Johnny Manziel doesn’t play as Jeremiah Masoli ties CFL record
By Adam Stocker
Johnny Manziel watched from the sidelines as Jeremiah Masoli tied a CFL record with nine consecutive games with 300 yards passing.
Johnny Manziel came to Canada looking to restart his once-promising football career. However, after four games, Manziel has yet to take a snap in the CFL. Through four games, Manziel has watched as Jeremiah Masoli has taken every snap for the Hamilton Tiger-Cats.
Despite a 2-2 record after the first four games, Hamilton head coach June Jones is unlikely to make a change at quarterback anytime soon. Masoli has thrown for over 300 yards in all four games to start the season and nine straight games dating back to last season, tying a CFL record.
However, tying the record wasn’t enough for Masoli on Thursday as the Ticats lost 18-13 in Saskatchewan. The performance looked good in the stats sheet, as Masoli completed 23 of 43 passes for 333 yards passing and added another 60 yards rushing, but was Masoli’s worst game of the season.
The former Oregon and Mississippi quarterback failed to get his team into the end zone and made two key mistakes. Both mistakes lead to the Roughriders scoring and pick up their second win of the season. In the first half, Charleston Hughes picked up a Masoli fumble and returned it 45 yards for a touchdown. In the second half, Tobi Antigha intercepted a pass, leading to a Saskatchewan field goal.
Manziel was not expected to play unless there was an injury or Masoli struggled badly. That has not changed. While Manziel has not played, he has not shown any of the immaturity that prematurely ended his NFL career. Not once has Manziel complained about not playing and his body language on the sideline has been positive.
While Manziel has not played, the experience appears to be positive for the quarterback and the team. Manziel has been allowed to continue his partnership with Barstool while resurrecting his football career. Despite not giving Manziel any playing time, Jones has continued to sing Manziel’s praises for his level of talent.
Not playing is never an easy thing for any athlete to take. However, by doing so, Manziel is giving himself the best chance to succeed. It took Masoli five years in Canada to mature and learn the game. Jones is making sure that Manziel is given as much time as possible to learn the intricacies and difference of the Canadian game. When Manziel’s time comes, and it will come, Manziel will be in the best situation to succeed.
Next: Biggest Heisman busts of all time
Hamilton and Saskatchewan both have bye weeks next week. The two teams play again in Hamilton on Thursday, July 19, with kickoff scheduled for 7:30 p.m. ET. The game can be watched in Canada on TSN and in the United States on ESPN+.