Xs and Argos Podcast

The Toronto Argonauts suffered a heartbreaking 24-23 loss to the Hamilton Tiger-Cats on Saturday night, and while the lasting image will be Lirim Hajrullahu's missed 31-yard field goal as time expired, Ben Grant and JB explain why the game was lost long before the final kick. Yes, Hajrullahu missed the game-winning field goal. Yes, he also missed an extra point earlier in the contest. But football is the ultimate team game, and this defeat belonged to all three phases. On offence, the CFL's highest-scoring unit got off to a dream start, marching down the field for a touchdown on its opening possession. From there, however, Toronto managed just three points over the next three quarters before mounting a furious fourth-quarter comeback that ultimately came up one point short. Chad Kelly finished with over 320 passing yards, but the Argos simply waited too long to find their rhythm. Defensively, the numbers tell one story, but the film tells another. Holding Hamilton to 24 points should be enough to win most nights, but the Tiger-Cats did all of their scoring through the first three quarters. By the fourth, Hamilton was without both starting offensive tackles and had a fullback playing guard on an all-Canadian offensive line. The Argos finally took control defensively, but earlier in the game they struggled to contain Tre Ford, repeatedly taking poor pursuit angles and allowing him to escape what should have been drive-ending sacks. On this week's Postgame Reaction, Ben and JB dig into every turning point, every missed opportunity, and why it's far too simplistic to pin the loss on one player or one kick. They also highlight the bright spots, including the resilience Toronto showed in battling back to give itself a chance in the final seconds. The easy takeaway is that one missed field goal cost Toronto the game. The correct takeaway is that a collection of mistakes over four quarters left the Argos badly needing that kick. Ben Grant and JB break it all down on this week's Xs and Argos Postgame Reaction.

After five straight games away from BMO Field, the Toronto Argonauts finally get something close to a home game as they head to Hamilton to face the Tiger-Cats in a pivotal East Division showdown. Ben Grant and JB get you set for a matchup that feels like a must-win for both clubs. This week, the guys break down a busy stretch of transactions, including Toronto's release of defensive tackle Dewayne Hendrix and offensive lineman Anim Dankwah, a trade for a former All-SEC player for Alabama, and the signing of standout Windsor kicker Brady Lidster. The conversation then turns to Chad Kelly, whose candid comments about Toronto's unprecedented road-heavy start to the season made headlines well beyond the CFL. Ben and JB discuss whether Kelly's frustrations are justified, how much the constant travel has affected the Argos, and why finally getting closer to home could make a difference over the second half of the season. Also on this week's episode: Home Suite Home, with another chance to win box tickets to Toronto's home opener Another surprise visit to practice from a former Argo Pick Six, featuring a listener question about the Hamilton seating controversy Injury Report OCDC One Thing Put Me Down for 20 Challenge Flag With Bo Levi Mitchell sidelined, the Tiger-Cats enter the week searching for answers at quarterback, while Toronto has an opportunity to get back above .500. It's another packed edition of the Xs and Argos Pregame Walkthrough, getting you ready for one of the biggest games of Toronto's season so far.

The Toronto Argonauts left Winnipeg feeling like they let one get away. Despite holding Brady Oliveira to just 64 total yards, forcing two turnovers, and limiting the Blue Bombers to a single offensive touchdown, the Argos fell 30-21 in a game where mistakes in all three phases ultimately proved too much to overcome. Ben Grant and JB break down a frustrating night at Princess Auto Stadium, where Chad Kelly turned in another strong performance and Makai Polk continued his emergence as one of the CFL's most dangerous receivers. But while the passing game generated big plays, the offensive line struggled to consistently handle Winnipeg's four-man rush, and after Sam Hicks burst through for a 26-yard run on Toronto's opening drive, the Argos managed just four rushing yards from him the rest of the night. The turning point came on special teams. Trailing by one score in the fourth quarter, Toronto missed a 40-yard field goal that was returned 129 yards by Trey Vaval for a touchdown - a devastating 10-point swing in a game ultimately decided by nine. Combined with other special teams miscues throughout the evening, it was the difference between flying home with a statement road win and leaving Winnipeg empty-handed. On this week's Postgame Reaction, Ben and JB examine the game through all three phases, discuss the early tackling issues on defence, why the unit still deserves plenty of credit for its overall performance, and where the offence and special teams must improve heading into next week's game against Hamilton.

