As the Canadian Football League (CFL) season heats up, fans are treated to thrilling matchups and standout performances from players across the league. Let’s dive into week 8’s games and players to watch in the upcoming weeks.
Hamilton Tiger-Cats vs. Ottawa Redblacks
The star of the show in the Redblacks’ recent outings has undoubtedly been QB Dustin Crum, affectionately known as “Don’t Call Me Viktor.” Crum’s remarkable leadership has led the Redblacks to two consecutive overtime victories, and his overall grade of 85.8 ranks third among quarterbacks this season. The dynamic playmaker showcases an impressive blend of passing and running skills, making him a force to be reckoned with. On the opposing side, the Tiger-Cats are eager to have legendary QB Bo Levi Mitchell back from injury. Mitchell’s return could be a turning point for the struggling Tiger-Cats. However, he faces a challenging task of containing Crum and the fiery Redblacks offense. A strong performance from Mitchell will be crucial in steering the Tiger-Cats’ season back on track.
Player to Watch: QB Bo Levi Mitchell (Hamilton)
While Dustin Crum shines as the rising star, all eyes will be on Bo Levi Mitchell’s performance upon his return. Mitchell’s current passing grade of 41.8 has left much to be desired, but the Tiger-Cats know he is capable of so much more. To get their season back on track, Mitchell needs to tap into his 2022 form, where he boasted an impressive overall grade of 85.5. A strong showing from Mitchell will undoubtedly have a significant impact on the Tiger-Cats’ fortunes.
Saskatchewan Roughriders vs. Toronto Argonauts
The Toronto Argonauts have been the team to beat in the CFL, boasting an unbeaten record and showcasing dominant ball-control offense coupled with stellar defense. The Roughriders, on the other hand, face challenges with a struggling offensive line, leaving their starting QB Mason Fine under pressure. Fine played a fine game against the BC Lions, but he’ll need to step up further to keep pace with the remarkable Chad Kelly, who boasts an impressive overall grade of 87.3.
Key Matchup: C Peter Godber (Saskatchewan) vs. DI Dewayne Hendrix (Toronto)
The return of Saskatchewan’s starting center, Peter Godber, has brought hope to their offensive line. The unit struggled without him, surrendering pressure at a higher rate. Godber’s presence could be a game-changer for the Roughriders. However, he’ll have his hands full against Toronto’s Dewayne Hendrix, who has been a force to reckon with this season. Hendrix’s 83.2 pass-rush grade and 10 official sacks make him a formidable opponent. The battle between these two standout players will be a thrilling spectacle.
British Columbia Lions vs. Edmonton Elks
The Edmonton Elks have had a tough start to the season, remaining winless. Facing the British Columbia Lions, they hope to turn their fortunes around. However, the Lions displayed resilience even in the absence of starting QB Vernon Adams Jr., as backup Dane Evans stepped up with an impressive passing grade of 83.9. Regardless of the starting QB, the Elks face a challenging task against the red-hot Lions.
Key Matchup: RT Brett Boyko (Edmonton) vs. EDGE Mathieu Betts (British Columbia)
This matchup promises to be a captivating showdown. Mathieu Betts leads the league with his dominant performance, recording 83.2 in pass-rush grade and 32 total pressures. Brett Boyko, on the other hand, will strive to protect his quarterback, but his pass-blocking grade of 38.4 leaves room for improvement. Boyko’s struggle against inside moves could play into Betts’ hands, as the edge rusher boasts an impressive 65.7% win rate on inside moves.
Calgary Stampeders vs. Montreal Alouettes
The Stampeders have had their fair share of tough losses this season and will be eager to bounce back against a well-rested Montreal Alouettes team coming off a bye. Calgary’s quarterback, Jake Maier, has been on a roll lately, putting together his best two-game stretch in the past two seasons. His passing grade has significantly improved from 58.6 to an impressive 77.9 since Week 6. Maier’s ability to protect the football while still pushing it downfield more often has been a significant factor in his recent success. This game will be an essential indicator of whether Maier’s improvement is a trend or merely a blip.
Key Matchup: WR Austin Mack (Montreal) vs. CB Tre Roberson (Calgary)
The rookie wide receiver, Austin Mack, has been a revelation for the Montreal Alouettes. His 71.7 receiving grade ranks as the highest among outside wide receivers in the CFL this season. Mack’s impressive 2.40 yards per route run is second-best in the league, making him an early contender for the Most Outstanding Rookie award. However, Tre Roberson is a formidable presence in Calgary’s defense, with a coverage grade of 74.6, which ranks sixth among outside corners. Roberson allows a mere 0.69 yards per coverage snap, making him a challenging matchup for any receiver. Whether Mack can maintain his exceptional form against Roberson’s elite coverage will be a captivating storyline in this game.
