CFL Preseason Recap: Ottawa runs roughshod over Alouettes

The Ottawa Redblacks opened their preseason with a decisive 23-7 victory over the Montreal Alouettes at Molson Stadium, leaning on stifling defense and explosive special teams to overcome sloppy conditions and a disjointed offensive effort from both sides.

Alexander’s rocky debut
Montreal quarterback Davis Alexander, thrust into the starting role, struggled in his first outing, completing 11 of 18 passes for just 69 yards. His lone highlight—a well-placed end-zone throw to Charleston Rambo—was nullified when Rambo collided with the goalpost. Alexander admitted postgame, “No turnovers, I guess. That’s the only thing I’ve got,” while shouldering blame for the offense’s lack of rhythm. The Alouettes managed only three first downs and 62 net yards in the first half, with Alexander fumbling once (recovered by his team) and failing to sustain drives.

Redblacks’ defense sets the tone
Ottawa’s defense dominated, sacking Alexander twice in the first half and limiting Montreal’s ground game. Veteran defensive lineman Cleyon Laing forced a critical fumble, while the secondary stifled receivers Austin Mack and Cole Spieker. The Redblacks’ starting offense sputtered, however, with quarterback Dru Brown thrwoing for 65 yards before giving way to backup Matt Shiltz. Tailback William Stanback was held to nine yards on four carries.

Dedmon’s electrifying return
The game’s turning point came via Ottawa’s special teams. DeVonte Dedmon’s 70-yard punt return touchdown in the first half energized the Redblacks, offsetting their offensive struggles. Montreal’s James Letcher Jr. countered with 48 punt return yards of his own, including a 25-yard burst, but the Alouettes failed to capitalize.

Roster battles emerge
While Montreal’s Stevie Scott (30 rushing yards on three carries) bolstered his case for backfield snaps, veteran Walter Fletcher managed just four yards. Backup quarterback McLeod Bethel-Thompson (4/10, 70 yards, 1 INT) struggled to ignite the offense, though kicker Joshua Hutley converted two field goals. For Ottawa, Eugene Lewis (three catches, 24 yards) and Dedmon’s versatility provided bright spots.

Coaches’ perspectives
Montreal head coach Jason Maas dismissed overreactions, citing preseason limitations: “We are in training camp… Your timing’s always a little bit different.” Ottawa, meanwhile, will take solace in a defense that allowed no first-half points and a special teams unit that delivered when needed.

Looking ahead
With both teams set to meet again at TD Place in their preseason finale, Montreal seeks offensive cohesion, while Ottawa aims to refine its attack. For now, the Redblacks exit Molson Stadium with momentum—and a blueprint for winning ugly.