Each week, we’ll look at players with favourable matchups or those that may otherwise present good value for TSN Fantasy Football, CFL edition, presented by Moores.

We’re searching for cost-efficient players who have put up solid numbers in a quiet way but have yet to deliver a big-time performance 

Ricky Ray, QB, Toronto – In the early part of the season the 12-year veteran has been consistent, but nothing more. He hasn’t passed for more than 300 yards or thrown more than two touchdowns in a single game. This week may be a whole different story for Ray when the Argonauts host the Montréal Alouettes. Two of three opposing quarterbacks’ have passed for more than 300 yards against the Als defense. Ray has yet to have a dominant performance since returning from shoulder surgery late in the 2015 campaign and if Tori Gurley plays, expect the Toronto passing game to fire on all cylinders.

Brandon Rutley, RB, Montréal – Last week against the Hamilton Tiger-Cats, the Als’ offense was horrendous in Kevin Glenn’s absence. No player on the team hit double digits in fantasy score, and so they got an ear-full from veteran receiver Nik Lewis. This week, the offense won’t put up another goose egg for one simple reason tailbacks run all over the Argos. Starting running backs have averaged just under 14 fantasy points against Toronto the past three contests. Last time Rutley played the Boatmen he put up a total of 124 yards and a score. Even in last week ‘s loss, he compiled a total of 89 yards. He is Montréal’s number one guy in the backfield until Tyrell Sutton returns from injury. For this week’s matchup, Rutley is the perfect price to pay.

Anthony Parker, WR, Calgary – Bo Levi Mitchell is searching for a number one option since losing his top two targets last year to the NFL, and with Joe West going on the six-game injured list, Parker could be ready for a big push. He had a career-high six catches for 67 yards at Ottawa in Week Three. The team will probably take a page out of the Eskimos’ playbook after the passing performance Edmonton displayed in Winnipeg last week. Parker is a relative bargain with upside. Calgary is also coming off a bye week - think about the extra time for preparation. 

Chad Owens, WR, Hamilton – The Flying Hawaiian has not missed a step after traveling down the QEW to join the Ticats. His 290 yards after four games are nearly half of his 13-game total (570) from last season with the Argos. Owens is Masoli’s go-to guy, having a team high 37 targets 12.7 yards per catch. Going up against an Eskimos secondary who struggled early and weren’t truly tested against the Bombers could be the perfect formula for 34-year-old Owens to jump-start the offense. He’s an affordable receiver who will put up decent numbers on an off day, but count on a big payday this time around. 

Kenny Shaw, WR, Toronto – The Florida State product is a receiver many didn’t talk about coming into the season, and for that matter, isn’t talked about. Thanks to injuries and players being benched, an opportunity has presented itself for Shaw and so far he’s run with it. The 24-year-old is second on the team in receiving yards (237) and tied for first in reception (17). Even if Tori Gurley plays this week, Shaw is an ‘under the radar’ player going up against the Montreal defense. He is one of the cheapest receivers in all of fantasy, so if you’re tight for money, Shaw would slot in perfectly.

Rob Bagg, WR, Saskatchewan – QB Mitchell Gale was acquired by Saskatchewan from the Argos two weeks ago and he’s now starting his first career CFL game. Considering he hasn’t had too much time to learn the playbook and has only attempted 51 passes entering the contest, he needs all the help he can get. Canadian Bagg is the perfect man to help build a youngster’s confidence. He’s an eight-year veteran, works in the slot and knows how to get open. The 31-year-old is affordable and may be the piece that gives you the edge over others. 

 

WEEK FIVE CFL FANTASY

Player

Team

Position

Salary

Ray, Ricky

TOR

QB

240 K

Rutley, Brandon

MTL

RB

120 K

Parker, Anthony

CGY

WR

90 K

Owens, Chad

HAM

WR

100 K

Shaw, Kenny

TOR

WR

100 K

Bagg, Rob

SSK

WR

80 K