CFL Week 2 Recap: Winnipeg Blue Bombers vs. Ottawa Redblacks

Final Score: Ottawa Redblacks 23, Winnipeg Blue Bombers 19

In an exciting Week 2 matchup, the Ottawa Redblacks emerged victorious against the Winnipeg Blue Bombers with a final score of 23-19. Here’s a detailed recap of the game, highlighting the key moments and standout performances.

Ottawa Redblacks

Passing:

• Dru Brown: Completed 20 of 33 passes for 238 yards, 1 touchdown, and no interceptions. Brown’s accurate passing and ability to spread the ball around kept the Blue Bombers’ defense on their toes.

Rushing:

• Ryquell Armstead: Led the rushing attack with 95 yards on 16 carries, averaging an impressive 5.9 yards per carry. Armstead’s longest run of the day was a 31-yard dash.
• Bralon Addison: Contributed 31 yards on just 2 carries, showing explosive potential with a 15.5-yard average.

Receiving:

• Justin Hardy: Was the top target, hauling in 7 receptions for 111 yards and 1 touchdown, including a 42-yard catch that highlighted his deep threat ability.
• Dominique Rhymes: Added 60 yards on 5 receptions, providing a reliable option for Brown.
• Jaelon Acklin: Managed 18 yards on 3 catches, helping to move the chains when needed.

Kicking:

• Lewis Ward: Converted 3 field goals with a longest of 34 yards and made 1 extra point.

Punting:

• Richie Leone: Punted 7 times for 301 yards, averaging 43.0 yards per punt, with his longest being 62 yards.

Kick Returns:

• DeVonte Dedmon: Returned 3 kickoffs for 56 yards, averaging 18.7 yards per return.
• Punt Returns: Dedmon also excelled in punt returns with 6 returns for 82 yards, including a 49-yard return that set up great field position.

Defense:

• Alonzo Addae: Led the defense with 4 tackles, 1 interception, and 1 pass defended.
• Micah Hunter: Also made 4 tackles and added a pass defended.
• Lorenzo Mauldin IV: Recorded 3 tackles and 1 sack, applying constant pressure on Winnipeg’s quarterback.

Winnipeg Blue Bombers

Passing:

• Zach Collaros: Threw for 285 yards on 15 of 31 passing but did not find the end zone and threw 2 interceptions. Collaros struggled with consistency under pressure from Ottawa’s defense.

Rushing:

• Johnny Augustin: Rushed for 31 yards on 7 carries and scored Winnipeg’s only rushing touchdown.
• Chris Streveler: Added 7 yards on 6 carries, showcasing his dual-threat capability.

Receiving:

• Dalton Schoen: Was the standout receiver with 4 catches for 43 yards, averaging 10.8 yards per catch.
• Kekoa Wheatfall: Made a significant impact with 3 receptions for 111 yards, including a long 76-yard catch that energized the Blue Bombers’ offense.
• Nic Demski: Added 58 yards on 3 receptions, demonstrating his versatility.

Kicking:

• Sergio Castillo: Converted his only field goal attempt from 45 yards and made 2 extra points.

Punting:

• Josh Sheahan: Punted 6 times for 280 yards, averaging 46.7 yards per punt, with a long of 70 yards.

Kick Returns:

• Marquis Mitchell: Returned 4 kickoffs for 73 yards, averaging 18.3 yards per return.
• Punt Returns: Mitchell also returned 5 punts for 35 yards, averaging 7.0 yards per return.

Defense:

• Redha Kramdi: Led the defense with 8 tackles and 1 pass defended.
• Brandon Alexander: Contributed 4 tackles.
• Adam Bighill: Added 4 tackles and 1 pass defended, showcasing his usual strong presence in the middle of the field.

Key Moments:

1. First Half Dominance: Ottawa jumped out to an early lead, scoring 10 points in the first quarter and adding another 6 in the second. The Blue Bombers responded with 10 points in the second quarter but trailed 16-10 at halftime.
2. Defensive Stands: Both defenses tightened up in the third quarter, with Winnipeg managing to score a touchdown to close the gap to 16-17, but Ottawa’s defense made key stops to maintain their lead.
3. Fourth Quarter Drama: Ottawa sealed the victory with a touchdown in the fourth quarter, extending their lead to 23-17. A late safety added 2 points for Winnipeg, but it wasn’t enough to overcome the deficit.

The Ottawa Redblacks showcased a balanced attack and strong defensive effort to secure their first win of the season, setting the tone for what promises to be an exciting CFL campaign. Stay tuned to The CFL Football Show with Ron Raymond for more in-depth analysis and coverage throughout the season.