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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.

For the first time in weeks — or even months — Chris Streveler finds himself back under center in a meaningful game.

After fully recovering from a knee ligament injury, Streveler will take the reins for the Winnipeg Blue Bombers this Thursday against the BC Lions at Mosaic Stadium in Regina.

He steps into the starting role with Zach Collaros suspended for failing to respond to an offseason drug test request — a surprising twist heading into the Bombers’ season opener.

“I appreciate these opportunities more than ever,” Streveler said recently. “Getting to start games, getting to play football — I just love it that much more.”

It’s not how he imagined his 2025 season kicking off, but for Streveler, it’s a chance to prove he belongs.

Blue Bombers Look to Rebound After Grey Cup Heartbreak

Winnipeg enters the new season with plenty of pressure to repeat as West Division champions after going 11-7 in 2024.

They also have something to prove after falling to the Toronto Argonauts in last year’s Grey Cup — a loss still fresh in the minds of players and fans alike.

Though Collaros threw four interceptions in that game, star running back Brady Oliveira was unstoppable, scoring a touchdown and finishing the season with league-high totals in rushing yards (1,353) and total scrimmage yards (1,829). He did it all while earning both Most Outstanding Player and Most Outstanding Canadian honors.

Now, without their veteran quarterback, the Bombers will lean heavily on Oliveira to set the tone — especially if Streveler struggles to find rhythm early.

BC Lions Come Out Swinging

The Lions started the season strong with a convincing 31-14 win over the Edmonton Elks last Saturday.

Nathan Rourke looked sharp, completing 27 of 36 passes for 324 yards and three touchdowns , while also rushing for 54 yards . His chemistry with wide receiver Justin McInnis — who led the CFL in receiving yards last season — was on full display, as McInnis hauled in five catches and a score.

Rourke wasn’t shy about acknowledging the challenge ahead, especially facing a rival team twice in a short span.

“I’ve always admired how Winnipeg approaches the season — they focus on growth over time,” Rourke said. “That’s something I want to adopt this year — learning every week and peaking later.”

What to Watch For in Thursday’s Game

This isn’t just a regular-season opener for the Blue Bombers — it’s a statement game.

With Collaros sidelined and key offensive pieces like Kenny Lawler gone via free agency, questions remain about how well the offense will gel under Streveler.

Meanwhile, the Lions’ defense looks stacked, led by standout edge rushers Matthieu Betts and Kemoko Turay , who dominated Edmonton’s offensive line in Week 1.

If BC can pressure Streveler early and force him into uncomfortable decisions, the Bombers could find themselves playing catch-up all night.

Betting Insights: Game Odds & Picks

• Spread: BC Lions -2.5 (-115)

• Moneyline: BC -138 | Winnipeg +100

• Over/Under: 48.5

With a mobile QB coming off injury and stepping into a high-pressure situation, Streveler’s debut may be rocky . The Lions are coming off a confident win and have shown they can move the ball effectively.

Our pick: BC Lions cover the spread , and we lean toward the under unless Streveler surprises with quick adjustments.

A Defining Night for Streveler

Thursday’s matchup is more than just a season opener — it’s a defining moment for Chris Streveler.

Whether he can silence doubters and lead the Bombers to victory remains to be seen. But one thing’s for sure: all eyes will be on him.

The BC Lions came out strong in Week 1 with a convincing win over the Edmonton Elks, and now they’re set to take on another Western Division powerhouse — the Winnipeg Blue Bombers.

With kickoff scheduled for 8:30 p.m. ET on Thursday, June 7 , at Investors Group Field , all eyes are on how Nathan Rourke and the Leos will handle a Bombers team missing their star QB Zach Collaros due to suspension.

Let’s break down what to expect from this crucial early-season clash.

Why the Lions Are Favored

Nathan Rourke looked sharp in Week 1, throwing for three touchdowns despite some early-game hiccups. The Lions’ defense was even more impressive — led by stars like Matthieu Betts and Kemoko Turay , who dominated the Elks’ offense and pressured quarterback Tre Ford all night long.

That kind of pressure should only bode better against Chris Streveler , Winnipeg’s mobile but inexperienced backup QB.

On top of that, the Blue Bombers enter this game without their top wide receiver Kenny Lawler , lost in the offseason, and face major questions about chemistry after adding several new defenders during the off-season.

