View source for Archie Amerson

{{Short description|American gridiron football player (born 1974)}}
{{Use mdy dates|date=January 2019}}
{{good article}}
{{Infobox gridiron football person
|image = 
|birth_date={{birth date and age|1974|8|24}}
|birth_place=[[San Diego|San Diego, California]], U.S.
|death_date=
|highschool = [[Morse High School (San Diego, California)|Morse High School]]
|College=[[Northern Arizona Lumberjacks football|Northern Arizona]]
|number=9
|position1=Running back
|position2=Slotback
|playing_years1={{CFL Year|1997}}–{{CFL Year|2000}}
|playing_team1=[[Hamilton Tiger-Cats]]
|playing_years2={{CFL Year|2001}}
|playing_team2=[[Toronto Argonauts]]
|playing_years3={{CFL Year|2001}}–{{CFL Year|2004}}
|playing_team3=Hamilton Tiger-Cats
|career_highlights=
* [[Grey Cup]] champion ([[87th Grey Cup|1999]])
* [[Walter Payton Award]] (1996)
}}

'''Archie J. Amerson''' (born August 24, 1974) is an American former professional [[Canadian football]] [[running back]] and [[slotback]] who played in the [[Canadian Football League]] (CFL) from 1997 to 2004, appearing in 122 regular season games for the [[Hamilton Tiger-Cats]] and one regular season game for the [[Toronto Argonauts]].<ref name="CPFE2012">{{cite book|last1=Maher|first1=Tod|last2=Gill|first2=Bob|title=The Canadian Pro Football Encyclopedia: Every Player, Coach and Game, 1946–2012|date=2013|publisher=Maher Sports Media|isbn=978-0-9835136-6-7|page=145}}</ref> In 1999, he was part of the Tiger-Cats team that won the [[87th Grey Cup]]. He missed the entire 2005 season due to injury and was released by the Tiger-Cats afterwards. At the time of his release, Amerson was one of the most prolific receivers in Tiger-Cats history, ranking third in receptions, fourth in receiving yards, fifth in kickoff return yards, and sixth in touchdowns.

Amerson played high school football at Samuel F.B. Morse High School in [[San Diego]], [[California]]. He went on to play [[college football]] for the [[Utah Tech University|Dixie State]] [[Utah Tech Trailblazers|Rebels]] from 1993 to 1994 and was named a junior college [[All-American]] each year. He then played for the [[Northern Arizona Lumberjacks football|Northern Arizona Lumberjacks]] of [[Northern Arizona University]] from 1995 to 1996. In Amerson's senior year of 1996, he won the [[Walter Payton Award]] as the best offensive player in [[NCAA Division I Football Championship Subdivision|Division I-AA]] (now FCS) football.

== High school career ==

Amerson played [[high school football]] at [[Morse High School (San Diego, California)|Samuel F. B. Morse High School]] in San Diego as both a running back and [[defensive back]].<ref name="uniontribune1992c">{{cite news|last1=Brand|first1=Steve|title=Morse and Lincoln: neighborhood battle on the football field|work=San Diego Union-Tribune|date=September 29, 1992|page=C3}}</ref><ref name="uniontribune1992d">{{cite news|last1=Brand|first1=Steve|title=His nickname is up for grabs, but Lincoln can't handle Smith|work=San Diego Union-Tribune|date=October 4, 1992|page=H15}}</ref> In 1991, Amerson primarily played as a [[cornerback]]. Although officially designated the backup running back for Morse that year, he never carried the ball. Amerson's role sharply shifted as a senior in 1992 when the coaching staff played him as the team's lead running back in addition to his role on defense. In October, Amerson rushed for 197 yards and four touchdowns in a 48–0 win over [[Patrick Henry High School (San Diego, California)|Patrick Henry High School]].<ref name="uniontribune1992e">{{cite news|last1=Brand|first1=Steve|title=Amerson breaks loose for Morse|work=San Diego Union-Tribune|date=October 24, 1992|page=D6}}</ref> Amerson's strong game against Patrick Henry saw his role on the team increase as he ran for 675 yards and 13 touchdowns over a three-week period.<ref name="uniontribune1992f">{{cite news|last1=Brand|first1=Steve|title=As playoffs loom, Komets look to end Centurions' streak|work=San Diego Union-Tribune|date=November 10, 1992|page=E7}}</ref> He finished his only season as a running back for Morse with 1,475 rushing yards to lead his section.<ref name="uniontribune1992g">{{cite news|last1=Brand|first1=Steve|title=Buckle your chinstrap if you want to line up against this City team|work=San Diego Union-Tribune|date=November 24, 1992|page=C4}}</ref> Amerson was designated the offensive player of the year in the [[California Interscholastic Federation]] (CIF) after Morse won the CIF San Diego section championship.<ref name="uniontribune1992a">{{cite news|last1=Brand|first1=Steve|title=Morse aces begin reaping rewards|work=San Diego Union-Tribune|date=December 15, 1992|page=E5}}</ref><ref name="uniontribune1992b">{{cite news|last1=Brand|first1=Steve|title=Different paths lead to the top – Morse beats Poway with solid defense to capture 3A title|work=San Diego Union-Tribune|date=December 13, 1992|page=H1}}</ref> While in high school, Amerson also played [[Little League Baseball]] for the Skyline Pirates. He made California District 42's All-Star team in 1992.<ref name="starnews1992a">{{cite news|last1=Brents|first1=Phillip|title=District 42 takes it on the chin – again|url=https://www.newspapers.com/clip/9656900/district_42_takes_it_on_the_chin/|access-date=March 19, 2017|work=The Star-News|date=July 29, 1992|page=B3}}</ref>

