Butler Looking To Continue Strong Season Against Former Team

HAMILTON — Despite the loss to Edmonton last Thursday night, running back James Butler delivered another dominant outing, further solidifying his place amongst the CFL’s elite rushers.

Butler carried the ball 14 times for 114 yards and a rushing touchdown. He also caught three passes to tack on another 32 yards through the air.

146 total yards, 8.6 yards per carry/reception.

Such productivity and efficiency is not unlike what the team has seen from Butler throughout the 2023 season. As good as he was for British Columbia last year, he’s been even better for Hamilton this year.

2022: 210 carries for 1,060 yards (5.0 YPC) and  seven touchdowns.

2023: 100 carries for 520 yards (5.2 YPC) and five touchdowns.

At his current pace, Butler will have an opportunity to reach 1,000+ rushing yards and 10+ rushing touchdowns in black and gold.

Such stability on the ground has been a tremendous asset for a passing game that has seen three different quarterbacks start games: Bo Levi Mitchell, Matthew Shiltz and Taylor Powell.

With Butler’s production on the ground vs. Edmonton, Powell was able to complete 20 of 26 passes (76.9%) for 218 yards and zero interceptions. Although the efficiency in the passing game didn’t translate to points, it was another sign of growth early in the young quarterback’s career.

As the Ticats prepare to face the Butler’s former team, the Lions, on the road—it will be interesting to see how he is utilized vs. a defense that just gave up three touchdown passes and produced zero interceptions against Saskatchewan.

Tune in Saturday August 26th at 7:00 PM ET to find out.