HAMILTON — A relentless downpour and a sloppy, penalty-filled afternoon set the stage for the first look at Ontario’s classic football rivalry in 2026. Ultimately, it was a dominant second-half performance that allowed the visiting Toronto Argonauts to walk away with a 20-10 victory over the Hamilton Tiger-Cats at Hamilton Stadium.
Rountree Sparks Early Ticats Lead
The game began with plenty of energy despite the cold, wet conditions. Hamilton running back Larry Rountree III ignited the home crowd early in the first quarter. The former NFL and UFL rusher broke free for an explosive 46-yard touchdown run to give the Tiger-Cats an early edge. Rountree was a major bright spot for Hamilton’s offense, finishing the day with a game-high 86 yards on just nine carries.
The first half also featured a highly anticipated return for Toronto quarterback Chad Kelly. Making his first game appearance since suffering a severe leg injury in the 2024 East Division Final, Kelly took the opening snaps to test his recovery before the team turned the game over to their younger depth chart.
Hicks Takes Over in the Second Half
Trailing 7-0 at the break, the Argonauts found their footing on the slippery turf and outscored Hamilton 20-3 in the final two frames.
The star of the comeback was running back Sam Hicks.
Hicks systematically wore down the Tiger-Cats’ defensive front, managing 25 yards on five touches and finding the end zone twice, in the third quarter Hicks punched in a nine-yard touchdown scamper to help the Argos claw back, and in the fourth quarter Hicks sealed the game with a four-yard touchdown plunge to put the game out of reach.
Windsor native and 2026 CFL Draft pick Weagbe Mombo also scored for the Argonauts, making his mark with a physical touchdown run that gave Toronto its first lead of the afternoon.
Penalty Troubles Dampen Hamilton’s Night
While exhibition games are designed to work out roster wrinkles, both coaching staffs will find plenty of teaching moments on the game tape—particularly Hamilton’s Scott Milanovich. The Tiger-Cats struggled significantly with discipline, drawing a staggering 11 penalties for 144 lost yards. Toronto was more disciplined but still finished with seven infractions for 73 yards.
Looking Ahead
The two teams will not have to wait long for a rematch. They will conclude their preseason schedules on Friday, May 29, when the Toronto Argonauts play host to the Hamilton Tiger-Cats.