Expensive triumph secured by Calgary Stampeders over Toronto Argos in intense gameplay.
The Stamps' Jumbled Start
Things are looking gloomy for the Calgary Stampeders, despite a fresh 2-0 record in the 2025 CFL season.
Injuries are starting to mount, making things an uphill battle for the team. Last week's clash against the Argos was particularly brutal, as receiver Reggie Begelton and long snapper Aaron Crawford both went down with knee injuries, requiring them to hobble around on crutches. Linebacker Marquel Lee also succumbed to a bicep injury during the same game.
Head coach Dave Dickenson isn't sugarcoating things. "We're definitely taking some hits," he admitted. "We're gonna be missing some key players for sure."
A Rising Star Emerges
But as in any sport, the show must go on. With some of the injured players potentially out for the season, it's all about who steps up to fill the void. Enter Jalen Philpot.
Against the Argos, Philpot had the best game of his CFL career, surpassing the 100-yard mark in receiving. Philpot gloated, "It's a weight off the shoulders. I wanted it, and I'm just thankful the team put me in situations to make those plays."
Friendship and Adversity
When Marquel Lee was knocked out of the game, Jacob Roberts took over. These two are more than just teammates— they're roommates and friends. Roberts spoke with gratitude for Lee's guidance, expressing, "We lost the engine of our defense, but we've got his back. It's a big role, but we're ready to step in."
A replacement for Aaron Crawford was signed this week, as Jason MacGougan joined the team. MacGougan had previously participated in training camp and played in both preseason games for the Stamps. He's eager to make the most of this opportunity, acknowledging, "It's unfortunate what happened to Crawford, but it's the next-man-up mentality."
The Road Ahead
The Stamps face the Ottawa Redblacks in their next game on Saturday afternoon at McMahon Stadium. The team's resilience and depth will be tested as they navigate through the early season without several key contributors. The future may be uncertain, but the Stampeders remain determined to rise to the challenge.
Jalen Philpot, a rising star, stepped up in the absence of injured players, surpassing the 100-yard mark in receiving during a game against the Argos. The sports news is filled with stories about the Calgary Stampeders, as they face a challenging season, with key players like Reggie Begelton, Aaron Crawford, and Marquel Lee sidelined due to injuries.