== College career ==

In 1993 and 1994, Amerson attended ''Dixie State College'', now the four-year [[Utah Tech University]], and played for the [[Utah Tech Trailblazers|Dixie State Rebels]], now the Trailblazers. He rushed for over 3,000 yards with the Rebels and led the nation among junior college running backs in 1994, recording 1,691 yards and 20 [[touchdown]]s.<ref name="deseret1994a">{{cite news|last1=Pattison|first1=Dan|title=Dixie 12 players short for today's bowl game|url=http://www.deseretnews.com/article/391047/DIXIE-12-PLAYERS-SHORT-FOR-TODAYS-BOWL-GAME.html?pg=all|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170320053816/http://www.deseretnews.com/article/391047/DIXIE-12-PLAYERS-SHORT-FOR-TODAYS-BOWL-GAME.html?pg=all|url-status=dead|archive-date=March 20, 2017|access-date=March 19, 2017|work=Deseret News|date=December 3, 1994|language=en}}</ref><ref name="nau">{{cite web|title=No. 9 Archie Amerson – The Walter Payton Award Winner, The Hall of Famer, The NCAA Record Holder, The Lumberjack|url=http://www.nauathletics.com/sports/fball/2014-15/releases/201409275a4o49|website=Northern Arizona|access-date=March 19, 2017|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170320053022/http://www.nauathletics.com/sports/fball/2014-15/releases/201409275a4o49|archive-date=March 20, 2017}}</ref> He was named to the junior college [[All-America]] team in both years with the Rebels. In December 1994, Amerson was suspended from playing in the [[Dixie Rotary Bowl]] after being arrested in connection with a "brawl".<ref name="deseret1994a" /> After the 1994 season, Amerson transferred to [[Northern Arizona University]] with hopes of playing on defense. His plans were halted by an injury to Northern Arizona's starting halfback. Amerson was forced to remain a running back and continued successfully at that position, rushing for 1,117 yards with 12 touchdowns in 1995.<ref name="nau" />

Amerson had an All-American season in 1996, rushing for 2,079 yards on 333 carries with 25 touchdowns.<ref name="ajc1996a">{{cite news|title=Grambling in midst of more problems|work=The Atlanta Journal and Constitution|date=December 19, 1996|page=E2}}</ref><ref name="dispatch1996a">{{cite news|title=Sports shorts|work=St. Louis Post-Dispatch|date=December 20, 1996|page=2D}}</ref> He recorded a career-high 289 rushing yards in a September game against the [[Portland State Vikings football|Portland State Vikings]].<ref name="nau" /><ref name="petersburg1996a">{{cite news|title=Extra points|work=St. Petersburg Times|date=September 22, 1996|page=14C}}</ref> On October 5, Amerson scored seven rushing touchdowns against the [[Weber State Wildcats football|Weber State Wildcats]]. This earned him multiple [[NCAA Division I Football Championship Subdivision|Division I-AA]] records, including most touchdowns, most rushing touchdowns, and most points scored with 42 points.<ref name="nau" /><ref name="fcsrecords">{{cite web|title=Football championship subdivision records|url=http://fs.ncaa.org/Docs/stats/football_records/2016/fcs.pdf|website=NCAA|access-date=March 19, 2017}}</ref> Amerson received the [[Walter Payton Award]] as the best offensive player in Division I-AA football.<ref name="dispatch1996a" /> He was later inducted into the Northern Arizona University Athletics Hall of Fame, and Northern Arizona retired his jersey (number 9) in honor of his college career.<ref name="nau" />

== Professional career ==

=== Hamilton Tiger-Cats ===

==== 1997 season ====

Amerson was eligible for the [[1997 NFL draft]] but went unselected. Instead, he played professionally in the CFL, initially being signed by the Hamilton Tiger-Cats. The team placed Amerson on their [[practice squad]] to start the season, but he was forced into action after [[Ted Long (Canadian football)|Ted Long]] suffered a groin injury.<ref name="spetator1997a">{{cite news|last1=Dickins|first1=Jeff|title=Richardson faces early retirement: Disc injury lands Tiger-Cat in sick bay|work=Hamilton Spectator|date=June 23, 1997|page=S3}}</ref><ref name="spectator1997b">{{cite news|last1=Dickins|first1=Jeff|title=Amerson's the latest to join Ticat roster|work=Hamilton Spectator|date=July 10, 1997|page=D3}}</ref> Amerson started in his first career appearance against the [[Winnipeg Blue Bombers]], catching his first career touchdown pass in the 18–33 loss.<ref name="spectator1997b" /><ref name="star1997a">{{cite news|last1=Korchok|first1=Kathryn|title=Ticat errors prove costly in loss to Blue Bombers|work=The Toronto Star|date=July 12, 1997|page=E5}}</ref> While the Tiger-Cats continued to struggle during the game and dropped to a 0–3 record, Amerson's performance was praised, with ''[[The Hamilton Spectator]]'' calling him "the quickest back ever".<ref name="spectator1997c">{{cite news|title=Game Day:: Tiger-Cats vs. Argonauts|work=Hamilton Spectator|date=July 17, 1997|page=D6}}</ref><ref name="spectator1997d">{{cite news|title=Sudsy must win ... tonight|work=Hamilton Spectator|date=July 17, 1997|page=D2}}</ref> He followed his first game with a breakout performance against the heavily–favored [[Toronto Argonauts]], running for 100 yards on 18 carries.<ref name="star1997b">{{cite news|last1=Clarkson|first1=Michael|title=Flutie yanks another one out of hat Sluggish Argos have tough time with lowly Ticats|work=The Toronto Star|date=July 18, 1997|page=C4}}</ref> By the end of August, Amerson led the Tiger-Cats' offense with 298 rushing yards, 12th most in the CFL despite not playing in the first two games.<ref name="star1997c">{{cite news|last1=Clarkson|first1=Michael|title=CFL Report Flutie eager at the half|work=Toronto Star|date=August 30, 1997|page=C8}}</ref> After being briefly sidelined with a foot injury, Amerson returned to a starting role and rushed for 139 yards against the [[Calgary Stampeders]] in late September.<ref name="spectator1997e">{{cite news|title=Game Day:: Tiger-Cats vs Argonauts|work=Hamilton Spectator|date=September 13, 1997|page=E4}}</ref><ref name="spectator1997f">{{cite news|last1=Dickins|first1=Jeff|title=So close ...: Cats kick themselves for losing 25–21 to Stampeders|work=Hamilton Spectator|date=September 22, 1997|page=S3}}</ref> He finished the season with 1,044 combined rushing and receiving yards along with five touchdowns over 15 games. Amerson struggled with ball security throughout the season, recording six fumbles.<ref name="CPFE2012" /> The Tiger-Cats nominated Amerson as top rookie in the CFL.<ref name="star1997d">{{cite news|last1=Harding|first1=Mark|title=Flutie, Lester Smith top CFL awards list 1997 Argonauts 'remarkable,' Matthews admits|work=The Toronto Star|date=October 23, 1997|page=B3}}</ref>

