105th Grey Cup
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105th Grey Cup
Toronto Argonauts Calgary Stampeders
(9–9) (13–4–1)
27 24
Head coach: 
 Head coach: 
1234Total
Toronto Argonauts 0881127
Calgary Stampeders 6117024
DateNovember 26, 2017
StadiumTD Place Stadium
LocationOttawa
Most Valuable PlayerDeVier Posey, WR (Argonauts)
Most Valuable CanadianJerome Messam, RB (Stampeders)
FavouriteStampeders by 7
National anthemChoir! Choir! Choir!
Coin tossJulie Payette
RefereeDave Foxcroft[1]
Halftime showShania Twain
Attendance36,154
Broadcasters
NetworkCanada (English): TSN
Canada (French): RDS
United States: ESPN2
AnnouncersChris Cuthbert (play-by-play)
Glen Suitor (analyst)
Sara Orlesky (sideline reporter)
Matthew Scianitti (sideline reporter)
Ratings4.3 million (average)
10 million (total)[2]

The 105th Grey Cup was played on November 26, 2017, between the Calgary Stampeders and the Toronto Argonauts at TD Place Stadium in Ottawa, Ontario.[3]

In a re-match of the 100th Grey Cup, the Argonauts won the game 27–24, winning their 17th championship.[4]

Background

[edit]

Host city

[edit]

It was reported in September 2015 that Ottawa would host the Grey Cup game, and that it would be determined at a board of governor's meeting later that fall.[5] The Ottawa Redblacks ownership group, Ottawa Sports and Entertainment Group, said that one of the clauses in their expansion agreement was that the club would host a Grey Cup game within their first four years of existence.[6] Since the Redblacks entered the league in 2014, 2017 was the fourth such year. Ottawa had previously been awarded the 102nd Grey Cup but backed out due to construction delays; that game was held in Vancouver instead.[7]

During a Redblacks game on July 31, 2016, it was announced in a video featuring Prime Minister Justin Trudeau that the city of Ottawa had been selected to host the 105th Grey Cup, in part to celebrate the 150th anniversary of Canada.[3] This was the seventh time that the Grey Cup game was played in Ottawa, with previous games being played at Lansdowne Park. The previous game hosted by Ottawa was when the Ottawa Renegades hosted the 92nd Grey Cup in 2004, when the Toronto Argonauts defeated the BC Lions.[8]

Redblacks president Jeff Hunt stated that approximately 10,000 temporary seats would be added to TD Place Stadium, bringing seating capacity to about 35,000.[9] In early May, more than six months before the game, the Redblacks announced that fewer than 6,000 of the original 35,000 tickets were yet to be sold.[10] Due to ticket demand, the Redblacks added additional temporary bleachers in September to bring capacity to approximately 36,000, and the game officially sold out on October 26.[11]

Teams

[edit]

Calgary Stampeders

[edit]
Main article: 2017 Calgary Stampeders season

The Stampeders finished the regular season with a record of 13–4–1, once again placing as the top team in the West Division. They became the first team in the league to clinch a playoff spot in week 14 of the regular season with a 15–9 victory over the Saskatchewan Roughriders.[12] The Stampeders entered the playoffs on a losing streak, losing three in a row for the first time since 2007.[13]

As the first place team in the West, the Stampeders received a bye in the first round of the playoffs and hosted the Western Final on November 19 against the third place Edmonton Eskimos. The Stampeders won the game 32–28 in a closely contested game that featured a controversial play by the Eskimos, who late in the fourth quarter opted to kick a field goal in the hopes that they could recover the ball, instead of tying the game with a touchdown. Calgary maintained possession until the end of the game to clinch victory.[14]

Toronto Argonauts

[edit]
Main article: 2017 Toronto Argonauts season

The Argonauts placed first in the East Division with a 9–9 record and returned to the playoffs after having missed the previous season. The Argos entered the season with a new head coach in Marc Trestman, the former head coach of the Montreal Alouettes and the NFL's Chicago Bears. The team's resurgence was led by quarterback Ricky Ray, who completed the 2017 regular season having thrown for 5,546 yards and 28 touchdowns.[15] Despite the team's success on the field, the team averaged only 13,914 fans per home game at BMO Field, which was down from the previous year.[16]

As the first place team in the East, the Argos hosted the Saskatchewan Roughriders in the Eastern Final after the Riders, as a crossover team, defeated the Ottawa Redblacks in the Semi-Final. The Argos won the close game 25–21 after scoring a touchdown with 23 seconds left in the game.[17] It was the first time the Argos had won the Eastern Final since 2012, the last time they won the Grey Cup.[18]

Head-to-head

[edit]

Calgary and Toronto met twice during the 2017 regular season, with Calgary winning both times. Their first meeting took place during week 7 in Toronto and saw the Stampeders win 41–24. Three weeks later, the teams met again in Calgary, with the Stampeders winning 23–7.[19] The 2017 Grey Cup was the fourth championship match-up between the two teams, with Calgary winning in 1971 and Toronto victorious in 1991 and 2012. The Argos' 2017 Grey Cup victory was their first defeat of the Calgary Stampeders since a 33–27 win in September 2013.