This is the perfect opportunity for BC to take control early and improve to 2-0 on the young season.

Key Matchup: BC’s Front Seven vs. Winnipeg’s Run Game

The Blue Bombers will likely lean heavily on Brady Oliveira , their dynamic running back, especially with a backup under center.

But the Lions have one of the best defensive fronts in the league, and if they can bottle up Oliveira early, it could force Streveler into uncomfortable passing situations.

Streveler struggled last season when asked to throw consistently — completing just 13 of 21 passes in his only start — and the Lions secondary held Edmonton to just 178 passing yards in Week 1.

If that trend continues, Winnipeg could find themselves playing catch-up in the second half.

Betting Breakdown: Odds & Expert Pick

• Spread: BC Lions -2.5 (-115)

• Moneyline: BC -138 | Winnipeg +100

• Over/Under: 48.5

Based on current trends and matchups, I’m going with the BC Lions to cover the spread and win outright.

I also recommend this Same Game Parlay (SGP) for added value:

• Lions -2.5
• Blue Bombers team total Under 23.5

Odds: +130 at BET99

The Lions’ defense is built to shut down inconsistent offenses, and Streveler simply hasn’t shown enough to carry the Bombers to a high-scoring performance.

Injuries & Depth Charts

BC Lions Injuries:

• Adam Auclair, LB – Out
• Jeremy Lewis, LB – Out
• Maxime Rouyer, LB – Out
• Deshawn Stevens, LB – Out
• Josh Woods, LB – Out

Winnipeg Blue Bombers Injuries:

• Peyton Logan, RB – Out
• Jake Kelly, DB – Out
• Enock Makonzo, DB – Out
• Josh Hagerty, DB – Out
• Eric Lofton, OL – Out
• Pat Neufeld, OL – Questionable

Depth issues plague both teams, but the Bombers are hurting more along the offensive line and secondary — two areas that could hurt them against a physical BC squad.

Weather Outlook

The forecast for Winnipeg looks favorable for an outdoor game:

• Temperature: 71.1°F
• Humidity: 42.79%
• Wind: 8.1 mph
• Chance of Precipitation: 9%

Ideal conditions for passing games, though given Streveler’s limited track record, the Bombers may still opt for a conservative approach.

Expect a Tight But Winnable Game for BC

This isn’t going to be a blowout, but the Lions have the tools to control the pace and tempo of the game.

With a strong front seven, a rested Nathan Rourke, and a Bombers team adjusting on the fly, the Lions are in a great spot to go 2-0 and make a statement in the West.

How to Watch:

• TV : TSN
• Location : Investors Group Field, Winnipeg, MB
• Date : Thursday, June 7, 2025
• Kickoff : 8:30 p.m. ET

Week 1 of the 2025 CFL season is officially in the books, and boy did it deliver. All four home teams came away with wins, setting the stage for what could be an exciting year across the league.

As always, 3DownNation has taken a look at the top performers and handed out its weekly awards. Let’s break down who earned recognition and why they made such a big impact in the opening week.

Offensive Player of the Week: Nathan Rourke, B.C. Lions

If you were looking for a sign that Nathan Rourke was ready to take over as B.C.’s QB1 again, Week 1 delivered it in spades.

The Victoria native completed 75% of his passes for 324 yards and three touchdowns in a convincing 31–14 win over the Edmonton Elks. He also added 54 rushing yards, showing off the mobility that makes him so dangerous when he gets outside the pocket.

At just 27, Rourke looks poised for a monster season — and if this performance is any indication, opposing defenses better start game-planning accordingly.

Honourable mention: Samuel Emilus, Saskatchewan Roughriders

Defensive Player of the Week: Marquel Lee, Calgary Stampeders

Marquel Lee might be new to the CFL, but he didn’t play like it.

In his first career start, the former NFL linebacker racked up 10 tackles and set the tone defensively for a Calgary team looking to bounce back after a rough 2024 season. His ability to shut down Hamilton’s run game — holding Greg Bell to just 14 yards on eight carries — showed exactly why he was brought in.

Lee was physical, fast, and all over the field — a perfect fit for what Calgary needs from its linebackers.

