The Argonauts have been a juggernaut but not as heavy a favorite as the books are offering. They will be missing a couple of receivers and DL Costigan. Modest losses to say the least. What isn’t accounted for is the return of at least 2 and maybe 3 receivers to the Riders lineup. The Riders will also get starting center Godber back to stabilize their problematic O-line in front of 2nd string QB Fine who will have had a week of reps, film and confidence building after a tough outing against the vaunted BC Lions defence. With Godber back the rush game must improve some which in turn will improve the pass game.

On defence the Riders get stud DL Lanier back to add to a pass rush that was successful vs. the Lions last week. The Riders also signed all-star and INT leader in 2021, Washington. Although he won’t start he should get a chance to make a difference

When comparing the two squads, some key areas are very close. In opposition net offence allowed, the Riders are 3rd and the Argos are 4th and in first downs allowed those positions are reversed. In points allowed the Riders allow 24.5/game while the Argos allow 22.2. In passing “D” the Argos are 8th which should allow a little more success for QB Fine. When all is said and done, expect the Riders to lose the game but to cover the spread.