BREAKING: Blue Bombers Secure 26-18 Victory Over Redblacks Thanks to Vaval’s Record-Breaking Missed FG Return TD; Winnipeg Moves to Third in West Division

Blue Bombers Bounce Back Behind Record-Breaking Vaval in 26-18 Victory Over Redblacks

The Winnipeg Blue Bombers didn’t need a dominant performance to secure a 26-18 victory over the Ottawa Redblacks on Saturday. Instead, they relied on an incredible spark from returner Trey Vaval and a near-flawless kicking game to move into third place in the CFL’s West Division.

Vaval’s Record-Setting Return Lights the Fuse

Vaval’s 128-yard missed field goal return for a touchdown in the second quarter was the turning point in the game. The breathtaking play not only gave Winnipeg the lead but also set a new CFL record for most return yards on missed field goals (199).

“I see people coming at me, but it’s just like catch it, secure it, protect the ball, trust your blockers. My blockers did an amazing job, and then just look at the grass. Watch grass.” – Trey Vaval

Ward’s Missed Kicks Prove Costly for Redblacks

Vaval’s electrifying run was set up by Redblacks kicker Lewis Ward, who missed two field goal attempts. The first, from 43 yards, was returned 85 yards for a touchdown, while the second, from 47 yards, resulted in a 71-yard return.

Ward, who has missed eight field goals this season, took full responsibility for his misses. “The guys came in and did what they needed to do, and I just didn’t execute on my end. It’s just a bad day to have a bad day.”

Sergio Castillo’s Clutch Kicking Seals the Deal

In contrast, Winnipeg’s Sergio Castillo had a perfect day, converting all four of his field goal attempts, including kicks from 37, 35, and 23 yards out in the fourth quarter. Castillo’s precision proved to be the difference in the game.

Bombers Rely on the Run Game, Move into Third Place

The win allowed the Blue Bombers to move into third place in the West Division. They relied heavily on their run game, with quarterback Chris Streveler rushing for 72 yards and a touchdown. Streveler completed just 3-of-8 passes but also found the end zone on a one-yard run.

Backup quarterback Dru Brown returned from a knee injury to complete 33-of-45 passes for 406 yards, two touchdowns, and two interceptions.

“At the end of the day, you have to find ways to win. It’s going to look different every week, and we haven’t been able to do that.” – Dru Brown

Redblacks’ Playoff Hopes Fading After Loss

The loss could prove costly for the Redblacks, who now face an uphill battle to secure a playoff spot with just four games remaining. Ottawa head coach Bob Dyce couldn’t hide his frustration after the game.

“You can have as many yards as you want to, you need to put the ball where it needs to be and you need to get it into the end zone.” – Bob Dyce

What’s Next?

• The Blue Bombers will host the Hamilton Tiger-Cats on Saturday, Sept. 27, looking to build on their momentum.
• The Redblacks will have their third and final bye week, hoping to regroup and shore up their playoff chances.

FAQs

• Q: How many missed field goals has Lewis Ward had this season?

  A: Ward has missed eight field goals this season.

• Q: What is the CFL record for most return yards on missed field goals?

  A: Trey Vaval set the record with 199 yards in the game against the Redblacks.

• Q: Where do the Blue Bombers stand in the West Division?

  A: After the win over the Redblacks, the Blue Bombers moved into third place in the West Division.

Did you know? Trey Vaval’s stunning return touchdown was the second-longest missed field goal return for a touchdown in CFL history, behind Tracy Hamm’s 140-yard return in 1984.

With the regular season winding down, both the Blue Bombers and Redblacks will be looking to finish strong. Stay tuned for more updates on your favorite CFL teams right here on 247sports.new!

Have your say: Who impressed you the most in the Blue Bombers’ victory over the Redblacks? Let us know in the comments below!