==== 1998 season ====

During the offseason, the Tiger-Cats signed running back [[Ronald Williams (Canadian football)|Ron Williams]]. Williams was known for power running and was described as a "210-pound battering ram" by ''The Hamilton Spectator''.<ref name="spectator1998a">{{cite news|last1=Sicinski|first1=Larry|title=Tiger-Cats boost their running game|work=Hamilton Spectator|date=February 5, 1998|page=D5}}</ref><ref name="spectator1998b">{{cite news|last1=Sicinski|first1=Larry|title=Ticats get their backs up: Archie Amerson and Ron Williams agree there's healthy competition afoot for offensive backfield spots|work=Hamilton Spectator|date=June 11, 1998|page=C5}}</ref> The presence of Williams allowed the Tiger-Cats to develop Amerson further as a receiving back, and the team further experimented by designing plays where Amerson lined up as a [[slotback]] and using him as a [[kick returner]].<ref name="gam1998a">{{cite news|last1=Richer|first1=Shawna|title=Ticats' Amerson has that scoring touch At 5-foot-8 versatile back may be small in stature, but he's making big plays on the field|work=The Globe and Mail|date=July 17, 1998|page=S11}}</ref><ref name="spectator1998d">{{cite news|last1=Dickins|first1=Jeff|title=Running or receiving, Amerson gets it done|work=Hamilton Spectator|date=July 21, 1998|page=E1}}</ref> He went on to catch 65 passes for 750 yards and five touchdowns in addition to rushing for 703 yards and three touchdowns.<ref name="CPFE2012" /> Amerson immediately established himself as a viable receiving option in the season opener against Calgary when he caught six passes for 103 yards and two touchdowns.<ref name="spectator1998c">{{cite news|last1=Sicinski|first1=Larry|title=No way to finish: Ticats must learn to play tough in final quarter|work=Hamilton Spectator|date=July 3, 1998|page=F1}}</ref> In late July, Amerson caught a short pass and ran 74 yards for a touchdown against the Stampeders. The play was described as "the Ticats' biggest play so far this season" by Larry Sicinski of ''The Hamilton Spectator''.<ref name="spectator1998e">{{cite news|last1=Sicinski|first1=Larry|title=Modest gains a huge leap for Tiger-Cats|work=Hamilton Spectator|date=July 30, 1998|page=D3}}</ref> Amerson remained effective on the ground, rushing for 114 yards in an early August game against the [[Edmonton Eskimos]], but he continued to struggle with fumbles throughout the season.<ref name="spectator1998f">{{cite news|last1=Sicinski|first1=Larry|title=Cats still top dogs|work=Hamilton Spectator|date=August 10, 1998|page=S9}}</ref><ref name="spectator1998g">{{cite news|last1=Milton|first1=Steve|title=Of Archie, Franco and other short hops|work=Hamilton Spectator|date=August 1, 1998|page=E3}}</ref>

In a mid-August victory over the Eskimos, Amerson threw the first touchdown pass of his career to wide receiver [[Andrew Grigg]] after lining up as a running back. In the same game, he caught a career-long 89-yard touchdown pass.<ref name="spectator1998h">{{cite news|last1=Sicinski|first1=Larry|title=Smokin'!: Tiger-Cats annihilate Eskimos again|work=Hamilton Spectator|date=August 14, 1998|page=F1}}</ref> By September, Amerson was considered a potential nominee for the [[CFL's Most Outstanding Player Award]].<ref name="spectator1998i">{{cite news|last1=Milton|first1=Steve|title=Ticats too good a team to honour individuals|work=Hamilton Spectator|date=September 24, 1998|page=D1}}</ref> Toward the end of the season, the Tiger-Cats began to use Williams and Amerson in distinct roles, with Williams performing most of the ground work while Amerson acted as a receiver.<ref name="spectator1998j">{{cite news|last1=Sicinski|first1=Larry|title=Amerson among elite in all-purpose yards|work=Hamilton Spectator|date=October 28, 1998|page=E1}}</ref> Amerson finished the season sixth in the league in all-purpose yardage.<ref name="gam1998b">{{cite news|last1=Maki|first1=Allan|title=Ailing Williams promises he'll play or take pay cut Tiger-Cats running back predicts Amerson will be winner of MVP in Grey Cup|work=The Globe and Mail|date=November 21, 1998|page=A28}}</ref> The Tiger-Cats lost to the Stampeders in the [[86th Grey Cup]]. In the final quarter of the Grey Cup, Amerson caught a short pass and ran for a 47-yard completion to set up a touchdown. During the play, he dodged two Stampeders defenders ([[Darryl Hall (defensive back)|Darryl Hall]] and [[Alondra Johnson]]), causing them to collide. Both Stampeders players were injured on the play, with Johnson losing consciousness.<ref name="herald1998a">{{cite news|last1=Ewing|first1=Lori|title=Hall discovers A.J.'s wallop: Stamp knocked unconscious by teammate|work=Calgary Herald|date=November 23, 1998|page=D5}}</ref>

