As the voting for the Tiger-Cats All-Time Team continues, this week fans must determine the greatest Ticats running backs in history. With some truly great players being considered, only by voting can fans ensure that their choices are picked for the final squad.
The Nominees
Willie Bethea
One of the most recognizable names when it comes to Ticats running backs, Bethea played in Hamilton for eight seasons, appearing in 90 games. His 3,919 rushing yards rank third in team history and his 781 carries are second only to Troy Davis. Bethea helped lead the Black and Gold to four Grey Cup berths, winning three championships.
Troy Davis
One of the most decorated running backs in Ticats history, Davis owns no less than five franchise records when it comes to running the ball. His unforgettable 233-yard performance on Labour Day in 2004 ranks as one of the greatest moments in ivor Wynne history. He would finish the 2004 season with 1,628 rushing yards, another team record.
Jimmy Edwards
Despite only playing three seasons in Hamilton, Edwards made the most of his time in Black and Gold. Selected as an East Division All-Star each of his three seasons, Edwards took the league by storm in 1977 after he set what was then a team record with 1,581 rushing yards. The CFL’s Most Outstanding Player that year, Edwards’ single-season record would stand for 27 years.
Dave Fleming
One of the most durable backs in team history, Dave Fleming played in an impressive 130 games over ten seasons in Hamilton. A certified dual-threat back, Fleming racked up over 3,000 yards on the ground and through the air in his career. Teamed in the backfield with Willie Bethea for many years, Fleming won three Grey Cups over his career in Hamilton.
Cookie Gilchrist
Even in today’s CFL, the 6-3, 249-pound Gilchrist would be considered a monster of a ball-carrier. Gilchrist played in 28 games over his two seasons in Black and Gold and was selected as an East Division All-Star in each season. He was twice nominated by the team for Most Outstanding Player and his tough running style helped lead the team to a Grey Cup win in 1957.
Andy Hopkins
A very productive player as a Tiger-Cat, Hopkins rushed for 2,629 yards over his three seasons in Hamilton and added 13 rushing touchdowns during that time. He was selected as an East Division All-Star twice as a member of the Black and Gold and ranks 7th all-time in career rushing yards. Hopkins was twice nominated by the team for Most Outstanding Player.
Gerry McDougall
McDougall played in an impressive 95 games over his seven seasons in Hamilton during two seperate stints. His penchant for finding the end zone made him a major figure in Ticat lore, amassing 29 rushing touchdowns over his career, the third-highest total in team history. His 4, 270 yards are the second-most by a Ticat running back and helped carry the team to five Grey Cup berths, winning two.
Ronald Williams
A veritable touchdown machine in his time with the Ticats, Williams played an integral role in Hamilton’s offence, providing balance to one of the league’s most high-powered attacks. Not only are his 43 career rushing touchdowns a team record, but Williams owns each of the top three seasons in team history in terms of finding the end zone. He was selected as an East Division All-Star three times and helped lead the team to a Grey Cup championship in 1999.
Who are your two choices? Visit the All-Time Tiger-Cats site and vote now!
