DaShaun Amos and the Hamilton Tiger-Cats are set to benefit from home-field advantage in the upcoming East Division final this Saturday. The team has confirmed that Hamilton Stadium is completely sold out, with fans encouraged to dress in black as they cheer on the Ticats against the Montreal Alouettes. Amos acknowledges the importance of performing well to maintain fan support throughout the game.
Amos emphasized the significance of delivering a top-tier performance to reciprocate the fans’ energy. The team’s success is crucial in keeping the supporters engaged and enthusiastic. Despite the home advantage, Amos recognizes the responsibility that comes with representing Hamilton and is determined to ensure the fans remain on their side.
Having clinched the top spot in the East with an 11-7 record, Hamilton secured home-field advantage for the conference final for the first time since 2019. The Ticats, who last claimed the Grey Cup in 1999, are aiming to end their prolonged championship drought.
On the other hand, Montreal (10-8) is making its fourth consecutive appearance in the division final and eyeing their second Grey Cup berth in three seasons, having clinched the CFL title in 2023.
Amos, a three-time Grey Cup winner with previous stints at Calgary Stampeders and Toronto Argonauts, is relishing the unique atmosphere in Hamilton this season. He expressed the unparalleled energy surrounding the team and anticipated an electrifying experience during the upcoming game.
Despite Hamilton sweeping the regular-season series against Montreal, the Alouettes are early 2.5-point favorites for Saturday’s clash. Quarterback Davis Alexander’s impressive 7-0 record in ’25, including 11 consecutive regular-season victories, has contributed to Montreal’s favorable position. Alexander’s stellar performance in the playoffs last week, coupled with his absence in the previous matchups against Hamilton due to injury, has bolstered Montreal’s confidence.
Ticats linebacker Reggie Stubblefield, a key figure in Montreal’s ’23 Grey Cup triumph, remains focused on the task at hand. Stubblefield emphasized the team’s commitment to executing every play diligently and disregarding external factors such as betting lines and past performances.
Stubblefield expressed his dedication to fulfilling the fans’ expectations, particularly in honor of GM Ted Goveia, who passed away in September. The sentiment of playing for the organization and for the fans resonates deeply with Stubblefield, highlighting his determination to secure victory for Hamilton.
Receiver Tim White, who has consistently excelled with four consecutive 1,000-yard seasons in his tenure with Hamilton, emphasized the team’s readiness for the challenge ahead. Viewing the pressure as a privilege, White sees the upcoming game as a significant opportunity for the Ticats to capitalize on and is optimistic about their prospects for success.