There were flashes for the Ottawa REDBLACKS in their 2023 season opener, Saturday night, but it wasn’t enough to get a win over the Montreal Alouettes on the road.
The defence came through in big ways, sacking Als pivot Cody Fajardo six times, and forcing a fumble that was recovered by Brandin Dandridge, but an early Montreal touchdown provided all the offence they needed in a 19-12 win.
Lewis Ward was perfect, making good on four field goal attempts, and a Fajardo rushing major was the lone touchdown of the game.
Nick Arbuckle threw for 176 yards, despite Ottawa losing the turnover margin, and Quan Bray led the way with 58 receiving yards, in his first start for the REDBLACKS. Devonte Williams ran for 36, but the story of the game was the Ottawa defence. Douglas Coleman recorded a career high two sacks, with reigning MODP Lorenzo Mauldin coming through with another, as Cariel Brooks, Bryce Carter, and Michael Wakefield also got to the quarterback. Abdul Kanneh led the way with five total tackles, tying Coleman for the team lead.
The REDBLACKS will look to crack the win column on a quick turnaround, Thursday night, when they host the Calgary Stampeders for their home opener at TD Place.
