The Ottawa Redblacks will be without one of the CFL’s premiere pass rushers when they take on the B.C. Lions on Saturday night.
All-star Bryce Carter (shoulder) has been placed on the one-game injured list. Through nine games this season, the 26-year-old has recorded 17 defensive tackles and four sacks. In 18 appearances last year, he amassed 31 defensive tackles, 12 sacks, and two forced fumbles.
Canadian edge rusher Kene Onyeka will get the start in place of Carter, with fellow national Aidan John serving as the only backup end. In 46 career CFL games, Onyeka has recorded 45 defensive tackles, 38 special teams tackles, 11 sacks, and two forced fumbles. American defensive back Bennett Williams will dress to fill the vacant roster spot.
The only other major change for the Redblacks comes at quarterback, where Dru Brown will be back under centre following a one-week hiatus due to a foot injury. The five-foot-11, 191-pound pivot has thrown for 1,936 yards, six touchdowns, and four interceptions through eight games in his first season as a starter. His last full start came nearly a month ago in Ottawa’s 33-6 dispatching of Calgary, in which Brown completed 30-of-37 passes for 325 yards, one touchdown, and no interceptions.
Fellow quarterback Tyrie Adams will be a healthy scratch to make room for Brown, with Jeremiah Masoli and Dustin Crum serving as backup and third-stringer respectively.
The Ottawa Redblacks (6-2-1) will host the B.C. Lions (5-5) on Saturday, August 24 at 7:00 p.m. EDT.