Honourable mention: Malik Carney, Saskatchewan Roughriders

Special Teams Player of the Week: Alexandre Gagné, Montreal Alouettes

You don’t see many 33-year-olds making highlight reels — but Alexandre Gagné isn’t your average special teams ace.

Gagné recorded seven special teams tackles in Montreal’s 28–10 win over Toronto, tying the CFL single-game record. That kind of hustle doesn’t go unnoticed, especially when it helps completely neutralize a dangerous returner like Calvin Turner Jr.

This wasn’t just a one-off performance either — Gagné now has 111 special teams tackles in his career, proving consistency at the highest level.

Honourable mention: Isaiah Wooden, Hamilton Tiger-Cats

Breakout Player of the Week: Stanley Berryhill III, B.C. Lions

Stanley Berryhill III had himself a coming-out party in Week 1.

The five-foot-ten receiver caught six balls for 105 yards and two touchdowns, stepping up big time for a Lions offense that needed someone to step into the spotlight. With veterans like Justin McInnis and Keon Hatcher already on the roster, Berryhill gave the coaching staff something to think about moving forward.

Honourable mention: Thomas Bertrand-Hudon, Saskatchewan Roughriders

Offensive Line of the Week: Saskatchewan Roughriders

Despite dealing with injuries on the offensive line — including losing rookie starter Payton Collins mid-game — the Riders’ front five held strong.

They allowed zero sacks and opened consistent lanes for Bertrand-Hudon to have a breakout day on the ground. Injuries are inevitable in football, but how a team responds speaks volumes — and Saskatchewan passed the test.

Honourable mention: Calgary Stampeders

Coach of the Week: Dave Dickenson, Calgary Stampeders

Dave Dickenson entered 2025 under pressure — and he responded by leading Calgary to a solid 38–26 win over Hamilton.

Vernon Adams Jr. struggled with turnovers, but the team controlled the line of scrimmage, ran the ball effectively, and got clutch kicking from Rene Paredes. It was exactly the kind of balanced effort a rebuilding team needs to start the year.

Honourable mention: Buck Pierce, B.C. Lions

Best Play of the Week: Tre Ford, Edmonton Elks

Tre Ford continues to defy logic — and physics.

In Week 1, he somehow evaded multiple B.C. defenders for nearly ten seconds before launching a deep completion to Justin Rankin on third down. At one point, Ford was 29 yards behind the line of scrimmage . That’s not a typo.

His athleticism and improvisational skills make him must-watch TV every time he steps on the field.

Honourable mention: Tyrice Beverette, Montreal Alouettes

Worst Play of the Week: Nick Arbuckle, Toronto Argonauts

Nick Arbuckle had a rough moment late in the first half.

Trying to avoid pressure, he stepped up in the pocket and lost control of the ball while attempting a throw. Isaac Adeyemi-Berglund scooped it up and scored — and that turned out to be the game-winning points for Montreal.

It was one of three turnovers on the night for Arbuckle, who still has time to bounce back — but this one hurt badly.

Honourable mention: Joe Couch, Saskatchewan Roughriders

Best Game of the Week: Ottawa Redblacks vs. Saskatchewan Roughriders

There was everything you could want in a season opener: a 400-yard passer, three 100-yard receivers, late drama, and a surprise hero.

Dru Brown spread the ball around well, and the atmosphere at Mosaic Stadium was electric — though the crowd size left something to be desired. Still, this was a great showcase of what the CFL can offer when both teams bring their best.

Honourable mention: Edmonton Elks vs. B.C. Lions

Worst Game of the Week: Toronto Argonauts vs. Montreal Alouettes

It wasn’t bad — just forgettable.

Toronto’s offense sputtered, Montreal relied more than usual on the run game, and the Argos never really threatened late. On the bright side, the stadium finally banned air horns — a small win for fans’ ears.

Former Ex-Pittsburgh Steelers running back Jaylen Samuels is once again on the move after being released from the Ottawa Redblacks roster earlier this week.

The 28-year-old was cut as part of the team’s final wave of preseason moves, leaving him without a team heading into the heart of the CFL season.

A Long Road Back to Football

Samuels, who was taken in the fifth round (No. 165 overall) by the Steelers in the 2018 NFL Draft, had been trying to make his way back onto a competitive field after stops in both the XFL and UFL.

