The Calgary Stampeders’ 37-20 victory over Hamilton might have been their biggest win of the season.

First of all, it snapped their concerning 4-game losing streak.

Secondly, it kept them in the running for a first-round home game.

And thirdly, it helped them get their swagger back. This version of the Stampeders looked like one that can make a run a the title.

Let’s take a look at how they did it.

The Real Calgary Stampeders Defense

For over a month, the Stamps’ defense looked like a complete pushover. Teams scored almost at will. Thankfully, that seems to be over.

Calgary managed to hold a good Hamilton offense to just 20 points. They also managed to generate 4 takeaways (2 interceptions and 2 downs).

It wasn’t all about the result, though; it was about how the game felt. The defense flew around and played aggressively like they believed in themselves. They will need more of that moving forward if they want to finish the season strong.

What the Calgary Stampeders’ Offense Should Be

37 points is a strong offensive day. But it’s how they did it that was so exciting.

Their run game put up an amazing 211 yards rushing.

Dedrick Mills showed why he’s the CFL’s top rusher, but didn’t do it alone:

• Dedrick Mills: 17 carries, 105 yards, 2 TDs
• Ludovick Choquette: 7 carries, 73 yards, 1 TD
• Vernon Adams Jr.: 3 carries, 29 yards

The rookie Choquette, having a breakout game, is scary for teams across the league. The Calgary Stampeders have multiple legit weapons in the run game.

It was also nice to see VA make some plays with his legs. He took the yards that were there and then got down without taking unnecessary hits.

Speaking of VA, he also took care of the ball, which he struggled to do during the recent losing streak. He also makes enough plays through the air to keep drives going.

Overall, this game offered up a legitimate path to success for the Stampeders going forward.

• Play aggressive defense
• Take care of the ball
• Lean on a punishing run game

Rene Paredes

When playoff time rolls around, scores get closer and closer. In fact, one kick could be the difference between extending your season or going home early.

That’s what made it nice to see Rene Paredes look like himself again.

I’m not saying that he’s had a bad season, per se, but I am saying that it hasn’t been his best.

Before the game against Hamilton, Paredes was 30/37 on field goals (81%). That’s well below what he did last season (93.2%) and his career average (87.5%).

This week, Paredes was 5/6 on field goals and 2/2 on extra points. His lone miss was from 54 yards.

Paredes will only get more important as the regular season draws to a close, so Calgary Stampeders fans are hoping he has more magic in his leg.