RB De’Montre Tuggle to start as Ottawa Redblacks set roster vs. Calgary Stampeders

The Ottawa Redblacks have made a change at running back heading into their Week 2 matchup against the Calgary Stampeders on Thursday.

Devonte Williams has been placed on the one-game injured list due to a hamstring injury and will be replaced by rookie De’Montre Tuggle, who opened the season on the practice roster. The five-foot-ten, 198-pound ball-carrier ran for 1,838 yards and 24 touchdowns over three seasons at the University of Ohio and has no prior CFL experience.

Ottawa’s running game didn’t get off to a bold start in last week’s loss to the Montreal Alouettes as Williams managed just 36 yards on 11 carries. Canadian backup Jackson Bennett also recorded two carries for four yards.

[metabet_core_odds_board query=”531009″ site_id=”3downnation”]

The rest of Ottawa’s starting lineup has remained the same from last week, including Nick Arbuckle getting the start under centre. The veteran passer had a rough outing in Week 1, completing 19-of-35 pass attempts for 176 yards and three interceptions. The Redblacks have a bye in Week 3, after which Jeremiah Masoli may return to the lineup.

The Stampeders have made a few changes to their lineup, most notably with Dedrick Mills taking over from Ka’Deem Carey at the running back position. Carey, who was named a league all-star last season, has been placed on the six-game injured list due to a toe injury. Canadian offensive lineman Zack Williams has also returned to his starting role at left guard after missing Week 1 due to injury.

Thursday’s game is scheduled for 7:30 p.m. EDT at TD Place Stadium in Ottawa. The Redblacks are currently riding a 12-game home losing streak that dates back to 2021.

Courtesy: Ottawa Redblacks