CFL Game Preview: Toronto Argonauts (1-4-0) vs. Montreal Alouettes (3-2-0)

Date: Thursday, July 17, 2025
Time: 7:30 PM ET
Venue: Percival Molson Memorial Stadium, Montreal, QC
Broadcast: TSN, RDS (Canada), CBSSN (U.S.), CFL+ (International)

The Toronto Argonauts (1-4) head to Quebec to face the Montreal Alouettes (3-2) in a pivotal East Division clash. With playoff positioning already in play, this Week 7 matchup is a litmus test for Toronto’s resilience and Montreal’s bounce-back potential.

Team Form & Season Overview

Toronto Argonauts

Record: 1-4-0

Last Game: Lost to Hamilton Tiger-Cats 51–38

Key Stats:

Offense: 318.0 YPG (8th CFL), 25.6 PPG (6th CFL)

Defense: 372.0 YPG allowed, 32.6 PPG allowed (8th CFL)

Quarterback: Nick Arbuckle – 1,449 yards, 7 TDs, 7 INTs

X-Factors:

Deonta McMahon returns from injury to boost the run game

Kevin Mital leads receiving corps with 104 yards last week

Wynton McManis returns to anchor the defense after missing 3 games

Montreal Alouettes

Record: 3-2-0

Last Game: Narrow 21–20 loss to BC Lions

Key Stats:

Offense: 353.8 YPG (6th CFL), 28.4 PPG (3rd CFL)

Defense: 22.4 PPG allowed (2nd CFL), 74.0 rush YPG allowed

Quarterback: Davis Alexander – Returns after injury; team averaged 35 PPG in his starts

X-Factors:

Sean Thomas-Erlington – 5.2 YPC, 76 yards last game

Tyson Philpot & Austin Mack – explosive WR duo

Als Secondary: 7 INTs on the season

Key Matchups

Matchup	Edge
QB Duel: Arbuckle vs. Alexander	Montreal – Alexander’s return boosts offensive rhythm
Run Game: McMahon vs. Erlington	Montreal – Erlington’s consistency gives Als control
Receivers: Mital vs. Philpot/Mack	Montreal – more depth and separation ability
Defense:	Montreal – fewer points allowed and better turnover margin

Strategic Insights

Toronto’s Path to Victory:

Lean on McMahon to control tempo

Limit turnovers (Arbuckle has 7 INTs)

Pressure Alexander early with blitz packages

Montreal’s Game Plan:

Protect Alexander with solid O-line play

Exploit Toronto’s secondary with deep shots

Maintain defensive discipline against Argos’ misdirection