Date/Location: Friday, October 18 / Tim Hortons Field, Hamilton, Ontario Kickoff Time: 7:00 PM ET, 4:00 PM PT Channel: TSN (Canada), CBS Sports Network (USA), CFL+ (Global)
Odds
Spread: Hamilton Tiger-Cats -2 (-110), Calgary Stampeders +2 (-110) Moneyline: Hamilton Tiger-Cats -130, Calgary Stampeders +110 Over/Under: 51 (Over -110, Under -110)
Overview
The Hamilton Tiger-Cats (6-10) host the Calgary Stampeders (4-11) in a Week 20 matchup between two teams already eliminated from playoff contention. While the postseason is out of reach, both squads are looking to build momentum heading into a critical offseason. The Tiger-Cats aim for their fifth win in six games, while the Stampeders seek to snap a nine-game losing streak dating back to Week 9.
Key Players
Bo Levi Mitchell (QB, Hamilton) 4,576 passing yards, 26 TDs, 16 INTs Leads CFL in passing yards and touchdowns
Tim White (WR, Hamilton) 67 receptions, 998 yards, 6 TDs 2 yards shy of third straight 1,000-yard season
Matt Shiltz (QB, Calgary) 314 passing yards, 2 TDs, 1 INT in first start last week 90 rushing yards on 7 attempts
Reggie Begelton (WR, Calgary) 85 receptions, 1,073 yards, 4 TDs Third career 1,000-yard season
Keys to the Game
Hamilton’s Aerial Attack The Tiger-Cats boast the league’s top passing offense, led by Bo Levi Mitchell. Exploiting Calgary’s 25th-ranked pass defense will be crucial.
Calgary’s Ground Game With the Stampeders’ passing game still finding its rhythm, a strong rushing attack against Hamilton’s 25th-ranked run defense could be key.
Turnover Battle Both teams have struggled with giveaways this season. Whichever squad can protect the ball and force turnovers will have a significant advantage.
Special Teams Impact In a close matchup, field position and special teams play could be the difference-maker. Both teams will look to gain an edge in the return game.
Injury Report
Depth Chart
Score Prediction
Hamilton Tiger-Cats 32 – Calgary Stampeders 10
The Tiger-Cats’ high-powered passing attack, led by Bo Levi Mitchell, should be able to exploit the Stampeders’ vulnerable secondary. While Calgary may find success on the ground, Hamilton’s home-field advantage and recent momentum give them the edge in what should be a competitive contest. Expect the Tiger-Cats to cover the narrow spread in a game that falls just over the total.
Mark Perry is the founder and editor of CFL News Hub. A dedicated and experienced football analyst, he has been providing comprehensive coverage of the sport since 2018.