During the week leading up to the game, the mayors of Toronto and Calgary, John Tory (who was the CFL commissioner from 1996 to 2000) and Naheed Nenshi, placed a friendly bet on the outcome, with the losing city's mayor having to donate to charity, wear the winning team's jersey at the next city council meeting, and send the other a selection of local craft beer.[20]

Game summary

[edit]

Toronto won the coin toss and opted to defer to the second half. Calgary chose to receive the ball. The game was played in inclement conditions, with snow falling prior to kickoff and persisting throughout.[21] Neither team could sustain drives throughout much of the first quarter until eleven minutes in, when Stamps quarterback Bo Levi Mitchell connected with Kamar Jorden for the contest's first touchdown. Calgary missed the subsequent two-point convert attempt, but found themselves up 6–0.

Scrimmaging from their own 10-yard line, the Argos opened the second quarter with a bang. DeVier Posey caught a pass from Toronto quarterback Ricky Ray at the Argo 44 and scampered to the end zone to tie the game 6–6. At 100 yards, this now stands as the longest touchdown pass in Grey Cup history, breaking the previous mark of 99 yards set by Montreal's Anthony Calvillo and Pat Woodcock in 2002.[21] Calgary responded five minutes later with a touchdown by running back Jerome Messam and a successful two-point convert to go up 14–6. While the Argos were shut out offensively in the second quarter, they scored two points thanks to a safety conceded by Calgary punter Rob Maver who, after mishandling a high snap, kicked the ball out of the back of the end zone. Rene Paredes booted a field goal with five seconds left in the quarter to put the Stampeders up 17–8 at the half.[22]

Toronto opened the scoring in the second half four minutes into the third quarter with a two-yard touchdown run by running back James Wilder Jr. A successful two-point conversion made the score 17–16. Jerome Messam found the end zone again for the Stampeders roughly five minutes later, putting Calgary up 24–16 after a successful convert by Parades. The Stamps protected this lead into the fourth quarter and appeared well on their way to victory when, with the ball on the Argo 8-yard-line, Toronto DB Cassius Vaughn pounced on a Kamar Jorden fumble and returned the ball 109 yards for a touchdown—another Grey Cup record. A two-point convert reception by Declan Cross tied the game at 24–24 with under five minutes to play. With 53 seconds left, Argo kicker Lirim Hajrullahu kicked the team's lone field goal, giving Toronto its first lead at 27–24. On their final possession Calgary drove the ball deep into Argonaut territory, but instead of attempting a game-tying field goal decided to go for the jugular. On 2nd-and-5 from the Argonaut 25, Mitchell's would-be touchdown pass fell into the hands of Argo defender Matt Black, sealing the victory for the Double Blue.[22]

Scoring summary

[edit]
First Quarter[22]
CGY – TD Jorden 33-yard pass (missed two-point convert) (4:00) 6–0 CGY
Second Quarter[22]
TOR – TD Posey 100 yard pass (missed convert) (15:00) 6–6 Tie
CGY – TD Messam 6 yard rush (Daniels two-point convert) (10:21) 14–6 CGY
TOR – Safety Maver (5:46) 14–8 CGY
CGY – FG Paredes 39 yards (0:05) 17-8 CGY
Third Quarter[22]
TOR – TD Wilder Jr 2 yard rush (Cross two-point convert) (10:51) 17–16 CGY
CGY – TD Messam 6-yard pass (Parades convert) (6:19) 24–16 CGY
Fourth Quarter[22]
TOR – TD Vaughn 109 yard fumble return (Cross two-point convert) (5:16) 24–24 Tie
TOR – FG Hajrullahu 32 yards (0:53) 27–24 TOR

Entertainment

[edit]

On August 10, 2017, the CFL announced that Shania Twain would perform during the Freedom Mobile Halftime Show.[23] The performance marked Twain's second Grey Cup halftime show; she performed as halftime entertainment during the 90th Grey Cup in 2002.[24]

Vancouver-based rapper SonReal performed immediately prior to the game as part of the SiriusXM Kickoff Show. Toronto choir Choir! Choir! Choir! sang the national anthem.[25]

Aftermath

[edit]

Immediately following the game, Argonauts receiver DeVier Posey was named the game's Most Valuable Player, having put up 175 yards and one touchdown on seven receptions. Running back Jerome Messam of the Stampeders received the Dick Suderman Trophy as the game's Most Valuable Canadian after scoring two touchdowns.[26]

With the victory, Argonauts quarterback Ricky Ray became the first quarterback in CFL history to win the Grey Cup four times as a starting quarterback (twice with the Edmonton Eskimos and twice with the Argonauts).[27]

Television

[edit]

The game was watched by an average of 4.3 million viewers, with viewership peaking at nearly six million during the Argos' comeback in the fourth quarter. Nearly a third of the population of Canada watched part of the game. The game saw a ten percent increase in viewership over the previous year and a fifty-eight percent increase in viewership in the Toronto/Hamilton market. Overall, the 105th Grey Cup was the most watched Grey Cup since 2013.[2]

