Wheatfall's late touchdown lifts Tiger-Cats over Roughriders

Keric Wheatfall delivered a crucial go-ahead touchdown catch midway through the fourth quarter, igniting the Hamilton Tiger-Cats to a 26-19 win against the Saskatchewan Roughriders. The 27-year-old receiver's remarkable play was more than just a game-changer; it was a personal tribute. Wheatfall revealed the touchdown was dedicated to his grandmother, Rose, who passed away the previous week. "This one was special to me because I lost my grandma last week," Wheatfall shared, explaining his emotional gesture of looking to the sky after scoring.

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This one was special to me because I lost my grandma last week.

The victory ended a three-game losing streak for the Tiger-Cats (4-6) and marked their first win against the defending Grey Cup champions since 2023. Wheatfall was instrumental, recording nine catches for 108 yards. The team also benefited from the strong performance of quarterback Tre Ford. Starter Harrison Frost left the game with an upper-body injury, prompting head coach Scott Milanovich to call on Ford. Ford, a Canadian quarterback, impressed by completing 13 of 17 passes for 151 yards and adding 38 rushing yards, effectively challenging the Roughriders' defense.

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Tre worked his ass off this week.

Milanovich praised Ford's preparation and execution, noting his dedication during practice. Ford himself expressed his commitment to professionalism, even after being benched earlier. "I got benched, but I'm not gonna boo hoo or whatever," Ford stated. "I go out there to practice with my teammates... Something unfortunate happens to Harrison. I hope he's OK... but I got my name called, and I have to be able to step up and help my teammates." His performance was key to the Tiger-Cats' successful start to the second half of their season.

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I got benched, but I'm not gonna boo hoo or whatever. I go out there to practice with my teammates, try to give him the best looks I can. Something unfortunate happens to Harrison. I hope he's OK. I think he's gonna be fine, but I got my name called, and I have to be able to step up and help my teammates and other guys who were putting the work in, day in and day out. So I'm happy to get to win for them.