Ticats in a must-win situation

A few weeks ago the Hamilton Tiger-Cats were entering their final stretch of 5 games – all against eastern rivals – that was going to tell the tale of their season.

The Ticats have gone 1-2 in the first 3 games, and now have to win both of their remaining games against Ottawa and Montreal to make the playoffs.

Team meetings among the Ticats are rare. And while Kent Austin couldn’t be seen or heard, you could guess what his message was.

Quarterback Zach Collaros (24/36, 335 yds, 3 TD and 1 interception vs the Argos): “He said a few words. We know what’s going on, he knows we know, so he didn’t have to say much.”

In Saturday’s game there were errors in judgement, preventable penalties that have plagued the team all season, and missed opportunities that continue to haunt some players.

Coach Kent Austin: “They say it comes down to a handful of plays in a close game to determine the game and we didn’t make enough plays.”

Statistically, Collaros kept pace with Ricky Ray. Both completed exactly 24 of 36 attempts, Collaros threw for a few more yards at 335, and a couple more touchdowns, for a total of 3.

Collaros acknowledges they were neck-and-neck in almost every category. “Except for the win column right? The most important thing is the wins and they beat us 2 out of 3 times, and they have the tie-breaker …that’s any true competitor.”

With Andy Fantuz still a question mark, and C.J. Gable “still” not well enough to play, a few more players sat out today’s practice, but Austin assured reporters they weren’t serious injuries, and should be okay for the second-last game of the regular season, Friday night in Ottawa.

“They’re re-focused, they’re ready to play. They know what’s in front of them, but we’ve been like that most of the year I think.”