References

[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia

105th Grey Cup

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from Grokipedia
The 105th Grey Cup was the Canadian Football League's (CFL) annual championship game for the 2017 season, contested on November 26, 2017, at TD Place Stadium in Ottawa, Ontario, between the Toronto Argonauts (East Division champions) and the Calgary Stampeders (West Division champions).[1][2] The Argonauts staged a dramatic comeback to win 27–24 in snowy conditions, marking their 17th Grey Cup title and the Stampeders' second consecutive championship game loss.[3][4] DeVier Posey, a wide receiver for Toronto, was named the game's Most Valuable Player after recording seven receptions for 175 yards and a touchdown.[5] The game drew an attendance of 36,154 spectators despite challenging winter weather, including heavy snowfall that affected play and visibility.[2] It achieved strong television viewership, averaging 4.3 million Canadian viewers (4.1 million on TSN and 220,000 on RDS)—a 10% increase from the previous year's Grey Cup—and was the most-watched CFL championship since 2013.[6][7] The Argonauts trailed 24–13 late in the fourth quarter but rallied with a 109-yard fumble return touchdown by Cassius Vaughn and a two-point conversion to tie the score, followed by a game-winning field goal.[8] This victory highlighted Toronto's resurgence under head coach Marc Trestman and quarterback Ricky Ray, who earned a record-extending fourth Grey Cup win as a starter.[4] Hosted by the Ottawa Redblacks in their first time staging the event, the 105th Grey Cup Festival featured fan events, concerts, and community activities from November 19 to 26, emphasizing the game's cultural significance in Canadian sports.[9] The matchup pitted the high-powered Stampeders offense, led by quarterback Bo Levi Mitchell, against Toronto's resilient defense, culminating in one of the most memorable comebacks in Grey Cup history.[10]

Background

Host selection and announcement

The selection process for hosting the 105th Grey Cup began in early 2016, when the Ottawa REDBLACKS and the Ottawa Sports and Entertainment Group (OSEG) submitted an official bid to the Canadian Football League (CFL).[11] This bid was aligned with the terms of the REDBLACKS' expansion agreement, which required the team to host the Grey Cup within its first four seasons of operation, making 2017 a natural fit as the franchise's fourth year.[11] The proposal emphasized expanding TD Place Stadium's capacity from approximately 24,000 to approximately 35,000 seats through temporary additions, while integrating the event into Canada's 150th anniversary celebrations.[11] The CFL Board of Governors reviewed and approved the bid, awarding the hosting rights to Ottawa and the REDBLACKS as part of the league's strategy to capitalize on the city's revitalized football scene following the team's successful return in 2014.[1] No other cities were publicly reported as competing bidders for the 2017 event, reflecting the league's focus on supporting expansion markets.[11] The official announcement occurred on July 31, 2016, during a pre-game ceremony at a sold-out REDBLACKS home game against the Toronto Argonauts at TD Place Stadium.[12] CFL Commissioner Jeffrey Orridge made the presentation, joined by a video message from Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, who highlighted the event's role in national festivities.[1] The game was scheduled for November 26, 2017, at the upgraded venue, marking Ottawa's first Grey Cup hosting since 1976.[1]

Venue and host city preparations

The 105th Grey Cup was hosted at TD Place Stadium in Ottawa's Lansdowne Park, a venue that had undergone significant renovations between 2014 and 2015 as part of a broader redevelopment of the historic site.[1] These upgrades modernized the stadium's facilities, including improved seating, concessions, and media amenities, positioning it to accommodate the championship game's demands. To further prepare for the event on November 26, 2017, organizers installed temporary stands in the east end zone, boosting the stadium's capacity from its regular 24,000 to approximately 36,000 seats.[13] Additional temporary seating was planned for the west side, ensuring all added positions were ticketed and contributing to the game's sellout status announced on October 26, 2017—exactly one month prior.[14] Ottawa's preparations extended beyond the stadium to encompass a citywide Grey Cup Festival presented by Shaw, running from November 21 to 26, 2017, centered at Lansdowne Park. The festival featured over 30 free and ticketed events, including live music stages animated by more than 50 artists and performers from across Canada, fan zones, interactive games, and a concert series with country, alternative, and classic rock acts from November 23 to 25.[15][9] These activities transformed the park into a hub for national celebration, tying into Canada's 150th anniversary festivities and promoting community pride in the capital.[1] Logistical efforts by the City of Ottawa and Ottawa Sports and Entertainment Group (OSEG) included enhanced public transit with free OC Transpo shuttles to Lansdowne Park, easing access for the expected influx of visitors.[16] The preparations were anticipated to deliver a substantial economic boost, building on precedents like the $133 million impact of the 100th Grey Cup in 2012, through increased tourism, hotel occupancy, and local business activity.[1]

