Calgary and Hamilton Victory Strategies Revealed for WestJet Thanksgiving Weekend Showdown
Hamilton Tiger-Cats Set Sights on East Division Crown Against Calgary Stampeders
Key Strategies for Hamilton Tiger-Cats
As the Hamilton Tiger-Cats prepare to secure the East Division crown, their recent form gives them an edge. With a solid 47-29 triumph over the Toronto Argonauts pushing them to a 10-6 record, the Ticats are determined to clinch the first-place finish. Quarterback Bo Levi Mitchell is pivotal, bringing momentum with impressive statistics, such as an average of 12.8 yards per completion against the Argos. He will face a formidable Calgary secondary full of experienced players, which will test his skill and strategy.
Red Zone Opportunities Against Calgary’s Defense
Capitalizing in the red zone will be crucial for Hamilton, especially against a Calgary team that allows the fewest plays within the 20-yard line. The coordinated efforts of Mitchell and running back Greg Bell are essential for making scoring count when opportunities arise. Head coach Scott Milanovich will rely on these key players to outmaneuver Calgary’s defense.
Defensive Play: Targeting Calgary’s Offense
Hamilton’s defensive unit will need to replicate their eight-sack performance from their game against Toronto. Focus will be on disrupting Calgary’s quarterback Vernon Adams Jr. and running back Dedrick Mills. Defensive lineman Julian Howsare is expected to spearhead the charge at the line of scrimmage, hindering Calgary’s offensive rhythm.
Challenges Ahead for Calgary Stampeders
The Calgary Stampeders, meanwhile, are striving to end a four-game losing streak and secure their playoff positioning. They face the Hamilton Tiger-Cats on Saturday afternoon equipped with a mix of talent and challenge.
Stavros Katsantonis: Defensive Threat
Vernon Adams Jr. must account for Hamilton’s defensive back Stavros Katsantonis, who is motivated after a three-interception showcase against Toronto. With Adams Jr. having been intercepted three times in a single game recently, his awareness and decision-making will be under scrutiny.
Diversified Receiving Challenges
Despite struggles, Adams Jr. has managed to distribute the ball efficiently across the field. Receiver Erik Brooks is in form after a standout game against BC, supported by Damien Alford, Clark Barnes, and Jalen Philpot as offensive options.
Discipline: A Focus for Calgary
Team discipline remains a crucial factor for Calgary, with penalty yards being a significant challenge. With over 1,000 yards in penalties this season, both sides of the ball will need to minimize errors to prevent handing Hamilton any extra advantage.
Match Details: The encounter takes place at Hamilton Stadium, with kickoff scheduled for 3:00 p.m. ET. Viewers can watch the game live on TSN, RDS, and CTV in Canada, with international streaming available on CFL+.
Injury updates reveal Calgary will be without starters such as offensive lineman D’Antne Demery and safety Damon Webb, influencing game dynamics against Hamilton’s home record of 4-3. Conversely, Calgary stands at 3-4 for road games. As these two teams last clashed with Calgary emerging victorious in Week 1, the rematch promises thrilling competition for fans.
