Cameron Dukes has maintained his position as starting quarterback for the Toronto Argonauts ahead of their Week 8 matchup with the Winnipeg Blue Bombers.
The 25-year-old pivot has completed 116-of-160 passes for 1,184 yards, six touchdowns, and five interceptions through six games while rushing for 198 yards and two scores, going 3-3 as the starter. However, the second-year pivot has been pulled in all three of the team’s losses, including giving way to Nick Arbuckle in last week’s upset loss to the Hamilton Tiger-Cats.
The Argos split reps between the two quarterbacks in practice this week and did not decide on a starter until Friday. While Dukes will get the nod, head coach Ryan Dinwiddie told the media on Thursday that both players are expected to see game-time “at some stage,” after Arbuckle threw for 118 yards, a touchdown, and a pick in a quarter of relief action.
Toronto continues to await word on the status of suspended star Chad Kelly, who has three games remaining before the earliest possible return date from suspension.
Offensively, the two quarterbacks will get to throw to a pair of starting Canadian receivers this week, as David Ungerer III returns from injury and slots in alongside Richie Sindani following the surprise release of American Rasheed Bailey. 2024 first-round CFL Draft pick Kevin Mital, the 2022 Hec Crighton Trophy winner, will make his CFL debut in a depth role after being injured in the preseason.
On the other side of the ball, underrated American defensive tackle Jared Brinkman (ankle) and National cornerback Jonathan Edouard (elbow) have both been placed on the six-game injured list.
Ralph Holley will get the start along the defensive interior with newly signed veteran Woody Baron dressing as part of the rotation. Canadian defensive end Daniel Joseph has been moved to the practice roster.
Tarvarus McFadden returns to the team to start at his old field corner spot. Mason Pierce will start at boundary halfback in place of the released Amani Dennis and will be backed up by Mark Milton.
The Toronto Argonauts (3-3) will host the Winnipeg Blue Bombers (2-5) on Saturday, July 27 with kickoff slated for 7:00 p.m. EDT.
