Hamilton Tiger-Cats Rally to Victory in Overtime

The Hamilton Tiger-Cats mounted a significant comeback to claim a 32-29 overtime victory against the B.C. Lions in a dramatic Canadian Football League (CFL) game on Friday night. Running back Ante Milanovic-Litre scored a decisive one-yard touchdown run after a controversial pass interference penalty on B.C.’s Ronald Kent Jr. in the end zone extended Hamilton’s drive.

The Tiger-Cats overcame a 16-point deficit, scoring two late touchdowns in regulation to secure their fourth consecutive win. Starting with just over five minutes remaining, quarterback Bo Levi Mitchell connected with Kiondre Smith for a six-yard touchdown, narrowing the Lions’ lead to 23-18. Following a defensive stop, Mitchell orchestrated another successful drive, culminating in a 10-yard touchdown pass to Brendan O’Leary-Orange, with a successful two-point conversion giving Hamilton a 26-23 advantage.

B.C. Lions’ quarterback Nathan Rourke managed to bring the game into overtime with a last-minute drive ending in a 12-yard field goal by Sean Whyte. In overtime, the Lions secured a 29-26 lead with a 24-yard field goal by Whyte.

Despite the lead, the Lions’ defense could not stop Hamilton. A contentious pass interference review allowed the Tiger-Cats another opportunity, which they capitalized on to score the winning touchdown. “They were making plays at a faster level than we were,” remarked Lions’ head coach Rick Campbell, expressing disappointment after the loss.

Hamilton’s offensive standout, Bo Levi Mitchell, completed 34 of 40 passes for 309 yards and two touchdowns, though he also threw an interception. The Lions, led by Nathan Rourke, recorded two rushing touchdowns and passed for 264 yards with Rourke completing 22 of 36 attempts.

The Lions’ initial control of the game, which included touchdowns and field goals by Sean Whyte, proved insufficient in the face of Hamilton’s late offensive surge. “I mean, long story short, as a defense, we need to make plays down the stretch,” admitted Lions’ defender T.J. Lee.

William Stanback, B.C.’s running back, achieved over 1,000 rushing yards for the season, marking a personal milestone with 105 yards on 15 carries during the game. Despite individual successes, the Lions were unable to secure a crucial home victory and remain in second place in the CFL West division.

This thrilling match also coincided with Canada’s National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, where B.C. players donned special jerseys in support of reconciliation charities. Hamilton looks ahead to hosting the Winnipeg Blue Bombers, while the Lions will face the Calgary Stampeders in their next outings.