==== 1999 season ====

Amerson became a free agent after the 1998 season but expressed a strong desire to continue playing for the Tiger-Cats.<ref name="spectator1999a">{{cite news|last1=Sicinski|first1=Larry|title=Amerson plays waiting game: Free agent only has eyes for Ticats|work=Hamilton Spectator|date=March 6, 1999|page=E5}}</ref> Hamilton re-signed Amerson to a one-year contract worth approximately $50,000 in late March with a team option for an additional year.<ref name="spectator1999b">{{cite news|last1=Sicinski|first1=Larry|title=Amerson decides to stay; TiCat running back opts for new one-year deal in $50,000 range with Hamilton|work=Hamilton Spectator|date=March 31, 1999|page=E1}}</ref> Amerson spent time practicing as a punt returner during [[Training camp (National Football League)|training camp]] despite not having returned a punt since high school.<ref name="CPFE2012" /><ref name="spectator1999c">{{cite news|last1=Sicinski|first1=Larry|title=CAT NIPS|work=Hamilton Spectator|date=June 24, 1999|page=C2}}</ref> In the regular season opener, Amerson returned a punt 42 yards to set up a touchdown drive.<ref name="herald1999a">{{cite news|title=Ticats whip Bombers: Winnipeg fans treated to more misery|work=Calgary Herald|date=July 9, 1999|page=C4}}</ref> In the second game of the season, Amerson suffered a knee injury which forced him to miss several games.<ref name="spectator1999d">{{cite news|last1=Sicinski|first1=Larry|title=TiCats notes|work=Hamilton Spectator|date=July 30, 1999|page=E2}}</ref> He returned in mid-August, catching a touchdown in his first game back against the [[Montreal Alouettes]].<ref name="sun1999a">{{cite news|last1=Beacon|first1=Bill|title=Full house watches Als win|work=The Vancouver Sun|date=August 13, 1999|page=E4}}</ref> In a September rematch against the Alouettes, Amerson caught a career-high eight receptions.<ref name="spectator1999e">{{cite news|last1=Sicinski|first1=Larry|title=Akins opens some eyes in debut|work=Hamilton Spectator|date=September 15, 1999|page=F1}}</ref>

Amerson's role as a rusher was greatly reduced in 1999, both due to his early knee injury and the returning Williams, who developed into the team's featured power back. Amerson's only significant rushing play was a career-high 70-yard touchdown run in late September.<ref name="spectator1999f">{{cite news|last1=Sicinski|first1=Larry|title=Cats feelig better; Hamilton finally beats Als to clear mental hurdle|work=Hamilton Spectator|date=September 27, 1999|page=S6}}</ref> After Amerson re-injured his knee in October,<ref name="spectator1999g">{{cite news|title=Lancaster gives it back to Ritchie|work=Hamilton Spectator|date=October 11, 1999|page=S3}}</ref> [[Tony Akins (Canadian football)|Tony Akins]] received his first start in which he recorded 257 receiving yards. After Akins' first game, head coach [[Ron Lancaster]] told the media that Amerson would primarily be used as a kick returner going forward, with Akins remaining in the lineup even after Amerson returned.<ref name="spectator1999h">{{cite news|last1=Sicinski|first1=Larry|title=Akins' debut a dazzler; Buffalo Bills' castoff scores four touchdowns in first CFL game|work=Hamilton Spectator|date=October 11, 1999|page=S2}}</ref> Despite this, Amerson continued to see time as both a receiver and punt returner upon his return later that month.<ref name="spectator1999i">{{cite news|last1=Sicinski|first1=Larry|title=TICAT GAME DAY|work=Hamilton Spectator|date=November 13, 1999|page=E03}}</ref> He finished the season with 47 receptions for 700 yards and five touchdowns through 13 games played.<ref name="CPFE2012" /> The Hamilton Tiger-Cats defeated the Calgary Stampeders 32–21 in the [[87th Grey Cup]], making Amerson a Grey Cup champion.<ref name="herald1999b">{{cite news|last1=Banks|first1=David|title=Burnt Stampeders secondary lights into officiating|work=Calgary Herald|date=November 29, 1999|page=C3}}</ref>

==== 2000 season ====

In 2000, Amerson was used heavily as a receiver and kick returner, recording 70 receptions for 1,198 receiving yards and six touchdowns as well as 948 return yards over 51 kick returns, all career-highs at the time.<ref name="CPFE2012" /> In a July game against the [[Saskatchewan Roughriders]], Amerson caught a 74-yard touchdown pass in the eventual 40–34 win.<ref name="citizen2000a">{{cite news|title=Ticats hold off Riders|work=The Ottawa Citizen|date=July 22, 2000|page=F2}}</ref> He followed this up with five catches for 180 yards and two touchdowns the next month when the Tiger-Cats played the Roughriders again.<ref name="spectator2000a">{{cite news|last1=Sicinski|first1=Larry|title=Amerson runs wild on Roughriders|work=Hamilton Spectator|date=August 12, 2000|page=E1}}</ref> Following this, Amerson was named player of the week and described by ''The Hamilton Spectator'' as both halves of "Hamilton's one-two punch".<ref name="spectator2000b">{{cite news|last1=Sicinski|first1=Larry|title=Past woes shouldn't be extra motivation|work=Hamilton Spectator|date=August 16, 2000|page=E3}}</ref><ref name="journal2000a">{{cite news|last1=Ireland|first1=Joanne|title=Game Day Snaps: Edmonton Eskimos vs. Saskatchewan Roughriders|work=Edmonton Journal|date=August 18, 2000|page=D1}}</ref> In September, Amerson caught a 75-yard touchdown pass to help the Tiger-Cats defeat the Alouettes 15–9.<ref name="journal2000b">{{cite news|last1=Beacon|first1=Bill|title=Ticats' goal-line stand stops mighty Als offence: Montreal ends home win streak, loses QB to injury|work=Edmonton Journal|date=September 11, 2000|page=D4}}</ref>

