The Ottawa Redblacks' 2023 season was marked by a series of challenges and occasional triumphs. Finishing the season with a 4-14 SU record and a 6-12-0 ATS record, the Redblacks had difficulty finding consistency. However, with an OVER/UNDER record of 10-8-0, the team often found themselves in high-scoring games.
Season Overview:
The Redblacks faced numerous obstacles throughout the season, struggling to secure wins and often falling short of covering the spread. Despite these challenges, they showed resilience and had moments of brilliance that provided hope for the future.
Key Games and Betting Insights:
- Week 1 at Montreal: The season opener saw the Redblacks falling short with a 12-19 loss to Montreal, failing to cover the +2.5 spread and staying under the 44.5 total.
- Week 2 vs. Calgary: In their home opener, the Redblacks lost 15-26 to Calgary, failing to cover the +6.5 spread and keeping the total under 42.5.
- Week 4 vs. Edmonton: The Redblacks secured their first win with a decisive 26-7 victory over Edmonton, covering the -3.5 spread and keeping the total under 42.5.
- Week 6 vs. Winnipeg: In an unexpected high-scoring game, Ottawa narrowly lost 28-31 to Winnipeg but covered the +10 spread and pushed the total over 44.
- Week 7 at Calgary: In a thrilling game, the Redblacks edged Calgary 43-41, covering the +5.5 spread and going over the 44.5 total.
- Week 10 at Toronto: Ottawa struggled against Toronto, losing 31-44 and failing to cover the +7.5 spread, with the total going over 44.5.
- Week 15 at British Columbia: The Redblacks lost a high-scoring affair 37-41 to British Columbia, covering the +9.5 spread and going over the 46.5 total.
- Week 16 vs. Saskatchewan: Ottawa secured a victory with a 36-28 win over Saskatchewan, covering the +2.5 spread and going over the 44.5 total.
- Week 21 vs. Toronto: The Redblacks ended their season with a 22-27 loss to Toronto, failing to cover the +1.5 spread and staying under the 49.5 total.
Season Analysis:
The Ottawa Redblacks' 2023 season was a rollercoaster of highs and lows. Despite their struggles, the team showed moments of potential, particularly in high-scoring games. Their ability to occasionally cover the spread and push games over the total provided some opportunities for bettors.
Looking Ahead to the 2024 Season: Ottawa Redblacks Roster and Expectations
Key Offensive Players and Strategy:
- Quarterback: The Redblacks will look to Dustin Crum, Dru Brown, and Nick Arbuckle to lead the offense. With Jeremiah Masoli and Tyrie Adams on IR, the team will rely heavily on Crum and Brown for consistency and playmaking.
- Running Back: The backfield will feature Ante Milanovic-Litre and Russell Dixon, with Devonte Williams out. Jared Chisari will provide additional depth, aiming to balance the offensive attack.
- Wide Receiver: The receiving corps is bolstered by Shaq Evans, Nick Mardner, and Tevaun Smith, with Mike Harley and Jahquan Bloomfield providing depth. The team will miss DeVonte Dedmon, who is on IR.
- Fullback: Marco Dubois and Anthony Gosselin will handle fullback duties, essential for blocking schemes and short-yardage situations.
- Slot Back: Key players include Justin Hardy, Jaelon Acklin, Nate Behar (out), and Bralon Addison. Their ability to exploit mismatches will be crucial for the passing game.
Special Teams Dynamics:
- Kick Returner: Tobias Harris will take on the kick return duties with DeVonte Dedmon on IR.
- Punt Returner: Tobias Harris will also handle punt returns, providing agility and speed to the special teams unit.
The Ottawa Redblacks are aiming to bounce back from a challenging 2023 season with a renewed focus on both sides of the ball. The updated roster brings a mix of experienced players and emerging talents, aiming to improve consistency and performance. With strategic enhancements and a dedicated approach, the Redblacks hope to turn their fortunes around and become a more competitive force in the league for the 2024 season.
