The Hamilton Tiger-Cats announced on Sunday that quarterback Taylor Powell and wide receiver Luther Hakunavanhu were discharged from the hospital last night after receiving treatment for their injuries. The injuries occurred in the first quarter of Saturday night’s 47-22 loss to the Edmonton Elks.
On the first play of the first quarter, Hamilton quarterback Taylor Powell completed a 15-yard pass to Luther Hakunavanhu. Edmonton linebacker Nick Anderson and linebacker Nyles Morgan tackled Hakunavanhu forcing the ball out and Darrius Bratton recovered the ball.
Hakunavanhu was motionless after the play and an ambulance was called to the field. It was a scary situation, but he did move his hands once before being placed on the stretcher. He was secured with a neck brace along with his hands and feet. He was then transported to the local hospital. The game was delayed for over 30 minutes as a new ambulance had to arrive at Tim Hortons Field.
“Thank you for all the messages and prayers…I’m ok!!” said Hakunavanhu. “And thank you to all the medical staff on and off the field for all their work.” Luther Hakunavanhu is in his first season in Hamilton. He has made 9 catches for 171 yards, and four touchdowns in 8 games for the Ticats this year.
Taylor Powell’s injury happened midway through the first quarter when he scrambled for a 17-yard run before getting hit by Nyles Morgan causing a fumble recovered by Edmonton while Powell was down on the field. He left the game under his own power as he was evaluated for a concussion. Bo Levi Mitchell and Harrison Frost took over quarterback duties for the Ticats.
Quarterback Bo Levi Mitchell completed 23 of 34 passes (68%) for 294 yards, one touchdown, and two interceptions, and Harrison Frost completed 8 of 12 passes 66%) for 95 yards, and one touchdown. Taylor Powell is in his second season in Hamilton. This year, Powell has completed 38 of 48 passes (79.2%) for 390 yards, two touchdowns, and 7 carries for 70 yards in four games this season.
The Hamilton Tiger-Cats visit the Winnipeg Blue Bombers next Friday at 8:30 pm on TSN and CBS Sports Network.
