The Ticats could not have drawn up their season opener any better, turing out a 42-20 victory on enemy grounds. Hamilton jumped off to an early start and maintained momentum throughout the game as all three phases were firing on all cylinders. The all around effort saw touchdown contributions from both the offence and defence while the Ticats kicking game was on par.
1. Defence Cranks The Heat On Turnovers
The only thing opening up for the Argos offence was the new stadium they were defeated on. The Ticats defence came out flying right from start and set the tone early by forcing an Argos two-and-out on their first series of the game. The most noticeable player on the field may have been none other than the 2015 East Division Defensive Player of the Year, Simoni Lawrence, who shoved his way through the Argo’s line for two sacks in the first half. Lawrence would finish off the day with a fumble recovery and an interception he snagged and returned to the house in the early moments of the third quarter. Newcomers to the Tiger-Cats defence also made their mark to spoil the inaugural game at BMO Field. Larry Dean added a first half sack while John Chick interrupted a scrambling Ricky Ray leading to a fumble.
2. Masoli Takes Offence By The Reins
Jeremiah Masoli earned his spot as the starting pivot with strong performances in training camp and preseason, but proved he truly belonged in the staring role under the bright lights of BMO Field on Thursday night. He completed 27-of- 37 passes for 318 yards and three touchdowns with no interceptions. Early in the first quarter, the chemistry he established with his receivers was on full display. Masoli connected with a streaking Andy Fantuz on Hamilton’s second offensive drive of the game. The Ticats pivot moved within the pocket with confidence throughout the entire game, as the Argonauts found it difficult to disrupt the Ticats’ signal caller.
3. Special Outing In T.O.
The Ticats special teams picked up where they left off in the preseason as special teams coordinator Jeff Reinebold and company proved too much for the Argos. McMaster product Mike Daly accelerated through the Argonauts backfield and lunged for a blocked punt, leading to excellent field position for the Ticats’ offence. Brandon Banks was right back to his regular form, averaging 25.6 yards per punt return for the Black and Gold. One of the areas of the Ticats game that was most in question during the offseason was kicking. Brett Maher won the job in training camp and showed why he was worthy of the role against the Argos. Maher was perfect on four field goal attempts including a 50-yarder with tons of leg behind it.
