Today's focus will be the Hamilton Tiger-Cats, since last week's post earned me a comment on how overrated they are right now. (I love comments on my posts! I really hope that, in time, more people will leave comments on Blogspot instead of on Reddit, though I really do appreciate feedback anywhere.)
The Ti-Cats are on a steady downtrend after losing QB Jeremiah Masoli for the year. Losing to a Roughriders team that has turned out to be somewhat of a surprise playoff contender is one thing; coming to almost the same outcome, at home, against a one-win Lions team is another one completely.
If this trend continues, it'll only be a matter of time before Hamilton is considered middle-of-the-pack by the computer model. Luckily for them, they have an easy stretch coming up. Five of their next six games are on the road, but in their next three games, they will face the three worst teams in the CFL: the Redblacks, the Lions and the Argonauts. That will give them some time to fix up what needs fixing, implement changes based on their new quarterback, and build upon what has been working for them this year.
After those three games and a bye, the Ti-Cats have a three-game road stretch, which will see them visit three playoff contenders out of the West: Calgary, Edmonton and Winnipeg. I'm sure they hope to see themselves back on top of things by then.
Another bright spot for Hamilton: the rest of the East isn't as strong as they seemed at one point. The Ti-Cats could coast somewhat and still make it in the playoffs. Montreal seems to have peaked early and Ottawa is just a hair behind them. Toronto just looks hopeless ... for now. Anything can happen, as the Argos showed us last time they took the field.
The West, on the other hand, appears to be set for a crossover. It could honestly be any team; even BC could make it in with an exceptionally strong finish. But it appears it'll one of the other four, with the Blue Bombers just a bit out in front to host that West final.
For now, Calgary squeaks by Saskatchewan on the divisional record, despite the Riders' better rating.
Did you notice the number of times I mentioned how things "seem" or "appear"? Which team is more than it appears right now? And whose facade might begin to falter?
Be sure to leave any thoughts in the comments here, and don't forget to subscribe if you think you'll enjoy keeping track of the CFL this year with me.
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