Toronto’s quarterback carousel continues spinning as the Argonauts navigate through early-season challenges. Nick Arbuckle will start his third consecutive game when the Double Blue host the Montreal Alouettes this Saturday at BMO Field, while regular starter Chad Kelly remains sidelined.
The quarterback situation has been fluid since Kelly’s suspension earlier this season. Head coach Ryan Dinwiddie confirmed yesterday that Arbuckle would remain under center, citing Kelly’s ongoing recovery from an undisclosed injury sustained during practice last week.
“Chad’s still day-to-day. We’re not rushing him back before he’s ready,” Dinwiddie told me after Wednesday’s practice session. “Nick’s shown he can manage the offense effectively, and we’re confident in his ability to lead us against a tough Montreal defense.”
Arbuckle has posted modest numbers in his two starts, completing 38 of 62 passes for 413 yards with two touchdowns and an interception. The journeyman quarterback, now with his fourth CFL team, brings veteran poise to an offense still finding its rhythm.
“Every rep matters,” Arbuckle explained while wiping sweat from his brow after practice. “This league is about preparation and seizing opportunities. I’m focused on making the right reads and putting our playmakers in position to succeed.”
The Argos’ receiving corps has rallied behind their fill-in quarterback. DaVaris Daniels, who hauled in Arbuckle’s touchdown pass last week against Saskatchewan, believes consistency is building.
“Nick throws a catchable ball and understands where we’re supposed to be,” Daniels said. “That chemistry doesn’t happen overnight, but we’re starting to click at the right time.”
Toronto’s offense will face a stiff test against Montreal’s aggressive defense, which ranks among the league leaders in sacks and turnovers forced. The Alouettes’ secondary, anchored by veteran defensive back Ciante Evans, has already recorded six interceptions this season.
The quarterback situation overshadows other injury concerns for Toronto. Running back Ka’Deem Carey remains questionable with a hamstring issue, while defensive tackle Dewayne Hendrix has been ruled out for Saturday’s contest.
According to TSN statistics, the Argonauts have used multiple starting quarterbacks in four of the past five seasons, highlighting the position’s volatility in the CFL. Toronto currently sits at 1-2, looking to even their record before a challenging road stretch ahead.
Beyond the immediate quarterback question, Kelly’s status continues to generate speculation. The 30-year-old signal-caller was suspended for the first six games of last season for violating the CFL’s gender-based violence policy before returning to lead Toronto to an 11-7 record.
The CFL Players’ Association has remained supportive of both quarterbacks, with representative Bryan Crawford noting, “Professional football presents unique challenges, especially at quarterback. We’re focused on ensuring all players have the resources they need during these transitions.”
For now, Arbuckle embraces his opportunity while Toronto football fans hope for stability at the sport’s most important position. Saturday’s 7:00 PM kickoff at BMO Field represents more than just a divisional matchup—it’s a chance for the Argos to establish an offensive identity amid uncertainty.
As one longtime season ticket holder told me outside the practice facility, “That’s football in Toronto for you. Always keeping us guessing.”