While Amerson had his best season as a receiver through September, he was criticized for his play toward the end of the season. ''The Hamilton Spectator'' described him as "slumping" in October while pointing out his poor yardage per punt return (6.8 yards).<ref name="spectator2000c">{{cite news|last1=Sicinski|first1=Larry|title=TICAT GAME DAY|work=Hamilton Spectator|date=October 20, 2000|page=E6}}</ref><ref name="spectator2000d">{{cite news|last1=Sicinski|first1=Larry|title=Ticat Game Day|work=Hamilton Spectator|date=October 28, 2000|page=E4}}</ref> The ''[[Calgary Herald]]'' stated that Amerson had "disappeared" over a seven-week period when he caught only 25 passes for 302 yards and no touchdowns, statistics far below those he had set earlier in the season.<ref name="herald2000a">{{cite news|title=Game Day|work=Calgary Herald|date=November 5, 2000|page=B4}}</ref> Despite the slump, Amerson finished with career-high receptions (70), receiving yards (1,166), and touchdowns (six) while finishing second in the CFL for all-purpose yards (2,407).<ref name="CPFE2012" /><ref name="spectator2000e">{{cite news|last1=Sicinski|first1=Larry|title=Lancaster looking to end winless woes|work=Hamilton Spectator|date=November 4, 2000|page=E1}}</ref> The Tiger-Cats lost to the [[Winnipeg Blue Bombers]] 22–20 in the East Division semi-final. Amerson scored a touchdown for the Tiger-Cats, but he later lost 16 yards on a crucial [[Lateral pass|pitch]] play with 90 seconds left on the game clock. After the failed run, the Blue Bombers received the ball back and kicked a field goal to win the game.<ref name="spectator2000f">{{cite news|last1=Sicinski|first1=Larry|title=Cats are champs no more; Grey Cup defence ends as visiting Bombers win on late field goal|work=Hamilton Spectator|date=November 13, 2000|page=D1}}</ref><ref name="star2000a">{{cite news|last1=Harding|first1=Mark|title=Bombers rally past Tiger-cats Blue Bombers 22, TiCats 20|work=The Toronto Star|date=November 13, 2000}}</ref>

=== Toronto Argonauts ===

Amerson again became a free agent after the 2000 season. Rather than pursue Amerson, the Tiger-Cats elected to sign fullback [[Duane Forde]]. The signing represented a shift from a receiving back to a running back who primarily blocks.<ref name="spectator2001a">{{cite news|last1=Kernaghan|first1=John|title=Signing of veteran fullback sends Ticats in a new direction|work=Hamilton Spectator|date=February 28, 2001|page=E1}}</ref> In May 2001, Amerson signed a two-year contract with the Toronto Argonauts.<ref name="star2001a">{{cite news|title=Argonauts sign Amerson to two-year deal|work=The Toronto Star|date=May 26, 2001}}</ref> The Argonauts expected to use Amerson as a running back, slotback, and return specialist.<ref name="province2001a">{{cite news|title=Not revenge, he really doesn't like opponents|work=The Vancouver Province|agency=Canadian Press|date=June 21, 2001|page=A55}}</ref> Head coach [[Pinball Clemons|Mike Clemons]] stated that he expected Amerson to break records with the Argonauts, but Amerson's time with the team was short.<ref name="spectator2001b">{{cite news|last1=Hemsworth|first1=Wade|title=The Tiger-Cats' quest begins; Key dates; Tabbies open crowded camp with two-a-days|work=Hamilton Spectator|date=June 12, 2001|page=E1}}</ref> In the first game of the season, he suffered an ankle injury that forced him to miss several games.<ref name="province2001b">{{cite news|title=Injuries ail Argos offence|work=The Vancouver Province|agency=Canadian Press|date=July 13, 2001|page=A51}}</ref><ref name="star2001b">{{cite news|last1=Harding|first1=Mark|title=Argos' punter may get boot|work=Toronto Star|date=July 25, 2001|page=C7}}</ref> During this time, receiver and return specialist [[Greg Hill (Canadian football)|Greg Hill]] became increasingly involved in the offense and began to fill the multi-purpose role originally expected of Amerson. The Argonauts dropped Amerson from the active roster and offered him a position on the [[practice squad]] in late July.<ref name="spectator2001c">{{cite news|last1=Harding|first1=Mark|title=Argos hand pink slip to former Ticat; Amerson ponders going on practice roster|work=Hamilton Spectator|date=July 27, 2001|page=E2}}</ref> In late August, the Tiger-Cats re-signed Amerson. Clemons later told the media he had been discussing the possibility of re-signing Amerson with other members of the coaching staff when the Tiger-Cats acquired Amerson.<ref name="spectator2001d">{{cite news|last1=Milton|first1=Steve|title=No wonder Boatmen are pitiful; Argos thought about reactivating Amerson when Cats pounced|work=Hamilton Spectator|date=August 31, 2001|page=E2}}</ref>

=== Return to the Tiger-Cats ===

==== 2001 season ====

Immediately after signing with the Tiger-Cats, Amerson played in the [[Labour Day Classic]] against Toronto, catching a touchdown pass and returning a punt for 24 yards.<ref name="star2001c">{{cite news|last1=Wallace|first1=Andrew|title=Nice guys sinking Argos|work=Toronto Star|date=September 4, 2001|page=E1}}</ref> While the Tiger-Cats initially expected to use Amerson more in the rushing game than they had in the past, the team returned to using him as a receiving back by the end of September due to weaknesses in the [[offensive line]].<ref name="spectator2001e">{{cite news|last1=Milton|first1=Steve|title=Tiger-Cats putting the brakes on running game|work=Hamilton Spectator|date=September 27, 2001|page=E2}}</ref> As the season progressed, [[Troy Davis (running back)|Troy Davis]] emerged as the Tiger-Cats' starting running back and leading rusher while Amerson was used as a receiving back.<ref name="sun2001c">{{cite news|last1=Beamish|first1=Mike|title=Game Day|work=The Vancouver Sun|date=November 6, 2001|page=C12}}</ref> After missing a game in early October due to bruised ribs, Amerson was effective as a receiver for the rest of the month, finishing with three touchdowns in the last two games of October.<ref name="spectator2001f">{{cite news|last1=Hemsworth|first1=Wade|title=Stamps ready for Cats|work=Hamilton Spectator|date=October 6, 2001|page=E1}}</ref><ref name="sun2001a">{{cite news|title=Ticats clinch playoff berth with win over Saskatchewan: Roughriders eliminated from post-season contention after loss in Hamilton|work=The Vancouver Sun|agency=Canadian Press|date=October 22, 2001|page=D8}}</ref><ref name="sun2001b">{{cite news|last1=Beacon|first1=Bill|title=Tiger-Cats nail down second place: Hamilton gets home-field advantage in the post-season from plummeting Alouettes|work=The Vancouver Sun|agency=Canadian Press|date=October 29, 2001|page=C2}}</ref> Due to a coaching decision to rest Davis prior to the playoffs, Amerson started in the final game of the regular season against the [[BC Lions]].<ref name="sun2001c" />

