The Ottawa Redblacks will be without arguably their best defensive player when they take on the Toronto Argonauts on Saturday.
Cornerback Brandin Dandridge (hand) has been placed on the one-game injured list. The 27-year-old has had a breakout season, notching 24 defensive tackles, five interceptions and a forced fumble in 13 games, returning two picks for touchdowns. He has also been the team’s most dangerous returner, adding a punt return touchdown.
Rookie Alijah McGhee, a converted college linebacker, will make his first career start at corner in place of Dandridge. Tobias Harris will once again activate off the practice roster to handle return duties.
Returning to the lineup after a one-week absence is defensive end Lorenzo Mauldin IV, who has had a quiet season with just 26 defensive tackles, five sacks and a forced fumble in 15 games. The 31-year-old was named the league’s Most Outstanding Defensive Player in 2022, recording 43 tackles, 17 sacks, and two forced fumbles.
Linebacker Vosean Joseph and defensive tackle Tre Hornbuckle have been placed back on the practice roster.
The Argos (13-2) will host the Redblacks (4-12) on Saturday, October 14 at 7:00 p.m. EDT. It is the first of two meetings between the clubs this season, both of which will take place after the playoff bracket has already been decided.
There is no available betting line for this game.