The Toronto Argonauts continue their season-opening road trip with one of the toughest assignments in the CFL - a Friday night showdown in Winnipeg. Ben Grant and JB get you set for a pivotal Week 6 matchup as the 2-2 Argos look to climb the East Division standings and prove they're not the team some Power Rankings would have you believe. On this week's episode: Toronto's latest roster moves, including the exciting addition of Bubba Bolden Home Suite Home, with another chance to win box tickets to Toronto's home opener Pick Six, featuring a question about how the Argos prepare defensively without knowing Winnipeg's starting QB The latest injury report, including the impact of Dakota Shepley's return to practice and Cameron Judge's absence A full game preview and Xs-and-Os breakdown of both teams One Thing, Put Me Down for 20, and Challenge Flag Can the Argos slow down Brady Oliveira? Will Chad Kelly continue his strong start to the season? Ben Grant and JB break it all down on this week's Xs and Argos Pregame Walkthrough.

The Toronto Argonauts suffered their toughest loss of the young season Thursday night, falling 58-36 to the Calgary Stampeders in a game that slipped away just before halftime. For much of the opening half, the Argos were right where they wanted to be. The offence moved the football, special teams made several positive contributions, and Toronto looked poised to head into the break within striking distance. Then, with just 27 seconds remaining in the second quarter, Vernon Adams Jr. connected on a 73-yard touchdown pass that completely changed the complexion of the game. From that point on, Calgary seized control and never looked back. While the final score won't sit well with anyone in Double Blue, Ben Grant and JB explain why the offence wasn't the story. Chad Kelly and the Argos moved the ball effectively for much of the night, and there were encouraging performances across the offensive unit and on special teams. Instead, the difference was Calgary's ability to consistently attack Toronto through the air, as Vernon Adams Jr. put together the best passing performance of the young CFL season. On this week's Postgame Reaction, Ben and JB identify two specific areas Calgary repeatedly targeted on offence and discuss why it gave Toronto's defence so much trouble. More importantly, they examine whether those issues are correctable before next week's showdown with the Winnipeg Blue Bombers. They'll also have radio replays with Mike Hogan from the call on TSN 1050. The Argos now have a full week to regroup before facing another major test on the road. Ben Grant and JB break down what went wrong, what still went right, and where the Double Blue go from here.

The Toronto Argonauts have won two straight and now head to Calgary for their fourth consecutive road game, looking to improve to 3-1 and continue climbing the East Division standings. This week, Ben Grant and JB celebrate two of the newest members of the All-Time Argos. The guys reflect on the remarkable careers of linebacker Kevin Eiben and defensive back Carl Brazley, discussing why both legends earned their place among the greatest players in franchise history and what made each of them so special. Ben and JB dive into the tactical battle that could decide the game. How can the Argos neutralize Calgary's talented defensive front? Should Chad Kelly continue to rely on quick decisions, tempo, and moving the pocket? And can Toronto's offence continue the efficiency it displayed in Regina? Plus: A discussion on Toronto's locker room culture and why it matters over the course of a CFL season A full game preview of Argos vs. Stampeders Injury Report Pick Six, explaining some of the football terminology fans hear every week OCDC: How should each team attack the opposing defence? One Thing Put Me Down for 20 Challenge Flag The road doesn't get any easier, but another win in Calgary would further establish the Argonauts as one of the CFL's hottest teams heading into Week 6.

The Toronto Argonauts marched into Regina and handed the Saskatchewan Roughriders their first loss of the season, knocking off the Riders 40-34 in what was officially a home game for Toronto but felt anything but. It wasn't a perfect performance, and it certainly wasn't a conventional one. There were explosive plays on offence, a game-changing punt return touchdown from Janarion Grant, momentum swings in every quarter, and a few head-scratching moments. But when the game hung in the balance, Toronto's biggest stars delivered. Chad Kelly once again led the offence with poise, the playmakers came through when it mattered most, and the Argos proved they have the firepower to beat anyone in the CFL. Now sitting at 2-1, Toronto leaves Saskatchewan with one of the league's most impressive road victories and a statement win over a team many considered the CFL's early benchmark. Ben Grant and JB break down everything from an entertaining Friday night in Regina, taking a closer look at the mistakes the Argos made, how they overcame them, and why this victory could be an important turning point early in the season. Plus: Players of the Game Plays of the Game Radio replays from TSN 1050 with Mike Hogan It wasn't flawless, but it was resilient, opportunistic, and ultimately good enough to leave Regina with a huge victory.

