FRED THORNHILL
To most, Thursday's season-ender between the Toronto Argonauts and Hamilton Tiger-Cats might have little meaning. But for quarterback Dalton Bell, it's crucial to his future in the CFL.
The 5-12 Argos, eliminated from playoff contention weeks ago, are closing out a disheartening year, while the 8-9 Ticats are headed for a road playoff game in either Montreal or Winnipeg, win or lose Thursday. Bell's performance will weigh heavily in the Argos' decision to cut ties with the free-agent-to-be or give him another shot.
Starting in place of Steven Jyles, who suffered a blow to the head last week in a win over the Winnipeg Blue Bombers, Bell knows he must redeem himself after some unstable outings.
The 28-year-old came into training camp as a valid contender for the top job, but lost out to incumbent Cleo Lemon. In just one start and some spot duty in 2011, Bell has completed 40 of 79 passes for 396 yards and one touchdown. But he has been plagued by interceptions, tossing eight of them, including four in one half against the B.C. Lions in relief of Lemon, who was released days later.
The starting gig was immediately handed to Jyles, who was fresh off the injured reserve list.
This week is Bell's chance to prove he can be a reliable quarterback after three seasons in the CFL.
"You want to go out and play well and keep that fresh in the coach's mind for the off-season," he said. "I've thrown a lot of picks this year, so I want to go out and take care of the ball and show him we can move the offence down the field with me in there."
The Argos have already indicated a commitment to having Jyles as next year's starter. Bell recognizes he's on uncertain ground, but the native of Canyon, Tex., reflects on the time he's invested in learning the Canadian game and says he finally feels comfortable in the CFL.
"Yeah, I would love to stay in this league – I've been up here for a while watching guys," Bell said. "I feel like I've got a decent grasp on this now, and it's a matter of going out and showing it. I want to make a career out of it up here, eventually be like Anthony Calvillo or Ricky Ray. I'm ready to start, I'm prepared."
Head coach and general manager Jim Barker said he will particularly be looking to evaluate Bell's command of the offence.
"He's been with us two years, he needs to play like a guy who has been here two years," he said. "He has to play well. There comes a point where he needs to show he can be that guy."
Barker said third quarterback B.J. Hall will also get playing time this week. Both will try to utilize receiver Maurice Mann, who is facing the team that traded him away just a few weeks ago.
The Ticats will also use multiple quarterbacks in the game, according to head coach Marcel Bellefeuille. Expect Kevin Glenn to play at least the first half. Quinton Porter is projected to share the second with third-stringer Jason Boltus.
Rachel Brady