RedBlacks bench QB Burris in favour of Harris

Two days after they were dismantled at the hands of the Montreal Alouettes, the Ottawa RedBlacks made a quarterback change, announcing Trevor Harris as the new starter over reigning CFL MOP Henry Burris.

"Trevor was playing at such a high level when he was in there," RedBlacks head coach Rick Campbell told reporters Sunday. "It's a function of Trevor playing at a high level."

Harris began the season as Burris' backup, but was thrust into action Week 1 when Burris suffered a finger injury. The RedBlacks' offence took off with him leading the huddle, winning the season opener in overtime and staying unbeaten over the next four weeks.

Since Burris returned, Ottawa has dropped two of three contests, the latest a 43-19 beatdown at home versus the Alouettes.

Campbell said Burris, whose frustrating season got even rockier a couple weeks ago when he lashed out at the media during a halftime interview, handled the news with professionalism.

"He cares deeply for this team," Campbell said. "I'm glad he's on this team. He's the type of guy you want around here."

"He's done nothing but encourage me and help me through today," Harris added. "He's forever going to be one of my favourite teammates."

Harris, 30, has thrown for 1,499 yards and nine touchdowns with only one interception in five games this season, including four starts. Burris, 41, has thrown for 1,132 yards with six touchdowns and five interceptions in parts of four games. Harris also boasts the better completion percentage.

The RedBlacks, 4-3-1, are back in action Thursday against the BC Lions.