Getting ready for Sunday’s showdown

Two of the CFL’s biggest rivals meet this weekend for the eastern final, as the Toronto Argonauts host the Hamilton Tiger-Cats. And there has been plenty of drama both on and off the field.

There are only 70 kilometres separating these two teams, which makes it one of the shortest commutes between two rivals. But despite their close proximity, this is the first time the two teams are competing in 27 years.

The last time they faced each other in the finals was 1986. Since that time they have faced each other four times in the semi-finals.

Sunday’s game is such a hot ticket that the Argos decided to open the 500 level in the Rogers Centre, which could make it the most-attended game there this season.

While the Ticats are practicing today, practice is closed to both the public and media because head coach Kent Austin wants to make sure the playbook stays private.

It seems everyone has something to say about this game, because even during one of the toughest weeks of his life, Toronto mayor Rob Ford had this to say: “I want to call mayor Britannia (Bratina) in Hamilton and say we are going to spank their little Tiger-Cats.”

However Bratina says he hasn’t heard from anyone in Ford’s office. “It’s not our intention to participate in any bets or anything like that. I’ll be going to the game with the fans and cheering them on but that’s the extent of it.”

Bratina didn’t commment on Ford getting his name wrong and also said neither team wants to let the Ford drama get in the way of the game.

Leading up to today’s practice Ticat coach Kent Austin said he nor any of his players would be discussing anything Rob Ford-related and if it was mentioned all reporters would have to leave.

The Argos have not invited Ford to the game, after he had made some vulgar comments while wearing an Argo jersey.