is pretty sad. We don't know how serious Lulay's injury is. If he's out indefinitley I'd be tempted to have the Lions lower. DeMarco and Buck don't really impress me.
5. Hamilton Tiger-Cats
Came close to beating the big dog in Calgary, but given many opportunities in the final quarter to close out the game the Cats played like Mayor Bob Bratina governs, shitting the bed. The Cats have a great offense and Gable is emerging as one of those backs that burns teams receiving. The defense has improved, but to move up the rankings the Cats offense has to smash opponents when given the opportunity.
6. Montreal Alouettes
Montreal get spanked pretty hard in BC last week without the services of Anthony Calvillo. Both Marsh and Neiswander were mediocre as quarterbacks and now it looks like Marsh is injured as well. Montreal's defence is still decent, but when you're forced to rely on Neiswander, you're in trouble.
7. Edmonton Eskimos
The Eskimos managed to beat the Bombers at home to get their second victory. For a 2 and 9 team, the Eskimos aren't a terrible team but they aren't very good either. Mike Reilly has put up some decent stats, but his offensive line is holding him and the team back.
8. Winnipeg Blue Bombers
The Bombers just aren't very good and can't figure out who should start as quarterback. Just a bad team overall and there's not really much left to say.
Good teams find ways to win when they really shouldn't. That was the case this past week against Hamilton at home. I think that Bo Levi Mitchell has pretty much passed Drew Tate on the depth chart. With Kory Sheets injured, Jon Cornish is now the best back in the CFL.
2. Toronto Argonauts
Winning on the road with defence, a backup quarterback against the Riders. Impressive effort for the Argos showing they're for real. The Argonauts also did it without star receiver Chad Owens, showing they have some depth at receiver. Kackert was injured during the game, but I don't think he's really any better than whoever the Argos toss in there.
3. Saskatchewan Roughriders
Problems in Riderville and suddenly with two losses in a row the Riders aren't looking so hot. Durant passed for 381 yards, but only made 50% of 50 attempts, with 3 TDs and 3 picks. Kory Sheets being hurt definitely hurts the Riders. Giving up 19 points in the fourth quarter and only scoring 3 isn't something a good team does.
4. BC Lions
Spanked Montreal pretty hard in BC, albeit the Alouettes had no Anthony Calvillo so that's not that huge an accomplishment. Taylor had a good game at receiver, although Arceneaux caught six catches for 16 yards which is pretty sad. We don't know how serious Lulay's injury is. If he's out indefinitley I'd be tempted to have the Lions lower. DeMarco and Buck don't really impress me.
5. Hamilton Tiger-Cats
Came close to beating the big dog in Calgary, but given many opportunities in the final quarter to close out the game the Cats played like Mayor Bob Bratina governs, shitting the bed. The Cats have a great offense and Gable is emerging as one of those backs that burns teams receiving. The defense has improved, but to move up the rankings the Cats offense has to smash opponents when given the opportunity.
6. Montreal Alouettes
Montreal get spanked pretty hard in BC last week without the services of Anthony Calvillo. Both Marsh and Neiswander were mediocre as quarterbacks and now it looks like Marsh is injured as well. Montreal's defence is still decent, but when you're forced to rely on Neiswander, you're in trouble.
7. Edmonton Eskimos
The Eskimos managed to beat the Bombers at home to get their second victory. For a 2 and 9 team, the Eskimos aren't a terrible team but they aren't very good either. Mike Reilly has put up some decent stats, but his offensive line is holding him and the team back.
8. Winnipeg Blue Bombers
The Bombers just aren't very good and can't figure out who should start as quarterback. Just a bad team overall and there's not really much left to say.
Tuesday, September 10, 2013
2013 CFL Power Rankings Week 11
Finally some excitement and bigger changes in the power rankings than the past few weeks.
1. Calgary Stampeders
Managed to turn the difficult trick of winning back to back games in the CFL, something no other team did this week. The Stamps managed to do it with Bo Levi Mitchell at the helm which is impressive in the sense that the Stamps have by far the best quarterbacks overall in the CFL (even if Drew Tate has a bit of glass jaw). Cornish had another solid game this week and the Stamps showed they can get by without Nik Lewis.
2. Saskatchewan Roughriders
No one really expected the Bombers to win the Banjo Bowl. Maybe they might keep it close in the Peg, but the one win team would eventually lose to the one loss team. Surprising that the Riders would give up so many sacks, but even good teams are going to have bad games now and then. Durant had a bad day passing and Cory Sheets was just OK. The Riders are still a good team, just not invincible.
