The CFL (Canadian Football League) continues to thrill football fans as the 2024 season unfolds. The upcoming showdown between the Ottawa Redblacks and the Montreal Alouettes is set to take place on Monday, October 14, 2024, at 1:00 PM (ET). This game, broadcast live on TSN, promises to deliver high-energy action as both teams battle to solidify their positions in the Eastern Division and improve their chances of a playoff berth.
This rivalry matchup is sure to have fans on the edge of their seats. The stakes are high, and with each team looking to gain momentum heading into the final stretch of the season, this contest has all the makings of a classic CFL showdown. In this comprehensive article, we will cover how to watch the game, provide an in-depth preview of the matchup, review the key players to watch, and analyze the odds and predictions leading into this exciting game.
How to Watch Redblacks vs. Alouettes
- Date: Monday, October 14, 2024
- Time: 1:00 PM (ET)
- Venue: TD Place Stadium, Ottawa, Ontario
- TV Broadcast: TSN (The Sports Network)
- Live Stream: TSN Direct (Available on TSN app and website)
Fans can catch the Redblacks vs. Alouettes live on TSN, the exclusive home of CFL football. TSN provides full coverage of the game, from pre-game analysis to live play-by-play commentary, bringing CFL action to fans across Canada and beyond. If you’re not near a television, you can still follow the game by streaming it online via TSN Direct, available on both the TSN app and website. This way, you can watch the game live, no matter where you are.
Game Preview: Ottawa Redblacks vs. Montreal Alouettes
The Redblacks and Alouettes are two teams in the CFL’s Eastern Division that have had a season full of ups and downs. With both squads vying for playoff spots, the stakes are high as they square off in Ottawa. For the Alouettes, this game represents an opportunity to strengthen their hold on a playoff position. For the Redblacks, this is a must-win game to keep their postseason hopes alive.
Ottawa Redblacks: Team Overview
The Ottawa Redblacks have had a rollercoaster of a season, plagued by inconsistency on both sides of the ball. Coming into this matchup, the Redblacks have struggled to find momentum, but they still possess enough talent to be a dangerous opponent. Their season has been defined by close losses and missed opportunities, but they’re hoping to turn things around at home against their divisional rivals.
Leading the Redblacks offense is quarterback Jeremiah Masoli, a veteran signal-caller who has faced challenges this season but remains a crucial part of the team’s offensive efforts. Masoli’s experience and leadership give the Redblacks a chance in every game, even when their offensive line struggles to protect him. When he’s on his game, Masoli can make plays both with his arm and his legs, but he will need more consistency from his supporting cast if the Redblacks are to succeed in this contest.
The running game for the Redblacks has been a bright spot, led by De’Montre Tuggle, who has consistently churned out tough yards and given the offense a solid foundation. Tuggle’s ability to break tackles and extend plays has been crucial for Ottawa’s success this season, and he will play a key role against Montreal’s defense.
On the defensive side of the ball, the Redblacks have had their share of challenges. Their pass defense has been suspect at times, and they’ve struggled to generate consistent pressure on opposing quarterbacks. Defensive end Lorenzo Mauldin IV leads the team in sacks and will need to bring his best game to disrupt Montreal’s passing attack. Ottawa’s secondary, led by Antoine Pruneau, will also be tested as they look to contain Montreal’s explosive receivers.
Montreal Alouettes: Team Overview
The Montreal Alouettes come into this game with higher hopes and more consistent play compared to the Redblacks. While they haven’t been without their struggles, they’ve managed to stay competitive in the Eastern Division and are in a solid position to make a run at the playoffs. With a balanced offense and an opportunistic defense, Montreal has the tools to pose problems for Ottawa.
Quarterback Cody Fajardo has been a stabilizing force for the Alouettes this season. Known for his toughness and leadership, Fajardo has managed to keep Montreal’s offense on track despite dealing with a few injuries to his receiving corps. His dual-threat ability as both a passer and a runner makes him difficult to defend, and his poise under pressure allows him to make big plays in critical moments.
Montreal’s offense is built around a balanced attack, featuring running back William Stanback. Stanback is one of the premier running backs in the CFL, known for his power and vision. He can break tackles and consistently gains positive yardage, making him a key part of Montreal’s game plan. If the Alouettes can establish the run early, it will open up opportunities for Fajardo to work the play-action passing game and target his receivers downfield.
Defensively, the Alouettes have been solid, particularly in their ability to create turnovers. Linebacker Tyrice Beverette has been a standout, leading the team in tackles and providing leadership for the defense. Montreal’s secondary, led by Wesley Sutton, has been opportunistic, with several key interceptions throughout the season. If the Alouettes can pressure Masoli and force him into mistakes, they’ll have a good chance of coming out on top.
