2014 Grey Cup Recap: The Storybook Ending That Never Was
Written by: Jordon Hall
With under one minute remaining in the game the Hamilton Tiger-Cats defense successfully stopped the Calgary Stampeders offense on a crucial second down, setting up an opportunity for the Ti-Cats to complete their late game comeback in front of over 50,000 fans in order to win the 102nd Grey Cup.
The fate of the team would fall into the hands of wide receiver and all-star kick returner Brandon Banks who returned two kicks for touchdowns in the previous weeks Eastern Conference championship securing Hamilton’s place in the finals. After receiving the long booming punt, Banks headed for the wide-side of the field and with excellent blocking from his teammates was able to race down the sidelines to score once again on a 90 yard punt return culminating what may have been the perfect storybook ending for a Ti-Cats season filled with redemption.
However, all the way back where Banks caught the ball a penalty flag laid on the field. Hamilton was assessed a penalty for an illegal block on the return and absolute devastation set in. Banks sat on the sidelines in disbelief, unable to return to the field in order to play out the final seconds of the game as he was clearly overwhelmed with emotion. As the clock ran down the Stampeders would win by a final score of 20-16 capturing their first Grey Cup since 2008.
Calgary took to the field to celebrate as their first half domination was enough to hold off the comeback attempt from Hamilton. Calgary quarterback and game MVP Bo Levi Mitchell found success throughout the game escaping the pocket while finding open receivers downfield during his numerous scrambles.
Mitchell finished the game completing 25 of 34 pass attempts for 334 yards and an interception. His quick feet and downfield vision in the first half setup two short rushing touchdowns from backup quarterback Drew Tate and the 17-7 halftime lead would turn out to be enough of a head start to secure victory.
Strong red zone defense from Calgary in the second half forced Hamilton into their last ditch return effort and the storybook ending was not to be as the better team throughout the entirety of the game earned the victory and will take the Grey Cup back to Alberta for celebrations.
Jordon Hall is a sports writer and blogger. With a particular love of Canadian football, he is a non-conventional sports fan in Canada. Whether it’s basketball, football or mixed martial arts, Jordon is always ready to join the conversation.
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