According to ''[[The Province]]'', the Tiger-Cats "rode Amerson's coattails" on their way to a 24–14 win against the Alouettes in the Eastern Semi-Final.<ref name="province2001c">{{cite news|title=Archie Amerson gets an A: Scores two TDs in leading Tiger-Cats past Alouettes|work=The Vancouver Province|agency=Canadian Press|date=November 12, 2001|page=A25}}</ref> He finished with 250 all-purpose yards, a receiving touchdown, and a punt return touchdown. His 94-yard punt return touchdown set a team record.<ref name="province2001c" /> Amerson received widespread praise for his performance in the game, and ''The Hamilton Spectator'' described him as the "Ticat hero who almost got away".<ref name="spectator2001g">{{cite news|last1=Milton|first1=Steve|title=Ticat hero who almost got away; SPORTS; Hamilton came close to losing Archie Amerson|work=Hamilton Spectator|date=November 12, 2001|page=D6}}</ref> The Tiger-Cats lost to the [[Winnipeg Blue Bombers]] in the East Final the following week. Amerson's most significant play of the East Final was a "leaping" catch in the third-quarter, but it was called back due to an offensive holding penalty.<ref name="spectator2001h">{{cite news|last1=Milton|first1=Steve|title=Shortcomings obvious; Now is about the best time for the Tiger-Cats to copy a page from Winnipeg's book of success|work=Hamilton Spectator|date=November 19, 2001|page=D6}}</ref>

==== 2002 season ====

After [[Mike Morreale]] left the Tiger-Cats in free agency, the team moved Amerson to the slotback position. The change of position placed him consistently on the starting roster for the first time in his career.<ref name="spectator2002a">{{cite news|last1=Milton|first1=Steve|title=Amerson has a chance to put the past behind; A big season could mean bigger pay day|work=Hamilton Spectator|date=June 26, 2002|page=E2}}</ref> Amerson's first receiving touchdown of the season tied a July game against the Stampeders, which the Tiger-Cats later won 34–31 in overtime.<ref name="spectator2002b">{{cite news|last1=Hemsworth|first1=Wade|title=A thriller by Hitchcock; Safety's interception at Ticat two-yard-line leads to Osbaldiston's winning field goal|work=Hamilton Spectator|date=July 13, 2002|page=E1}}</ref> Two weeks later, he caught nine passes for 221 yards against the [[Ottawa Renegades]].<ref name="citizen2002a">{{cite news|last1=Sekeres|first1=Matthews|title=Renegades win a thriller: Ottawa blows big lead, then holds on; Renegades 38, Tiger-Cats 37|work=Ottawa Citizen|date=July 26, 2002|page=B1}}</ref> By the beginning of August, Amerson had emerged as "the top of the pile of Hamilton Tiger-Cats receivers" (ahead of Hall of Famer [[Darren Flutie]]) and was second in the league for receiving yardage.<ref name="spectator2002c" /> After an injury to starting running back [[Troy Davis (running back)|Troy Davis]] in September, the Tiger-Cats utilized Amerson both as their starting slotback and backup running back, as they lacked a third-string running back.<ref name="spectator2002d">{{cite news|last1=Hemsworth|first1=Wade|title=Davis cracks wrist, doubtful for Als Sunday; Jarrett Smith probable starter at running back|work=Hamilton Spectator|date=September 12, 2002|page=E1}}</ref><ref name="spectator2002e">{{cite news|last1=Hemsworth|first1=Wade|title=Feeling of hope lives this season in the Cats' lair; The Hamilton locker room is a genial place, despite 6–7 record|work=Hamilton Spectator|date=September 27, 2002|page=E1}}</ref> The majority of his production continued to come as a slotback. He recorded 147 receiving yards in the first game after being listed as a running back on the roster, including a touchdown catch in overtime to win 35–28 against the Montreal Alouettes.<ref name="star2002a">{{cite news|last1=Ralph|first1=Dan|title=Hamilton gets 'a gift' with win over Montreal|work=Toronto Star|date=September 16, 2002|page=D11}}</ref>

In early October, Amerson missed a game with a leg injury but returned the following week to catch two touchdowns against the Argonauts.<ref name="spectator2002f">{{cite news|last1=Hemsworth|first1=Wade|title=Cats ready to Stamp out losing streak; Hamilton takes an 0–7 road record into Calgary tonight|work=Hamilton Spectator|date=October 4, 2002|page=E1}}</ref><ref name="star2002b">{{cite news|last1=Harding|first1=Mike|title=Argonauts alive and kicking|work=Toronto Star|date=October 15, 2002|page=C1}}</ref> Amerson finished the season with 970 yards on 61 catches with six touchdowns.<ref name="spectator2002g">{{cite news|title=Tiger-Cats face contract talks with 16 unsigned free agents|work=Hamilton Spectator|date=November 5, 2002|page=E2}}</ref> The Tiger-Cats did not make the playoffs after losing in the final week of the season.<ref name="spectator2002h">{{cite news|last1=Milton|first1=Steve|title=Argos deserve playoff spot more than Cats; Tiger-Cats faded in the stretch drive|work=Hamilton Spectator|date=November 4, 2002|page=B1}}</ref>

