Josh Love to make first Stampeders start as Vernon Adams recovers from head injury
Calgary hosts Hamilton at McMahon Stadium Saturday with backup Josh Love under centre for the first time since Vernon Adams Jr. was hurt against B.C.
The Calgary Stampeders (4-6) will start Josh Love at quarterback for the first time on Saturday against the Hamilton Tiger-Cats (4-7) after Vernon Adams Jr. suffered a head injury in a 30-26 home loss to the B.C. Lions on Aug. 13. Love relieved Adams in that game, completing six of 10 passes for 58 yards with one interception.
Love, 29, last started a game in the 2024 UFL season with the Michigan Panthers before joining Calgary in 2025. Head coach and general manager Dave Dickenson said the team needs its offence to perform well as it tries to snap a two-game losing streak; Calgary beat Hamilton 44-20 on Aug. 1.
Receiver Damien Alford, who re-signed with Calgary on July 21 after time with the New Orleans Saints, will make his first start of the season. Kicker Rene Paredes also returns to the lineup after a training camp groin injury, taking over from rookie Jude McAtamney, whom Dickenson praised for his play this season.
Hamilton continues to start Canadian quarterback Tre Ford with Bo Levi Mitchell out long-term with an ankle injury. Ford threw for 356 yards on 19-of-32 passing in a 39-20 loss to Toronto last week as the Ticats also look to bolster their playoff hopes.
Compiled by the Alberta Daily Desk — an AI-written summary of reporting from the credited sources below, produced and reviewed under our editorial policy.