In a commanding performance, the Montreal Alouettes secured a 34-13 victory against the Ottawa Redblacks on Friday night, further solidifying their position as the top team in the Eastern Division. With this win, the Alouettes improved their record to an impressive 7-1, while the Redblacks continued to struggle, sinking to 0-7—the worst start in the franchise’s history.
Strong Start for the Alouettes
From the outset, the Alouettes displayed their prowess on the field. Quarterback Davis Alexander had an outstanding game, completing 22 of 30 passes for a staggering 420 yards and throwing three touchdown passes. In contrast, Ottawa’s Jake Maier put forth a commendable effort, finishing 34 for 41 with 311 yards and a solitary interception. However, the Redblacks’ inability to convert opportunities in the red zone proved detrimental, as they managed only one touchdown from five attempts, while Montreal capitalised on all four of their chances.
The Alouettes struck first, scoring on their initial two possessions. Alexander connected with Cole Spieker for a six-yard touchdown pass on their opening drive, followed by a swift four-play drive that culminated in a three-yard touchdown run by Travis Theis.
Redblacks Fail to Capitalise
Despite showing signs of life, the Redblacks struggled to maintain momentum. They reached the red zone on their first drive but could only muster a 13-yard field goal. A potentially game-changing moment came late in the first quarter when a Grade 2 roughing-the-passer penalty against Montreal’s Najee Murray advanced Ottawa to the Alouettes’ one-yard line. While they were halted on their first attempt, Daniel Adeboboye finally broke through early in the second quarter, narrowing the score to 14-10.
The Alouettes responded swiftly, with Alexander finding Spieker again for an 11-yard touchdown, extending their lead to 21-10. A holding penalty on Montreal thwarted what could have been Alexander’s third touchdown of the evening, forcing the team to settle for a 35-yard field goal.
As the second quarter drew to a close, Ottawa once more found themselves in the red zone but could only manage another 14-yard field goal, leaving them trailing 24-13 at halftime.
Missed Opportunities for Ottawa
Emerging from the break, the Redblacks looked to regain control. They gambled on a crucial third and three, which temporarily paid off, advancing to Montreal’s two-yard line. However, Maier was subsequently sacked and failed to connect on subsequent plays, leading to an interception thrown to Joshua Archibald.
Montreal capitalised on this momentum shift, with Tyler Snead securing a 19-yard touchdown pass late in the third quarter, pushing the score to 31-13. Jose Maltos Diaz capped off the scoring with a 42-yard field goal midway through the fourth quarter, sealing the Alouettes’ decisive victory.
Upcoming Matches
Looking ahead, the Alouettes will host the Edmonton Elks on Saturday, August 8, as they aim to continue their winning streak. Meanwhile, the Redblacks will seek redemption when they face the Saskatchewan Roughriders on Friday, August 7.
Why it Matters
This match not only highlights the Alouettes’ exceptional form but also underscores the challenges faced by the Redblacks. With their record now reflecting a season of significant struggles, Ottawa will need to reassess their strategies and execution to avoid further disappointment. The contrasting fortunes of these two teams could shape the landscape of the Eastern Division as the season progresses, making the upcoming matches critical for both squads.