The 2016 Canadian Football League season will finally begin Thursday night as the Hamilton Tiger-Cats take on the Toronto Argonauts.
Hamilton Tiger-Cats vs Toronto Argonauts Game Preview
Here are my three stories to follow in this game.
Return of Chad Owens
Receiver Chad Owens will make his much anticipated return to Toronto. The 2012 CFL MOP departed from the team that made him a star. Owens then decided to sign with the rival Tiger-Cats during the off-season. Owens needs to silence his critics by playing consistent football this season.
Masoli starts at Quarterback
Jeremiah Masoli will start at Quarterback in week one. In addition to a terrific playoffs last year, Masoli earned the starting job based on a solid training camp. Furthermore, and perhaps most noteworthy, Masoli has multiple weapons that he can throw the ball to.
A New Home
In addition to Chad Owens return, the debut of BMO Field is also the major storyline in this game. Furthermore, this site is built at almost the same area as Exhibition Stadium once stood. Expect a solid contingent of Tiger-Cats fans travelling down the QEW highway in this game. Personally, BMO Field is a much better atmosphere to attend than the rugged Rogers Centre.
Here are my three keys to victory…
Start strong, finish strong
The team needs to start the game strong and end the game strong. Jeremiah Masoli needs to get the offence in a good rhythm in their first series. Simoni Lawrence and the defense needs to the same, with setting the tone by getting penetration to Ricky Ray early. Expect Andy Fantuz and Luke Tasker to get multiple looks early and late in the game.
Stay disciplined
The Ticats are a welcoming presence to the officials based on their amount of penalties conceived in last two seasons. This team needs to stop committing penalties and play a relatively clean game.
Crash The Party
Despite what is going to be a glorious event in Toronto, Tiger-Cats should take advantage of any early season gitters to beat the Argos at their home turf.