CFL season overview

The 2017 Canadian Football League (CFL) season marked the 64th year of modern professional football in Canada, featuring an 18-game regular season schedule that ran from June 22 to November 4 across nine teams divided into East and West Divisions. The season highlighted intense divisional rivalries, defensive dominance, and unexpected turnarounds, with a total of 162 regular-season games drawing significant fan interest amid celebrations of Canada's 150th anniversary. Attendance averaged around 25,000 per game league-wide, bolstered by special events like CFL Week and Canada Day matchups.[17] In the West Division, the Calgary Stampeders dominated with a 13–4–1 record, clinching first place and the right to host the Western Final for the fourth time in five years, driven by a league-best defense that allowed just 349 points and an 11-game winning streak. The Winnipeg Blue Bombers secured second place at 12–6, building on their resurgence with quarterback Matt Nichols completing 71.0% of passes, while the Edmonton Eskimos also finished 12–6 but lost the tiebreaker to Winnipeg. The Saskatchewan Roughriders placed fourth at 10–8, and the BC Lions struggled to a 7–11 finish after an early 4–1 start. Overall, the West produced four playoff qualifiers, underscoring its parity and strength.[18][19][20] The East Division saw a dramatic shift, led by the Toronto Argonauts' improbable turnaround from a 1–7 start to a 9–9 finish and first-place clinch, fueled by the reunion of general manager Jim Popp and head coach Marc Trestman, along with running back James Wilder Jr.'s 117 rushing yards per game average in six starts. The Ottawa Redblacks took second at 8–9–1, while the Hamilton Tiger-Cats rallied from an 0–8 hole to end 6–12 under new quarterback Jeremiah Masoli, and the Montreal Alouettes languished at 3–15, scoring the league's fewest points. This East performance set up crossover discussions, though none materialized as no Western second-place team outranked Ottawa. Standout individual efforts included Saskatchewan's Duron Carter leading receivers with 1,280 yards and 11 touchdowns, and linebackers like Calgary's Alex Singleton setting a CFL record with 123 tackles to earn Most Outstanding Defensive Player honors.[18][20][21] A mid-season rule change limited coaches to one video review challenge per game to streamline officiating, reflecting the league's balance between technology and pace of play. The playoffs, starting November 12, featured the Stampeders defeating the Blue Bombers 24–14 in the Western Final and the Argonauts upsetting the Redblacks 23–7 in the Eastern Final, setting up the 105th Grey Cup matchup between the regular-season powerhouse from Calgary and the resilient underdogs from Toronto. The season's narrative of redemption and defensive prowess culminated in Toronto's 27–24 victory, their first championship since 2012.[22][18][3]

Participating teams

Calgary Stampeders

The Calgary Stampeders entered the 105th Grey Cup as the West Division champions after a dominant 2017 regular season, finishing with a 13–4–1 record and securing first place for the fourth time in five years.[23][24] Led by quarterback Bo Levi Mitchell, who threw for 4,700 yards during the campaign, the Stampeders boasted one of the league's most potent offences, averaging high yardage outputs and extending their streak of 10 or more wins to a franchise-record 10th consecutive season.[24][25] Their defence was equally stout, allowing just 30 quarterback sacks all year, the fewest in the CFL.[24] In the playoffs, the Stampeders had a first-round bye as the top West seed before hosting the Edmonton Eskimos in the Western Final on November 19, where they rallied from a two-touchdown deficit to win 32–28 on a snowy field at McMahon Stadium.[26][27] Mitchell's performance in the final was pivotal, as he orchestrated key scoring drives to secure Calgary's berth in their third Grey Cup appearance in four years, seeking redemption after a 39–33 loss to the Ottawa REDBLACKS in the 104th Grey Cup.[24] Key contributors included running back Jerome Messam, who provided a balanced rushing attack, and wide receivers DaVaris Daniels and Kamar Jorden, who combined for significant receiving yards in the postseason.[4] Facing the Toronto Argonauts in the Grey Cup on November 26 at TD Place Stadium in Ottawa amid falling snow, the Stampeders controlled much of the game, amassing 436 total yards and possessing the ball for 36:57.[4][28] Mitchell completed 33 of 45 passes for 373 yards and two touchdowns, connecting with Jorden for a 33-yard score in the first quarter and Messam for a 6-yard touchdown reception in the third to build a 17–8 halftime lead.[10][4] Messam earned game MVP honours as top Canadian with 62 rushing yards on 13 carries, a rushing touchdown, and his receiving score, while Jorden finished with six receptions for 117 yards before a critical late fumble at the Toronto 10-yard line.[4][29] The turning point came with 4:35 remaining when Jorden's fumble was returned 109 yards for a touchdown by Toronto's Cassius Vaughn, tying the score at 24–24 and setting a Grey Cup record.[10] Calgary drove to the Toronto 32-yard line in the final minute, but Mitchell's deep pass intended for the end zone was intercepted by Matt Black, allowing the Argonauts to kick a 32-yard field goal with 53 seconds left for a 27–24 victory.[4] Despite the defeat, the Stampeders' effort highlighted their resilience, having entered with an eight-game winning streak against Toronto dating back to 2009.[24]

