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June 1, 2023

Rookies shine as REDBLACKS down Argos in final pre-season game

REDBLACKS 34

ARGONAUTS 23

Big plays were the name of the game for the Ottawa REDBLACKS on Thursday night as the visitors wrapped up the pre-season with a 34-23 win over the Toronto Argonauts at the University of Guelph.

With a roster featuring predominantly young players and many of those fighting for remaining regular season roster spots, the REDBLACKS got solid performances from their quarterbacks, with both Tyrie Adams and Dustin Crum passing for touchdowns. Jake Dunniway, who played the final quarter, led a drive down the field before Crum punched it in from in close. Adams finished his part of the game going 4 for 4 for 139 yards, Crum with completing 11 of 17 passes for 83 yards and Dunniway going 3 for 4 for 28 yards in what was a complete performance from Ottawa from start to finish. Adams and Crum both chipped in with rushing touchdowns.

Defensively, Barron Miles’ unit turned in a strong performance of their own, with Damon leading the way with six defensive tackles and a late fourth-quarter interception by defensive back Tareke Lewis sealing the win for Ottawa.

Despite giving up an early touchdown on the Argo’s first drive, Ottawa responded just as quickly. After completing a 62-yard pass to Emmanuel Butler, starting quarterback Tyrie Adams would punch the ball in from the one-yard line to even the score 7-7.

After holding Toronto to a field goal on the next drive, Ottawa would go up by a touchdown thanks to another long ball from Adams, this time going 57 yards to receiver Siaosi Mariner for the major. Lewis Ward would hit a pair of field goals in the second quarter to give the REDBLACKS a 20-10 lead at the half.

The REDBLACKS return to practice on Tuesday to begin preparations for the season opener on June 10 against the Alouettes in Montreal.