Argo defence takes its Q from return of quiet leader
The man known as Q will have plenty on his mind when he makes his return to the lineup on Monday in Regina.
For Qudarius Ford, it marks a long comeback from an injury he suffered last year in Regina as the Argos began defence of their Grey Cup title in the 2018 season opener.
It was the last anyone would see of the soft-spoken defensive back, whose instincts, quick feet, athleticism and big-game capabilities have vaulted into that elite category, even though not many fans of three-down football know of Ford’s talents.
Argos head coach Corey Chamblin is well aware of Ford.
When Chamblin’s defence was instrumental in leading the Argos to their title in 2017, a year in which Chamblin served as Toronto’s defensive co-ordinator, he put Ford in a position to make plays. Ford responded.
Ford wasn’t available in last week’s 64-14 debacle because of a hamstring injury, but he’ll be back this week against the Riders, playing on the same field where he tore his pectoral muscle in last season’s opener.
Ford’s projected insertion into the roster is one of many the Argos are expected to make as they continue to prepare for the Riders, an 0-2 team making its home debut following losses in Hamilton and Ottawa.
As a team, the Argos were hit hard in the wake of their season-opening home loss to the Ticats, with as many as 12 players hurt.
“I was going for a ball and I landed funny on my shoulder,’’ said Ford of his season-ending injury in Regina, as the Argos officially began defence of their Grey Cup title.
“I felt I dove for the ball like I did 100 times, but that one time, I couldn’t feel my arm when I got up.”
Once the diagnosis became official, Ford admitted he went through a tough time dealing with the uncertainty knowing full well he had no contract beyond the 2018 season.
“It was my contract year last season, and I was ready to prove myself,’’ said Ford, who can also line up as an outside linebacker.
As you might expect, Ford’s recovery from such a devastating injury took considerable time.
“It took me about six months before I could even lift weights,’’ he said. “Mentally, I had to get my head right. That’s where I was really tested. I just kept telling myself how everything would work out. During the off-season my family and friends really helped me keep my mind right.”
Once the Argos turned to Chamblin to serve as head coach and defensive co-ordinator, the decision to bring back Ford became a no-brainer.
During Thursday’s practice, Ford made a great play on the ball on a pass intended for Armanti Edwards.
“Q is a competitor,’’ said Chamblin. “He may not say as much as the other players, but he leads by example.”