3. Hamilton Tiger-Cats
Maybe a bit of a homer pick, but the Ticats offense is humming and the defence is coming together. Perhaps more important, the Cats actually have a healthy starter at quarterback right now. The Cats have great receivers including rookie Greg Ellingson and Gable is emerging as one of the better backs in the CFL.
4. BC Lions
The Lions also have a healthy starter in Travis Lulay, although to be honest, Lulay hasn't been that great this year. He hasn't been terrible, but no one is saying his name for most outstanding player. The Lions have a decent defense, and are always tough at home. That's something.
5. Toronto Argonauts
Things were looking poor early for the Argos and backup quarterback Collaros, but they managed to storm back and win against a tough Montreal defence, without star receiver Chad Owens. The Argos have a decent roster of receivers now. Especially valuable is non-import Durie. The defence had five sacks (albeit against a backup) which never hurts. Toronto is definitely better with Ricky Ray as the quarterback, but they're still OK without him.
6. Montreal Alouettes
I really thought the Alouettes were going to beat the Argos back to back and cement their place as one of the CFL's better teams in 2013. Instead backup Tanner Marsh regressed to the mean of backup quarterback play and the Alouettes collapsed rather spectacularly. The Alouettes have a good defence, at least until the end of games, but their offense looked rather feeble, especially their running game. Things aren't looking good for Montreal the rest of the season without Calvillo.
7. Winnipeg Blue Bombers
The Bombers aren't the worst team in the CFL! I didn't think that would be case, but there you go. With Buck Pierce being traded to BC, Goltz at least has a chance to develop as the starter. The Bomber defence looked good against Saskatchewan this week which is also a good sign. The Bombers won't make the playoffs this year, but they may win some more games this year.
8. Edmonton Eskimos
I thought the Eskimos had a chance of winning this game, but couldn't get it done. Reilly is getting a lot of experience, but Edmonton's offensive line, is well, offensive. Allowing seven sacks just isn't that conducive to winning and keeping your quarterback healthy. Until the line improves, it will be difficult for the Eskimos to win.
1. Calgary Stampeders
Managed to turn the difficult trick of winning back to back games in the CFL, something no other team did this week. The Stamps managed to do it with Bo Levi Mitchell at the helm which is impressive in the sense that the Stamps have by far the best quarterbacks overall in the CFL (even if Drew Tate has a bit of glass jaw). Cornish had another solid game this week and the Stamps showed they can get by without Nik Lewis.
2. Saskatchewan Roughriders
No one really expected the Bombers to win the Banjo Bowl. Maybe they might keep it close in the Peg, but the one win team would eventually lose to the one loss team. Surprising that the Riders would give up so many sacks, but even good teams are going to have bad games now and then. Durant had a bad day passing and Cory Sheets was just OK. The Riders are still a good team, just not invincible.
3. Hamilton Tiger-Cats
Maybe a bit of a homer pick, but the Ticats offense is humming and the defence is coming together. Perhaps more important, the Cats actually have a healthy starter at quarterback right now. The Cats have great receivers including rookie Greg Ellingson and Gable is emerging as one of the better backs in the CFL.
4. BC Lions
The Lions also have a healthy starter in Travis Lulay, although to be honest, Lulay hasn't been that great this year. He hasn't been terrible, but no one is saying his name for most outstanding player. The Lions have a decent defense, and are always tough at home. That's something.
5. Toronto Argonauts
Things were looking poor early for the Argos and backup quarterback Collaros, but they managed to storm back and win against a tough Montreal defence, without star receiver Chad Owens. The Argos have a decent roster of receivers now. Especially valuable is non-import Durie. The defence had five sacks (albeit against a backup) which never hurts. Toronto is definitely better with Ricky Ray as the quarterback, but they're still OK without him.
6. Montreal Alouettes
I really thought the Alouettes were going to beat the Argos back to back and cement their place as one of the CFL's better teams in 2013. Instead backup Tanner Marsh regressed to the mean of backup quarterback play and the Alouettes collapsed rather spectacularly. The Alouettes have a good defence, at least until the end of games, but their offense looked rather feeble, especially their running game. Things aren't looking good for Montreal the rest of the season without Calvillo.
7. Winnipeg Blue Bombers
The Bombers aren't the worst team in the CFL! I didn't think that would be case, but there you go. With Buck Pierce being traded to BC, Goltz at least has a chance to develop as the starter. The Bomber defence looked good against Saskatchewan this week which is also a good sign. The Bombers won't make the playoffs this year, but they may win some more games this year.
8. Edmonton Eskimos
I thought the Eskimos had a chance of winning this game, but couldn't get it done. Reilly is getting a lot of experience, but Edmonton's offensive line, is well, offensive. Allowing seven sacks just isn't that conducive to winning and keeping your quarterback healthy. Until the line improves, it will be difficult for the Eskimos to win.
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