Quarterback Nick Arbuckle will find himself in completely new territory when he guides the Toronto Argonauts against the Winnipeg Blue Bombers in the 111^th Gray Cup Sunday.

It was just last week when Arbuckle took action and threw his first pass in a Canadian Football League playoff game.

The six-year veteran replaced Chad Kelly, who suffered a serious leg injury in the third quarter, and completed five of eight attempts for 73 yards as the Argonauts held on for a 30-28 victory over the Alouettes of Montreal during the Eastern final.

Despite Arbuckle’s lack of playoff experience, the Blue Bombers are not taking the situation lightly.

“He’s a competitor,” said Blue Bombers receiver Kenny Lawler according to Paul Friesen of the Winnipeg Sun.

“He’s going to lead his team, he’s going to work, he’s going to do film study. He’s a respectable quarterback.

Arbuckle, 31, played 18 games in a limited role with the Argonauts this season, completing 65 of 100 attempts for 799 yards and four touchdowns.

The Oxnard, Calif. native spent the start of the season as Cameron Dukes’ backup and eventually earned increased playing time behind Kelly.

Arbuckle gave a glimpse of his abilities in the number one role in the final game of the regular season, going 23-for-32 for 378 yards with two touchdowns and an interception in a 31-30 overtime loss to the Edmonton Elks. .

Arbuckle in the spotlight at the Gray Cup

During his time with the Calgary Stampeders, Elks, Ottawa Redblacks and two stints with the Argonauts, Arbuckle failed to solidify himself as a starting quarterback.

Lawler says Arbuckle may have been “not fit” to be the primary center, but the Blue Bombers expect Arbuckle to be ready for the task at BC Place Stadium.

“Some guys like certain guys,” Lawler said. “He’s still in the league. He’s a respectable quarterback. I can’t sleep on him. And I can’t think he’s not going to make any plays.”

His Winnipeg counterpart, Zach Collaros, who will be making his sixth career Gray Cup start, has an idea of ​​how Arbuckle feels about the challenge.

“I would be excited,” Collaros said. “It’s the ultimate match of this league. I’m sure he’s really looking forward to it.

“I know he’s a smart guy. He plays with a lot of anticipation and is precise. I always thought that since he was a young player. So it’s not like he can’t play. He’s seen a lot of coverage…and he’s a good sport.