Sam Hicks, a former Abilene Christian running back, made an immediate impact in his first Canadian Football League appearance, scoring his inaugural professional touchdown as the Toronto Argonauts rolled past Ottawa 44‑24 on Saturday afternoon.
The victory marked the Argonauts' first win of a young season that had opened with high expectations, and Hicks' contribution was a key factor in the offensive surge that pulled the team ahead early.
Hicks entered the game as the fourth‑string running back but seized the opportunity, finishing with 16 carries for 79 yards and three receptions for 10 yards, numbers that belied the significance of his first score.
The touchdown not only added points on the board but also symbolized a personal milestone for Hicks, who had been an All‑American all‑purpose player at Abilene Christian University in 2024 before embarking on his CFL journey.
A Promising Start
Coaches had watched him earn the starting role for the season opener against Montreal, a testament to his perseverance and adaptability after a standout college season in which he amassed 1,333 rushing yards and 17 total touchdowns.
Now focused on building on this promising start, Hicks said he simply wants to keep improving and enjoy the game, a mindset that could shape his trajectory in the league.
Looking Ahead
With the Argonauts' offense clicking and a new starter in the backfield, the team hopes to ride this early momentum into a competitive stretch of games.
Fans and analysts alike are watching Hicks' development closely, noting that his blend of size, speed, and work ethic could make him a fixture in the CFL's running back rotation.