OTTAWA — The Montreal Alouettes made it two wins to start the season with a convincing 39-18 victory over the Ottawa REDBLACKS at TD Place on Friday night.
But what stood out most wasn’t just the scoreboard — it was how dominant the Als’ defensive line was throughout the game.
With their fourth-straight win over Ottawa and an 11th consecutive victory at TD Place, Montreal showed why they’re setting the pace early in the CFL season.
A Defensive Statement
The Alouettes’ defence came into this season with high expectations after finishing strong in 2024. And through two games, they’ve backed it up.
Montreal’s D-line racked up three interceptions, including one returned for a touchdown by Wesley Sutton. They applied consistent pressure, shut down key drives, and helped keep the REDBLACKS off balance all night.
Lwal Uguak had a standout moment when he dropped back into coverage and picked off Matt Shiltz, taking it 32 yards downfield to set up field position. That kind of versatility and playmaking ability is exactly what makes this unit so dangerous.
Linebackers like Geoffrey Cantin-Arku and Tyrice Beverette were flying around the field, making tackles behind the line and disrupting rhythm. Meanwhile, veterans like Dylan Wynn and Shawn Oakman provided leadership and physicality at the point of attack.
Offence Does Just Enough
Davis Alexander continued his impressive rookie season, improving to 2-0 as a starting quarterback — tying a franchise record for the best start by a QB in team history.
He completed 23 of 32 passes for 344 yards, one touchdown, and an interception. He spread the ball around effectively, connecting with Tyler Snead (117 yards), Austin Mack (over 100 receiving yards), and Tyson Philpot early in the game.
Special teams also played a role, particularly when Bennett Williams forced a turnover on a punt return that gave the offence great field position.
Kicker José Maltos was money again, going six-for-six on field goals — including a pair from beyond 50 yards — to close out the scoring.
REDBLACKS Struggle Without Dru Brown
Ottawa started backup QB Matt Shiltz in place of injured starter Dru Brown, who exited Week 1 with a hip injury.
Shiltz finished with 205 yards, one touchdown, and three picks. While he showed flashes of mobility and poise under pressure, the turnovers proved costly.
Eugene Lewis, playing in his 100th career game, was held without a score — ending his streak of consecutive games with a touchdown at nine, just one short of Terry Evanshen’s league record.
Despite a late push that saw Ottawa cut the lead to 26-18, the REDBLACKS couldn’t overcome the mistakes or contain the relentless Montreal pass rush.
What This Win Means for Montreal
With injuries looming across the league and early-season momentum crucial, the Alouettes are in a great spot right now.
Their defence isn’t just good — it’s elite. And with players like Sutton, Uguak, and Cantin-Arku stepping up, there’s depth and talent across the board.
They’ll take that energy into Edmonton next week, where they’ll look to extend their winning streak even further.
Another Win, Another Defensive Masterclass
The Alouettes didn’t need a perfect offensive performance to win — just solid execution and a shutdown defensive effort.
That’s a formula for success in any league.
And if Montreal’s first two games are any indication, their defence might be the talk of the CFL this season.
Leave a Reply