Saskatchewan Roughriders (9-4) vs Hamilton Tiger-Cats (7-6)

Saturday, November 20th, 2021 4:00PM EST @ Tim Hortons Field

Can the Tiger-Cats Stay Focused?

Thanks to the Redblacks last-second win over the Alouettes, Hamilton will have home-field advantage for the East Division semifinal. The team is currently only one game above .500, and a loss today would put them at 7-7. It’s important to go into this game strong, and finish the same way they started. 

Key Matchups

Isaac Harker vs. Jeremiah Masoli

Masoli has been up-and-down over the past few weeks, and one of his bad days came against the Argos with the Eastern title on the line. He did have over 300 yards in that game, but threw two interceptions that ultimately put the contest out of reach. Saskatchewan will be resting a few key players, including quarterback Cody Fajardo. Isaac Harker, who joined the team in 2019, will get the start. Through his CFL career, Harker has completed 44 of 61 passes for 467 yards and 3 interceptions. Hopefully, Masoli will be able to perform better than his inexperienced opponent. 

Duke Williams vs. Brandon Banks

Last week, Saskatchewan wideout Duke Williams had quite the day, catching 8 passes for 146 yards and a touchdown. Hamilton’s Brandon Banks has yet to have a similar performance this season, but everyone knows he’s capable of doing it. Only time will tell who the best receiver in this matchup is, but a safe bet can be placed on either of these guys. 

Deon Lacey vs. Simoni Lawrence

Last week against the Elks, Saskatchewan linebacker Deon Lacey had 6 tackles and a sack. He’ll look to have a similar performance this week against Hamilton. Simoni Lawrence, on the other hand, has continued to be a dominant force, and is arguably one of the CFL’s best linebackers. Lacey is facing strong competition if he wants to be the best at his position during the matchup, but anything can happen in the last week of the season. 

Injury Report

Saskatchewan Roughriders

OL – Brett Boyko – OUT (calf)

OL – Micah Teitz – OUT (thigh)

RB – William Powell – OUT (NIR)

LB – Nigel Harris – OUT (knee)

DB – Loucheiz Purifoy – OUT (ankle)

DL – Micah Johnson – OUT (NFR)

DL – Anthony Lanier II – OUT (ribs)

Hamilton Tiger-Cats

QB – David Watford – OUT (healthy scratch)

OL – Travis Vornkahl – OUT (shoulder)

RB – Wes Hills – OUT (healthy scratch)

DB – Desmond Lawrence – OUT (shoulder)

LB – Kyle Wilson – OUT (healthy scratch)

Summary

Saskatchewan will be without a few of their best players, making this game one that Hamilton should win with ease If they don’t, there could be a lack of momentum heading into the playoffs.