Redblacks Stun Lions 34-33 in Thrilling Comeback Victory

UPDATE: In a dramatic finish, the Ottawa Redblacks triumphed over the B.C. Lions with a thrilling 34-33 comeback victory on Friday night. Quarterback Dustin Crum led the charge, showcasing grit and determination as he passed for 301 yards and rushed for 69 yards, scoring two touchdowns in the process.

This win is pivotal for the Redblacks (4-8), snapping their two-game losing streak and keeping their playoff hopes alive. With just 33 seconds left on the clock, Crum connected with Kalil Pimpleton for a sensational 52-yard gain, before finding Eugene Lewis for a 10-yard touchdown pass that sealed the victory.

“It was a huge win for the team for where we’re at right now,” said Crum.

The Lions (5-7) displayed strong performances throughout the game, with quarterback Nathan Rourke completing 22 of 32 passes for 284 yards, one touchdown, and two interceptions. However, the sudden turnaround left the team reeling.

“Man, it’s bad. It’s bad. I’m not gonna lie, this is probably one of the most emotional losses I’ve been in,” said Lions linebacker Micaw Awe.

After trailing 27-16 at the start of the final quarter, the Redblacks staged a remarkable rally. The Lions had controlled the game for most of the night, but Ottawa’s tenacity shone through. The Redblacks initially struggled, trailing 13-3 at halftime, with Sean Whyte kicking field goals and James Butler scoring a touchdown for B.C.

Momentum shifted in the third quarter when Lucas Cormier intercepted a pass at the Lions’ five-yard line, leading to a touchdown by William Stanback that narrowed the score to 13-10. Despite the Lions quickly responding with their own touchdown, Ottawa’s offense, spearheaded by Crum, refused to back down.

Crum’s performance, marked by physicality and resilience, inspired his teammates. “When your quarterback is playing physical like that everybody’s playing physical,” noted Cormier. The Redblacks were able to cut the deficit to just three points with less than eight minutes remaining, showing their fighting spirit.

In a league known for its unpredictability, Crum’s late-game heroics reminded fans that the CFL is never over until the final whistle. “Even when it’s two minutes left in a CFL game it’s never over,” said Stanback, reflecting on the thrilling nature of the sport.

The Redblacks will face the Lions again next week on September 12, 2023, in Vancouver, where both teams will be eager to prove themselves once more. With playoff implications on the line, this rematch promises to be another electrifying encounter.