The Tiger-Cats were hoping to head into a two game road trip out west with a win at home under their belt. Hamilton’s defence stayed strong despite some unfortunate plays that went against them on offence and special teams. The offence would eventually piece together some long drives resulting in timely scoring to keep Hamilton in the game. Winnipeg would still go on to win 28-24 for their first win of the 2016 season.
Here are three takeaways from tonight’s game:
The spark that is Speedy B
It didn’t take long for Brandon Banks to make his mark on the game against the Winnipeg Blue Bombers. Banks returned a missed field goal from Justin Medlock, who made his return to Hamilton after signing with the Bombers in the offseason. Speedy B returned the wide attempt 120 yards, weaving back and forth across the field, for a touchdown to open up the scoring.
Since coming to Hamilton, Banks has remained consistent at being the spark that has given the offence light when in dyer need of a change in momentum. Banks finished the game having seven combined returns for 238 yards.
Defensive line limits Bombers backfield
The Bombers were in tough facing the Ticats’ front seven who combined for 23 of tonight’s 55 tackles while adding two sacks. The Ticats’ defense was strong upfront against the run and limited the impact of the Bombers’ backfield led by Andrew Harris. The Ticats defence has had Harris’ number over the course of his eight year career. He’s only averaging 59 yards on the ground against the Black & Gold.
The front seven also played a significant role in shortening the time Bombers’ quarterback, Drew Willy, had to make his reads; often forcing him to settle for short passes and arrant throws. Willy’s performance against the Ticats was his first sub-300 passing yards game of the 2016 season.
Two go-tuz better than one
There may not be a more reliable duo in the league than that of Andy Fantuz and Chad Owens for the Tiger-Cats. The two were on the receiving end of both of Jeremiah Masoli’s touchdown passes tonight against the Blue Bombers. The dynamic pair combined for 12 catches and 181 yards, providing Masoli with two reliable outlets all game.
Fantuz and Owens have combined for 38 catches, 473 yards and four touchdowns through three weeks of the CFL season. Masoli has done a great job in quickly creating chemistry with the two as the Tiger-Cats embark on a stretch that sees them play four games on the road.
