JUST IN: “HUGE BOOST” Redblacks expect to have Top-Star back against winless Elks
The Ottawa Redblacks are aiming for their first win on the road as they travel to take on the Edmonton Elks this Sunday. The Elks have faced defeat in all four games this season, both at home and away.
Standing at 2-2, the Redblacks anticipate starting quarterback Dru Brown to lead the team against the winless Elks who are at 0-4. Brown was in concussion protocol earlier in the week but participated fully in practice on Thursday and Friday, signaling his readiness for the upcoming game.
In their previous game against the Winnipeg Blue Bombers on July 5, Brown struggled, completing only 2 of 6 passes for 24 yards before leaving the game due to a hit to the head. Backup quarterback Dustin Crum took over, finishing 8-for-11 for 102 yards and an interception.
Despite a strong performance from running back Ryquell Armstead, who rushed for a touchdown and gained 103 yards on the ground, a crucial fumble on a mishandled lateral contributed to one of the three turnovers that derailed the Redblacks in their 25-16 loss to the Blue Bombers.
Ottawa’s head coach Bob Dyce acknowledged the team’s challenges, admitting to struggles with discipline and penalties in the previous game against the Blue Bombers.
While the Redblacks are looking to rebound, the Elks, who had a week off following their last defeat, have signed two former CFL All-Stars, defensive lineman Shawn Oakman and linebacker Derrick Moncrief, as part of their effort to make crucial adjustments.
Edmonton’s general manager and head coach Chris Jones highlighted the close margins of their previous games, expressing the hope that some tweaks in their performance could lead to the one or two key plays needed to turn the tide in their favor.
Quarterback McLeod Bethel-Thompson has been efficient, completing 71.1 percent of his passes this season for 1,225 yards, with seven touchdowns and five interceptions. Additionally, Dillon Mitchell has made 21 receptions for 355 yards and a touchdown.