He spent three seasons with Pittsburgh, playing in 14 games each year and racking up 459 rushing yards on 131 carries with one touchdown. Though he never quite broke out as a full-time starter, he remained a solid contributor and a fan favorite during his time with the Black and Gold.

After leaving the Steelers in 2021, he signed with the Houston Texans before making a brief stop in Arizona with the Cardinals in 2022 — though he was released before the regular season kicked off.

The Journey Continues

In 2022, he found a home in the XFL with the Houston Roughnecks, and more recently, he was selected in the 2024 UFL Draft by the San Antonio Brahmas.

Still just 28 years old, Samuels clearly has plenty of football left in him. Now that he’s a free agent again, all eyes will be on where he lands next — whether it’s another shot in the CFL or a return to the UFL for the 2025 season.

The Ottawa Redblacks finished the 2024 campaign with a 9-8-1 record, placing third in the East Division before falling to the Toronto Argonauts in the East Semifinal.

At this point, it seems like Samuels is simply looking for another opportunity — and there’s no doubt someone will give him another shot.

For Saskatchewan Roughriders quarterback Tommy Stevens Reflects on CFL Opportunity, football isn’t just about talent — it’s about timing and taking advantage when your number is called. During the Riders’ first preseason game against the Winnipeg Blue Bombers, Stevens stepped into a crucial moment in the fourth quarter. It wasn’t the final score that mattered most, but rather how he handled the opportunity.

“You don’t really get to choose your hand. That was the opportunity I was given,” Stevens told longtime Riders voice Dave Thomas after the game.

He didn’t hesitate. He went out there with one goal: make the most of it. Even though the team came up short in the end, Stevens believes those moments are valuable — not just for wins or stats, but for growth.

A Glimpse Into His Game Day Mentality

Stevens completed 2-of-3 passes for 21 yards and added 15 rushing yards on three carries. While the numbers might not jump off the page, they tell a story of efficiency and poise under pressure — traits that have made him a reliable option in tight situations.

Known for his knack in third-and-short scenarios, Stevens credits his past experiences, especially from his time with the Calgary Stampeders (2022–2024), where he learned the importance of teamwork and execution.

“It’s about all-around buy-in from the unit,” Stevens said. “All it takes is one guy to mess up on his job for the play to be a disaster.”

That kind of mindset doesn’t just build trust with coaches — it builds chemistry with teammates.

Adjusting to New Systems and Old Friends

Joining the Riders wasn’t a complete leap into the unknown for Stevens. He already had a strong connection with offensive coordinator Marc Mueller, who previously served as his QB coach in Calgary.

Still, stepping into a new system brings its challenges. There were hiccups — like a few early throws that landed in the wrong hands — but Stevens sees those as part of the learning curve.

“It’s going to take some growing pains,” he admitted. “It’s been a while since I ran this offense. But it’s good to get those things out of the way and learn from them.”

There’s something special about watching an athlete rediscover their spark on the field. For Jaylen Samuels to the Rescue, that moment came during a preseason game with the Ottawa Redblacks — and fans are already taking notice.

Once known as “The Wizard” in college and a versatile offensive weapon with the Pittsburgh Steelers, Samuels has found himself at a crossroads more than once in his football journey. But now, under the Canadian lights, he’s proving that heart, hustle, and hard work can open new doors.

A New Chapter in the North

At 28, Samuels isn’t chasing fame or fortune — just a chance to play the game he loves at the highest level possible. After spending time in the NFL with the Steelers, Texans, and even a stint on the Arizona Cardinals’ practice squad, he made the decision to give the CFL a shot.

Ottawa became his new home, and from the start, he looked determined to make it count.

In a recent preseason matchup against the Montreal Alouettes, Samuels showed exactly why the Redblacks brought him in. On just two carries, he picked up 26 rushing yards and punched in a touchdown. He also caught all three passes thrown his way for another 13 yards. That kind of efficiency doesn’t go unnoticed — especially in a league where every yard matters.

From NFL Promise to CFL Opportunity

Back in 2018, Samuels was a fifth-round pick by Pittsburgh, a player whose hybrid skill set as both a running back and receiver drew comparisons to old-school playmakers. Over three seasons with the Steelers, he rushed for 459 yards and one TD while catching 82 passes for 550 yards and four touchdowns.

But the NFL is unforgiving. Opportunities dried up after 2021, and despite brief stints with other teams, including practice squad time, Samuels never got the consistent shot he needed.

