Next Game
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ARGONAUTS.CA STAFF
MISSISSAUGA — Coming off a 31-12 win over the Hamilton Tigers-Cats in their preseason opener on Saturday, the Argos returned to the field for Day 16 of Training Camp. The team was energized by a new addition to practice: #97 DT Claude Wroten, whose arrival was delayed by a passport issue. The former Louisiana State University (LSU) All-American arrived in good shape and was able to take part in the entire practice. And the coaching staff was eager to see what Wroten could bring to the table. He received the majority of the reps at defensive tackle during skelly and team sessions. Wroten showed great jump off the line and was aggressive in his pursuit of the quarterback.
Retired Argonauts DB Willie Middlebrooks showed up at practice and took part in the defensive backs “breakdown” at the end of the individual drill session. Middlebrooks retired prior to training camp due to health concerns discovered at the end of the 2010 CFL season. Middlebrooks’ presence seemed to spark the Argos’ defence which had a very productive day. #26 LB Jordan Younger was particularly active. He broke right through the line on a number of blitzes, knocked down several passes, and was noticeably vocal during the team session.
The star on the offensive side of the ball was #87 WR D.J. Boldin. He hauled in two touchdown passes during the team session, both delivered by the arm of #12 QB Dalton Bell. Boldin has shown good speed over the duration of camp, and he also seems to be a very strong route-runner. His rapport with Bell should only continue to grow as both players love to make plays down the field.
Bell continues to be locked in a battle with #1 QB Cleo Lemon for the Argos’ starting quarterback position. It has been the case for more than a week and both guys stepped up with solid practices today. Lemon’s favourite target seemed to be #32 RB/SB Andre Durie, with whom he connected on four occasions during the preseason game on Saturday.
The Argos will have one practice on Tuesday at 9:40 a.m. before running a walk-thru on Wednesday in preparation for their exhibition contest on Thursday at 8:00 p.m. ET in Winnipeg at Canad Inns Stadium. The Argos will host a Viewing Party at Jack Astor’s, 133 John St., in downtown Toronto on Friday, July 1. All fans are welcome to attend and cheer the Double Blue on to victory in the regular season opener against Calgary.