Rookie quarterback Bryson Barnes led the Ottawa Redblacks to a 40-39 victory over the Toronto Argonauts on Friday in his first CFL start, snapping the team's 22-game losing skid. The win marks Ottawa's first victory of the 2026 season and their first home win since September 2025.

How did the game conclude?

The contest saw a dramatic finish at TD Place. With only 30 seconds remaining, Toronto took a 39-33 lead following a four-yard touchdown run by Isaiah Smith and a two-point conversion. However, Barnes orchestrated a three-play drive, including a 21-yard scramble, to put Ottawa in scoring position. He then connected with Ayden Eberhardt for a 24-yard touchdown to tie the game. Paul Geelen secured the win with a convert with six seconds remaining.

How did the scoring unfold?

The game was a back-and-forth affair from the start. Toronto opened the scoring when Derek Slywka blocked a punt and Ethan John returned it 16 yards for a touchdown. Ottawa responded with two Daniel Adeboboye touchdowns, and the Redblacks took a 23-16 lead at halftime. In the third quarter, Nick Arbuckle connected with Kevin Mital for a 28-yard touchdown and a two-point conversion to tie the game at 24-24. Paul Geelen kicked a 51-yard field goal to put Ottawa back in front.

Key player performances

Both teams saw significant individual contributions during the high-scoring matchup:

  • Bryson Barnes: Completed 27 of 37 passes for 339 yards and two touchdowns, adding 62 rushing yards.
  • Ayden Eberhardt: Caught nine passes for 101 yards, including both of Barnes' touchdown passes, and surpassed 1,000 receiving yards for the season.
  • Nick Arbuckle: Completed 26 of 34 passes for 305 yards and two touchdowns after entering for the injured Chad Kelly.
  • Daniel Adeboboye: Scored two touchdowns for Ottawa.

Overcoming a difficult season

This victory allowed the Redblacks to avoid a winless season after previously setting a record for the worst start in CFL history at 0-16. Head coach and general manager Ryan Dinwiddie praised Barnes' performance, noting the rookie was a "real good competitor." Barnes said he was grateful for the opportunity and happy for his teammates that their hard work paid off.

FAQ

What was the final score of the game?

The Ottawa Redblacks defeated the Toronto Argonauts with a final score of 40-39.

Who was the injured Toronto quarterback?

Chad Kelly left the game midway through the first quarter due to a lower body injury.