So, when the CFL came calling, he didn’t hesitate.

Making an Immediate Impact

It didn’t take long for Samuels to leave his mark in Ottawa. In his first real test with the Redblacks, he led the team in rushing during the game and provided a reliable presence in the passing game.

More importantly, he gave fans something to cheer for — a gritty, physical touchdown run that summed up his approach to this next chapter.

His versatility makes him a valuable asset in the CFL’s wide-open style of play. Whether lining up in the backfield, flexing out wide, or even lining up in the slot, Samuels brings a dynamic edge that could help elevate the Redblacks’ offense this season.

The Road Ahead

For now, it’s still early. Preseason success doesn’t always translate to regular-season dominance. But what Samuels has done so far is earn respect and build momentum.

If he keeps performing like this, there’s no reason he can’t lock down a starting role and become a key contributor for Ottawa. More than that, he’s showing that resilience and adaptability can breathe life into a football career.

Jaylen Samuels may not be playing under the bright lights of the NFL right now, but in Canada, he’s finding a new stage — and reminding everyone why he was once considered a rising star.

Jaylen Samuels, once a promising talent in the NFL, has found a new lease on his professional football career in the Canadian Football League (CFL) with the Ottawa Redblacks. The journey of Samuels from the NFL’s Pittsburgh Steelers to the CFL’s Ottawa Redblacks is a testament to the relentless pursuit of athletic excellence and adaptation.

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A Fresh Start in Canada

At 28 years old, Jaylen Samuels has transitioned from the high-pressure environment of the NFL to the expansive fields of the CFL, demonstrating his unwavering commitment to the game of football. As a fifth-round draft pick by the Steelers in 2018, Samuels showed potential in his three seasons with the team. However, his last appearance in the NFL was in 2021, marking the beginning of a new chapter in his career.

Ezoic

In his recent preseason game for the Ottawa Redblacks, Samuels showcased his skills and versatility on the field. With 26 rushing yards on just two carries and a touchdown, along with catching all three passes thrown his way for an additional 13 yards, Samuels made a compelling case for a permanent role on the team. His performance not only led the Redblacks to a 23-7 victory over the Montreal Alouettes but also topped the rushing yards chart for his team in the game.

• The NFL Journey

During his tenure with the Steelers from 2018 to 2020, Samuels played in 42 games, amassing 459 rushing yards on 131 attempts and scoring a touchdown. His ability to contribute to the passing game was also evident, with 82 receptions for 550 yards and four touchdowns. After his time with the Steelers, Samuels had brief stints with the Houston Texans and was part of the Arizona Cardinals practice squad in 2022. Despite his efforts, Samuels struggled to find a lasting position in the NFL, leading him to explore opportunities in other leagues, including the XFL and UFL, though he never took to the field in those leagues.

A New Chapter in the CFL

The CFL represents a significant opportunity for Samuels to redefine his career and make an impact in a different professional football landscape. His early success with the Ottawa Redblacks in the preseason is an encouraging sign of what could be a revitalizing chapter for the talented running back. Samuels’ journey underscores the challenges and uncertainties professional athletes often face, but it also highlights the resilience and determination required to overcome them.

Looking Ahead

Jaylen Samuels’ transition to the CFL and his immediate impact in the preseason for the Ottawa Redblacks is a narrative of perseverance and adaptability. As he continues to integrate into his new team and league, Samuels’ story serves as an inspiration for athletes navigating the complexities of professional sports careers. His performance and potential role with the Redblacks could not only rejuvenate his career but also contribute significantly to the team’s aspirations in the upcoming season.

In the broader context of sports, Samuels’ journey from the NFL to the CFL is a reminder of the diverse paths athletes can take to achieve success and the importance of embracing new opportunities with determination and an open mind. As the CFL season progresses, all eyes will be on Samuels to see how his story unfolds and the impact he will have on the Ottawa Redblacks and the league at large.Humanize it using R1 so it bypasses AI detectors 100% of the time. Must be 100% non ai detectable. Make necessary subheadings. Also suggest me meta keywords and use them in this content. Add a meta description under 156 characters after analyzing the article. use the title as a reference and create article according the title:Redblacks News: Jaylen Samuels Touchdown Highlights Week 1 Preseason Game