The Toronto Argonauts are coming off their first win of the season, but their toughest challenge yet awaits Friday night in Regina. Ben Grant and JB get you set for a showdown with the undefeated Saskatchewan Roughriders in what could be an early measuring-stick game for the Double Blue. This week, the guys break down Toronto's latest roster moves, highlighted by the signing of former Florida State offensive lineman Darius Washington. Ben dives into the film and explains why the Argos may have quietly improved one of their biggest areas of concern. They also discuss Mike Miller's decision to keep the team off the practice field earlier this week. Is it a smart way to manage players during a long road stretch, or a risk for a team still trying to establish its identity? The conversation then turns to Kevin Mital's new contract extension, and why the Argos may have secured one of the CFL's premier Canadian receivers in a deal that is legitimately good for both sides. After leading the league in receptions a season ago and exploding out of the gate in 2026, Mital is quickly becoming one of the league's most valuable offensive players. Plus: A look at the quarterback chaos unfolding in Ottawa and the Toronto connections surrounding it A full game preview of Friday night's clash in Saskatchewan Pick Six, featuring a listener question about whether a starter automatically gets his job back after a long injury absence Home Suite Home, including your chance to win tickets to Toronto's first home game in the newly renovated north-end boxes at BMO Field Injury Report OCDC One Thing Put Me Down for 20 Challenge Flag A win in Regina would send a message to the rest of the CFL. Friday night presents Toronto with its first opportunity to prove it belongs among the league's elite.

The Toronto Argonauts picked up their first win of the 2026 season in impressive fashion, rolling past the Ottawa Redblacks 44-24 in a game that got closer than the final score might suggest, but was never really in question either. Ben Grant and JB break down a dominant performance from the Double Blue, who piled up over 500 yards of offence and controlled the game from start to finish. Chad Kelly showed some rust, throwing four interceptions, but also reminded everyone why he's one of the CFL's most dangerous quarterbacks, surpassing 400 passing yards for the second consecutive week while throwing four touchdown passes. Offensively, the Argos got contributions from all over the field. Kevin Mital delivered one of the best performances of his young career, Tyler Kahmann continued to emerge as a reliable weapon, and Toronto's ground game provided enough balance to keep Ottawa on its heels throughout the afternoon. Defensively, this was a statement performance. The Argos limited Ottawa to a single touchdown and came up with the game's defining moment when they stuffed the Redblacks at the one-yard line, preserving control of the game and effectively ending any hopes of a comeback.  The victory wasn't without concern, however. Starting safety Robert Priester left the game with what appeared to be a serious injury, and his replacement, rookie Ethan John, impressed before suffering an injury of his own. There was also a scare late when Kevin Mital had to be helped off the field, though early indications suggest the standout receiver may have avoided a significant injury. The Argos are now 1-1, and with plenty of positives to build on, Ben Grant and JB break down everything that happened in Ottawa. Plus, the guys hand out their Players of the Game, relive the Plays of the Game, and look ahead to the next challenge on Toronto's schedule.

The Argonauts are searching for their first win of the 2026 season, and this week's challenge comes with an extra layer of intrigue. Ben Grant and JB get you set for Toronto's trip to Ottawa, where the Argos will face their former head coach Ryan Dinwiddie for the first time. After re-watching Toronto's season-opening loss in Montreal, the guys dig into what actually worked better than the result might suggest. Chad Kelly threw for 445 yards, but where did the offence leave yards on the field? What can the Argos do to get Damonte Coxie and Makai Polk more involved? And why might Sam Hicks be the key to unlocking even more from Toronto's offence this week? Defensively, Ben and JB examine a unit that struggled to generate pressure without blitzing and discuss how that affected the secondary throughout the night. What adjustments need to be made heading into a matchup with Jake Maier and an Ottawa offence loaded with playmakers? Plus: How much of an advantage does Ryan Dinwiddie have knowing the core of this Argos roster so well? The latest injury news, including concerns along the offensive line following Kendall Randolph's injury Week 3 may not be a must-win (unless you're JB), but it's a significant early-season test for a Toronto team looking to avoid an 0-2 start. Ben Grant and JB break it all down on the latest edition of the Xs and Argos Pregame Walkthrough.

