It’s no secret that 2026 has been an abject disaster for the Ottawa Redblacks.
They’re 0-11 entering a Week 14 bye, which has clinched a full calendar year without a win (the last one was September 5, 2025). Recent attendance numbers suggest fans are content to stay home and do anything, such as watch a movie or play on one of Canada’s online casinos, then witness another defeat in TD Place. The fans who are still showing up are sporting brown paper bags.
As if things weren’t rough enough in the capital, the B.C. Lions tried to get clever on X (fka Twitter) following their fifth straight victory at Ottawa’s expense. This is what the team account posted after the contest:
“The BC Lions have decided to respectfully refrain from posting win memes tonight out of an abundance of caution for the well-being of the Ottawa REDBLACKS and their fans. Please know the BC Lions are excited about their win but extend the deepest of sympathy for all those who experienced another loss tonight.
The Road Team, please enjoy yet another lemon. Thank you.”
It was later deleted on Monday afternoon.
Notable Reactions
There were a lot of takes on the post. Some found it to be a hilarious troll. Others found it to be more tasteless.
Many notable figures fit in the latter category.
Clint “Bubba” O'Neil deemed the post a “poor look” and “cheap shot.”
Meanwhile, Edmonton Elks radio colour analyst Dave Campbell said, “I slept on it and yeah, I don’t like this at all,” while also adding, “I’ve seen up close what it’s like for an organization to struggle and fan base that is discouraged by it.”
Even former Winnipeg Blue Bombers kicker Troy Westwood responded with “Wow. Cold.”
Chris Hofley, a former Redblacks communications manager, chimed in too. He started with “Love chirps from team accounts. But if you’re going to go this way the statement has to be at least a bit clever.” Speaking specifically on the Lions’ post, he added: “This is just trying too hard to end up with cheap grasping at low-hanging fruit.”
Apparently, the detractors were loud enough, as the team did take down the post. However, it should be noted that an Instagram post that directly calls the Ottawa Redblacks trash is still up.
What’s Next for These Teams
With only seven games remaining, both teams will look to finish the season strong, albeit with different standards in that regard.
The B.C. Lions are riding their five-game winning streak into a home-and-home with league-leading Montreal Alouettes. Winning at least one of those games would be a massive statement.
As for the Redblacks, they get a much-needed bye in Week 14. Afterward, they’ll continue fighting for their first win against the Toronto Argonauts.
Later down the line, the Lions and Redblacks have another date on October 9. It’ll be in Vancouver this time.
We’ll find out then if Ottawa has an on-field response to B.C.’s social media antics.