Big night from Oliveira gets Winnipeg Blue Bombers back in win column over winless Redblacks

Blue Bombers roll past winless Redblacks 33-21 WINNIPEG, The Winnipeg Blue Bombers secured a hard-fought 33-21 victory over the winless Ottawa Redblacks at Princess Auto Stadium on Friday, marking a crucial win in their push for playoff contention. Running back Brady Oliveira, who entered the game as a game-time decision due to an injured ankle, played a pivotal role in the win, contributing both on the ground and through the air. Oliveira, a Winnipeg native, rushed for 74 yards and a touchdown while catching eight passes for 80 yards, totaling 154 yards. His performance helped the Bombers overcome a slow start and take control of the game. Oliveira had been limited at practice throughout the week with an ankle injury, and his status remained uncertain until he met with athletic therapist Al Couture at the stadium. After working through a routine and feeling confident, he decided to participate in warm-ups and eventually suited up for the game. Oliveira’s efforts extended beyond individual stats, as he climbed the CFL’s all-time rushing leaders list. With 235 rushing yards in his previous two games, he needed just 67 more to move into 21st place on the list. He surpassed fellow Canadian Jon Cornish and is now just 22 yards away from reaching 20th on the list. This achievement highlights his growing impact on the team. The win lifted the Blue Bombers to 5-4 overall and ended a two-game losing streak at home. The team had struggled at Princess Auto Stadium this season, posting a 1-4 record there, the worst in a single season since 2016. A string of losses to the B.C. Lions and Calgary Stampeders had placed the Bombers in a precarious playoff position in the West Division. However, the victory gives them a one-game advantage over the Lions (4-5) and Stampeders (4-6), with a game in hand on Calgary. Quarterback Zach Collaros made his return after missing four games with a neck injury. He completed 21 of 31 passes for 222 yards, showing composure despite being hit violently by Ottawa linebacker Lucas Cormier in the second quarter. Collaros left the game temporarily but returned within minutes, demonstrating resilience. Short-yardage quarterback Bryce Perkins contributed significantly, scoring two touchdowns, while Sergio Castillo added four field goals, including a 56-yard boot late in the second quarter. The Redblacks' struggles continued, falling to 0-9 and extending their losing streak to 15 games. Their current drought matches the longest in league history, surpassing the 14-game skid of the 1994 Shreveport Pirates. Only the 1948-49 Hamilton Wildcats, who lost 16 consecutive games, hold the record. No team in CFL history has reached the playoffs after starting 0-9, though the B.C. Lions once claimed a championship after a 0-5 start in 2011. Despite their woes, the Redblacks showed moments of promise. Quarterback Jake Maier faced challenges, including a bobbled pass early in the game. However, he managed to connect with Ayden Eberhardt for a long completion. The Bombers’ defense held firm, limiting Ottawa to just 27 rushing yards and forcing turnovers. Tim White led the team with 85 receiving yards on eight catches. Head coach Mike O’Shea praised Oliveira’s performance, calling him a “beast” who carried the team through key moments. The Bombers will travel to Edmonton next week for a matchup against the Elks, with kickoff scheduled for just after 8:30 p.m. on Friday, August 21.