Against the undefeated Argos, rookie quarterback Powell will start for the Ticats.
Tim Hortons Field will host the Toronto Argonauts and Hamilton Tiger-Cats at 7:30 p.m.
Taylor Powell embodied serenity on Thursday.
On Friday night, the rookie quarterback will start his first CFL game when Hamilton (2-3) takes on the Toronto Argonauts (4-0), their bitter rivals. The 24-year-old product of Arkansas did not appear to be experiencing any pre-game nerves or to feel that the event was too large for him after the Tiger-Cats walk-through.
“I think I’m a pretty chill guy, kind of an outdoorsy guy who’s from Arkansas, likes to play football and loves this game,” he stated. “I suppose that’s how my faith and the basis of who I am come to be described.
“That’s taken time and you have to go through some stuff to develop a sense of character and faith. I’m super grateful for my journey and hopefully it’s just getting started.”
Powell played in Hamilton’s 39-27 road win last week in Edmonton, replacing injured starter Matt Shiltz late in the contest. Powell’s first CFL pass was a 17-yard touchdown strike to Tim White as he completed two-of-four passes for 47 yards.
Powell will become Hamilton’s third different starter this season. The Ticats have won two straight while Toronto is the CFL’s only unbeaten team.
On June 18, Toronto defeated Hamilton 32–14 at home to start their Grey Cup defence. Powell is excited to participate in a rivalry game at Tim Hortons Field in addition to taking on the undefeated Argos.
“I like to think I’m a competitor,” he stated. “I’m going to give it my all for my coaches, my squad, and most importantly, this organisation and city.
“I’ll tell you what, I’m simply going to compete my butt off and have some fun. Playing will be a lot of joy for me.”
Powell attended Eastern Michigan, Troy, and Missouri for his college career. His final season at EMU was 2022, during which he completed 174 out of 269 passes (64.6%) for 2,111 yards, 16 touchdowns, and 8 interceptions.
