Toronto Argonauts vs. Tiger-Cats Preview: Rivalry Renewed in Crucial East Division Clash

TORONTO — The Toronto Argonauts know what’s at stake Friday night when they host the Hamilton Tiger-Cats for their first meeting of the 2025 CFL season.

The rivalry is always intense, but this one carries extra weight — with both teams off to slow starts and fighting for positioning in the East.

“We dug ourselves in a hole being 0-3, so that means there’s an extra layer of urgency,” said receiver Dejon Brissett. “This game definitely sets the tone for the rest of the season.”

The Argos are coming off their first win of the year — a thrilling victory punctuated by Derek Slywka’s breakout performance on special teams and defence. Slywka had a pair of 100-plus yard returns off a missed field goal and a fumble which shows his potential as an all-round player for Toronto.

“I think it was a coming out party for all of us,” said Slywka, who had his family and former college coach and teammate in attendance for the win. “That’s the best part of sports — when you celebrate together. That’s why I love football.”

Head coach Ryan Dinwiddie knows how critical this moment is for his team.

“It’s a big game. One that almost feels like a must-win,” Dinwiddie said. “We’re 0-2 at home — we’re not used to that. And you don’t want to go into Hamilton needing to claw your way out.”

Defensively, Toronto will look to disrupt Bo Levi Mitchell and take away his comfort early.

“We didn’t get to him enough last year,” Dinwiddie said. “If we can disrupt the pocket and force him to throw under pressure, that’s when our secondary can make plays.”

One of the emerging stars up front is defensive end , Andrew Chatfield, Jr. who’s quickly showing his value as an important addition this past off-aseason.

He was quickly identified by new defensive line coach Greg Marshall as someone to target after their time together in Ottawa.

“I just try to dominate whoever is in front of me, one-on-one or even if it’s a double,” said Chatfield. “Coach Marshall believed in me and gave me a chance. I’m just making the most of it.”

On the offensive side, the Argos continue to search for rhythm. Brissett said the unit knows it hasn’t yet clicked for a full 60 minutes.

“We’re perfectionists,” he said. “Even when we win, we’re looking at it like, ‘We didn’t win how we wanted to.’ There’s always room to grow.”

Dinwiddie echoed that message, saying some of his veterans “need to take their game to another level” to support the younger pieces on offence.

Still, the focus is squarely on this week — and keeping the momentum alive in front of a home crowd that’s eager to see the defending East Division champions look the part.

“We're building something,” said Slywka. “And we’re only just getting started.”