Photo courtesy: Bob Butrym/RFB Sport Photography
Despite a change at quarterback, the Ottawa Redblacks will not be starting arguably their best offensive lineman for a second consecutive week.
Drew Desjarlais, the second-highest paid offensive lineman in the CFL, is listed as a backup behind American rookie D.J. Jones at right tackle after being deemed questionable with a back injury. The 28-year-old, who has been playing out of position due to other injuries along the offensive line, was listed as a game-time decision last week and was unable to make the start, giving way to Jones at the last minute. He bears no game-time designation this week but appears unlikely to play unless there is an emergency.
Jones will be tasked with protecting quarterback Tyrie Adams, who is making his first start since 2023. Dustin Crum will sit out this game with a head injury, while Dru Brown will technically dress as the third-stringer despite being shut down with a knee injury.
Canadian defensive lineman Daniel Okpoko (knee) will sit out this week, while American defensive back Robert Priester is a healthy scratch. Returner DeVonte Dedmon and Canadian safety Justin Howell will draw in for depth.
The Ottawa Redblacks (4-12) will host the Montreal Alouettes (9-7) for their final home game at TD Place on Saturday, October 18 at 3:00 p.m. EDT. The two teams met on Thanksgiving with the Alouettes winning 30-10 to keep their hopes of finishing first in the East Division alive.
The weather forecast in Ottawa calls for a high of 14 degrees with a 40 percent chance of showers. The game will be broadcast on TSN, RDS, and CTV in Canada and CFL+ internationally. Radio listeners can tune in on TSN 690 in Montreal and TSN 1200 in Ottawa.
Graphic courtesy: Ottawa Redblacks
