The Ottawa Redblacks (1–2) host the Toronto Argonauts (0–3) at TD Place Stadium in a Week 4 CFL showdown, with both teams aiming to build momentum in a rematch of last season’s Eastern Semifinal, won 58–38 by the eventual Grey Cup champion Argonauts.
Argos’ defensive overhaul meets Redblacks’ ground dominance
Toronto’s defense, allowing a league-worst 32 points per game, faces an Ottawa rushing attack fresh off a 239-yard explosion against Calgary. Linebacker Cameron Judge (15 tackles) and defensive lineman Andrew Chatfield (3 sacks) anchor a unit missing star Wynton McManis (injury). Head coach Ryan Dinwiddie stressed accountability: “We need more from everyone to stop the run.” The Redblacks counter with Daniel Adeboboye (96 rushing yards in Week 3) and William Stanback (82 yards), exploiting Toronto’s CFL-worst 164.3 rushing yards allowed per game.
Quarterback carousel shapes offensive strategies
- Toronto starts Nick Arbuckle (26/33, 259 yards, 2 TDs in Week 3) for the fourth straight game, with Chad Kelly still sidelined. Arbuckle’s red-zone efficiency (8-for-8 inside the 20-yard line) contrasts with his 5 interceptions this season. Receiver Damonte Coxie (248 yards) remains his top target.
- Ottawa continues with backup Dustin Crum, who threw for 292 yards and 3 TDs against Toronto in 2023. His dual-threat ability could test an Argos secondary that allowed 336 passing yards per game in 2024.
Turnover battle and special teams edges
The Redblacks’ +5 turnover margin (CFL-best) clashes with Toronto’s -5 (CFL-worst). Ottawa’s C.J. Coldon (2 interceptions) aims to disrupt Arbuckle, while Argos rookie Kevin Mital (7 catches, 98 yards in Week 3) seeks a breakout. Ottawa’s Adrian Frye (3 forced fumbles) and Toronto’s kick coverage (burned by Mario Alford’s game-winning return last week) add volatility.
Historical context and trends
- Toronto leads the series 14–3 since 2017, including six wins in their last seven meetings.
- Ottawa’s 239 rushing yards in Week 3 marked their highest total since 2005 (245 yards vs. Calgary).
- Argos are 6–9 since 2023 without Chad Kelly, compared to 20–4 with him.
Stakes and intangibles
- Ottawa aims to revive its 2024 home dominance (7–1–1 record) after a Week 1 loss to Montreal.
- Toronto seeks its first win under mounting pressure, with Dinwiddie’s 8–2 coaching record against Ottawa at risk.
Kickoff at TD Place Stadium on Sunday pits a resurgent Redblacks ground game against a desperate Argonauts squad fighting to salvage their season.