Alouettes Eye Division Title Victory Against Argonauts
The Montreal Alouettes are gearing up for a crucial matchup against the Toronto Argonauts as they aim to secure their first East Division title since 2012. With a current record of 11-2-1, the Alouettes have the opportunity to clinch a first-round bye in the playoffs and lock in home-field advantage for the division final on Nov. 9 with a win against the Argonauts. Additionally, the defending Grey Cup champions can secure the East Division title if the Ottawa Redblacks, currently in second place, lose their upcoming game against Saskatchewan.
Recent Performance and Matchup
The Alouettes have been performing solidly, with a 1-1-1 record in September, including a notable 24-12 victory against Ottawa in their last game. However, despite their success, there has been some controversy surrounding starting quarterback Cody Fajardo. Fajardo, who was the Grey Cup MVP in 2023, has faced criticism from fans, with some calling for backup quarterback Davis Alexander to take over the starting role. Alexander had a strong 4-0 record while Fajardo was sidelined with a hamstring injury earlier in the season.
Toronto, on the other hand, holds a 7-7 record and has been strong at home, with a 5-2 record in their home games this season. The Argonauts have split their series with the Alouettes so far, with a 30-20 loss in June followed by a 37-18 victory in July. Quarterback Chad Kelly will be facing the Alouettes for the first time this season after being suspended for the previous matchups. Kelly has struggled since his return, throwing more interceptions than touchdown passes, but has shown promise with four rushing touchdowns.
Coaching and Defensive Concerns
Toronto’s head coach, Ryan Dinwiddie, has expressed concerns about his team’s defense following a recent 33-31 loss to the Hamilton Tiger-Cats. Dinwiddie criticized the defense for being too soft and allowing 431 yards in the game. He emphasized the need to tighten up the defense and improve their performance to secure a win against the Alouettes. With the division title on the line, both teams will be looking to put their best foot forward and come out on top in this crucial matchup.
Alouettes general manager Danny Maciocia addressed the pressure and criticism that comes with being the starting quarterback for the team, acknowledging that Montreal fans have high expectations. Despite Fajardo’s impressive 73.5% completion rate, the scrutiny and demands from fans are part of the job. Maciocia emphasized that Fajardo will need to navigate through the challenges and criticisms as long as he holds the starting quarterback position for the Alouettes.
In addition to the quarterback matchup, both teams will need to focus on key areas such as defense, special teams, and overall execution to secure a victory in this important game. With playoff implications on the line, every play and decision will be crucial in determining the outcome of the game and potentially shaping the playoff picture for the East Division. Fans can expect an intense and competitive matchup as the Alouettes and Argonauts battle it out for division supremacy.