Toronto Argonauts

The Toronto Argonauts entered the 2017 CFL season following a disappointing 5–13 campaign in 2016 that saw them miss the playoffs for the first time since 2013. Under new head coach Marc Trestman, hired in December 2016 after serving as offensive coordinator for the Baltimore Ravens, the team aimed to rebuild around veteran quarterback Ricky Ray. The Argonauts started the regular season sluggishly, winning just one of their first nine games, including losses to all three Western Division teams they hosted at BMO Field. However, they staged a remarkable turnaround, securing eight victories in their final nine contests to finish with a 9–9 record and claim first place in the East Division.[10] This late surge was fueled by an improved passing attack and a stout defense that limited opponents to under 20 points in five of those wins. Key contributors included Ray, who threw for 5,546 yards and 28 touchdowns despite dealing with injuries, earning him East Division All-Star honors. Wide receiver S.J. Green led the team with 1,462 receiving yards and 104 receptions, providing a reliable target after joining from the Montreal Alouettes. Running back James Wilder Jr. emerged as a breakout star, rushing for 872 yards and five touchdowns, while also catching 62 passes for 551 yards, which earned him the East Division's Most Outstanding Rookie award. The offensive line, anchored by All-Star center Sean McEwen, allowed 40 sacks all season, supporting a balanced attack that ranked third in the league in scoring with 26.8 points per game (482 total). Defensively, linebacker Marcus Ball recorded 57 tackles and two interceptions, helping the unit force 38 turnovers overall.[3][30][31][32][33][34][35] In the playoffs, the Argonauts hosted the Hamilton Tiger-Cats in the Eastern Semi-Final on November 12, 2017, and prevailed 43–35 in overtime behind Ray's 374 passing yards and three touchdowns, including the game-winner to Armanti Edwards. The following week, they faced the Ottawa Redblacks in the Eastern Final at BMO Field, winning 25–22 on a last-second 38-yard field goal by Lirim Hajrullahu after Ray orchestrated a 78-yard drive. These victories advanced Toronto to the 105th Grey Cup against the Calgary Stampeders at TD Place Stadium in Ottawa.[4] In the Grey Cup on November 26, 2017, the Argonauts trailed 24–16 entering the fourth quarter amid snowy conditions but mounted a comeback to win 27–24. Cornerback Cassius Vaughn's 109-yard fumble return touchdown—a Grey Cup record—tied the score at 24–24 with 4:35 remaining, followed by Ray's two-point conversion pass to fullback Declan Cross. Ray then led a 59-yard drive, capped by Hajrullahu's 32-yard field goal with 53 seconds left for the victory. Ray was named Grey Cup Most Valuable Player for his 17-of-28 passing performance (205 yards, one touchdown), while the win marked Toronto's 17th championship and their first since 2004.[10][29][3][28]

Regular season head-to-head

The Calgary Stampeders and Toronto Argonauts met once during the 2017 CFL regular season, as inter-division opponents typically play a single game.[36] The matchup occurred on August 3 at BMO Field in Toronto, where the Stampeders earned a decisive 41-24 victory, improving their record to 4-0 while dropping the Argonauts to 3-4.[37][38] Calgary's offense exploded for 41 points, led by quarterback Bo Levi Mitchell, who completed 22 of 29 passes for 315 yards and three touchdowns.[37] Running back Jerome Messam contributed significantly on the ground, rushing for 91 yards and three touchdowns, while receiver Marken Michel hauled in seven catches for 190 yards and a score.[38] For Toronto, quarterback Ricky Ray passed for 289 yards and two touchdowns but was hampered by two interceptions, as the Argonauts struggled to contain Calgary's balanced attack.[37] This lopsided result highlighted the Stampeders' early-season dominance in the West Division, where they finished with a league-best 13-4-1 record, while the Argonauts rebounded later to claim the East Division title at 9-9. The game foreshadowed the Grey Cup matchup but underscored Toronto's resilience, as they later upset Calgary in the championship despite the regular-season loss.

Game day

Pregame events and conditions

The 105th Grey Cup Festival, presented by Shaw, ran from November 21 to 26, 2017, at Lansdowne Park in Ottawa, encompassing over 30 events to build excitement for the championship game. The festival opened with the ceremonial arrival of the Grey Cup trophy on November 21, drawing crowds for free public viewing and photo opportunities. Key highlights included the Nissan Titan Street Festival and Family Fun Zone at Aberdeen Square from November 22 to 26, featuring interactive games, autograph sessions with players, and youth football clinics; the Canadian Football Hall of Fame exhibit inside TD Place Stadium, which showcased historic artifacts and inducted new members during the week; and a Cheer Extravaganza on November 25 highlighting CFL cheerleaders' performances.[39][40] Ticketed entertainment bolstered the pregame atmosphere, with a concert series at The Arena at TD Place featuring country artist Jess Moskaluke on November 23, rock band Sloan on November 24, and classic rock acts Trooper and April Wine on November 25. The RNation Party at the Aberdeen Pavilion offered daily gatherings with food, drinks, and live music from November 23 to 25, transitioning from free entry to ticketed access in the evenings. On game day, November 26, tailgate festivities commenced early at the Great Lawn and Aberdeen Pavilion, including barbecues, fan zones, and VIP experiences with premium seating and catering, setting a festive tone for the sold-out crowd of 36,154 at TD Place Stadium.[39][41] Game-day conditions were marked by wintry weather, with snowfall beginning approximately two hours before the 3:00 p.m. ET kickoff and continuing steadily through the first half. Temperatures hovered around -3°C (27°F) at kickoff, creating a challenging but picturesque environment that enhanced the event's dramatic appeal, often described as a "snow globe" spectacle. Stadium grounds crews deployed shovels, snowblowers, and two full-sized plows to maintain field playability, with additional clearing efforts at halftime; a planned pregame flyover by Royal Canadian Air Force CF-18 Hornets was cancelled due to low visibility from the snow. Despite the conditions, fan enthusiasm remained high, with tailgaters undeterred by the weather as they gathered in heated tents and outdoor areas.[42][41][43]