Odds and Betting Preview
The odds for this game reflect the tight nature of the contest, with Montreal being the slight favorite due to their more consistent performance this season. However, Ottawa’s home-field advantage and the desperation factor make this game difficult to predict.
- Point Spread: Montreal Alouettes -3.5
- Over/Under: 48.5 points
- Moneyline: Ottawa Redblacks +140, Montreal Alouettes -160
The spread favors the Alouettes by just over a field goal, suggesting that oddsmakers expect a close game. Montreal’s recent form gives them the edge, but Ottawa’s ability to rise to the occasion in front of their home crowd cannot be discounted.
The over/under of 48.5 points suggests that this could be a relatively low-scoring game, with both teams boasting solid defenses capable of making big plays. Bettors should expect a physical, hard-fought battle where every possession counts.
Key Matchups to Watch
Several key matchups will determine the outcome of this game. Here’s a closer look at some of the most important battles on the field:
- Jeremiah Masoli (QB, Ottawa) vs. Montreal Pass Rush
Masoli has been under constant pressure this season, and Montreal’s defensive front will look to keep him uncomfortable. If the Alouettes can generate consistent pressure, it could lead to turnovers and prevent Ottawa’s offense from finding a rhythm. - William Stanback (RB, Montreal) vs. Ottawa’s Front Seven
Stanback is the engine that drives Montreal’s offense. If Ottawa’s defense can’t stop him from getting to the second level, it will be a long day for the Redblacks. Expect Ottawa to stack the box and try to force Fajardo to beat them through the air. - Cody Fajardo (QB, Montreal) vs. Ottawa Secondary
Fajardo’s ability to extend plays with his legs and make accurate throws downfield will test Ottawa’s secondary, which has struggled at times this season. If Fajardo can find his groove, it could spell trouble for the Redblacks’ defense. - De’Montre Tuggle (RB, Ottawa) vs. Montreal’s Linebackers
Tuggle has been a bright spot for Ottawa this season, and he’ll need to have a big game to give the Redblacks a chance. Montreal’s linebackers, led by Tyrice Beverette, will look to contain him and limit Ottawa’s ground attack. - Antoine Pruneau (S, Ottawa) vs. Montreal Receivers
Pruneau, a veteran safety, will be tasked with helping his team’s secondary contain Montreal’s big-play receivers. He’ll need to be a key communicator and playmaker for Ottawa’s defense if they hope to slow down Montreal’s passing game.
Players to Watch
Jeremiah Masoli (QB, Ottawa Redblacks)
Masoli’s performance will be critical to Ottawa’s chances in this game. As a veteran quarterback, he has the ability to elevate his team, but he’ll need to limit mistakes and find consistency to lead the Redblacks to victory.
De’Montre Tuggle (RB, Ottawa Redblacks)
Tuggle’s physical running style has been a highlight for Ottawa this season. His ability to break tackles and gain tough yards will be crucial in controlling the pace of the game and keeping Montreal’s offense off the field.
Cody Fajardo (QB, Montreal Alouettes)
Fajardo is the heart and soul of Montreal’s offense. His ability to make plays with both his arm and his legs makes him a dual threat that Ottawa will need to account for on every play.
William Stanback (RB, Montreal Alouettes)
Stanback is one of the most feared running backs in the league, and his ability to wear down defenses will be a key factor in this game. If he can get rolling, Montreal’s offense will be difficult to stop.
Tyrice Beverette (LB, Montreal Alouettes)
Beverette has been the leader of Montreal’s defense all season. His ability to read plays and make tackles in space will be critical in containing Ottawa’s running game and pressuring Masoli.
Prediction: Redblacks vs. Alouettes
This is shaping up to be a tightly contested battle between two teams fighting for playoff relevance. Montreal comes into the game with more momentum and a slightly better record, but Ottawa’s home-field advantage and desperation could level the playing field. The key to this game will be whether Ottawa can slow down William Stanback and force Cody Fajardo to win the game through the air.
Ultimately, Montreal’s balanced attack and superior defense give them the edge in what should be a close, physical game.
Prediction: Montreal Alouettes 27, Ottawa Redblacks 21
Expect the Alouettes to control the clock with their running game and force a couple of key turnovers to secure the victory on the road. Ottawa will put up a fight, but Montreal’s experience and talent on both sides of the ball should be enough to carry them to a win.
Final Thoughts
The Redblacks and Alouettes are set to clash in what promises to be a thrilling CFL matchup. Both teams have a lot to play for as they look to improve their standing in the Eastern Division. For Ottawa, it’s a chance to keep their playoff hopes alive, while for Montreal, it’s an opportunity to solidify their place in the postseason picture.
Be sure to catch all the action live on TSN at 1:00 PM (ET) on Monday, October 14, 2024, as the Redblacks take on the Alouettes in what could be one of the most exciting games of the CFL season!