==== 2003 season ====

Amerson was re-signed by the Tiger-Cats in January 2003 to a deal that involved "substantially more" than the $45,000 he received the previous season.<ref name="spectator2003a">{{cite news|last1=Hemsworth|first1=Wade|title=Cats re-sign 'Fireball' Archie; Amerson was top receiver for Ticats in '02|work=Hamilton Spectator|date=January 23, 2003|page=E1}}</ref> The Tiger-Cats lost several receivers to retirement or trades, and Amerson was one of only two starting receivers left on the team from the previous year.<ref name="spectator2003b">{{cite news|last1=Hemsworth|first1=Wade|title=Ticats search for which receivers will catch on|work=Hamilton Spectator|date=May 27, 2003|page=E1}}</ref> Through the first half of the season, the Tiger-Cats receivers struggled. Amerson led the team in receiving yards, but he often was double-covered by opposing teams and struggled to get open.<ref name="spectator2003c">{{cite news|last1=Milton|first1=Steve|title=Tiger-Cats reshuffle impotent offence; Changes at receiver, tackle spots|work=Hamilton Spectator|date=July 10, 2003|page=E1}}</ref><ref name="spectator2003d">{{cite news|last1=Hemsworth|first1=Wade|title='We didn't pick the right people'; Woes began at camp: Lancaster|work=Hamilton Spectator|date=July 18, 2003|page=E2}}</ref> Amerson was also criticized for dropping passes in important situations.<ref name="spectator2003e">{{cite news|last1=Milton|first1=Steve|title=Great news: Cats show signs of life|work=Hamilton Spectator|date=September 13, 2003|page=E1}}</ref> He recorded 960 receiving yards and four touchdowns during the regular season.<ref name="CPFE2012" /> The Tiger-Cats finished the season with a 1–17 record amid controversy after the owners of the team failed to pay players, including Amerson. While the CFL took over the team and paid players their full salaries as recorded with the league, Amerson reportedly lost $40,000 in expected salary due to a portion of his contract being unregistered with the league.<ref name="spectator2003f">{{cite news|last1=Hemsworth|first1=Wade|title=Ticats await bright future next season after dark days of 2003|work=Hamilton Spectator|date=October 20, 2003|page=SP11}}</ref>

==== 2004 season ====

During the offseason, Amerson remained in Canada for the first time during his career to train with incoming receivers' coach [[Paul LaPolice]].<ref name="spectator2004b">{{cite news|last1=Milton|first1=Steve|title=Amerson vowing to exceed 1,000-yard season; TIGER-CAT RECEIVING CORPS|work=Hamilton Spectator|date=May 14, 2004|page=SP15}}</ref> The Tiger-Cats receivers, including Amerson, started the season more successfully than the previous year. Through the first three games, Amerson was ninth in the CFL in receiving yards with 224 yards on eight catches.<ref name="spectator2004c">{{cite news|last1=Peters|first1=Ken|title=Just call the Ticat receivers – the happy gang this season|work=Hamilton Spectator|date=July 7, 2004|page=SP11}}</ref> Amerson caught 47 passes for 894 yards and five touchdowns through fourteen regular season games. In October, an injury forced Amerson to undergo surgery to repair the torn cartilage in his knee.<ref name="spectator2004d">{{cite news|last1=Peters|first1=Ken|title=Ticat Amerson has surgery to left knee; Slotback hopes to return for playoffs|work=Hamilton Spectator|date=October 20, 2004|page=A1}}</ref> He returned in the Tiger-Cats' semi-final loss to the Argonauts.<ref name="gam2004a">{{cite news|last1=Wharnsby|first1=Tim|title=Argonauts blast Tiger-Cats; Toronto now advances to play Montreal in East Division final|work=The Globe and Mail|date=November 6, 2004|page=S1}}</ref>

=== Retirement ===

Prior to the 2005 season, Amerson signed a two-year contract extension with the Tiger-Cats, and he was expected to feature heavily among their receivers.<ref name="spectator2005a">{{cite news|last1=Peters|first1=Ken|title=Morreale, Amerson remain Ticats; Both receivers sign deals that'll keep them in Hamilton for next two years|work=Hamilton Spectator|date=January 27, 2005|page=SP5}}</ref> Shortly before the start of training camp, Amerson experienced nerve issues in his left leg which prevented him from running. While the prognosis was initially optimistic, the media considered his season to be "compromised" by the start of the regular season.<ref name="spectator2005b">{{cite news|last1=Peters|first1=Ken|title=Ailing Amerson is outside looking in, and he hates it|work=Hamilton Spectator|date=June 9, 2005|page=SP3}}</ref><ref name="gaurdian2005a">{{cite news|title=Receivers ailing on both sides as Als, Ticats meet|work=The Guardian|agency=CP|date=June 22, 2005|location=Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island|page=B3}}</ref> The source of the injury was a [[herniated disk]] which pressed against nerves and caused [[muscle atrophy]] throughout Amerson's left leg.<ref name="post2005a">{{cite news|last1=Fitz-Gerald|first1=Sean|title=Amerson aching to get back into the lineup: Injury gets on Ticat's nerves|work=National Post|date=September 1, 2005|page=S3}}</ref> Amerson remained out for the entire season and was released by the team on January 31, 2006.<ref name="spectator2006a">{{cite news|last1=Peters|first1=Ken|title=Farewell to Archie; Health concerns force Ticats to release popular slotback|work=The Hamilton Spectator|date=February 2, 2006|page=SP3}}</ref> As of his retirement, Amerson was one of the most prolific receivers in Tiger-Cats history, ranking third in receptions, fourth in receiving yards, fifth in kickoff return yards, and sixth in touchdowns.<ref name="spectator2006b">{{cite news|last1=Peters|first1=Ken|title=Ticats taking no chances; Amerson asking for another shot at glory days|work=Hamilton Spectator|date=March 22, 2006|page=SP16}}</ref>

