Last week, the Ottawa Redblacks won their first game under first-year coach Bob Dyce.

On Saturday night, they will get their franchise quarterback into the lineup for the first time in 2023.

Veteran Jeremiah Masoli, who has been out for almost a full calendar year after suffering a broken leg last July 8 in a loss in Saskatchewan, will take his first regular-season snaps since then as Ottawa strives for a second straight win when it visits the Hamilton Tiger-Cats.

Adding spice to the matchup is that Masoli was Hamilton’s quarterback from 2013-18 and in 2021, missing 2019 with a torn ACL and 2020 because the league canceled its season due to COVID-19. But the former star at Oregon and Ole Miss said the past has nothing to do with the immediate present.

“I’m trying to make sure I’m locked in on everything I have to do,” Masoli said. “I’m not trying to indulge in any emotions. I’m just trying to be myself. I’ve grown to love this game so much and I’m thankful to be where I’m at.”

The Redblacks (1-2) are coming off a 26-7 win last week over winless Edmonton, their first home victory in nearly two calendar years.

Meanwhile, the Tiger-Cats (0-3) are off to a tough start. They have allowed 37.3 points per game, permitting at least 32 points in each game. That includes a 38-12 stomping two weeks ago at home against Montreal.

Hamilton’s defense hasn’t always played badly, but it’s been victimized by key turnovers by the offense that have left it defending short fields. And it’s been susceptible at times to big plays.

“It’s not complementary football and that’s contributing to the loss column for sure,” Tiger-Cats coach Orlondo Steinauer said. “Everything contributes to a win and everything contributes to a loss. We need to fix things in all areas.”

Hamilton will have to win with backup quarterback Matt Shiltz under center, thanks to a groin injury to veteran starter Bo Levi Mitchell. Shiltz threw for 345 yards against Montreal but also tossed a late pick-6 to seal the loss.

–Field Level Media