Game Thread: BC Lions vs. Toronto Argonauts Sat Oct 3 at 3 pm ET

[Scooter McCray]

Huge game for both teams. The two hottest teams in the league over last 7 weeks.

Grey Cup Preview? We'll see...

MVP Showdown - Kelly vs Rourke? We'll see...

Great crowd to watch the best team in Toronto? We'll see....

Gene Simmon Band at Halftime - Making America Rock Again? We'll see....

[Don_from_Dryden]

Lions open as -.5 favorite.

If only the Argos had a run game.

[OV Argo]

BC still has a shot at 1st in the West perhaps; whereas Argos are pretty well resigned (IMO) to hosting the East play-off game.

I know it's a big game and the Argos want to continue their winning ways, but I'd be tempted to play it very cautious with Kelly (hope that sometimes porous O-line does not get him hurt), and maybe give a bit of rest to him or Coxie, or one of the vet O-linemen; plus the likes of Pickett or Amos on D. And definitely if the game is out of hand (for either side) into the 2nd half - get as many key starters out of there as possible. A bad injury to a key player in what is likely a nothing game is just plain bad; and dumb.

[paulwoods13]

I've never known any CFL team to rest key players when they were still in contention for something. Given that the Argos can still finish first (albeit it's unlikely), I don't see them sitting key players for this one unless they are dealing with serious injuries. Once they're locked into second place, it will obviously be a different story.

[Scooter McCray]

BC still has a shot at 1st in the West perhaps; whereas Argos are pretty well resigned (IMO) to hosting the East play-off game.

I know it's a big game and the Argos want to continue their winning ways, but I'd be tempted to play it very cautious with Kelly (hope that sometimes porous O-line does not get him hurt), and maybe give a bit of rest to him or Coxie, or one of the vet O-linemen; plus the likes of Pickett or Amos on D. And definitely if the game is out of hand (for either side) into the 2nd half - get as many key starters out of there as possible. A bad injury to a key player in what is likely a nothing game is just plain bad; and dumb.

Understand what you're saying. We are still one month away from semi final. Argos do have a bye week in October that will come in handy. The Alouettes don't play this weekend until after the Argo game. If any Argo has an injury, they probably won't play, like Judge, etc but I'm hoping they go for first. Montreal has games versus Western teams who all have lots to play for making it a tough schedule. If Argos lose this BC game, I think they start to follow your thinking much more.

[Scooter McCray]

Lions open as -.5 favorite.

If only the Argos had a run game.

They are winning without a run game for now, but traditional football thinking dictates you need one, and especially come playoff time. All of their running backs have shown flashes of ability and are capable of ripping off 10 yard plus runs. Most OLines prefer run blocking to pass blocking, but not all lines can do that well. It sure would take the heat off of Kelly if they could find that balance. He's making throws from tiny boxes in the pocket because there's so much pressure. Imagine what he would do with an extra second or two, and more space to step into his throws.

[IssuesMcgee]

Lions open as -.5 favorite.

If only the Argos had a run game.

In my opinion, point spread is American nonsense when it comes to analyzing Canadian football. Because no lead is safe up here, it's a metric that just cannot accurately reflect how the game is going to go.

I'd look at the moneyline, which is very tight. Not for betting, the CFL is too sacred for me to bet on, but for more of an accurate look into where each team stands going into it.

[Scooter McCray]

Weather so far looks great for Saturday. Sunny and 17 C. No clouds. Light wind out of the southeast. Should be bombs away for the passing game.

[paulwoods13]

I assume it's just precautionary, but Kelly (hand) did not practise today.

[Scooter McCray]

I assume it's just precautionary, but Kelly (hand) did not practise today.

He's throwing from pockets the size of phone booths. His hand must be banging off of helmets, shoulder pads. He's getting thrown to the ground consistently. Not surprised his hand is banged up, plus broken toe. He is good for 2 roughing the passer calls per game. Defences take alot of liberties trying to get to him. Eventually they are going to get a 25 yard penalty, probably in the playoffs. When it happens hopefully it is something he is able to get up from.