Offensive Struggles and Triumphs for the Redblacks
In a game that tested resilience and endurance, the Hamilton Tiger-Cats overcame the Ottawa Redblacks with a final score of 21-13. While the Tiger-Cats displayed their dominance, the Redblacks fought hard, despite suffering a significant setback in their offensive lineup.
Ottawa’s starting quarterback Jeremiah Masoli suffered a non-contact lower body injury in the second quarter. This unfortunate event led to backup quarterback Dustin Crum taking the reins. Crum, while trying to step up under pressure, threw for 149 yards with no touchdowns and two interceptions. In addition to his passing contribution, he also added 91 yards on the ground and scored the only Redblacks’ touchdown.
Redblacks running back De’Montre Tuggle added 30 yards on 11 carries, adding solidity to the rushing game. The receiving corps led by Jalen Hardy, who caught seven passes for 58 yards, did its best to support the passing game. Jaelon Acklin, Savon Scarver, Steve Siaosi, and Nathaniel Behar contributed a combined 115 yards to the aerial attack.
Redblacks Defense Stands Tall
On the defensive front, Ottawa Redblacks showcased a formidable unit. Linebacker Tyron Vrede led the team with an impressive 11 defensive tackles. Frankie Griffin, Adam Auclair, Damon Webb, and Brandin Dandridge also offered significant contributions with a combined 18 defensive tackles.
Defensive tackles Cleyon Laing and Lorenzo Mauldin IV managed to exert pressure on the Tiger-Cats quarterback, each registering a sack. However, the secondary was unable to capitalize on these pressures with no interceptions throughout the game.
Tiger-Cats Roar to Victory
For the Tiger-Cats, backup quarterback Matthew Shiltz took center stage, throwing for 233 yards, one touchdown, and one interception. The rushing game was dominated by James Butler, who ground out 62 yards on 17 carries.
In the air, Shiltz found a favourite target in Richard Sindani, who hauled in 7 receptions for 59 yards. D’haquille Williams, Kiondre Smith, Terry Godwin, and Butler added a combined 103 yards, offering variety to the aerial attack.
Dominant Defense by Tiger-Cats
The defense of the Tiger-Cats rose to the occasion, effectively stalling the Redblacks’ offense. Linebacker Jeremiah Thurman led the team with nine defensive tackles and two sacks. Fellow linebacker Simoni Lawrence had four tackles, one interception, and two knockdowns.
Hamilton’s secondary, led by Richard Leonard and Chris Edwards, put on a commendable performance, providing stiff resistance to Ottawa’s passing attack. Defensive ends Malik Carney and Mason Bennett also added pressure with one sack each.
Despite a valiant fight, the Redblacks were unable to overcome the Tiger-Cats’ superior offensive and defensive performance. As Ottawa regroups to address their shortcomings, the Tiger-Cats relish a well-deserved victory.
