Next Game
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ARGONAUTS.CA STAFF
MISSISSAUGA – It has been a tale of two seasons so far for Argos’ rookie RB Cory Boyd. As Toronto jumped out to an early 5-2-0 record, Boyd was the talk of the CFL, leading the league in rushing and punishing defenders while doing so with his bruising running style.
The season has taken a new turn however. First, the Argos began a three-game losing streak, then Boyd sustained a concussion that would keep him out for two games all while trying to wrap his head around the untimely death of his former teammate and good friend, Denver Broncos’ WR Kenny McKinley.
Refreshed and rejuvenated, Boyd will return to the lineup on Saturday with a renewed outlook on how he can maintain his rather unique running style while also protecting his body. He sustained his third concussion of the year after being hit hard in a loss against B.C. on September 6. His running style is aggressive in nature and although it usually produces positive results, it sometimes leaves him vulnerable to taking a big hit.
“(The concussion) was a wake-up call for me,” Boyd said after Thursday’s practice. “There are some things I have to be cautious of. I definitely have to be more protective of my body and play smarter. I realized that I am a leader and I need to be there for my teammates, and everything that I do on and off the field reflects my teammates so I can’t be selfish and do things that I am not supposed to do.”
There is no doubt that Boyd has missed being in the Argos lineup but, as Jim Barker explains, the club itself could not be any more ecstatic and relieved that he will slip the pads on Saturday afternoon versus the Saskatchewan Roughriders at Rogers Centre.
“Cory gives the entire team an extra amount of confidence,” said Barker. “Just having him running around out there in practice lifts everyone’s spirits. He is a special player and a special individual.”
If the Argos had planned on easing Boyd back into the lineup, those plans may be out the window now that Dalton Bell has been ruled the club’s started on Saturday. Bell will likely lean heavily on Boyd against the Riders as he tries to get comfortable in the offence, something that brings reassurance to the young pivot.
“Cory is a big part of this offence and he is a leader on and off the field,” Bell said. “He is definitely a threat when he is out there, whether it is running or blocking.”
Boyd, Bell and their teammates will take on the ‘Riders this Saturday at 3:00 p.m. ET at Rogers Centre. For tickets, please call 416-341-ARGO (2746) or click here to purchase online.