Justin Hardy, Bralon Addison, Dariusz Bladek and Jovan Santos-Knox, among others, trained with the rest of the group. “It’s always a good thing to see such important players back on the pitch. I can’t wait to see them work throughout the week to find their bearings,” said head coach Bob Dyce.
Quarterback Dru Brown was back in his starting role for the first time in nearly a month. He said he was completely recovered from his ankle injury that he had suffered since last August.
“I feel very good. It’s been a long time since I felt this good, he explained. I appreciate the patience and effort everyone put into helping me get back to 100%.”
Head coach Bob Dyce wants to see his team more disciplined against their Toronto rivals. (Patrick Woodbury/Le Droit)
“I’m very confident that he’s recovered and that his ankle will hold up. We wanted him to be able to do everything he wants to do on a football field before bringing him back as the starting quarterback. We gave him time and our medical team worked hard so that he is now back,” added Dyce on his quarterback.
A crucial duel in Toronto
Even though Ottawa has lost in its last four outings, it still controls its destiny. A victory against the Toronto Argonauts on Saturday, however, is necessary in order to hope to play the first game of the playoffs at home.
“We control our destiny and that’s what we want at this point in the season. We want the opportunity to control our path and we have it. The guys realize the urgency to act and play our best football,” Jovan Santos-Knox said enthusiastically.
Jovan Santos-Knox in action against the Edmonton Elks, August 27, 2023. (Canadian Press Archives)
To achieve this, the Ottawa team will have to avoid penalties, an aspect that cost the team dearly, especially during their most recent duel on Monday against the Montreal Alouettes. The Rouge et Noir received 12 penalties for a total of 122 yards.
“We addressed this problem after the match and in our various meetings. Some players need to focus on helping us win instead of working against their own team with their indiscipline. When you’re too passionate, you often try to do too much and push yourself out of your usual playing style. Unfortunately, some did it in Montreal,” concluded Bob Dyce.
Ottawa will close its regular schedule on October 25 when the Hamilton Tiger-Cats will be the visitors at TD Place.
