On Monday, the Tiger-Cats lost what was possibly their most important and most significant game of 2021. Not only was the matchup at home against the rival Toronto Argonauts, but it also took place on Thanksgiving Day in Canada. 

This one was simply an embarrassment for Hamilton, a team that has been unable to finish close games. The Argonauts scored 24 total points, and 19 of them were in the fourth quarter. A Boris Bede field goal on the last play of regulation not only gave Toronto a win, but a clear first-place lead in the East Division. 

Despite falling short, the Tiger-Cats still had some notable player performances. Quarterback Jeremiah Masoli had his best game of the season so far, completing 24 of 33 passes for 361 yards and 2 touchdowns. Running back Maleek Irons had 59 yards on only 7 carries (8.4 yard average), making it the most efficient and effective rushing day Hamilton has had all year. 

The defense sacked opposing quarterback McLeod Bethel-Thompson 3 times, and defensive back Kameron Kelly was able to intercept one of his passes. Linebacker Simoni Lawrence, who is arguably the team’s MVP, recorded 6 tackles. 

Just two weeks ago, Hamilton was above .500 and prepared to take over the division. Instead, they lost back-to-back games that were easily winnable, and are now in third place. Perhaps they have a chance at moving up to second, as the Montreal Alouettes are now without starting quarterback Vernon Adams Jr. However, even that is difficult to predict, since the Tiger-Cats’ momentum seems to be slipping away. 

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