Bryson Barnes and Ottawa Redblacks Snap 22-Game Skid Against Toronto Argonauts
Rookie quarterback Bryson Barnes engineered a 24-second, game-winning drive on Friday night, connecting with receiver Ayden Eberhardt for a 24-yard touchdown with just six seconds remaining to lift the Ottawa Redblacks to a 40-39 victory over the Toronto Argonauts at TD Place Stadium. According to sportsnet.ca, the dramatic finish snapped a 22-game losing skid and secured the Redblacks’ first victory of the 2026 season, saving the franchise from becoming the first team in modern CFL history to finish a campaign without a win.
Rookie Quarterback Leads Ottawa Offence in First Career Start
Barnes delivered a stellar performance in his debut start for Ottawa (1-16). The 25-year-old signal-caller completed 27 of 37 pass attempts for 339 yards and two touchdowns, both targeting Eberhardt, while also contributing seven carries for 62 yards on the ground, tsn.ca reported. The historic win halted a dismal run that dated back to a September 5, 2025, victory against the BC Lions, theScore noted. Despite a rocky start that included a blocked punt returned for a Toronto touchdown, Barnes maintained his composure to guide the Redblacks past their provincial rivals.
TOUCHDOWN #2 FOR #17 ✌️#17 QB Bryson Barnes rushes it in for his second touchdown of the night in Montreal. pic.twitter.com/1dgnzWbIUV
Nick Arbuckle Takes Over After Chad Kelly Exits Early
The Argonauts (9-8) were forced into an early quarterback change when starter Chad Kelly left the contest midway through the first quarter following a tackle by Ottawa defensive end Luiji Vilain, sportsnet.ca confirmed. Backup quarterback and 2024 Grey Cup MVP Nick Arbuckle stepped in under centre, completing passes for 315 yards, two touchdowns, and one interception, according to cfl.ca. Arbuckle rallied Toronto back into the game, engineering a late drive that culminated in a four-yard rushing touchdown and a two-point conversion by Isaiah Smith, giving the visitors a 39-33 advantage with only 30 seconds left on the clock before Barnes mounted his final response.
Remaining Schedule and Upcoming Season Finales
With playoff positioning already determined in the East Division, both teams turn their attention to the final week of the regular season. The Argonauts return home to host the league-leading Montreal Alouettes on October 23, cfl.ca reported. Meanwhile, the Redblacks travel to face the Hamilton Tiger-Cats on October 24 to conclude their 2026 schedule.
