Hamilton Tiger-Cats vs Toronto Argonauts: Is This The Game That Defines The Season?

The Hamilton Tiger-Cats and Toronto Argonauts face off on Friday night in a game that could define the season for both teams. The Tiger-Cats are clinging to playoff hopes, while the Argonauts are looking to solidify their spot atop the East Division.

Hamilton (4-9) has won two consecutive games, including a 37-21 win over the Ottawa Redblacks in Week 15. The offense for the Tiger-Cats remains the best in the CFL, but their defense has stepped up, going from allowing 33.4 points per game in the first 10 matchups to 25 points per game in the last three. Quarterback Bo Levi Mitchell has shown improvement since being benched for Taylor Powell and leads the CFL in passing yards (3,682) and passing touchdowns (23).

Toronto (7-6) had a nice bounce-back game last week as the Argos beat the BC Lions 33-17, aided by seven sacks from the defense. That’s been the key this season for the Argos as the defense is ranked second in total defense (347.6). Quarterback Chad Kelly had his best game of the year last week with over 300 total yards and two touchdowns.

The Tiger-Cats have a few key players who will be out for this game, including wide receiver Jordan Byrd (knee), defensive lineman Luke Brubacher (shoulder), offensive lineman Felix Garand-Gauthier (knee), wide receiver Jonathan Moxey (hamstring) and Casey Sayles (abdominal). Running back Greg Bell is doubtful to play with an Achilles injury, but James Butler is back for the Tiger-Cats. The Argos are also missing a few key players, including wide receiver Dejon Brissett (knee), linebacker Jonathan Jones (hamstring) and offensive lineman Gregor Mackellar. Wide receiver Janarion Grant (chest) is listed as doubtful and defensive lineman Jake Ceresna (shoulder) is questionable to play.

Hamilton Tiger-Cats: A team on the rise

With Butler returning, the Tiger-Cats shouldn’t lose a beat in the running game despite Bell being out. Mitchell has thrown just one interception in the last three games, so as long as he protects the football, Hamilton should be able to move the ball down the field and score. The Tiger-Cats are playing with a lot of confidence right now, and they’re looking to carry that momentum into this game. They’ve had success against the Argonauts this season, winning both of their previous matchups.

Toronto Argonauts: Will they stay on top?

The Argos don’t have a lot of their key players in the game with two wide receivers out and one of their top pass rushers not healthy. Kelly will be asked to do more of what he did last week with the key being to protect the football, which he has struggled with at times. The Argonauts are still the better team on paper, but they’ll need to play a near-perfect game to get the win. They’ve been playing their best ball at home, but the Tiger-Cats will be looking to spoil their party.

The Bottom Line

Two weeks ago, many experts would have called for an Argos blowout win over the Tiger-Cats. With the improvements on offense and defense, Hamilton will keep this game competitive. Ultimately, defenses always find ways to impact a game. Toronto’s has been more consistent and will lead the Argos to a big win on the road.