A lot still on the line for playoff-bound Argonauts, Stampeders

Joshua Coker feels ready for his second career CFL start because his first was trial by fire against the defending Grey Cup champion Winnipeg Blue Bombers.

The Calgary Stampeders’ offensive lineman draws in at left tackle Saturday against the visiting Toronto Argonauts because decorated lineman Derek Dennis is out with a cracked fibula.

Coker started at right tackle Aug. 25 in Calgary’s 31-29 loss to Winnipeg. His job was protecting quarterback Jake Maier from the likes of veteran defensive ends Willie Jefferson and Jackson Jeffcoat.

“There’s nothing like game experience,” Coker said Friday. “I was able to get my spots and feel what it’s like to go against Willie Jefferson and Jeffcoat and guys that have proven they’re successful in this league. It gave me good experience.

“It’s one game, but I’m comfortable with tackle so I was able to look at the film, see what I can do well, and kind of get the reads I think they’d get on me.”

Dennis, a three-time division all-star named the CFL’s most outstanding offensive lineman in 2016, cracked his fibula in Calgary’s 25-11 win over the host B.C. Lions last Saturday to secure a playoff berth for a 17th straight season.

“It is big shoes to fill, but the type of room we have, everyone’s prepared,” Coker said.

The 24-year-old Rhodes College product was a practice roster player up until August.

“He’s always been a high effort, high-motor guy. I trust Josh,” Maier said. “Playing left tackle is one of the most difficult positions in football. You tend to take on the other team’s best pass-rusher. He’s ready for it.”

The Argonauts (8-5-0) atop the East Division ride a fourgame win streak into McMahon Stadium. Toronto secured a home playoff game with last week’s 45-15 victory over the Ottawa Redblacks.

Toronto’s target is now retaining first in the East to host the division final Nov. 13 at BMO Field. The Montreal Alouettes, who are in Edmonton on Saturday to face the Elks, were four points back of the Argos.

“Montreal is on our heels,” acknowledged Argonauts coach Ryan Dinwiddie.