Game narrative

The 105th Grey Cup, held on November 26, 2017, at TD Place Stadium in Ottawa, Ontario, featured the Toronto Argonauts against the Calgary Stampeders in heavy snowfall that began two hours before kickoff and intensified throughout the contest, dropping the temperature to -3°C and requiring frequent field clearings during stoppages.[43][10] Calgary won the coin toss and elected to receive, setting the tone for an early offensive push led by quarterback Bo Levi Mitchell, who connected with receiver Kamar Jorden on a 33-yard touchdown pass at the 11:28 mark of the first quarter, though the two-point convert failed, giving the Stampeders a 6-0 lead.[43] The second quarter saw Toronto mount a dramatic response just before halftime, as quarterback Ricky Ray launched a 100-yard touchdown pass to DeVier Posey—the longest passing touchdown in Grey Cup history—on the first play after a Calgary punt, tying the score at 6-6 after a missed convert with 26 seconds left. However, Calgary quickly regained momentum with a 6-yard touchdown run by Jerome Messam at 4:52, followed by a successful two-point conversion catch by DaVaris Daniels, pushing the lead to 14-6. Toronto then scored a safety when Calgary punter Rob Maver kicked the ball out of the end zone following a high snap, narrowing the gap to 14-8. Rene Paredes then added a 39-yard field goal as time expired in the half, sending Calgary into the locker room up 17-8 amid worsening snow conditions that hampered footing and visibility for both teams.[43][10][3][29] In the third quarter, Toronto chipped away with a 2-yard touchdown run by James Wilder Jr. at 4:09, coupled with a two-point conversion reception by Declan Cross, closing the deficit to 17-16. Calgary answered swiftly, as Mitchell found Messam on a 6-yard touchdown pass at 8:56—upheld after a video review—extending the Stampeders' advantage to 24-16 and maintaining their control through a gritty, weather-affected ground game. The Argonauts' defense struggled to contain Mitchell, who finished with 373 passing yards and two touchdowns, but Toronto stayed resilient, setting up a pivotal fourth quarter.[43] The final frame delivered the game's defining drama, beginning with a critical turnover when Calgary fumbled, allowing Toronto defensive back Cassius Vaughn to return it 109 yards for a touchdown—the longest fumble return in Grey Cup history—at the 10:25 mark, tying the score at 24-24 after Ray's two-point conversion pass to Cross. Seizing the momentum, the Argonauts drove 65 yards in nine plays, culminating in kicker Lirim Hajrullahu's 32-yard field goal with 53 seconds remaining to take a 27-24 lead. Calgary's last-ditch drive ended with an interception by Toronto's Matt Black in the end zone off Mitchell with eight seconds left, sealing the Argonauts' comeback victory and their 17th Grey Cup title. DeVier Posey was named game MVP for his seven receptions for 175 yards, including the record-setting score, while Ray earned his fourth Grey Cup win as a starting quarterback.[43][44][3][45]

Scoring summary

The 105th Grey Cup, held on November 26, 2017, at TD Place Stadium in Ottawa, Ontario, featured a closely contested matchup between the Calgary Stampeders and Toronto Argonauts, ending with a 27–24 victory for Toronto.[28] The game unfolded in blizzard-like conditions, with scoring plays emphasizing big returns, two-point conversions, and a crucial late field goal. Calgary built an early lead through passing and rushing scores, but Toronto rallied in the second half with a fumble return touchdown and successful two-point attempts to tie and then surpass the Stampeders.[28][46] The scoring progressed as follows (times remaining in quarter):
QuarterTimeTeamScoring PlayScore (CGY–TOR)
1st11:26CGYKamar Jorden 33-yard pass from Bo Levi Mitchell (pass failed)6–0
2nd0:26TORDeVier Posey 100-yard pass from Ricky Ray (kick failed)6–6
2nd4:52CGYJerome Messam 6-yard run (DaVaris Daniels pass from Bo Levi Mitchell)14–6
2nd9:41TORSafety (ball kicked out of end zone by Rob Maver)14–8
2nd15:00CGYRene Paredes 39-yard field goal17–8
3rd4:09TORJames Wilder Jr. 2-yard run (Declan Cross pass from Ricky Ray)17–16
3rd8:56CGYJerome Messam 6-yard pass from Bo Levi Mitchell (Rene Paredes kick)24–16
4th10:25TORCassius Vaughn 109-yard fumble return (Declan Cross pass from Ricky Ray)24–24
4th14:11TORLirim Hajrullahu 32-yard field goal24–27
Calgary outgained Toronto 436–301 in total yards and held the ball for 36:57, but turnovers—including a critical fumble returned for a touchdown—proved decisive in the Argonauts' rally.[28]

Entertainment

Pregame performances

The pregame performances for the 105th Grey Cup, held on November 26, 2017, at TD Place Stadium in Ottawa, Ontario, featured a blend of hip-hop and choral elements to energize the crowd amid falling snow. Vancouver-based rapper SonReal headlined the SiriusXM Kickoff Show, performing immediately before kickoff as part of the broadcast on TSN and RDS. A Juno-nominated artist known for his 2017 debut album One Long Dream and singles like the platinum-certified "Can I Get a Witness," SonReal delivered a high-energy set that celebrated Canada's 150th anniversary, drawing on his roots from Vernon, British Columbia.[47] Following SonReal's performance, Toronto-based ensemble Choir! Choir! Choir! led the stadium in a communal rendition of "O Canada" for the national anthem. Founded by Nobu Adilman and Daveed Goldman, the group is renowned for its participatory singalong events, having previously collaborated with artists like Patti Smith, and aimed to foster unity among the approximately 36,154 attendees. The performance, which trended on social media due to its upbeat tempo and interactive style, received mixed reactions from fans, with some praising its inclusivity while others preferred traditional interpretations.[48][49] These acts set a festive tone for the matchup between the Calgary Stampeders and Toronto Argonauts, aligning with the event's emphasis on Canadian talent during the nation's sesquicentennial celebrations. No additional musical performances were scheduled in the immediate pregame ceremony, though the overall festival week included broader entertainment like the TD Concert Series with acts such as Jess Moskaluke and Sloan.[50]

