Toronto Argonauts: Second Place Up For Grabs Against Ottawa

With time running out in the season the Toronto Argonauts are in a position where every game is a must, starting with Friday against the Ottawa Redblacks.

The Toronto Argonauts‘ recent loss to the Winnipeg Blue Bombers was tough in many ways. They had a strong showing through three quarters, but were unable to close it out and make up ground in the standings.

With the Hamilton Tiger-Cats winning their last game against the Montreal Alouettes and the Ottawa Redblacks losing to the Calgary Stampeders, the Argos remain in third place. Despite the crushing loss to Winnipeg, Toronto still controls their destiny in the East with an opportunity to take advantage of struggling teams.

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The Argos and Redblacks have one win against each other this season and whoever takes this game would clinch the season series and give themselves a major advantage in the East division. Ottawa has lost three of their last four games, giving Toronto a good opportunity to win and move into second place.

Speaking to Argonauts.ca, Brandon Issac said: “We need to do better when we face adversity, the penalties have been coming at a tough time and we seem to take a step back. It is definitely going to be a playoff atmosphere, so we are going [into this game] as a must win.”

Heading into Friday’s crucial game, there were questions as to who would make the start for the Argos? Interestingly, the team has decided to go with Dan LeFevour instead of the recently acquired Drew Willy.

Head coach Scott Milanovich noted that at this point, LeFevour gives the Boatmen the best chance to win, especially with so much at stake. LeFevour also had a strong game against Winnipeg, although he could not turn things around in the fourth quarter when the Blue Bombers seized momentum.

Speaking to reporters, Milanovich said: “We have had some success against them, which makes it easier, but they have turned it around so quickly with the season they had last year. We are not in a position to take anyone lightly.”

The Argonauts will be without the services of defensive back AJ Jefferson, who has a hand injury that has become increasingly tough to play with. Marcus Alford and Aaron Berry will make the start at the corner positions, while Marshall McFadden will be back in the middle linebacker spot.

Ottawa has only won one game at home this season (1-3-1), with one of their three losses coming at the hands of the Double Blue. The Argos have won their last two road games at TD Place and have at least 400 net yards in their last three contests.

One of the main areas where Toronto has struggled this season is closing out games in the fourth quarter. The team has scored only three points in the final 15 minutes in their last four games.

Kenny Shaw has shined in his last three games with 17 receptions for 246 yards, including two touchdowns against Winnipeg last week. Shawn Lemon will look to extend his sack streak to six games and add to his CFL-leading total of 10.

Keys to the Game

Spreading the ball around:  The Argos are fortunate that they do not need to rely on one or two receivers to carry the offence. Last week they showed that with Kenny Shaw, Tori Gurley, Kevin Elliott and Diontae Spencer all making contributions. Ottawa lost to Calgary by 25 points last week, so their defence will have a tough time stopping a lethal passing offence.

Playing a complete game:  It is no secret the Argonauts have struggled to score points in the fourth quarter. This made it hard for the defence to stop Winnipeg like it did against Hamilton two weeks ago. Even if the Argos offence cannot get into the end zone, they will need to avoid costly turnovers and at least come away with points off field goals. They cannot expect the defence to hold a strong Redblacks offence, which will look to bounce back after a crushing loss.

Make plays on special teams:  Toronto gave up a kick return touchdown last week, which allowed Winnipeg to keep the game close. The Argos need to tackle better, while also finding a way to make plays on special teams either with a good return on a punt or kickoff. They had a blocked punt against Hamilton two weeks ago, which was a big momentum swing in the game, so it will be important to try and do that again against Ottawa.

Next: What does Drew Willy trade mean for Ricky Ray's future?

What’s your prediction for the Argos’ game against the Redblacks? Who do you think will win and why? Let us know in the comments section below.