Bombers’ quarterback Zach Collaros pulled from game by injury spotter, backup Dru Brown leads winning drive

The Winnipeg Blue Bombers were forced to finish their 2022 season-opener with reigning Most Outstanding Player Zach Collaros watching from the sideline, after the CFL’s concussion spotter pulled him from the football game to be evaluated for a possible head injury.

Collaros took off for a 10-yard scramble with 1:39 remaining in the fourth quarter and his team trailing the Ottawa Redblacks by a score of 17-16. He finished the run head first and appeared dazed on the turf after a hit from defender Randall Evans jarred his helmet loose.

CFL officials pulled Collaros, who has a history of concussions, from the game to be evaluated by team medical personnel. His absence was mandated for a minimum of three plays but he did not return to the field, instead remaining on the sideline with his helmet on as backup Dru Brown finished out the contest.

The Oklahoma State product played hero, going three-for-three passing for 51 yards in order to set up a game-winning field goal from kicker Marc Liegghio.

Collaros, who was seen high-fiving teammates following the drive, finished the game 18-of-26 for 188 yards and a touchdown. Blue Bombers’ head coach Mike O’Shea said that the team elected not to reinsert Collaros to finish the gam because they were already in field goal position.