CFL SIM: TIGER-CATS 23 BLUE BOMBERS 12

HAMILTON – The virtual Hamilton Tiger-Cats avenged their loss in the 2019 Grey Cup, knocking off the virtual Winnipeg Blue Bombers 23-12 to close out Week 1 in the CFL SIM season.

In a computer-simulated game on Doug Flutie’s Maximum Football by Nelson Hackewich, Jeremiah Masoli threw for 193 yards, one TD and one INT to lead Hamilton to the victory before a soldout crowd of 23,218 at Tim Hortons Field.

Defense was key for the Tabbies in their home-opener as they picked off Bombers starting QB Zach Collaros twice, including a pick six by Rico Murray in the fourth quarter. Collaros was 18/36 for 250 yards on the day. Drew Wolitarsky was his favourite target, making nine receptions for 88 yards. 2019 Grey Cup MVP and Most Outstanding Canadian Andrew Harris had 51 yards on eight carries including a successful 2-point convert attempt. Justin Medlock was 1/1 on field goals. Linebacker Shayne Gauthier picked off Masoli for the Bombers’ lone takeaway.

Receiver Jaelon Acklin led the Ticats in receiving with 101 yards and a touchdown. Tailback Sean Thomas Erlington carried the ball three times for six yards. Defenders Rico Murray and Tunde Adeleke both came up with interceptions. Kicker Matt White was 3/3 on field goals.

The determined Ticats (1-0) led 7-0 after the first quarter and 10-1 at halftime. They carried a 13-9 lead into the fourth quarter.

Hamilton visits the Toronto Argonauts (1-0) in Week 2, in a 5:00 pm CT kickoff at BMO Field. The Blue Bombers (0-1) have a Week 2 bye.