The Toronto Argonauts opened their 2026 season with a frustrating 37–30 loss in Montreal, a game that felt very much there for the taking. In his first game action in 581 days, Chad Kelly looked every bit like one of the CFL's elite quarterbacks, throwing for 445 yards and three touchdowns. The Argos also found some success on the ground, but costly drops, missed connections, and untimely mistakes prevented Toronto from turning a strong offensive performance into a victory. Defensively, the Argos struggled to generate consistent pressure on Davis Alexander, allowing the Montreal quarterback to settle into a rhythm and produce a huge night through the air. Special teams also played a major role in the outcome, surrendering a blocked punt touchdown and leaving points on the field with two missed field goals. Despite the loss, there were encouraging signs. Kelly's return was a major positive, Sam Hicks showed flashes in the backfield, and Tyler Kahmann continued to make a strong impression in his first regular season action. Still, all three phases of the team will need to improve quickly before next week's showdown against Ryan Dinwiddie's Ottawa Redblacks. Ben Grant and JB break down Mike Miller's regular-season debut as head coach, discuss what went right, what went wrong, and where the Argos go from here. Plus, hear the biggest moments from the game with radio replays from TSN 1050.

The wait is over. Argos football is back, and Ben Grant and JB are here to get you set for the Toronto's season opener Friday night in Montreal. This week, the guys break down a handful of notable roster moves, including the addition of Canadian offensive lineman Dominico Piazza, an intriguing prospect Ben has followed since his days at McGill, and the practice roster signings of Michael Buckley and Dathan Hickey. They also discuss former Argo Anthony Vandal landing on Montreal's practice roster and what may have led to the release of Theron Johnson. One of the biggest storylines facing Toronto this season is a schedule quirk unlike any other: the Argos will begin the year with seven consecutive road games. Ben and JB discuss the challenge that presents, how important a fast start could be, and why Friday night's matchup feels bigger than a typical contest. The guys also dive into their game preview, injury report, and a detailed OC/DC breakdown of how each team can attack the other. Should Montreal lean on the run game or test Toronto's revamped safety position? Can Chad Kelly and the Argos exploit vulnerabilities in the middle of the Alouettes' secondary? And how much of Toronto's offensive success will come down to one simple objective: keeping their franchise quarterback upright? Plus: Pick Six One Thing Put Me Down for 20 Challenge Flag The 2026 season is finally here. Ben Grant and JB get you ready for kickoff as the Argonauts head to Montreal looking to start the year on the right foot.

The CFL season is finally here! With final roster cuts now complete, the guys break down the most surprising decisions Toronto made, including the departures of Aaron Casey, Anthony Vandal, and Peyton Logan. They also take a position-by-position look at the 2026 Argonauts and discuss how the roster stacks up heading into the season. The biggest news of the week may have come after final cuts, as Toronto signed former Winnipeg Blue Bombers starting tackle Kendall Randolph. Ben and JB discuss why this could prove to be one of the most important additions of the offseason and what it means for the offensive line moving forward. The conversation then shifts to the CFL's new six-year television agreement, which keeps TSN as the league's primary broadcast partner while adding DAZN beginning in 2027. What does the deal mean for the future of the CFL and the league's financial outlook? Plus, despite coming off a Grey Cup championship just two seasons ago and returning a healthy Chad Kelly, the Argos are finding themselves near the bottom of many preseason power rankings. Ben and JB debate whether the skepticism is justified and offer their own expectations for the 2026 campaign.

