When they last faced off in Week 8, the Tiger-Cats stomped the REDBLACKS 24-7. The Ottawa REDBLACKS have undergone many changes since that time.

For the REDBLACKS they have rookie quarterback Caleb Evans under center, who is now the leader on the team for passing yards, touchdowns, interceptions. Playing in only 4 games he has recorded 795 yards, 4 touchdowns, 7 interceptions, with a 57.8 completion percentage on 109 attempts. The Tiger-Cats are being led by 8-year vet Jeremiah Masoli, a CFL East All-Star and Hamilton’s Most Outstanding Player in 2018. Masoli has recorded 961 passing yards, 3 touchdowns, 4 interceptions, and a 66.7 completion percentage on 132 attempts.

Ottawa is entering this game as massive underdogs, as they are ranked last in both defence and offence. REDBLACKS starting running back Timothy Flanders is ranked #11 across the league’s running backs and star wideout Ryan Davis is ranked #10 amongst fellow wide receivers. Hamilton enters this game #6 in total offence and #7 in total defence, which is a surprise coming from a team who played in the last Grey Cup. Sean Thomas Erlington, Hamilton’s running back, is right above Flanders from Ottawa at #10. The Tiger-Cats starting wideout, Jaelon Acklin, falls at #18 across the league with Ottawa’s Ryan Davis and RJ Harris above him.

Some key matchups to watch:

• Caleb Evans vs Jeremiah Masoli: It would seem Evans has more skilled players to work with, but Masoli is a more polished passer. Each team’s offense is going to rely heavy on their quarterback.
• Ottawa’s Defence vs Hamilton’s Offence: In order to keep themselves from being stuck in the basement of the CFL, the REDBLACKS defence needs to take that next step. Shutting down Hamilton won’t be easy, but if they can shut down Masoli’s air attack and force the ground game, they have a shot.
• Sean Thomas Erlington vs REDBLACKS D-Line: Being ranked last can give the opponent some confidence, which is why the defensive line needs to brirng the pressure. Praise Marrtin-Oguike leads the team in sacks with 4, so hopefully he can rally the troops by getting behind the line.

Unless Ottawa can pull a rabbit out of a hat, the Tiger-Cats are going to take the win here. This is easily a trap game, so expect it to be close.

Final Prediction: HAM 27 – OTT 14

The Hamilton Tiger-Cats (4-5) will be hosting the Ottawa REDBLACKS (2-8) on Saturday October 23rd, kick off will be at 4:00 PM EST.