In a commanding performance, the Montreal Alouettes showcased their prowess in the Canadian Football League (CFL) by defeating the Ottawa Redblacks 34-13 on Friday evening. This victory solidifies the Alouettes’ position at the top of the East Division with a record of 7-1, while the Redblacks continue to struggle, marking their season at 0-7—the worst start in the franchise’s history.
Strong Start for Montreal
From the onset, the Alouettes established their dominance. Quarterback Davis Alexander delivered an impressive performance, completing 22 of 30 passes for a staggering 420 yards and three touchdowns. His early connections set the tone, as Montreal scored on their first two drives. Alexander’s first touchdown pass found Cole Spieker in the end zone for a six-yard completion, followed by a quick four-play drive that culminated in a three-yard touchdown run by Travis Theis.
In contrast, the Redblacks were unable to maintain momentum. Although they managed to reach the red zone on their initial drive, they only came away with a 13-yard field goal, failing to capitalise on their scoring opportunities. Ottawa’s struggles in the red zone were a recurring theme throughout the match, where they ended with a disappointing 1-for-5 conversion rate, while the Alouettes were a flawless 4-for-4.
Missed Opportunities Haunt Ottawa
The Redblacks found themselves in a precarious position early in the game. A Grade 2 roughing-the-passer penalty against Najee Murray gifted Ottawa prime field position at the one-yard line. However, despite their close proximity, they could only muster a single touchdown, with Daniel Adeboboye finding the end zone to narrow the gap to 14-10 at the start of the second quarter.
Montreal quickly responded, with Alexander connecting with Spieker again for an 11-yard touchdown, extending their lead to 21-10. A holding penalty thwarted another potential touchdown for the Alouettes, forcing them to settle for a 35-yard field goal instead. The Redblacks, desperate to claw back, again reached the red zone just before halftime, but a lack of execution saw them end the half trailing 24-13 after yet another field goal.
Second Half Struggles for Ottawa
As the second half commenced, Ottawa sought to regain control of the match. Their gamble on a critical third down early in the half brought them close to scoring, but a sack on quarterback Jake Maier pushed them back. A subsequent interception thrown by Maier to Joshua Archibald further compounded their woes, as momentum shifted decisively back to the Alouettes.
Montreal capitalised on this opportunity, with Tyler Snead scoring a 19-yard touchdown reception, extending their lead to 31-13 late in the third quarter. Jose Maltos Diaz capped off the scoring with a 42-yard field goal in the fourth quarter, sealing a comprehensive victory for the Alouettes.
Upcoming Matches
The Alouettes will look to continue their winning streak as they prepare to host the Edmonton Elks on Saturday, August 8. Meanwhile, the Redblacks will aim to turn their fortunes around when they visit the Saskatchewan Roughriders on Friday, August 7.
Why it Matters
The Alouettes’ emphatic victory over the Redblacks underscores their status as a formidable contender in the CFL this season. By maintaining a strong offensive performance and a solid defensive strategy, they have not only secured their place at the top of the Eastern Division but have also set the tone for the remainder of the season. For Ottawa, this match serves as a stark reminder of the challenges they face, with their inability to convert scoring chances reflecting deeper issues that need addressing if they are to salvage their season.