The Toronto Argonauts closed out their preseason schedule in style, overcoming an early deficit to defeat the visiting Hamilton Tiger-Cats 30-23 at Alumni Stadium on Friday night. In a back-and-forth affair that saw five lead changes, Toronto’s balanced offensive attack and timely special teams play proved to be the difference as both teams finalize their preparations for the June 5th regular season opener.
Game Flow and Key Moments
The game remained scoreless through the first quarter before Hamilton struck first in the second frame. Taylor Powell found Keaton Bruggeling for a 15-yard touchdown pass, capping a quick three-play, 60-yard drive that gave the Tiger-Cats an early 7-0 advantage.
Toronto responded with a 38-yard field goal from Lirim Hajrullahu late in the second quarter, sending the teams to halftime with Hamilton holding a 7-3 lead.
The third quarter belonged to the offenses, producing 27 combined points. Hamilton extended their lead when Powell connected with Bruggeling again, this time for a 13-yard touchdown strike. Toronto answered immediately with a 2-yard rushing touchdown from Jarret Doege, followed by a 33-yard field goal from Marc Liegghio to give Hamilton a 17-10 advantage.
The momentum shifted dramatically when Jyran Mitchell broke free for a spectacular 70-yard touchdown run with just 21 seconds remaining in the third quarter, knotting the game at 17-17 heading into the final frame.
Fourth Quarter Drama
Toronto seized control in the fourth quarter with 13 unanswered points. Tucker Horn found Calvin Turner Jr. for a 10-yard touchdown pass, followed by two field goals from Alfredo Gachuz Lozada (28 and 43 yards) to build a commanding 30-17 lead.
Hamilton mounted a late comeback attempt when Gavin Hardison connected with Tre’Shaun Harrison for an 11-yard touchdown with just over two minutes remaining, but Toronto’s defense held firm to preserve the victory.
Statistical Leaders
Hamilton Tiger-Cats Top Performers
Passing Leaders:
- Taylor Powell: 11/16, 113 yards, 2 TDs
- Gavin Hardison: 9/15, 101 yards, 1 TD
Rushing Leaders:
- Treshaun Ward: 9 carries, 60 yards
Receiving Leaders:
- Keaton Bruggeling: 5 catches, 85 yards, 2 TDs
- Matt Landers: 2 catches, 49 yards
Defensive Standouts:
- Qwuantrezz Knight: 7 tackles
- Patrick Burke Jr.: 8 tackles
Toronto Argonauts Top Performers
Passing Leaders:
- Tucker Horn: 10/17, 104 yards, 1 TD
- Jarret Doege: 8/13, 93 yards
- Cameron Dukes: 7/11, 62 yards
Rushing Leaders:
- Jyran Mitchell: 7 carries, 106 yards, 1 TD
- Jarret Doege: 6 carries, 39 yards, 1 TD
Receiving Leaders:
- Calvin Turner Jr.: 7 catches, 69 yards, 1 TD
- Marquis McClain: 3 catches, 36 yards
Defensive Standouts:
- Stephen Smith: 4 tackles
- Ryder Varga: 4 tackles
Team Statistics
Toronto dominated the statistical battle, outgaining Hamilton 451-273 in total yards. The Argonauts controlled the ground game with 199 rushing yards compared to Hamilton’s 69 yards. Toronto also held significant advantages in first downs (28-15) and time of possession (37:50-22:10).
Hamilton’s biggest statistical edge came in passing efficiency, posting a 116.9 rating compared to Toronto’s 87.3. The Tiger-Cats also converted all three red zone opportunities into touchdowns, while Toronto managed just two touchdowns in three red zone trips.
Special Teams Impact
The kicking game proved crucial for Toronto’s victory. While Hamilton’s Eric Maximuik connected on both extra point attempts, the Argonauts received consistent production from multiple kickers. Hajrullahu made 1-of-2 field goal attempts, while Gachuz Lozada delivered when it mattered most, converting both of his field goal tries including the game-sealing 43-yarder.
Looking Ahead
With the preseason now complete, both teams shift their focus to final roster decisions and regular season preparation. Toronto’s offensive versatility, demonstrated by productive performances from three different quarterbacks, provides head coach Ryan Dinwiddie with multiple options as he finalizes his depth chart.
Hamilton showed flashes of explosive potential, particularly in the passing game where Powell and Bruggeling developed strong chemistry. However, the Tiger-Cats will need to address their rushing defense, which surrendered nearly 200 yards on the ground.
Both teams open the 2025 CFL regular season on June 5th, with final rosters due before the league’s 111th campaign officially begins.