Halftime show

The halftime show for the 105th Grey Cup, held on November 26, 2017, at TD Place Stadium in Ottawa, Ontario, featured Canadian country-pop superstar Shania Twain as the headliner.[51] This marked Twain's second appearance as a Grey Cup halftime performer, following her set at the 90th Grey Cup in 2002.[52] Sponsored by Freedom Mobile, the performance was billed as "The Most Canadian Halftime Show Ever" and unfolded amid a blizzard, with temperatures around -3°C (27°F), testing the limits of the outdoor production.[53][54] Twain's 15-minute set began with a quintessentially Canadian entrance: she arrived on the field via a dogsled pulled by huskies, flanked by Royal Canadian Mounted Police officers in full dress uniforms, who assisted her onto the stage.[55][56] Dressed in a sparkling red jumpsuit, fur-lined red boots, jacket, and gloves to combat the icy conditions, Twain navigated a snow-slicked stage while delivering high-energy choreography and pyrotechnics.[54] The show blended her classic hits with material from her then-recent album Now, emphasizing themes of resilience and national pride, and drew enthusiastic cheers from the crowd despite the harsh weather.[57] The setlist opened with "That Don't Impress Me Much," a 1997 hit name-checking Brad Pitt, setting a playful tone as Twain engaged the crowd with its iconic tiger imagery projected onstage.[54] She followed with "Life's About to Get Good," the lead single from her 2017 album Now, which resonated as an uplifting anthem amid the snowy spectacle.[54] The performance concluded with "Man! I Feel Like a Woman!," another enduring staple from 1997, featuring explosive visuals and Twain's signature empowering lyrics, leaving fans energized for the game's second half.[54] Backed by a full band and dancers, the show highlighted Twain's vocal prowess and stage command, earning praise for its bold fusion of Canadian iconography and pop spectacle.[58]

Broadcasting and attendance

Media coverage

The 105th Grey Cup, held on November 26, 2017, at TD Place Stadium in Ottawa, received extensive media coverage across television, radio, print, and digital platforms, reflecting its status as a premier Canadian sporting event. TSN, in partnership with RDS for French-language audiences, held exclusive broadcast rights, delivering live coverage of the game along with pre-game festivities and analysis. The broadcast included over five hours of lead-in programming on game day, featuring expert commentary and highlights from the Toronto Argonauts' 27-24 victory over the Calgary Stampeders in snowy conditions.[48][59] Radio coverage was anchored by TSN Radio's 24-station network, providing play-by-play and post-game discussions accessible nationwide. Print and online outlets, including major Canadian newspapers, offered in-depth reporting on the event's buildup, game narrative, and aftermath; for instance, The Globe and Mail highlighted the contest's "quintessentially Canadian" appeal amid the weather challenges, while CBC News documented fan experiences and on-site visuals through photo essays. International attention came from outlets like ESPN, which recapped the Argonauts' comeback win.[60][59][6][61][10] Digital and social media engagement marked the event as the most interactive Grey Cup to date, with significant activity on platforms like Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram, driven by real-time updates, fan reactions, and official CFL content such as photo galleries capturing key moments. Media protocols enforced by the CFL restricted live access on game day to rights holders, ensuring coordinated coverage while allowing pooled post-game interviews with players and coaches.[6][62][60]

Viewership and attendance figures

The 105th Grey Cup, held at TD Place Stadium in Ottawa on November 26, 2017, drew an attendance of 36,154 fans, filling the venue despite its base capacity of approximately 24,000 for regular CFL games through temporary expansions and additional seating arrangements.[63] This figure marked a solid turnout for the event, hosted in the nation's capital as part of Canada's 150th anniversary celebrations, though it fell short of record Grey Cup crowds at larger stadiums.[61] Television viewership for the game reached an average of 4.3 million viewers across TSN and RDS, representing a 10% increase from the 104th Grey Cup and the highest audience since 2013.[7] TSN accounted for 4.1 million viewers, while RDS contributed 220,000 in French-language coverage, underscoring the event's broad national appeal.[64] The broadcast peaked at nearly 6 million viewers late in the fourth quarter, coinciding with the Toronto Argonauts' dramatic comeback victory over the Calgary Stampeders.[7]

Aftermath and legacy

Awards and records

The 105th Grey Cup featured two major individual awards presented for outstanding performances during the game. DeVier Posey of the Toronto Argonauts was named the Most Valuable Player after recording seven receptions for 175 yards, including a 100-yard touchdown catch from quarterback Ricky Ray, the longest pass completion in Grey Cup history.[5][4] Jerome Messam of the Calgary Stampeders received the Dick Suderman Trophy as the Most Valuable Canadian player, despite his team's loss; he rushed for 62 yards on 13 carries and scored two touchdowns.[65][66] Several records were set or tied in the contest. Ricky Ray's victory as the starting quarterback marked his fourth Grey Cup win, establishing him as the all-time leader in that category.[67][68] Cassius Vaughn's 109-yard fumble return for a touchdown tied the game at 24-24 late in the fourth quarter, setting a new Grey Cup record for the longest such return.[10] The Toronto Argonauts' 27-24 comeback victory was their 17th Grey Cup championship, a league record at the time, surpassing the Edmonton Eskimos' 14 wins.[3]

