Preview: Eskimos at Tiger-Cats

6-4

5-5

Home has been very kind to the Ti-Cats this season, as they have won four of their five home games so far, with the lone loss taking place in Week 1.

For Hamilton to get themselves back on the winning track, they will have to do what they did on Labour Day. That means playing disciplined football and making life miserable for the opposing Quarterback.

Hamilton accomplished both those feats against Anthony Calvillo and the Alouettes on Labour Day, but failed to do so in the rematch last Sunday. If the Cats can make life difficult for Ricky Ray, and if they can limit the number of penalties they take, Hamilton will have a recipe for success.

It won't be easy, because the Eskimos – who started the season 5-0, but dropped four of their last five – are starting to get healthy, especially at Receiver. Last week saw the return of All-Star Receiver Fred Stamps, who will just be more dangerous after having a week to get re-acclimated. Adarius Bowman provides Ray with a great second option. The Cats' Secondary will have to play well to stop the Eskimos' Offense.

The key for the Cats is to get Avon Cobourne going. When he is picking up yards on the ground, that opens up the passing game for Kevin Glenn. Getting Cobourne established early will go a long way in helping the Tiger-Cats secure a victory.

Both these teams are looking to get back on track after disappointing Week 11 losses, but for Hamilton, winning at home is the one way that they can still hope to secure a home playoff game. The Cats have been abysmal on the road this season, so holding serve at home will be necessary if they hope to move up in the standings.

That begins by beating the Eskimos at Ivor Wynne on Friday.

For those that can't make it to the game, you can watch it on TSN or listen to it on AM900 CHML. Also, if you're on Twitter, follow Dief on Cats as he gives his one-of-a-kind insight during the games. It's well worth your time.