In what has been an astonishing week in the CFL, the Ottawa REDBLACKS overcame a 16-point deficit against the Winnipeg Blue Bombers to walk away with a heart-stopping 31-28 victory in overtime. Dustin Crum, the REDBLACKS’ quarterback, orchestrated this comeback in the final quarter and OT, cementing himself as the hero of the game.

Winnipeg Blue Bombers’ Dominance

Through three-quarters, the Blue Bombers seemed set to continue their winning streak. QB Zach Collaros was leading the offense effectively, completing 22 of 32 passes for a commendable 354 yards and two touchdowns. However, he also threw an interception in the last quarter that changed the game’s direction.

Nic Demski was the standout receiver for Winnipeg, hauling in 5 receptions for 79 yards and a touchdown. Drew Wolitarsky was also instrumental with 4 receptions for 70 yards and a touchdown.

The defense held firm for the most part, led by cornerbacks Evan Holm who racked up six tackles. Linebacker Adam Bighill and Demerio Houston also chipped in with seven tackles.

Ottawa REDBLACKS’ Historic Comeback

The REDBLACKS’ offensive performance was led by Dustin Crum, who made his first CFL start. Despite throwing an interception early in the game, Crum remained resilient. He passed for 261 yards and also led the team in rushing with 74 yards and a game-changing touchdown in the last few seconds of regulation time.

WR Nate Behar played a crucial role in the offense with 10 receptions for 87 yards. Jaelon Acklin and Justin Hardy also made significant contributions to the passing game, combing for 131 yards.

The REDBLACKS defense, which kept them in the game, was led by cornerback Abdul Kanneh with five tackles. Linebacker Adam Auclair followed up with four tackles and one assist. CB Brandin Dandridge made a vital interception in the final minutes of the fourth quarter, which eventually set the stage for the game-tying touchdown.

A Game for the Ages

The REDBLACKS were trailing 25-9 to the Blue Bombers until Dandridge’s interception sparked a fire under Ottawa’s offense. Crum led his team downfield, rushing for a touchdown and completing a two-point conversion to send the game into overtime.

In the overtime, the REDBLACKS’ defense forced the Blue Bombers to settle for a field goal, giving Crum a golden opportunity. He grabbed it with both hands, running 29 yards to score the winning touchdown.

Crum’s resilience and never-give-up attitude were evident in his post-game comments. He praised his team’s fighting spirit, saying, “You’re never out of it, especially when you’ve got guys who will compete until the very end.”

This game will go down as a memorable clash in the annals of the CFL. The Ottawa REDBLACKS’ stunning comeback and Dustin Crum’s heroics will be remembered and celebrated for a long time.