It may be known for its high-flying offence generated by passing, but the Canadian Football League this year has become more about running the ball.
The teams that are doing it with some degree of efficiency are doing well, while the teams that aren’t are failing.
It’s really that simple.
It is a delight to watch Saskatchewan, B.C. and Calgary pound the ball playing smash-mouth football, while it is painfully obvious that Hamilton and Winnipeg simply have no desire to run the ball, either because they don’t have confidence in their personnel or they aren’t producing the kind of positive yards on first down to keep going with it.
Even Edmonton is trying to run the ball, but the Eskimos’ problems are really about self-destruction, principally extending opposing drives with penalties and also turning the ball over.
Toronto has issues running the ball, but the problem isn’t so much about abandoning it and more to do with success passing. That said, the Argos have likely lost starting running back Chad Kackert with a knee injury, so they’ll have to look at that. If quarterback Ricky Ray is sidelined for any prolonged period of time following a knee tweak that limited him in last week’s game against Winnipeg in which he completed 19 of 20 passes and ran for a touchdown, the running game will take on a new look.
Montreal isn’t really running the ball with any interest, but the Als’ latest loss simply had to do with blowing a 24-0 lead after one quarter and turning over the ball.
It will be interesting to see if the running trend continues, but you can’t help but appreciate the teams that understand the value of a balanced attack.
And isn’t it interesting that the teams struggling four games into the season are the ones who for the most part have had their issues in recent years, namely Hamilton, which has routinely shuffled its roster thinking it will lead to success. This is Groundhog Day over and over again, year after year under owner Bob Young and team president Scott Mitchell.
Meanwhile in Winnipeg, the Bombers are 10-22 since they started out the 2011 season with a league-leading 7-1 record. As per usual, general manager Joe Mack is facing the wrath of the fans.
1. Saskatchewan (4-0)
The offence has yet to turn over the ball in four games, which is a phenomenal stat, but the defence played its best game in the 37-0 win over Hamilton. League-leading rusher Kory Sheets stayed in the game longer than he should have because of a plan to let him surpass 100 yards again. Quite a statement.
2. Calgary (3-1)
Overcoming a 24-0 deficit after one quarter set a record in the 38-27 win over Montreal. Doing it for the most part with third-string quarterback Bo Levi Mitchell added to the magnitude of the win. Running back Jon Cornish clearly wants to keep pace with Sheets. Hustle play of the year goes to Fred Bennett for his touchdown-saving punchout on a kickoff return.
3. B.C. (3-1)
The Lions are a lock at B.C. Place, in particular when running back Andrew Harris rushes for 100 yards or more. That’s what happened in the 31-21 win over Edmonton. An interception proved to be a key point in the game because it led to a touchdown. Great seeing the Lions stretch the field with receiver Emmanuel (I’m Being Manny) Arceneaux.
4. Toronto (2-2)
Breathtaking performance by Ray throwing the ball so fluidly and efficiently and some great catches by Chad Owens. The defence shored up its game, but it also faced a depleted receiving corps and an offensive co-ordinator who can’t seem to grasp he has a talented running back that needs far more touches.
5. Montreal (1-3)
Just when you think the Als have turned the corner of what has been a slow start to the season, they run out of gas after one quarter. If you blow a 24-0, first-quarter lead and then self-destruct in all three phases of the game, well, it says something about the coaching. Rookie head coach Dan Hawkins is struggling.
6. Edmonton (1-3)
Head coach Kavis Reed said after the third game “there has to be consequences” for the team’s implosion, namely taking far too many penalties. The Eskimos appear to be a team struggling with its identity and is making just enough mistakes with a young quarterback to self-destruct. At least running back Hugh Charles is giving it his all.
7. Winnipeg (1-3)
They’ve played two games in their new home and have lost both. Oft-injured quarterback Buck Pierce is hurt again, but head coach Tim Burke stands behind him as his starter. The players had a meeting among themselves after the latest loss to try and figure things out. It’s not that complicated. The GM and OC are a detriment.
8. Hamilton (1-3)
So much hype went in the return of Ticats’ head coach/GM Kent Austin to Regina, where he won Grey Cups as player and head coach. He is having problems in his first year with the Ticats and is having issues running the ball. The receiving corps is lost without Andy Fantuz, while the defence is a mess because of injuries. Next up? Saskatchewan again.