Toronto Argonauts Look to Continue Momentum Against BC Lions
By Paul Taylor
The Toronto Argonauts (3-4-0) look to continue their momentum from Tuesday’s impressive 38-21 win against the Winnipeg Blue Bombers. This will be the first of two matchups this season with the BC Lions (4-3-0), a.k.a. “The David Braley Bowl: Part I.”
LAST TIME:
The previous game between these two foes took place all the way back in Week 5 of last season. The Argonauts emerged victorious, with a comprehensive 38-12 victory at the Rogers Centre.
The game was fairly close for three quarters, before the Argos blew the Lions away with 17 unanswered points in the final 15 minutes of the affair. The since departed Zach Collaros filled in superbly for the injured Ricky Ray, going 21-25-253-3-0.
The Double Blue, who are 2-1-0 so far at home this season, will be aiming to extend their two-game winning streak. Meanwhile, the Lions are on a two-game winning streak themselves, and bring a 2-1-0 road record into Toronto.
INJURY UPDATE:
As most fans are aware, the Argonauts have been beset by a multitude of injuries this season, especially at the receiver position. As such, the report that Jason Barnes will likely be available to face the Lions is positive news.
Aug 17, 2014; Toronto, Ontario, Canada; Toronto Argonauts wide receiver Jason Barnes (81) heads up the field after a catch against the BC Lions at Rogers Centre. BC defeated Toronto 33-17. Mandatory Credit: John E. Sokolowski-USA TODAY Sports
Barnes’ return couldn’t have come at a better time for the receiving core. Deep threat John Chiles is still out, while Maurice Mann has now joined the injury list and is likely to miss an extended period of time with a hamstring injury.
Another player expected to return today is Antwaun Molden, who participated in practice on Friday. The linebacker, who has been out with a hamstring injury himself, has two interceptions for the Argonauts this season, including a pick six.
There has been no change in the situations regarding Andre Durie and Chad Owens. Both are still expected to return for the Labour Day classic in Hamilton against the Tiger-Cats.
PLAYERS TO WATCH FOR:
Argonauts – Curtis Steele
With apologies to Ray, who was spectacular against the Blue Bombers (26-33-297-4-0 ) earlier this week, my player to watch is Curtis Steele. The aptly named running back leads the Argonauts in rushing yards (at an impressive 6.8 average per carry) and touchdowns, and is second on the team in overall yards.
As vital as the Argos’ star quarterback undoubtedly is, it’s no surprise he’s at his best when he has an effective ground game going. In that respect, when the running attack has been on fire this season (Week 2 and last Tuesday against Winnipeg), Steele has led the team in rushing on both occasions.
With Anthony Coombs likely gone for the year and Steve Slaton still finding his feet in the CFL, Steele will have to step up again today. As the 27-year old showed against the Blue Bombers (92 yards and a touchdown on just 10 carries), he’s more than up to the task.
Lions – Andrew Harris
Jun 26, 2014; BC Lions running back Andrew Harris poses for a photo. Mandatory Credit: USA TODAY Sports
It’s tough to overstate the importance of Andrew Harris to this Lions team. With quarterback Kevin Glenn throwing a league-leading 11 interceptions, Harris often has to put the offence on his shoulders.
Fortunately for BC, the running back has been up to the challenge, proving to be an excellent dual threat. Harris leads the way with 410 yards on the ground and is second on the team with 371 receiving yards.
The versatile Harris is also capable of returning kicks and punts, although this responsibility has predictably been reduced during his time in BC. Regardless, the 27-year old has turned into a team leader, and he will have a big say in the outcome of tonight’s game.
GAME NOTES:
Noel Prefontaine will sign a one-day contract at tonight’s game, which kicks off at 7:30 p.m., and officially retire as a member of the Argonauts. He will participate in the ceremonial pre-game kickoff and the Rogers Centre crowd will have the chance to honour him during the first half.
Also of note, the Argonauts will be wearing their CFL signature uniforms for the first time:
PREDICTION:
Aug 12, 2014; Toronto, Ontario, Canada; Toronto Argonauts running back Curtis Steele (29) rushes against Winnipeg Blue Bombers defensive lineman Zach Anderson (44) and safety Teague Sherman (27) at Rogers Centre. Toronto defeated Winnipeg 38-21. Mandatory Credit: John E. Sokolowski-USA TODAY Sports
After predicting that the Argonauts would come up short against the Blue Bombers, I was pleasantly surprised by the outcome of Tuesday’s game. However, I’m still trying to remain objective and level-headed, despite being more optimistic heading into tonight’s game.
I’m encouraged by the fact the Argos still have a productive offence capable of scoring on anyone, despite all their injury woes. However, I’m not sure what to make of this Lions squad. Which version is going to turn up in Toronto?
Will it be the one that registered an impressive 26-13 win at the home of the Grey Cup champion Roughriders, or the unit that lost 24-9 in Montreal against an awful Alouettes team?
Both teams are on a roll so I’m expecting a close game, although I’m concerned about the Lions having four extra days to prepare. However, I’ll stick my neck out and pick the Argos based on playing at home, combined with Kevin Glenn’s penchant for throwing interceptions.
Final score – Argonauts 28, Lions 26
Tip of the Tower will be at the Rogers Centre tonight for the game. Make sure you follow the live coverage on our Facebook page and via Twitter @TipOfTheTower.