Celebrations and team impacts

Following their 27-24 victory over the Calgary Stampeders in the 105th Grey Cup on November 26, 2017, the Toronto Argonauts returned to the city as champions and hosted a public celebration rally the next day at Nathan Phillips Square.[69] The event began at noon, with the team arriving by bus around 11:45 a.m. to a crowd estimated at approximately 1,000 fans, though reports described a larger gathering filling much of the square with cheers and chants.[70][71] Key moments included quarterback Ricky Ray carrying the Grey Cup trophy through the enthusiastic supporters, followed by speeches from players and officials on a stage setup.[71] Ray expressed gratitude to fans for their support throughout the season, while general manager Jim Popp highlighted the team's late-season belief and unity as key to the win, noting, "We had the best record down the stretch… the belief in the room is why we won."[71] Head coach Marc Trestman reflected on the rapid team assembly just months earlier, stating, "(Just) 185 days ago, take a look, none of us even knew each other."[71] Wide receiver DeVier Posey thanked supporters from across Toronto for their energy, and Mayor John Tory congratulated the squad, leading an "Argos" chant and declaring, "All of Toronto is proud of our Toronto Argonauts."[70][71] The rally underscored the victory's significance as the Argonauts' 17th Grey Cup title and their first since 2004, ending a 13-year championship drought for the franchise.[3] In the immediate aftermath, team leaders pledged to leverage the momentum for greater fan engagement, including appearances at community events like the Santa Claus Parade and school visits to sustain interest in a competitive Toronto sports market.[72] Officials targeted recent playoff attendees—such as the 24,929 who filled BMO Field for the East Division Final—with personalized outreach to encourage season ticket renewals and build a "community-based" foundation for future success.[72] Ray, responding to chants for him to return, quipped, "Only one? Why not two, huh?" signaling optimism for continued contention.[71] The 2017 victory initiated a resurgence, with the Argonauts winning additional championships in 2022 and 2024, increasing their total to 19 as of 2024.[73] For the Calgary Stampeders, the defeat marked their second consecutive Grey Cup loss, following an overtime heartbreak to the Ottawa REDBLACKS in 2016, and prompted introspection amid reports of internal finger-pointing toward coaching decisions and late-game execution.[74] Quarterback Bo Levi Mitchell expressed frustration over a critical interception in the end zone that sealed the outcome, while receiver Kamar Jorden shouldered blame for a fumble leading to Toronto's tying 109-yard return touchdown, stating, "I let my team down."[75][76] The loss lingered through the off-season, contributing to an atmosphere of uncertainty as the team addressed red-zone inefficiencies (46.7% success rate in 2017) and roster adjustments.[77][78] Despite the setback, the 2017 Grey Cup defeat fueled the Stampeders' redemption the following year, when they defeated the Ottawa REDBLACKS 27-16 to claim their eighth franchise title and end a two-year championship drought.[79] Players like middle linebacker Alex Singleton credited lessons from prior failures, noting, "The lessons we learned from our failures—it all paid off."[80] This turnaround highlighted the loss's role in motivating roster stability and strategic refinements under head coach John Hufnagel, propelling Calgary to a dominant 2018 regular season (13-3-2 record).[81]

References

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  13. Grey Cup in Ottawa sold out - 3DownNation
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  25. Revisiting the last five Western Finals - CFL.ca
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  27. Stampeders punish Argos with offensive attack | CBC Sports
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  32. Snowfall welcomes 105th Grey Cup game between Calgary and ...
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  45. Shania Twain with the most Canadian Grey Cup Halftime Show Ever ...
  46. See Shania Twain's Explosive Performance at Canada's Grey Cup
  47. Watch Shania Twain's Extremely Canadian Grey Cup Halftime Show
  48. Bulls & Bears: Grey Cup remains pivotal for business of Canadian ...
  49. 105TH GREY CUP PRESENTED BY SHAW MEDIA PROTOCOLS ...
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  51. Through the Lens: The 105th Grey Cup in photos - CFL.ca
  52. 2017 Grey Cup - CFL.ca
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  54. 105th GREY CUP Presented by Shaw Grows by 10% to 4.3 Million ...
  55. Messam named Most Valuable Canadian in Grey Cup - CFL.ca
  56. Argos receiver DeVier Posey earns Grey Cup MVP honours - CBC
  57. Ricky Ray sets Grey Cup record with win - Sacramento Bee
  58. Ricky Ray - Canadian Football Hall of Fame
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  65. 'I let my team down': Stamps' Jorden points finger at himself
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  67. Penton: Dissecting the 'scary' numbers and how CFL teams are ...
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  70. Calgary Stampeders | Research Starters - EBSCO
  71. 105GC: Vaughn Makes History With 109-Yard Fumble Return For TD
  72. Grey Cup draws 10% increase in viewership on TSN, RDS
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