=== Season statistics ===

{| class="wikitable"
|-
!colspan=3|<ref name="CPFE2012"/> ||colspan=5|Receiving ||colspan=5|Rushing ||colspan=5|Punt returns ||colspan=5|Kick returns ||colspan=2|Misc
|-
! Year !! Team !! GP !! Rec !! Yds !! Avg !! Long !! TD !! Att !! Yds !! Avg !! Long !! TD !! PR !! Yds !! Avg !! Long !! TD !! KR !! Yds !! Avg !! Long !! TD !! Tkls !! Fumbles
|-
| {{CFL Year|1997}} || [[1997 Hamilton Tiger-Cats season|HAM]] || 15 || 40 || 414 || 10.4 || 46 || 1 || 144 || 630 || 4.4 || 64 || 4 || 0 || 0 || 0.0 || 0 || 0 || 2 || 34 || 17.0 || 17 || 0 || 3 || 6
|-
| {{CFL Year|1998}} || [[1998 Hamilton Tiger-Cats season|HAM]] || 18 || 65 || 750 || 11.5 || 89 || 5 || 160 || 703 || 4.4 || 69 || 3 || 0 || 0 || 0.0 || 0 || 0 || 24 || 594 || 24.8 || 54 || 0 || 3 || 4
|-
| {{CFL Year|1999}} || [[1999 Hamilton Tiger-Cats season|HAM]] || 13 || 47 || 700 || 14.9 || 60 || 5 || 4 || 67 || 16.8 || 70 || 1 || 25 || 183 || 7.3 || 42 || 0 || 18 || 393 || 21.8 || 57 || 0 || 0 || 2
|-
| {{CFL Year|2000}} || [[2000 Hamilton Tiger-Cats season|HAM]] || 18 || 70 || 1,198 || 17.1 || 75 || 6 || 6 || 16 || 2.7 || 10 || 0 || 51 || 351 || 6.9 || 38 || 0 || 51 || 948 || 18.6 || 40 || 0 || 5 || 2
|-
| {{CFL Year|2001}} || [[2001 Toronto Argonauts season|TOR]] || 1 || 5 || 32 || 6.4 || 15 || 0 || 0 || 0 || 0.0 || 0 || 0 || 0 || 0 || 0.0 || 0 || 0 || 2 || 42 || 21.0 || 28 || 0 || 0 || 0
|-
| {{CFL Year|2001}} || [[2001 Hamilton Tiger-Cats season|HAM]] || 9 || 26 || 380 || 14.6 || 41 || 5 || 21 || 120 || 5.7 || 25 || 0 || 29 || 231 || 8.0 || 25 || 0 || 3 || 67 || 22.3 || 32 || 0 || 2 || 4
|-
| {{CFL Year|2002}} || [[2002 Hamilton Tiger-Cats season|HAM]] || 17 || 61 || 970 || 15.9 || 53 || 6 || 11 || 53 || 4.8 || 13 || 0 || 8 || 105 || 13.1 || 68 || 0 || 1 || 7 || 7.0 || 7 || 0 || 4 || 3
|-
| {{CFL Year|2003}} || [[2003 Hamilton Tiger-Cats season|HAM]] || 18 || 75 || 960 || 12.8 || 45 || 4 || 9 || 41 || 4.6 || 9 || 0 || 4 || 51 || 12.8 || 23 || 0 || 0 || 0 || 0.0 || 0 || 0 || 7 || 0
|-
| {{CFL Year|2004}} || [[2004 Hamilton Tiger-Cats season|HAM]] || 14 || 47 || 894 || 19.0 || 68 || 5 || 1 || 24 || 24.0 || 24 || 0 || 0 || 0 || 0.0 || 0 || 0 || 0 || 0 || 0.0 || 0 || 0 || 3 || 0
|-
|colspan=2|'''Total''' || 123 || 436 || 6,298 || 14.4 || 89 || 37 || 356 || 1,654 || 4.6 || 70 || 8 || 117 || 921 || 7.9 || 68 || 0 || 101 || 2,085 || 20.6 || 57 || 0 || 27 || 21
|}

== Personal life ==

Amerson is the son of Archie Amerson Sr., who played minor league baseball for teams associated with the [[Minnesota Twins]] and the [[New York Mets]] of [[Major League Baseball]].<ref name="gam1998a" /> He was born in [[San Diego]], [[California]], where he returned in the offseason during his CFL career.<ref name="spectator2002c">{{cite news|last1=Hemsworth|first1=Wade|title=Amerson's adjusting to key role|work=Hamilton Spectator|date=August 1, 2002|page=E4}}</ref> Amerson's brother, Andrew, played college football for [[Cal State Northridge Matadors football|Cal State Northridge]] and [[Troy Trojans football|Troy State]]. Andrew Amerson briefly signed with the Toronto Argonauts but did not play in any games.<ref name="spectator2004a">{{cite news|title=Boatmen sign receivers Amerson, Cunningham|work=Hamilton Spectator|agency=Canadian Press|date=March 6, 2004|page=SP13}}</ref>

After retiring from football, Amerson taught classes at a gym owned by his father in San Diego.<ref name="spectator2006c">{{cite news|last1=Milton|first1=Steve|title=Ticats' Notebook|work=Hamilton Spectator|date=July 13, 2006|page=SP3}}</ref> In August 2006, he ran a summer camp for children interested in football. The camp was affiliated with the Hamilton Tiger-Cats.<ref name="spectator2006d">{{cite news|title=Cats teach kids football basics|work=Hamilton Spectator|date=August 3, 2006|page=SP3}}</ref>

==References==
{{Reflist}}

{{Walter Payton Award}}
{{87th Grey Cup}}

{{DEFAULTSORT:Amerson, Archie}}
[[Category:1974 births]]
[[Category:Living people]]
[[Category:American football running backs]]
[[Category:Canadian football running backs]]
[[Category:Canadian football slotbacks]]
[[Category:Dixie State Rebels football players]]
[[Category:Hamilton Tiger-Cats players]]
[[Category:Northern Arizona Lumberjacks football players]]
[[Category:Toronto Argonauts players]]
[[Category:Walter Payton Award winners]]
[[Category:Players of American football from San Diego]]
[[Category:Players of Canadian football from San Diego]]