Skip to content

Argonauts down RedBlacks in crucial Battle of Ontario

REUTERS/Chris Wattie / Reuters

The Toronto Argonauts cruised to a 35-26 victory over the Ottawa RedBlacks despite missing their starting quarterback and first-choice receiver on Saturday.

The Argonauts raced out to an early 14-0 lead behind an 8-yard touchdown by Kevin Elliott and a spectacular 87-yard punt return by Chad Owens within the game's opening seven minutes.

From there, the defense took over for Toronto, as they held Ottawa to 18 first downs on the night. The RedBlacks shaved the lead down to six midway through the fourth quarter, but Brad Sinopoli ended any hopes of a comeback by picking off a misguided throw from Henry Burris to preserve the victory for Toronto.

Argonauts quarterback Trevor Harris filled in admirably for an injured Ricky Ray, who continues to miss time while recovering from shoulder surgery. Harris tossed for two touchdowns and 282 yards while completing 24-of-36 passes on the night.

Both of Harris's touchdown passes were hauled in by Elliott, who punctuated a strong showing by the Argonauts' receiving core. Before the game, head coach Scott Milanovich made a bold decision to bench wide receiver Vidal Hazelton (who leads the team in receiving yards) for his propensity to accrue taunting penalties. Milanovich's play paid off, as his team didn't miss a beat without the star rookie.

The victory for Toronto bumps their record to 7-5 on the year, which ties them with Ottawa for second place in the Eastern Conference.

Daily Newsletter

Get the latest trending sports news daily in your inbox