HAMILTON – A breathtaking grab from Keric Wheatfall and the unexpected brilliance of quarterback Tre Ford propelled the Hamilton Tiger-Cats to a dramatic 26-19 victory over the reigning Grey Cup champion Saskatchewan Roughriders on Saturday night. The decisive Tiger-Cats win at Hamilton Stadium was more than just another notch in the standings; it marked a pivotal turning point for a team desperate to regain its footing.
Midway through a tense fourth quarter, as the game hung precariously in the balance, the 27-year-old wide receiver stretched every inch of his 6-foot-1 frame to snatch a slightly overthrown pass. The resulting go-ahead touchdown was nothing short of spectacular, a moment he dedicated silently to his late Grandma Rose. “This one was kind of special to me because I lost my grandma last week,” Wheatfall shared, his voice tinged with emotion. “I missed the funeral yesterday, and yeah, this was all for her.” His nine catches for 108 yards underscored a truly impactful performance.
The hard-fought win snapped the Tiger-Cats’ three-game losing streak, moving them to a 4-6 record and delivering their first triumph over Saskatchewan since 2023. This outcome undoubtedly sends a ripple of renewed confidence through the Hamilton locker room.
Ford Ignites Tiger-Cats Win from Backup Role
Harrison Frost’s early touchdown pass to Myron Mitchell had given Hamilton a slender lead, but an upper-body injury forced him from the game. Enter Canadian quarterback Tre Ford, and the narrative instantly shifted. Coach Scott Milanovich, witnessing Ford’s “terrific week” of practice, was quick to laud his preparation. “Tre worked his ass off this week,” Milanovich stated emphatically. “He was in there early… I could hear Tre behind me saying the play, doing the read. So he was prepared when the opportunity came up, and I thought he did an amazing job.” Ford completed 13 of 17 passes for 151 yards and added 38 rushing yards on four carries, confounding the Roughriders’ vaunted defense with his mobility.
The University of Waterloo alumnus demonstrated remarkable professionalism, a quality he attributes to his five years in the CFL. “I got benched, but I’m not gonna boo hoo or whatever,” Ford remarked, highlighting his team-first mentality. “I go out there to practice with my teammates, try to give him the best looks I can.” His seamless transition into the starting role, ensuring the Tiger-Cats win, was a testament to his dedication.
Milanovich, always candid, expressed his hope that this stirring performance signals a strong second half of the season for his squad. “We’re not as bad a football team as y’all think we are,” he asserted, adding that the team’s unwavering belief through adversity had finally been rewarded. Fans can delve deeper into league statistics and player profiles on the official website of the Canadian Football League.
Looking ahead, the Roughriders prepare to face the B.C. Lions on Sunday, Aug. 23, while the Tiger-Cats will visit the Toronto Argonauts on Saturday, Aug. 22.
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