Fresh off a clutch 27-24 win over the Ottawa Redblacks last week, Tiger Cats quarterback Taylor Powell has shown continued growth throughout the 2023 season.
Powell, an Eastern Michigan alum, spent time with Frank Reich, Bryce Young and the Carolina Panthers this off-season before signing with Hamilton. He entered the season third on the depth chart behind veterans Bo Levi Mitchell and Matthew Shiltz before injuries to both forced him into action earlier than anyone could have anticipated.
He’s answered the bell.
Over the last four games, Powell has completed 89 of the 123 passes he’s attempted (72.4%) with Scott Milanovich calling the plays.
Against the Redblacks, he competed 21 of 32 passes (65.6%) for 326 yards, a career-high three touchdown passes and zero interceptions.
Wide receiver Tim White hauled in seven passes for 180 yards and two touchdowns. The threat of White in the intermediate to deep eras of the field—and of James Butler in the backfield has helped to facilitate the balanced defensive coverages that Powell has taken advantage of.
His patience, poise in the pocket and touch has proven to be the perfect compliment to an offence that is finding it’s footing at the perfect time—just as the team makes a late season push for playoff contention.
Their next challenge? The 10-3 Winnipeg Blue Bombers, fresh off a 51-6 win over the Saskatchewan Roughriders.
The Ticats kept things competitive in Week 1 vs. the Bombers, eventually falling 42-31. This time, the rematch takes place at Tim Hortons Field. Kickoff is scheduled for Saturday September 16th at 4:00 PM EDT.
Stay tuned.