Table of Contents
Why This Game Matters
Few CFL games carry the weight of timing like Winnipeg Blue Bombers vs Ottawa REDBLACKS in Week 16. For Winnipeg, a three-game losing streak has shaken confidence in a once-dominant West powerhouse. For Ottawa, this clash at TD Place offers both redemption and a chance to prove they belong in the postseason conversation. Fans across Canada — and internationally via CFL+ — are locked in, knowing a single play could swing the season’s momentum.
This game isn’t just about standings. It’s about pride, identity, and answering critics. Winnipeg is desperate to silence doubters, while Ottawa is eager to show their young core can compete with the league’s best.
Quick Match Facts
| Fixture | Blue Bombers @ REDBLACKS (CFL Week 16) |
| Venue | TD Place, Ottawa |
| Kickoff | Sept 20, 2025 — 3:00 PM ET / 12:00 AM PKT |
| Last Meeting | Aug 15, 2025 — Winnipeg 30, Ottawa 27 |
| Weather | Cool, windy afternoon — could affect the kicking game |
| Broadcast | TSN, RDS, CTV, and CFL+ (streaming) |
Recent Form & Head-to-Head
Blue Bombers (6–7 record): Entering Week 16, Winnipeg had dropped three straight, including tough losses against Saskatchewan and Hamilton. Their defence has struggled late in games, while special teams miscues have proven costly.
REDBLACKS (5–8 record): Ottawa remains inconsistent but competitive. Close losses against BC and Montreal show they can hang with contenders, but execution in crunch time remains a question.
Head-to-Head: Their last meeting in August saw Winnipeg escape with a narrow 30–27 win. That thriller set the stage for today’s high-stakes rematch.
Players to Watch
- Zach Collaros (QB, Winnipeg): Questionable fitness this season, but when healthy, his deep throws and experience change games.
- Chris Streveler (QB, Winnipeg): The dual-threat backup could see action if Collaros isn’t at 100%.
- Dru Brown (QB, Ottawa): Calm and efficient, Brown has earned trust with short-yardage conversions and clutch throws.
- Dalton Schoen (WR, Winnipeg): A game-breaking receiver who can stretch the field and turn quick passes into big gains.
- Devonte Dedmon (KR/WR, Ottawa): Ottawa’s most electrifying returner — his speed could decide field position battles.
Odds, Lines & Injury Updates
Oddsmakers made Ottawa slight -1.5 favourites at home. The projected over/under hovered around 52.5, signalling expectations of a high-scoring duel. But with windy weather at TD Place, totals could dip.
Injury Notes:
- Winnipeg monitoring QB Zach Collaros — limited practice snaps this week.
- Ottawa leaning on Dru Brown as confirmed starter.
- Both teams reported defensive starters nursing minor knocks but cleared for action.
How to Watch Live
Canada: TSN, RDS, CTV
U.S. & International: CFL+ streaming platform.
Radio: Local coverage available via TSN Radio affiliates.
Tactical Preview
1. Special Teams Duel: Winnipeg’s coverage vs Ottawa’s Dedmon return game will be pivotal. Just last week, Winnipeg’s Trey Vaval made headlines with a 125-yard return TD on a missed field goal.
2. Quarterback Play: If Collaros starts, Winnipeg gains vertical threat. If Streveler plays extended snaps, expect more RPOs and QB power runs. Ottawa will counter with rhythm passes from Brown.
3. Red Zone Efficiency: Both teams have struggled to convert trips into touchdowns. With a narrow spread, trading field goals for touchdowns could decide the winner.
4. Defensive Fronts: Winnipeg’s pass rush must disrupt early. Ottawa’s O-line will be under pressure, especially in passing downs.
Rivalry History
While not as historic as Winnipeg–Saskatchewan, the Bombers–REDBLACKS rivalry has grown since Ottawa’s return to the CFL in 2014. Their meetings often produce close finishes. Notably, Ottawa’s Grey Cup upset in 2016 remains a reminder that underdogs can shine on the biggest stages.
Playoff Stakes
For Winnipeg, a win today would keep them in the thick of the West Division race. A loss could push them closer to crossover territory. For Ottawa, victory keeps alive hopes of sneaking into the East’s second playoff spot. With only a handful of games left, every possession now carries postseason weight.
Live Updates
Highlight so far: Winnipeg’s Trey Vaval returned a missed FG for a touchdown, electrifying the crowd. Expect more updates as the game unfolds — from halftime analysis to final score breakdown.
More on MagzineCelebs: Rashford’s UCL Brace, Rick Ross Net Worth 2025, Who is Danna Lynn Blocker?
FAQs
⏰ What time is kickoff?
3:00 PM ET / 12:00 AM PKT (Sept 20, 2025). 📺 Where can I watch?
TSN, RDS, CTV (Canada) and CFL+ streaming internationally. ⚡ Who won last time?
Winnipeg edged Ottawa 30–27 in August 2025. 🚑 Any injury updates?
Zach Collaros was questionable; Ottawa expected Dru Brown to start. 🏆 What’s at stake?
Both teams are fighting for playoff positioning — Winnipeg in the West, Ottawa in the East.
