Blue Bombers Face Urgent Challenge Against Struggling Argonauts

The Winnipeg Blue Bombers are preparing for a crucial matchup against the Toronto Argonauts this Saturday, March 15, 2025, at BMO Field. After suffering a disappointing defeat in last year’s Canadian Football League (CFL) championship game, the Bombers are eager to turn their season around against a struggling Argonauts team.

Currently sitting at a 3-2 record, the Bombers have faced significant challenges in their recent games, including two consecutive losses by over 20 points. In contrast, the Argonauts are struggling even more, with a 1-5 record this season. The last time these teams met, the Bombers left the field as the runners-up, a memory that still lingers, although both teams have changed since then.

Urgency to Improve Ahead of Matchup

As the Bombers prepare for this important rematch, quarterback Zach Collaros acknowledges that while the past is always present in the back of his mind, the focus must be on the current situation. He stated, “I’ll think about that game forever, as we always talk about, but not this week.” This sentiment is echoed by head coach Mike O’Shea, who noted a “heightened sense of urgency” among the players during practice this week.

The Bombers’ offense has been underperforming lately, with Collaros and backup quarterback Chris Streveler combining for six interceptions in their last two games, three of which were returned for touchdowns. O’Shea emphasized the need for better performance, especially from the defense, which has struggled with communication and execution.

“The guys on the defense want to play better, obviously,” O’Shea said. “They’re not happy with the explosions they’ve given up.” The Bombers have allowed opponents to score efficiently in the red zone, a critical area where improvement is necessary.

Challenges for Toronto

The Argonauts are facing their own set of challenges. Star quarterback Chad Kelly remains uncertain for the game as he recovers from a leg injury. Head coach Ryan Dinwiddie described Kelly’s status as “day-to-day, maybe week-to-week,” leaving the team in a precarious position as they approach this pivotal matchup. Without their top quarterback, the Argonauts will need to rely on their defense, which has shown some vulnerability this season.

Toronto’s recent performance has been disappointing, notably a collapse in Week 7 where they squandered an 18-point lead against the Montreal Alouettes. With both teams riding two-game losing streaks, this encounter marks the first time since 1998 that Winnipeg and Toronto have faced off under such circumstances.

Despite their struggles, both teams have the potential to turn their seasons around. The Bombers possess the league’s top red zone offense, converting at a 79 percent rate, while the Argonauts follow closely with a 73 percent efficiency. This sets the stage for a competitive game, as both teams will need to capitalize on their scoring opportunities.

In their previous meetings, close finishes have been the norm; six of the last seven encounters were decided in the final three minutes. The Bombers’ ability to execute effectively in crucial moments will be essential, especially after having lost three of their last four games in Toronto.

Running back Brady Oliveira stressed the importance of a strong start, comparing it to a basketball player getting their first shot to go in. “It brings a whole lot of good energy to not just the offense, but the team in general,” he remarked, highlighting the need for the Bombers to set the tone early in the game.

As both teams prepare for this significant clash, the urgency to break their losing streaks is palpable. A victory for the Argonauts would mark their first regular-season win streak over the Bombers in over a decade, while the Bombers are determined to reclaim their footing in the league.

The stage is set for an exciting showdown that could have significant implications for both teams as they seek to turn their seasons around. With kickoff scheduled for 6 p.m. CT, fans can expect a fierce battle as the Blue Bombers aim to overcome their recent challenges and the Argonauts strive for redemption.