Trey Vaval’s 128-yard missed field goal return touchdown sets new franchise record
Cam Allen records first two career interceptions, including 61-yard return
Winnipeg moves to 7-7 while Ottawa falls to 4-10 despite outgaining Bombers 452-210
Game Recap:
The Winnipeg Blue Bombers snapped a three-game losing streak with a 26-18 victory over the Ottawa REDBLACKS at TD Place on Saturday, powered by defense and special teams rather than offensive production. Trey Vaval’s franchise-record 128-yard return of a missed field goal proved to be the game’s defining moment, while rookie defensive back Cam Allen intercepted two passes in his breakout performance. The win improves Winnipeg to 7-7 on the season while Ottawa drops to 4-10 despite outgaining the Bombers significantly in total yards.
Results
Team
1
2
3
4
OT
T
Outcome
WPG
0
17
0
9
0
26
Win
OTT
7
1
3
7
0
18
Loss
Game Highlights Video:
Watch the full game highlights above to catch all the key plays from Winnipeg Blue Bombers vs Ottawa REDBLACKS.
Winnipeg Blue Bombers Performance:
The Blue Bombers struggled offensively but made up for it with timely defensive plays and special teams excellence. Chris Streveler managed the game effectively despite completing only three passes, relying heavily on his rushing ability and the ground game.
Top Offensive Players:
Chris Streveler: QB – 3/8 passing for 54 yards, 11 rushes for 72 yards and 1 TD
Brady Oliveira: RB – 20 carries for 100 yards, second consecutive 100-yard game
Joey Corcoran: WR – 1 reception for 24 yards
Dillon Mitchell: WR – 1 reception for 19 yards
Ontaria Wilson: WR – 1 reception for 11 yards on 2 targets
Top Defensive Players:
Cam Allen: DB – 3 tackles, 2 interceptions including 61-yard return
The REDBLACKS moved the ball effectively through the air with Dru Brown’s return to the lineup but couldn’t convert enough opportunities into touchdowns. Despite outgaining Winnipeg by over 240 yards, Ottawa managed just 18 points and fell to their tenth loss of the season.
Eugene Lewis: WR – 9 receptions for 155 yards on 12 targets
Justin Hardy: WR – 7 receptions for 101 yards on 10 targets
Bralon Addison: WR – 6 receptions for 69 yards and 1 TD, 4 rushes for 16 yards
Daniel Adeboboye: RB – 9 carries for 43 yards, 2 receptions for 7 yards
Top Defensive Players:
Adarius Pickett: DE – 6 tackles, 1 sack
Lucas Cormier: LB – 6 tackles, 1 sack
Adrian Frye: DB – 3 tackles
Lorenzo Mauldin IV: DE – 3 tackles, 1 sack
Davion Taylor: LB – 3 tackles
With this victory, Winnipeg keeps their playoff hopes alive in a competitive West Division where Saskatchewan leads at 10-3, followed by Calgary at 8-5. The Blue Bombers now sit tied with BC at 7-7 as teams jockey for playoff positioning. In the East Division, Hamilton continues to lead at 9-5, while Ottawa’s playoff chances have all but disappeared at 4-10.
The Blue Bombers showed they can win ugly when needed, relying on defensive takeaways and special teams magic rather than offensive fireworks. Vaval’s historic return will be remembered as one of the season’s most spectacular plays, while Allen’s emergence gives Winnipeg another defensive weapon for their playoff push. Ottawa’s ability to move the ball gives them something to build on, but their inability to capitalize on opportunities continues to plague them in what has been a disappointing 2025 season.
Can the Blue Bombers build momentum from this defensive performance as they face Hamilton next week? Will Ottawa’s offensive improvements under Dru Brown translate to more wins down the stretch? What are your thoughts on this game? Share your comments below.