The Toronto Argonauts wrapped up their 2026 preseason schedule with a 20–14 loss to the Hamilton Tiger-Cats at Alumni Stadium in Guelph. While the final score won't count in the standings, there was no shortage of storylines as players battled for roster spots, practice roster opportunities, and potentially even starting jobs. With most established starters resting on both sides, this game was all about evaluation. Which players took advantage of their opportunities? Who did enough to force their way into roster discussions? And are there any newcomers or young players who may have put pressure on veteran incumbents heading into final cutdown day? Ben Grant and JB break down the key performances from across the roster, discuss the toughest decisions facing the coaching staff and management, and look ahead to what the final roster could look like as the Argos prepare for Week 1. Training camp is over. The evaluations are nearly complete. Now the hard decisions begin.

The regular season is almost here, but first the Toronto Argonauts have one more preseason test. Ben Grant and JB get you caught up on everything happening around the Double Blue and get you set for Friday night's preseason finale in Guelph against the Hamilton Tiger-Cats. Projected starting Canadian safety Enoch Makonzo has unexpectedly retired, leaving Toronto with questions about roster construction. Can rookie Ethan John step into the role immediately? Or will the Argos need to pivot and open the season with an American at safety? The guys also take a hard look at Toronto's Canadian depth across the roster. Which spots feel solid? Which positions are one injury away from becoming a problem? Ben and JB also debate one of training camp's more unusual moments after Mike Miller ended practice early and took the team to the movies. Smart team-building move? Or valuable practice time a team can't afford to lose? Plus: Which position battles matter most Friday night Which jobs could still be won or lost Who you should be watching closely in the preseason finale Why initiatives like Huddle Up, which wrapped up its 25th year in Guelph this week, continue to matter so much And finally, the guys dive into renewed discussion surrounding possible CFL expansion into Halifax or Quebec City Training camp is winding down. Tough roster decisions are coming. And Week 1 is right around the corner.

The Toronto Argonauts opened their 2026 preseason with a 20–10 win over the Hamilton Tiger-Cats at Hamilton Stadium, but with cold temperatures, driving rain, and heavy winds throughout the night, this was far from an ideal environment for evaluation. Ben Grant and JB break down Chad Kelly's return to game action, his first appearance since suffering an injury in the 2024 East Final, and discuss what stood out from the Argos' franchise quarterback in limited preseason work. The guys also go position by position looking at who impressed, who helped themselves, and who still has work to do as Toronto moves toward final roster decisions. With weather making evaluation difficult for coaches, management, and even the podcast hosts themselves, separating performances from conditions becomes a major theme of the episode. With only one preseason game remaining, roster battles are heating up, difficult decisions are coming, and the road to Week 1 is officially underway.

Ben Grant and JB officially kick off the 2026 season as the Toronto Argonauts open training camp and prepare for their preseason opener Saturday afternoon in Hamilton. This week's episode takes a deep dive into the early storylines shaping camp, including several surprising roster decisions as the Argos begin trimming down to build their 2026 team. The guys discuss notable cuts including Jarret Doege, Spencer Brown, and Josh Donovan, while also looking at which positions remain wide open, and which jobs already appear locked down. The guys also break down Toronto's annual Double Blue Game, discussing what can and can't be learned from an intersquad scrimmage. Which players stood out? Which positions are difficult to evaluate without true game conditions? And which new faces could push their way into meaningful roles this season? Plus, the guys get you set for Toronto's preseason opener against Hamilton with early thoughts on what to watch for as the Argos begin their journey toward another Grey Cup run. Ben also gives a shoutout to Football Ontario, Football Canada, and Queen's University for hosting Elite Flag Nationals, and the CFL for getting their logo and branding in front of 750 elite Canadian youth athletes. Training camp is underway. Football is back. And the road to 2026 starts now.

The Xs & Argos Post Draft Special is here! Ben Grant and JB discuss the retirement of CFL veteran DaVaris Daniels following an outstanding career that included two Grey Cup championships with the Double Blue. They also break down key upcoming dates as the Argos prepare for training camp and the start of the 2026 season. Plus, the CFL is moving to a Victoria Day long weekend start in 2027. On the surface it sounds like a great idea, but could there be unintended consequences? Finally, the guys go through Toronto's entire 2026 draft class, and Mike Hogan joins the show to share what it was like inside the Argonauts war room.