HAMILTON — The Hamilton Tiger-Cats return home on Saturday night looking to bounce back and earn an important divisional win as they host the Toronto Argonauts in the latest chapter of the QEW rivalry.
The Tiger-Cats (2-3) are coming off a tough road loss to Saskatchewan and will turn to quarterback Tre Ford under centre as they look to get back into the win column. Meanwhile, Toronto enters Hamilton looking to snap a two-game losing streak after falling 30-21 to Winnipeg in Week 6.
Here are three keys to a Tiger-Cats victory ahead of Saturday’s 7:30 p.m. ET kickoff at Hamilton Stadium.
1. GET TRE FORD ROLLING
Tre Ford gets the start at quarterback, bringing his trademark athleticism and playmaking ability to the offence. Whether extending plays with his legs or creating opportunities outside the pocket, Ford’s mobility presents a different challenge for opposing defences.
Establishing a rhythm early and allowing Ford to utilize both his arm and his speed will be key against a Toronto defence that has been strong against the run.
2. PLAYMAKERS MAKING PLAYS
Hamilton’s receiving corps has the talent to change a game, and this week they’ll be looking to respond after a frustrating performance in Week 6.
Veteran Kenny Lawler and Kiondré Smith headline a group capable of creating explosive plays, and limiting drops while winning one-on-one matchups will help ease the transition with Ford leading the offence. Giving the quarterback reliable targets and generating yards after the catch will be a major factor in the Tiger-Cats’ offensive success.
3. CREATE TURNOVERS ON DEFENCE
Containing Chad Kelly is never an easy assignment, but Hamilton’s defence has an opportunity to make a difference by forcing mistakes.
Kelly has thrown eight interceptions through five games this season, and the Tiger-Cats’ secondary will look to capitalize on any opportunities that come their way. Defensive backs Stavros Katsantonis, Jamal Peters and Destin Talbert will be tasked with limiting Toronto’s talented receiving group, while Julian Howsare, Philip Ossai and the defensive front will look to generate consistent pressure throughout the night.
Need to Know
- Tre Ford owns a 1-1 career record against the Argonauts.
- Toronto rookie Tyler Kahmann has scored five touchdowns in his first five CFL games.
- Former Argonaut Wynton McManis faces Toronto for the first time since joining the Tiger-Cats.
- Kickoff is set for 7:30 p.m. ET at Hamilton Stadium. Fans can watch live on TSN in Canada and on CFL+ in the U.S. and internationally.
The Tiger-Cats will be looking to protect home turf, build momentum in the East Division race and send the Hamilton faithful home with bragging rights in one of the CFL’s most storied rivalries.
