A thrilling Eastern Final went right down to the wire as José Maltos Díaz delivered a dramatic walk-off field goal to crown the Montreal Alouettes as East Division Champions.
1. Davis Alexander’s Composure Under Pressure
Even though it wasn’t his flashiest performance, quarterback Davis Alexander once again showed poise when it mattered most. He engineered a decisive game-winning drive in the final minutes, completing key passes to Charleston Rambo to set up the winning field goal. His leadership helped maintain Montreal’s undefeated record with him as a starter.
2. A Dominant Defensive Effort
The Alouettes’ defence was the real star, consistently frustrating Bo Levi Mitchell and the Tiger-Cats’ offence. They held Hamilton scoreless for much of the first half, forced an interception near the end zone, and kept their composure during long drives. Their physicality and discipline prevented big plays throughout the game.
3. Jose Maltos Diaz’s Clutch Kicking
Kicker Jose Maltos Diaz proved to be the difference-maker, hitting multiple field goals — including the 45-yard game-winner as time expired. His calm execution under pressure sealed the victory for Montreal.
4. Hamilton’s Costly Penalties
The Tiger-Cats hurt themselves with untimely penalties, particularly late in the first half when an unsportsmanlike conduct call on Jordan Murray pushed them out of scoring range. Those mistakes killed momentum and gave the Alouettes crucial field position.
5. Mental Toughness and Game Management
Montreal never trailed in the contest and showed excellent game control and resilience, even after surrendering a late touchdown. Their ability to respond immediately and close out tight games highlights their championship mentality.
Díaz’s clutch kick sealed a 19-16 victory over the Hamilton Tiger-Cats, booking Montreal’s ticket to the 112th Grey Cup in Winnipeg. Every point proved vital in a tense defensive battle, with Davis Alexander’s mobility and composure leading key scoring drives, while the Alouettes’ defence stood firm against Hamilton’s late push.
Here are three key stats that defined Montreal’s win in the Eastern Final:
64 – Davis Alexander’s Rushing Yards
Alexander led the team in rushing with 64 yards on seven carries, showing his ability to create plays with his legs. A week after Stevie Scott III’s 100-yard outing, it was the quarterback who stepped up on the ground—scrambling for key first downs and setting up scoring opportunities, including Maltos Díaz’s crucial field goal in the fourth quarter.
2 – Scores on Either Side of Half-Time
The Alouettes grabbed a vital field goal before halftime following a tough 21-yard catch from Tyler Snead, then struck again early in the third quarter as Snead hauled in a touchdown to open up the game’s only major score. Those back-to-back drives proved decisive, ensuring Díaz’s late kick sealed the win rather than just forcing overtime.
1 – Game-Winning Drive
With the defence halting Bo Levi Mitchell’s final push, Davis Alexander got one last chance to deliver. Charleston Rambo’s crucial 19-yard reception put Montreal within range, setting the stage for Díaz’s 45-yard game-winning field goal as time expired — a strike that sent the Alouettes back to the Grey Cup after missing out last season.
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