Tiger-Cats edge out Argonauts
The Hamilton Tiger-Cats claimed a narrow 24-23 victory over the Toronto Argonauts on Saturday at Hamilton Stadium. The game concluded dramatically when Lirim Hajrullahu‘s 31-yard field goal attempt for Toronto sailed wide as time expired, preventing a late Argonauts comeback.
The Argonauts had mounted a drive late in the game, led by quarterback Chad Kelly, to get into position for a potential game-winning kick. However, Hajrullahu’s miss sealed the win for Hamilton, bringing an end to a back-and-forth second half where Toronto nearly overcame a 14-point deficit.
Toronto initiated the scoring on their first possession, with Kelly guiding the offense downfield, culminating in a one-yard quarterback sneak by Nick Arbuckle. Hamilton responded with quarterback Tre Ford, who demonstrated his mobility throughout the evening. Ford connected with Kenny Lawler for a 25-yard touchdown and then led another drive that ended with Ante Milanovic-Litre scoring a one-yard touchdown, giving the Tiger-Cats a 14-7 lead at halftime.
Hamilton appeared to take control in the third quarter after Jamal Peters intercepted Kelly, setting up a touchdown drive that concluded with Jake Dolegala‘s one-yard sneak. Toronto answered with Kelly’s five-yard touchdown pass to David Ungerer III, but Marc Liegghio extended Hamilton’s lead with a field goal.
Late game drama and key performances
The visitors launched a final comeback attempt in the fourth quarter. Kelly orchestrated another lengthy drive, which resulted in Arbuckle’s second one-yard rushing touchdown of the night. However, Hajrullahu’s missed convert kept Hamilton ahead 24-23.
After both defenses forced punts, Toronto received one last opportunity with less than two minutes remaining. Kelly made several crucial plays, including an improvised scramble to his left before delivering a pass to Damonte Coxie, who made a 29-yard catch along the sideline. The veteran quarterback also broke free for an 18-yard run, moving the Argonauts into field-goal range. Despite these efforts, Hajrullahu’s 31-yard attempt went wide as time expired, securing Hamilton’s one-point victory.
Ford was effective for Hamilton, completing 21 of 27 passes for 218 yards, including one touchdown and one interception. His mobility helped extend plays and contributed to the Tiger-Cats’ offense. He also added 109 rushing yards on 10 carries. This performance helped the Tiger-Cats improve their record to 3-3.
Kelly finished the game completing 25 of 35 passes for 322 yards, one touchdown, and one interception. He also made several key scrambles that kept Toronto’s comeback hopes alive. Despite his efforts, the Argonauts’ record fell to 2-4.
Ford made a start for the Hamilton Tiger-Cats in this game. He joined Hamilton as a free agent this off-season. Prior to this, he had made 23 career CFL starts with the Edmonton Elks. Hamilton head coach Scott Milanovich indicated that the team was looking for a “spark” with the change at quarterback, noting Ford’s different skill set.
Upcoming schedule for both teams
The Argonauts are scheduled to travel to BC to face the Lions in Week 8 on Saturday. This will be the first meeting between the two teams this season. Their last encounter was in Week 17 of 2025, where the Lions secured a 27-22 victory.
Meanwhile, the Tiger-Cats will head to Montreal to play the Alouettes on Sunday. This will be the second meeting between these East Division rivals this season; Montreal previously won their Week 1 matchup with a score of 30-27.
Toronto was without several players for the game, including returner/receiver Janarion Grant due to a knee injury and punter John Haggerty with a hamstring injury. Canadian linebacker Cameron Judge also missed his second consecutive start due to head and hamstring issues. Global James Burnip, recently acquired from Ottawa, replaced Haggerty.
Wynton McManis, a veteran Hamilton linebacker, faced his former team for the first time. McManis had previously helped Toronto win two Grey Cups during his four seasons there before joining the Tiger-Cats in the off-season. He has recorded 10 tackles and an interception in two games.
The CFL and CFLPA were monitoring air quality conditions in Hamilton leading up to the game. Despite earlier concerns, there was optimism regarding game-day conditions due to wind gusts and a chance of afternoon rain.
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Source: cfl.ca
