Argos to start James Franklin at QB against Lions

The Toronto Argonauts are planning to start James Franklin at quarterback in Week 17 against the B.C. Lions.

Both of the Argos’ quarterbacks have split reps during the practice week.

Franklin replaced McLeod Bethel-Thompson during the Argos’ loss to Calgary, completing 12-of-16 passes for 147 yards and one touchdown which came on a 35-yard strike to Derel Walker. He engineered 13 points in less than one quarter and a half of action in Week 15.

That showing earned Franklin the start in Week 16 versus the Saskatchewan Roughriders. He completed 21-of-30 passes (70 percent completion rate) for 208 yards with one touchdown and two interceptions while rushing four times for 14 yards and one major on the ground in a 41-16 loss.

After beginning the season as the No. 1 QB, Franklin was victim to an all around poor Argos start as the boatmen went 0-2. Bethel-Thompson took over and since posted a 2-8 win-loss record while throwing for 3,090 yards, 19 touchdowns and 12 interceptions while completing 66 percent of his attempts.

Toronto’s offence has produced just 256 points, the second-lowest total in the entire league (the Redblacks are last at 238.) The Argos are 2-11 but still have a mathematical chance at making the playoffs – it would require a collapse by either Edmonton or Montreal.

The CFL trade deadline is set for Wednesday, October 9 at 3:59 p.m. ET. Franklin being healthy and playing well should boost his value on the market and for the pending free agent going into the off-season. It’s a positive situation for both sides as Toronto could turn an expiring contract into potential future assets if any teams come calling for a deal and Franklin has the opportunity to leave a strong last impression on film.

Franklin was highly thought of around the league prior to being traded to Toronto.

Justin Dunk

Football insider, reporter and analyst.