THE CANADIAN PRESS
HAMILTON, Ont. – The much-hyped Hamilton debut of wide receiver Arland Bruce III didn’t amount to much on the stats sheet.
Bruce managed one punt return for five yards and one kick return for 18 yards, but was satisfied to be on the field for a win as the Tiger-Cats beat the B.C. Lions 30-18 on Friday.
“Victory,” he responded when asked how he felt about his outing on Friday night in which the Ticats improved their record to 3-2 in front of 20,103 at Ivor Wynne Stadium. “I’m part of a winning team already”.
Bruce was dealt to Hamilton from the Toronto Argonauts on Wednesday, giving him just two days to get a feel for the offence. Because of that, he got little attention from quarterback Quinton Porter.
“It’s still early,” he said. “This is step one. Just getting me involved in special teams and on the offence somewhat. It’s a stepping stone”.
Bruce said he felt like “a tiger in a cage” being let loose when the game started, but understands it’s going to take some time to work his way into the offence to the point where he can really contribute. And he’s particularly excited about working with young quarterback Porter.
“The quarterback is amazing,” he said. “Six-five. The guy can move. He can throw the ball accurately. I’m looking forward to that.”
Head coach Marcel Bellefeuille said just Bruce’s presence on the field helped Hamilton. He drew some double coverage that gave other receivers more room. And he confirmed Bruce’s role will increase, especially with the versatility he provides as a receiver and on special teams as a punt and kick returner.
“The more he learns and the more he gets (acclimatized), the more his role will definitely increase,” Bellefeuille said.
